In this episode i'm joined byShilpa⁠, a London-based management consultant, writer and the founder of Kahaani Collective⁠,a platform dedicated to fostering professional and creative growth for South Asians. Shilpa opens up about her journey of navigating cultural identity, career challenges, and personal growth as a South Asian woman. We dive into topics such as self-validation, breaking free from family expectations, and the influence of social media on self-perception and worth. Shilpa emphasises the need for young South Asian women to reclaim authority over their lives and make decisions that align with their true selves, despite societal expectations.

Through her platforms, she aims to increase exposure on the South Asian experience, across all aspects such as mental health, self-respect, motivation and unlearning toxic mindsets, and a space where individuals can share their experiences and feel understood.

This episode is for you if you're:

✨ A South Asian breaking boundaries in life & career

✨ Struggling to balance personal freedom with family expectations

✨ Tired of seeking validation from others & ready to trust yourself

✨ Looking for real conversations about independence, self-worth, and authenticity

Key points covered:

🔹Reclaim Your Power: How to make decisions that feel true toyou, even when family and culture say otherwise.

🔹Breaking Free from Expectations: The unspoken pressures of being a South Asian woman—and how to navigate them.

🔹The Truth About Moving Out & Living Independently: Is it worth the risk? What no one tells you about it.

🔹Self-Validation & Critical Thinking: How to trust your own voice in a world full of noise.

🔹The Role of Social Media: Are influencers shaping our beliefs more than we realise?

🔹The Power of Storytelling: Why sharing your journey can create real change.

🔹Balancing Tradition & Individuality: How to stay connected to your rootswithout losing yourself.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:09 Rapid Fire Round

02:57 Family Dynamics and Breaking Free from Societal Expectations

10:48 What is Consulting?

12:57 Being the Eldest Daughter

14:58 Do Parents Know Best? Upholding Family Expectations

18:49 Challenges of Moving Out and Navigating Community Expectations

21:42 Living Independently as a Brown Woman

24:40 Dealing with Judgement & Criticism

26:16 Creating Your Safe Space

27:52 The Power of Critical Thinking and Self-Validation

30:05 Navigating Social Media and the Influence of Influencers

37:50 The Importance of Storytelling and Building Community

44:31 The Need for Media Literacy and Discerning Consumption

50:22 The Journey of Vulnerability, Self-Acceptance, and Self-Love

51:53 Breaking Boundaries: Making Decisions Based on Personal Beliefs

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Stay blessed,

Rhea x