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Welcome to another impactful episode of Global Desi Women with your host Arti Solanki—Co-founder of Om Enterprise Inc (an IT Company), Real Estate Broker at Livin Large Realty, and Online Business Coach for Women Entrepreneurs at artisolanki.com. Arti is passionate about empowering women and sharing stories that inspire, educate, and connect.

In today’s episode, Arti is joined by her co-host Bhavana Shelley, a skilled consultant with a knack for diving deep into meaningful discussions.

And our esteemed guest Bhawna Luthra, MA, LPC,LMFT, a Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist with 19 years of experience. She has extensive experience working with patients navigating trauma, depression, divorce, and a wide range of other challenges. She has training in EMDR, DBT EFT and CBT. She is a trauma informed yoga therapist and incorporates yogic breathing and yoga postures to heal trauma patients. She is also trained in Mind Body Medicine program and offers mind body skills to clients dealing with trauma due to loss of loved ones, natural-disaster, or health crisis. She has given several workshops in the community on topics such as Raising Emotionally Healthy Children, Emotional Intelligence, Building Healthy Relationships, Stress Management, Cultivating Resilience, and Power of Breath and Meditation.

She is available via telehealth for Counseling sessions.
Contact: 736heal@gmail.com

281-773-3649

Together, they delve into a crucial and often under-discussed topic: Breaking the Stigma: Navigating Mental Health in the South Asian Community.

Mental health remains a sensitive subject in many South Asian households, often shrouded in silence and misunderstanding. In this episode, Bhawna shares her expert insights as a therapist and provides practical advice on how to address mental health issues within cultural contexts. The conversation explores:

• Why mental health is stigmatized in the South Asian community.
• The emotional and cultural barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help.
• Strategies for prioritizing self-care and mental wellness while respecting cultural traditions.
• How families can create open dialogues to support one another.

This episode isn’t just about identifying the challenges—it’s about offering hope and actionable solutions. Through relatable stories, heartfelt discussions, and professional advice, Arti, Bhavana, and Bhawna aim to break down the taboos surrounding mental health and inspire listeners to prioritize emotional well-being.

If you’ve ever felt the weight of unspoken struggles or know someone who could benefit from this conversation, this episode is for you.

If you have an inspiring story to share with the world, valuable insights on a specific topic, or simply love listening to Global Desi Women and want to show your support, we’d love to hear from you! 🌟 Send us a message—we’re always excited to connect with our amazing listeners.

And don’t forget to subscribe, like, and follow our podcast to stay updated on new episodes. Your love and support mean the world to us, and together, we can continue to amplify voices, share stories, and create meaningful conversations. Thank you for being a part of our journey! 🎙️💕

💬 Don’t forget to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments after listening! Together, we can be the change.

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In this exciting episode of Global Desi Women, join me, Arti Solanki (business coach, real estate broker, and author of Hindu Religion), along with my amazing co-hosts: Bhavana Shelley– Consultant, Bhawna Luthra – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

We sit down with the brilliant entrepreneur Aditi Bhandari to explore the intricacies of breaking into the competitive market. With over a decade of experience in retail marketing and CPG brand management at industry giants like Target and PepsiCo, Aditi shares her inspiring journey of founding Blur, a strategy consultancy for consumer brands.

Discover how Aditi leverages her expertise in Gen Z and multicultural audience insights to craft impactful brand strategies, help businesses position themselves effectively, and navigate challenges like product-market fit and financial sustainability. From designing go-to-market strategies to creating investor pitch decks, Aditi reveals the secrets behind her success.

The conversation dives deeper into Aditi’s experiences as an Indian woman entrepreneur, her recent marriage, and how her cultural background and personal milestones have shaped her approach to business and leadership. She also offers invaluable advice on confidence building, networking, and thinking like an executive.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone passionate about branding and strategy, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and actionable tips to help you navigate your own journey to success.

Tune in to hear how Aditi turned challenges into opportunities and learn the strategies behind building brands in today's fast-paced market. Don’t miss this engaging discussion on navigating growth, challenges, and balance in business and life!

If you like to connect with her, below is her website and Linkedin info.

Website: www.blurmktg.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditi-bhandari/

Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode of Global Desi Women! If you have a story or journey you’d like to share with our audience, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us and be part of our growing community.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories, insightful discussions, and actionable strategies. Thank you for listening, and we’ll see you in the next episode!

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In this episode of Global Desi Women, join host Arti Solanki and co-hosts Bhavana Shelley and Karishma Shelley as we talk to incredibly talented Shruti Asher, co-founder of Breathing Fabrics Co. and the visionary behind Vithika Curated Weaves.

Breathing Fabrics Co. (BFC), founded by Shruti Ashar & Mona Sheth in April’24, is a result of a simple idea coming to life through consistent action and love for comfortable, conscious fashion.
Style to us is about keeping it real and classy. Each product is handwoven using organic fabric and natural colours; artisanal craftsmanship at its best. The material molds to your fit effortlessly, remains unfazed with repeated washing. Alongside creating unique pieces, we are committed to BFC’s manufacturing practices as a responsibility to our people and processes. We truly believe that stories are born in the unlikeliest of places - forgotten books, an old wallpaper, a pinned message, a mesh of colourful threads.

Shruti Asher

Shruti, a postgraduate in Fashion Design and Technology, began her career with a boutique and custom couture in Mumbai. A natural talent for fine cooking and a people-oriented personality led her to life coaching at the renowned Landmark Institute, where she inspired and supported thousands globally. Now in her forties, Shruti has returned to her first love—fashion. Rooted in her family’s 150-year trading legacy in Kutch, she co-founded Breathing Fabrics Co. with her college friend Mona. Their brand brings sustainable, handcrafted native cotton fabrics from Kutch to the world, blending timeless comfort with rural empowerment.

Mona Sheath

Mona, a gold medalist in literature from Mumbai University, began her career as an artist and later became a prominent journalist. She has interviewed over 5,000 notable figures, including Shri Narendra Modi and Sadhguru, while exploring global cultures across continents. In her forties, Mona joined Shruti to launch Breathing Fabrics Co. Their brand celebrates India’s vibrant history through sustainable fabrics that showcase rural artistry, offering timeless, meaningful fashion with a global appeal.

https://www.facebook.com/Vithikacuratedweaves
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfqwiEUMCV3/?igshid=MDJmNzVkMjY=

Whether you’re a lover of Indian textiles, a supporter of sustainable fashion, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.

🎧Don’t forget to share this episode!

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In this powerful episode of Global Desi Women, host Arti Solanki and her insightful co-hosts—Kavita Jasani, Swetha Reddy, and Rhea Palicha—take a deep dive into the often-overlooked topic of Desi women’s health. Together, they embark on a heartfelt and informative discussion about the mental and physical challenges that South Asian women face in their pursuit of well-being, while navigating the complexities of cultural expectations, family responsibilities, and personal aspirations.

Arti Solanki, a trailblazer in empowering women through her work as a business coach and entrepreneur, anchors the conversation with warmth and relatability. She shares her own experiences, blending them with actionable advice for listeners who are striving to achieve balance and health in their lives.

Kavita Jasani brings a wealth of knowledge and practical wisdom to the table, focusing on how Desi women can create healthier lifestyles without compromising their cultural values.

Swetha Reddy, a homemaker with an MBA in Finance and Marketing, sheds light on the art of balancing personal and professional commitments while staying committed to self-care.

Rhea Palicha an expert in Marketing, adds depth to the conversation by tackling the often-stigmatized topic of mental health in the South Asian community. She discusses how societal pressures and intergenerational expectations can affect emotional well-being, and she emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about therapy, mindfulness, and mental resilience.

Throughout the episode, the hosts address key themes that are universally relevant yet deeply personal for Desi women:
- How cultural narratives impact the way women approach health and self-care.
- The importance of early intervention and preventive care in avoiding chronic conditions.
- Practical tips for integrating fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness into a hectic lifestyle.
- Breaking down the stigma around mental health and encouraging open dialogue within families.

The discussion is enriched with anecdotes, expert-backed insights, and heartfelt stories that are sure to resonate with listeners. Whether it’s about finding joy in a morning yoga session, understanding the mental toll of juggling roles, or learning to set boundaries, this episode is packed with inspiration and motivation for women at every stage of life.

Listeners will walk away with a renewed sense of purpose and empowerment to prioritize their health—both physical and mental. They’ll also discover resources like health apps, online communities, and practical strategies to kickstart or enhance their wellness journeys.

Join us for this engaging episode as we celebrate the resilience and strength of Desi women while advocating for the self-love and care they deserve. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to share this episode with your loved ones to continue spreading the message of health, balance, and empowerment.

Subscribe our channel for more tips, discussions, and updates from the Global Desi Women community. Your health journey starts today!

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In this empowering episode of Global Desi Women, your host Arti Solanki—business coach, real estate broker, and author of the book Hindu Rituals is joined by her incredible co-hosts Bhavana Shelley, a seasoned consultant; Bhawna Luthra, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; and Swetha Reddy, a homemaker with an MBA in Finance and Marketing. Together, they dive into a topic that resonates deeply with many women, especially those in the Desi community: The Art of Saying No: Setting Boundaries Without Guilt.

Saying no can be one of the hardest things to do, particularly for women raised in cultures that emphasize selflessness, family obligations, and prioritizing others’ needs over their own. Whether it’s agreeing to take on extra work, committing to family events, or simply declining social invitations, the fear of being perceived as selfish or rude often outweighs personal well-being. This episode unpacks why it’s so hard to say no, the cultural expectations that reinforce this struggle, and how we can shift our mindset to view boundary-setting as a form of self-respect rather than rejection.

Arti and her co-hosts share personal stories, professional insights, and actionable strategies for mastering the art of saying no. Bhavana offers a consultant’s perspective on balancing professional commitments while maintaining personal priorities. Bhawna sheds light on the psychological impact of overcommitting and the importance of setting mental health boundaries. Swetha, as a homemaker provides practical tips for managing time and energy across multiple roles without guilt.

The discussion explores how saying no is not a rejection of others but a reclamation of your time and energy. You’ll learn how to gracefully decline requests, communicate boundaries clearly, and handle the guilt that often accompanies saying no. The co-hosts also discuss the power of reframing the word “no” as an opportunity to say “yes” to what truly matters—be it self-care, family, career goals, or personal passions.

Whether you’ve struggled with overcommitting, felt guilty for putting yourself first, or just want to feel more confident in setting boundaries, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice. Join Arti, Bhavana, Bhawna, and Swetha as they inspire you to break free from the cycle of endless obligations and create a life that aligns with your values and priorities.

Tune in to Global Desi Women and learn how to embrace the power of no—without the guilt.

Thank you so much for joining us on today’s episode of Global Desi Women! We’ve unpacked the challenges and rewards of learning to say no, set healthy boundaries, and prioritize our well-being—all without guilt.

Remember, saying no is not about being selfish; it’s about honoring your time, energy, and values. The art of saying no takes practice, but each step you take brings you closer to a life that truly reflects your priorities.

A big thank you to my wonderful co-hosts—Bhavana Shelley, Bhawna Luthra, and Swetha Reddy—for sharing their insights and personal experiences today. Swetha, with your MBA in Finance and Marketing, you bring such a unique and grounded perspective, and I love having you as part of these conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might need this message. Don’t forget to subscribe to Global Desi Women on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a review—it really helps us reach more amazing women like you.

Until next time, stay true to yourself and keep creating space for the things that truly matter. Take care, and we’ll see you in the next episode!

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In this heartfelt episode of Global Desi Women, we dive into the challenges and joys of supporting our senior parents as they return to their home country. 🌏💛

I’m your host, Arti Solanki - Business Coach / Real Estate Broker, joined by two incredible co-hosts:
🌟 Bhawna Luthra – a licensed marriage and family therapist, bringing her expertise on family dynamics and emotional well-being.
🌟 Dr. Deepika Gorji – a PhD in Chemistry, Product Manager in IT, TEDx speaker, and an author in the making.

Dr. Deepika shares her personal journey of taking care of her parents who live back home. With all the advantages and disadvantages of caregiving from afar, she opens up about the realities of balancing roles, staying connected, and ensuring her parents feel supported.

🗣️ “Hello everyone, I’m Deepika! I live in Houston and believe in loving life to the fullest—every day! I wear many hats, but being a mom and daughter is my favorite role. I also love road trips, meeting new people, and discovering new places. I’ve spoken at TEDx and am writing a book. I’m excited to share my caregiving experiences with you today!”

Together, we discuss:

• How cultural values shape our caregiving approach.
• The emotional and logistical challenges of supporting parents from a distance.
• Practical tips for staying connected and ensuring their well-being.

✨ A big thank you to my incredible co-hosts, Bhawna Luthra and Dr. Deepika Gorji, for sharing their wisdom, stories, and heartfelt experiences. Your insights have truly made this conversation richer and more meaningful. 🌟

To our listeners, thank you for joining us on this journey. Whether you’re caring for your parents from afar or simply reflecting on the values that connect us across generations, we hope this episode resonated with you. 💛

💬 We’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you stay connected and care for your parents, especially if they’re miles away? Share your stories, tips, or questions with us—we might feature them in a future episode!

🎙️ Until next time, stay inspired, stay connected, and keep building bridges between love, tradition, and modern life.

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I’m so excited to bring you this episode where we’re diving into something close to my heart—the Law of Attraction and Vision Boards! As someone who’s a business coach for women entrepreneurs, a real estate broker, and a co-owner of an IT company, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to align your thoughts and intentions to create the life you truly want.

Joining me today are my amazing co-hosts: Bhavana Shelley, a brilliant consultant with incredible strategic insights, Shwetha Reddy, a homemaker who always brings a grounded perspective, and I’m thrilled to welcome our first-time co-host, Bhawna Luthra, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings a wealth of knowledge about mindset and emotional well-being.

We’ll be talking about how to use the Law of Attraction in your daily life, how to make vision boards that actually work, and we’ll even share some inspiring stories from Hindu scriptures, like Lord Krishna’s teachings on focusing on your intentions and letting go of attachment to the outcome. This conversation is all about helping you set powerful intentions for your life and the year ahead.

If you’re ready to take charge of your dreams, stay inspired, and learn actionable tips you can implement right away, this episode is for you. And as always, if you have any questions, thoughts, or even want to give someone a shout-out, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s manifest something amazing together!

Thank you for tuning in—I can’t wait for you to hear this! 💫

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In this episode of Global Desi Women, guest host Natasha Solanki joins co-hosts Karishma Shelley, Simki Palicha, and Tanvi Solanki to explore the many layers of Indian parental expectations and how they shape life’s biggest choices—from careers to relationships, and eventually, starting a family. Growing up in an Indian household often means facing high expectations in every area of life, and the hosts open up about the impact these pressures have had on them personally, beginning with career choices. They discuss how their families' guidance (and sometimes demands) influenced the paths they pursued, and how these career expectations often differed drastically between siblings, especially when comparing girls and boys. For many Desi daughters, expectations of stability, prestige, and family honor led to a narrower set of “acceptable” careers. The hosts reflect on the experiences of pushing boundaries or conforming to family desires, and how these choices impacted their sense of self-worth and identity.

The conversation then delves into dating and marriage, topics that bring a unique blend of modern desires and traditional expectations. The hosts discuss the delicate balance of navigating their own desires for independence and self-expression with the more traditional views their parents may hold about relationships and the idea of "settling down." They share stories of navigating these expectations within the dating world, the challenges of introducing a partner to their family, and the ongoing pressure to conform to an ideal of marriage that may not fully align with their personal goals. For some, dating openly or pursuing a love marriage rather than an arranged marriage can become a source of tension, creating a need to bridge generational perspectives on love and commitment.

Through heartfelt anecdotes, relatable struggles, and plenty of laughter, this episode provides an honest look at the journey of navigating Indian parental expectations. From career choices and dating to marriage and starting a family, Natasha, Karishma, Simki, and Tanvi offer a candid discussion that will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of family expectations. Join us for this episode to hear their stories and reflections on finding balance between honoring tradition and embracing individuality in a modern world.

If you have any questions, thoughts, or personal stories to share about navigating parental expectations, we’d love to hear from you! Your voice is an essential part of this conversation, and we welcome messages from listeners who want to dive deeper into the topics we discuss. Whether you’d like to give a shoutout to someone special, share a unique perspective, or simply connect with us, don’t hesitate to reach out. Join us on social media or drop us a message—your insights and experiences are what make Global Desi Women a true community. Let’s keep this dialogue going together!

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