Honouring unheard voices of multi-cultural women from around the world. I sat down with Bhavana S. who shared her graceful strength and journey of owning her dignity. Bhavana, an inspiring woman who, at the crossroads of life after 41 years of marriage, found strength in her identity, embraced change, and launched into entrepreneurship. As she builds her business, Bhavana stands as a beacon of self-belief, teaching us about the power of resilience and the pursuit of happiness by challenging cultural traditions by not compromising one's principles and values. Overcoming personal and societal challenges, she holds onto her dignity and leverages the wisdom passed down from her parents. With a story that resonates with love, legacy, and self-discovery, Bhavana's path is a testament to the importance of trusting oneself and finding joy. 🔔 Make sure to subscribe and get notified NEWSLETTER 📩 https://kirtana168.substack.com ➡️ FOLLOW  https://www.instagram.com/kirtana168 https://www.instagram.com/befriendurmind https://www.facebook.com/kirtana168/

Join Kirti in this eye-opening episode of Befriend ur Mind, where she sits down with special guest, and mentor,  Lo. They dive deep into the art of argumentation, the significance of critical thinking in our daily life, and how cultural backgrounds impact our debating styles. From the practical applications of debate skills in real-life scenarios to the internal journey of becoming confident communicators, Kirti and lo unravel the layers of reasoning with thought-provoking discussions. Whether you're a debating enthusiast or looking to improve your argumentative skills, this episode is filled with insights on respectful debating, understanding different perspectives, and elevating your critical thinking. Tune in to transform the way you debate and perceive arguments!   00:00 Difficult transition due to language barrier frustration. 07:54 Debates on religion and free speech worldwide. 15:35 Internal conflict in cultural and language barriers. 17:58 Language barriers hinder sharing technical expertise. 22:49 Engaging in a respectful exchange of views. 31:44 Discussing difference between men and women, historical context. 33:26 Prefer reasoning over arguing for better outcomes. 42:52 Understanding background crucial in resolving conflicts effectively. 48:43 Supporting women to communicate confidently and effectively. 49:49 Passionate about debating, especially for beliefs. 57:34 Stay open-minded, learn debating, improve critical thinking. 01:03:25 Questioning and evaluating the validity of statements.   #CriticalThinking, #DebateSkills, #ConflictResolution, #CommunicationTips, #BefriendUrMind, #PodcastInterview, #EffectiveDebating, #LogicalReasoning, #CulturalDynamics, #PublicSpeaking, #Argumentation, #PeterColeman, #CriticalDiscussion, #EmotionalIntelligence 📌 Hashtags: #DebatePodcast #ArgumentationSkills #CriticalThinker #ConflictManagement #Reasoning #CrossCulturalCommunication #DebateClub #CommunicationSkills #EmotiveDebating #RespectfulDebating 📍 Share and Subscribe for more content on mastering your mental skills and understanding the art of debate and critical thinking! ✅ Subscribe to our channel 📣 PodFollow us on social media: @kirtana168 💌 Contact us: https://linke.to/kirtana168 🎧 Listen to the full episode on all major podcast platforms Remember to LIKE, COMMENT, and SHARE this video with friends and anyone looking to sharpen their debating skills and mind mastery! #BefriendUrMind #DebateLikeAPro #CriticalThinkingSkills #EffectiveCommunication #PodcastInterview

In honor of International Women's Day, this week's episode of 'Befriend ur Mind' featured the remarkable Lita, nominated by her supportive husband Yorick. Lita shares her incredible journey of moving to a new country, facing unexpected challenges, and embracing her introverted nature in leadership roles. Yorick praised Lita's strength and believed that sharing her experiences and insights would inspire other women, highlighting her bravery and the adventures they have embarked upon together. Throughout the episode, Lita discusses her cultural background, evolution as a professional from lawyer to HR, the importance of community, motherhood, and her approach to coping with life's demands. touching on themes like resilience, adaptation, and empowerment in light of International Women's Month. Join us for a conversation filled with insights and anecdotes that shed light on Lita's strength, growth, and the values she imparts to her children - unconditional love and kindness. 🔔 Stay connected https://www.kirtana168.com https://www.instagram.com/kirtana168 https://linke.to/kirtana168   Subscribe to the Befriend ur Mind podcast for thought-provoking conversations, and don't forget to ring the bell for notifications on our latest episodes.   00:00 Introverted lawyer pushed out of comfort zone. 05:33 Daughter and friend nominate speaker with encouragement. 08:45 Childhood in Curacao, strong Caribbean connections remain. 10:01 Value of community in personal growth and support. 13:00 Curiosity and creativity emerge with inspiring people. 16:08 Learning to let go of control. 21:10 Reflecting on tough times, challenges shaped me. 25:36 Introversion helps build deeper, thriving professional relationships. 27:47 Embracing opportunities, moving beyond comfort zone. 31:33 Living in a bubble, limiting our potential. 35:38 Balancing family, community, and limited socializing impact. 37:53 Overcoming challenges, resilience in the face uncertainty. 41:26 Embracing introversion, adapting to leadership situations. 44:34 Language barrier and insecurity holding back expression. 47:07 Grateful for support and seeking silver lining. 50:29 Expresses gratitude for reminder to believe and thrive. International Women's Day, Resilience, Introversion, Family, Empowerment, Cultural Heritage, Leadership, Community, Personal Growth, Multicultural Identity, Caribbean Woman, Lawyer, Human Resources, Motherhood, Gratitude. The episode provides deep insights and practical wisdom for anyone navigating major life transitions or seeking to embrace their authentic self while fostering supportive relationships.

Welcome to the Befriend ur Mind podcast's March edition, where host Kirti reflects on the importance of recognizing and celebrating women's voices and heritage. Join us as we explore the inspiring stories of resilience, strength, and compassion passed down through generations. Discover how women are navigating their personal and professional lives and elevating their presence in the workforce. Get ready to be inspired by the lineup of upcoming guests and Kirti's innovative approach to supporting women in their entrepreneurial journeys. Table of Content: 0:00 - Introducing Memorable March 1:27 - Exploring Family Roots and Resilience 2:48 - The Strength of Women's Bonds 3:54 - Upcoming Podcast Guests 5:11 - Elevate Your Presence Course 6:11 - Supporting Women in Entrepreneurship 7:17 - Preparing Guests for Podcast Interviews 7:54 - Invitation to Curacao and Conclusion women's voices, heritage, resilience, family roots, strength, support, professional growth, entrepreneurship, podcast guest preparation, personal development, International Women's Month   #WomenEmpowerment #HeritageStories #ProfessionalGrowth #EntrepreneurshipSupport  #PersonalDevelopment #SelfEmpowerment #WomenInLeadership #ResilientWomen #HeritageReflections #PodcastInspiration #CareerDevelopment #InternationalWomensMonth

Meet our guest TOM, who delves deep into the art of conscious aging, navigating life's transitions, and the importance of leaving a positive legacy. Whether you're struggling with accepting change, curious about midlife transitions, or seeking to live your life to the fullest without regrets, this episode offers wisdom and strategies to help you befriend your mind at any stage of life.   Dr.Tom Verghese is an executive coach and principal of Cultural Synergies. He has worked for the last three decades in the fields of cultural intelligence, diversity, equity and inclusion. The topic of conscious ageing has become of strong interest over the last few years as he finds himself more aware of the ageing process and wishing to do so consciously. He speaks, leads webinars and retreats in the topic. He can be found on www.consciousageing.com.au   🔔 Stay connected https://www.kirtana168.com https://www.instagram.com/kirtana168 https://linke.to/kirtana168   Subscribe to the Befriend ur Mind podcast for thought-provoking conversations, and don't forget to ring the bell for notifications on our latest episodes.

Meet our guest TOM, who delves deep into the art of conscious aging, navigating life's transitions, and the importance of leaving a positive legacy. Whether you're struggling with accepting change, curious about midlife transitions, or seeking to live your life to the fullest without regrets, this episode offers wisdom and strategies to help you befriend your mind at any stage of life.   Dr.Tom Verghese is an executive coach and principal of Cultural Synergies. He has worked for the last three decades in the fields of cultural intelligence, diversity, equity and inclusion. The topic of conscious ageing has become of strong interest over the last few years as he finds himself more aware of the ageing process and wishing to do so consciously. He speaks, leads webinars and retreats in the topic. He can be found on www.consciousageing.com.au   🔔 Stay connected https://www.kirtana168.com https://www.instagram.com/kirtana168 https://linke.to/kirtana168   Subscribe to the Befriend ur Mind podcast for thought-provoking conversations, and don't forget to ring the bell for notifications on our latest episodes.

In this episode Host, Kirti, talks to Maruja, who shares her remarkable music journey, from captivating audiences as a child prodigy to her soul-stirring performances at significant events like the 1996 Olympic Games, North Sea Jazz Festival  to her sudden change as an entrepreneur. Together, they explore the importance of listening to one’s inner voice amidst external pressures, the transformative power of self-reflection during the pandemic, and the critical need to maintain authenticity in personal branding. This episode is a touching testament to the strength of women who juggle multiple roles—from caring for loved ones to mastering their careers. It's an inspiring call to action for anyone seeking to reclaim their purpose, prioritize their health, and embrace their true selves amidst life's challenges. Subscribe to the Befriend ur Mind podcast for thought-provoking conversations, and don't forget to ring the bell for notifications on our latest episodes. Share this episode with anyone who might find solace and inspiration in Maruja's stories. Remember, it's never too late to step into your light and live your story. 🔔 Stay connected: - Follow us on  @kirtana168  - Check out our content https://linke.to/kirtana168 About Maruja Bogaard Maruja stands brightly on the stage of life, her heart wide open to the world. As a writer, she understands the power of words and the shared connection they forge between her and her audience. Poised with confidence and a genuine desire to uplift others, Maruja is not just a speaker but a beacon of hope. Her message is clear: the journey you're on, with all its trials and tribulations, is rich with potential. Maruja's own story is one of resilience and determination, a testament to the strength found within. She's a living example that one can rise above any challenge and that your past does not dictate your future. Through her narrative, she aims to kindle a spark of empowerment in others, to encourage them to live passionately and authentically. Maruja's mission in life goes beyond her own accomplishments; she is dedicated to stirring others to recognize their worth and to narrate their own stories with courage and vibrancy Visit her website: https://www.marujabogaard.com

This weeks episode of Befriend ur Mind,  I delve into a thought-provoking conversation with my guest Sonja. In this episode, Sonja shares her personal journey of reclaiming space, navigating the complexities of multiethnic dynamics, and the transformative power of self-reflection. You'll gain valuable insights on reclaiming space, navigating burnout as a working mom,Challenging Societal Norms and creating a supportive environment in a multiethnic relationship. For more episodes Follow on instagram Table of Content: 0:00 - 0:50 Introduction 0:50 - 3:20 Expectations vs. Reality 3:20 - 6:10 The Wake-Up Call 6:10 - 8:20 Superwoman and Claiming Space 8:20 - 11:12 Multiethnic Relationship Dynamics 11:12 - 15:10 Navigating Challenges and Guilt 15:10 - 18:45 Working Through Complex Dynamics 18:45 - 21:30 Navigating Pressurized Moments 21:30 - 24:30 Self-Reflection and Exploration 24:30 - 25:15 Poetry and Artistic Expression #ClaimingSpace #SelfDiscovery #Empowerment #MentalWellness #MulticulturalRelationships #Strength #Authenticity #Guilt #SocietyStandards #PoetryExpression

In this week's episode, Kirti delves into redefining love, self-value, and mental well-being, just in time for the Valentine's season. Join us as we explore the impact of societal pressures and expectations on our understanding of love. Through a thought-provoking conversation, Kirti invites listeners to embrace a deeper understanding of themselves.  Stay tuned as we tease you with our upcoming workshops and next episodes guest speakers.   Get ready for an eye-opening discussion on self-acceptance, emotional understanding, and the art of introspection.  BTW, What were your reflections on Elmo's (from sesame street)  tweet?  OH  and here is a reflective prompt for you , do share you insights with me Reflect on the influence of societal marketing and hype around love. How has it shaped your perception of self-worth and the concept of love, and how do you navigate this influence in your daily life? Link to "just be me" Boards and episode: https://linke.to/kirtana168 Spotify Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0DpiEaOwXZudPbt9zvFFnW?si=25d0353b412e42ed 00:00 Marketing, mindfulness, mental health, why are things worsening? 06:34 Reflect on emotions to understand deeper self. 07:51 Explore emotions, reduce self-judgment, handle conversations well. 11:25 Reflect, share, take care, and stay tuned.

00:00 Reflecting on time, exhaustion, and fear. 04:19 Vision board replaced with "just be me" board. 07:37 Reflect on past experiences to learn and grow. 12:11 Walking helps declutter and embrace self-evolvement. 13:07 Improving connection with feelings and thoughts for clarity.

In this episode of "Befriend ur Mind," host Kirti discusses a range of important topics to kick off the new year.Starting with a special mention on her episode of her guest Sonia Harjani about the work-life balance for moms, to her signature "just be me" mood boards, Kirti delves into the power of visualization and the impact of a creative imagination. She also tackles the trend of exhaustion and burnout post-COVID, emphasizing the significance of relaxation and self-reflection. Offering tips and insights from her book, Kirti encourages listeners to revisit their basic expectations, check assumptions, and embrace change. As always, she invites engagement through her newsletter, social media, and the community she's created at kirtana_mon68. Join Kirti as she delves into the intricacies of befriending our minds in this enlightening episode. 00:00 Midlife crisis, inspiration, and reinventing one's life. 04:36 Regularly changing JustBeMe board aids resilience. 08:05 Relax and rejuvenate with deliberate breathing exercises. 11:36 Engage in creative activities for relaxation. 14:02 Building community, supporting one another, and friendship.

In this special episode, we are joined by guest Sonia Harjani, a mompreneur and avid advocate for mindful parenting. Sonia shares her insights on balancing work and parenting, leveraging technology for family connections, and navigating non-traditional approaches to raising her child. From discussing the challenges faced by Asian women in society to emphasizing the importance of self-care and clear communication, Sonia's dynamic life offers a refreshing perspective on modern parenting and finding harmony amidst cultural and societal expectations. Join us as we delve into Sonia's journey and glean wisdom from her experiences! About Sonia Sonia is a modern-day juggler, balancing her roles as a mother, partner, and professional. She believes in the power of super moms and superwomen but also acknowledges the challenges of wanting to be in multiple places at once. Despite the juggling act, Sonia believes that with the right priorities, planning, and support from a trusted partner, it is possible to have it all. Her story is a testament to the strength and determination of working mothers everywhere YOu can follow her @explorewithson  Timestamp: 00:00 Always have a plan b in mind. 06:20 Children's happiness matters, even in business endeavours. 09:18 Asian women face societal pressures across generations. 10:24 Strong communication and support vital in partnership. 16:13 Consider proper responses to personal interactions. Research and resonate with applicable advice. Reflect and correct behavior when necessary. 18:46 Cultural differences in child care practices discussed. 22:08 Kids pick up habits from their peers. 24:59 Benefits of remote work, but productivity concerns. 28:09 Balance challenges of extended family and distance. 30:57 2024 brings fresh start for women leaders. 32:55 Planning and technology are key to success.

In this thought-provoking episode, Kirti reflects on the pursuit of a meaningful legacy and the impact on personal well-being. She shares her own journey as a working woman, addressing the constant hustle, societal pressures, and the clash between western and eastern cultural influences. With a focus on self-discovery and balance, Kirti explores the power of intention, resilience, and choosing a path that aligns with one's authentic self. Join us as we delve into the concept of legacy and the importance of finding your own version of balance in the midst of life's demands.   00:00 Questioning motivational advice, searching for authentic self. 06:04 Self-discovery through mood boards reveals personal contrast. 08:56 Balancing career and family is a choice. 10:58 Balance energy, create clarity, live your legacy.

Kirti, gets real about the struggle to find balance in the busiest month of the year. She shares personal stories, draws inspiration from a Monocle article on slow travel, and delves into the importance of hitting the brakes in the midst of chaos. Kirti opens up about her own experience with burnout, the pitfalls of societal pressures, and the unique challenges women face in their thirties and forties. She also dishes out some valuable insights on genuine self-development, mindful communication, and combatting emotional numbness. So grab a cup of tea, kick back, and tune in as Kirti offers up some sage advice for navigating the wild ride of December. She's all about embracing a slower, more mindful approach to end the year on a peaceful note. 00:00 December: Rush and reflection, a dichotomy. 05:05 Embracing thoughts, addressing stress, and self-improvement. 07:34 Being insincere at work leads to burnout. 10:40 Values, purpose, principles guide understanding and decisions. 14:55 Listening without bias fosters understanding and empathy. 17:43 Authentic communication, career-family balance, women burning out. 20:54 Strategically slow down for greater well-being.   How do you personally relate to the concept of the "December rush"?

Today, we're taking a breather from the hustle and bustle of life and diving into the art of slowing down and truly connecting with those around us. Kirti shares her take on the conflicting feelings of looking back at the year gone by while also gearing up for what's to come. She discusses the role of AI in our lives, the prevalent conflicts in society, and the all-too-relatable feelings of burnout and resignation. And hey, she poses a pretty thought-provoking question – could 2024 be the year of understanding? So, grab a cozy spot and join us as we explore the power of slowing down internally and seeking understanding in the midst of it all on "Befriend ur Mind"! 00:00 AI raises concerns around gender, culture impact. 05:29 Embrace diverse perspectives for a purposeful year.

In this episode,Kirti and guest Debbie discuss the value of sharing legacy and personal through podcasting. Debbie shares her journey into podcasting during the lockdown, the importance of leaving a legacy through storytelling, and her experiences uncovering her family's diverse heritage. So grab a cozy spot and tune in. Bio Debbie Williams, a seasoned storyteller and media executive, launched her podcasting journey in May 2020 during the lockdown. Her dynamic approach to life and leadership shines through in her podcast, where she shares transformative stories and embraces the power of the spoken word. Debbie is on a mission to preserve the legacy of storytelling and believes in the unspoken might of our voices to inform, educate, and inspire. Apart from her podcast, Debbie is an active presence in the fitness world, exuding vibrant personality and leadership prowess. To join her on this inspiring journey or for fitness motivation, visit Debbiewilliamspodcast.com. Question What are your thoughts and ideas of leaving a legacy through storytelling in podcasting?

Kirti, the author of the newsletter and the founder of Kirtana 168, a communications boutique.She explains that the focus of the newsletter is to invite individuals to shift their perspective, find their own words, and speak in different audiences, sharing their stories.The newsletter will include a theme of the month, a reflection of the month, and a guest sharing diverse thoughts.Kirti introduces "Befriend Your Mind" and shares her motivation for starting it - to take pressure off individuals and help them trust themselves in a world with abundant information and narratives. [00:01:37.390] - Services OfferedShe discusses the services offered in the communications boutique, including podcasts, programs, and professional talks on understanding oneself and making decisions with ease.She invites listeners to subscribe to the podcast for more content. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need further assistance.

[00:00:00.260] - Welcome Message Welcome to the first edition of Befriend Your Mind Catch-up. In this episode, Kirti, the author of this newsletter and the founder of Kirtana 168, introduces the theme for the month: connections, networking, and relationship building. [00:01:21.820] - Addressing Current Energy Kirti discusses the current energetic atmosphere, emphasizing the prevalence of low energy and heightened anxiety. She acknowledges the impact of recent global events and the resulting existential questions and feelings of resignation among individuals. [00:02:37.510] - Befriending Your Mind Encouraging listeners to be gentle with themselves, Kirti advises taking a break from self-improvement and allowing space for personal reflection and relaxation. She highlights the importance of listening and being authentic in professional environments. [00:05:19.970] - Podcast Guest Announcement Kirti announces the upcoming podcast guest, Debbie Williams, and shares the inspiration behind her own podcast. She expresses her belief in the power of sharing personal stories to foster empathy and understanding in today's emotionally sensitive world. [00:06:31.130] - Closing Message Kirti concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to take a break and sending warm wishes for the month ahead. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations and upcoming events with Kirti on the Befriend Your Mind podcast.

Welcome back to another episode of "Befriend Your Mind"! In today's episode, we have a special guest named Dean, who will be sharing his journey through mental health and self-discovery. Society can often leave us feeling confused and uncertain about our emotions, regardless of gender. Dean embarked on a deep cleanse and focused on healing relationships with family and his partner. We'll explore how open communication plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy relationship and addressing physical and mental well-being. Cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds also influence how we express and deal with emotions. And stay tuned as Dean shares his experiences in the fashion industry, blogging, and finding peace within himself. Let's dive in and befriend our minds together!

In this episode, I'll share the story of that eye-opening experience and how it shaped my perspective on difficult conversations. We'll explore the importance of respect, consideration, and reconciliation when it comes to embracing our differences. And trust me, the key is not about suppressing our opinions or conforming to societal norms, but rather finding that balance between expressing ourselves and honoring the dignity of others. So if you're tired of feeling frustrated or silenced during such conversations, this episode is for you. Together, we'll discover practical techniques and mindset shifts to transform those tough dialogues into opportunities for growth and connection. Get ready to befriend your mind and become a master of communication. before we dive in, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for each and every one of you who tune in and support the podcast. Your presence means the world to me, and I'm honored to be on this journey of self-discovery and personal transformation with you.   sKNRvI3BfdGuhGSZEisG Shownotes [00:02:47] Knowledge is good, but applying it's harder. Especially when faced with differences. [00:04:16] She said things I couldn't disagree with. It's about life, how we see it. We're scared to talk because of the polarized world. Online, there's so much anger. Life is unfair. It's different from before when people practiced peace. Now, they argue on Instagram. [00:08:42] Caring human to human has no win-win. Hating compromise, tolerance seemed unfair. Stop, observe, yield and discern. Ease pressure, stop comparing. Live by own moral code. [00:13:12] Listen to yourself, find value in solitude. [00:15:54] Hurt people hurt others, be aware. Overcoming fear means accepting different perspectives. [00:20:09] Can't tell you what's right, but tools can help. Self-awareness = control, navigating differences. Check in with yourself. Hope it inspires you to write it out.   Subscribe to Befriend your mind on Soundwise