Desi Roots & Routes

About Desi Roots & Routes

Discover the journeys of trailblazing Indian Americans who have shaped industries, broken barriers, and built thriving communities across the United States. Each episode offers firsthand insights into how these leaders navigate identity, culture, and success, from roots in India to routes they've travelled--giving you inspiration and valuable lessons for your own path. Hosted by Director Sital Kalantry, this season takes you to Seattle, where you’ll hear from luminaries like Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, filmmaker Rita Meher, entrepreneur Gurpreet (Sunny) Singh, musician Krishna Thiagarajan, global health strategist Ankur Vora, and legal powerhouse Pallavi Mehta Wahi. Whether you’re seeking motivation, cultural connection, or stories of perseverance, this podcast delivers. Available on all major platforms.

Publisher

Roundglass India Center at Seattle University

Category

society & culture · society & culture · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Sept 2024

Latest episode

13 Jun 2025

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Jun 2025

   Sanjay Parthasarathy’s Journey: From Microsoft to Major League Cricket

   Tech entrepreneur Sanjay Parthasarathy discusses his journey from India to Microsoft and his current role as co-owner of the Seattle Orcas, aiming to grow cricket in the U.S. and connect cultures in this interview.

2. 

   30 May 2025

   Vin Gupta’s Journey: From Military Medicine to the Media Frontlines

   Pulmonologist Dr. Vin Gupta discusses his journey from military service to media commentary, highlighting key moments that shaped his career and his mission to combat misinformation; this is an interview episode featuring Dr. David Rapp.

3. 

   16 May 2025

   Sonora Jha’s Journey: From Journalism to Bold Fiction

   How can storytelling become an act of resistance? Sonora Jha is a professor of journalism at Seattle University and an acclaimed author whose work boldly explores themes of gender, race, and resistance. From her early life in India navigating both privilege and adversity, to her groundbreaking career in journalism and her shift into academia and literary fiction, Sonora shares how her lived experiences shape her writing and worldview. In this conversation, she discusses the creative process behind her best-selling novel The Laughter, the role of satire in exploring multiple (and sometimes opposing) perspectives, and the impact of authenticity in storytelling. Literary critic Rafael Frumkin joins us to unpack the book’s unique approach to the campus novel genre and sharp critique of complicity and power in academia. In this episode, Sonora shares her perspectives on: (02:22) Growing up in India (05:08) Her career in journalism (10:18) Transitioning to academia and the U.S. (15:40) The Laughter and writing from the perspective of a white man (18:14) Expert discussion with critic Rafael Frumkin on the impact of Sonora’s work (23:00) Pushback on The Laughter (28:03) Advice to young writers Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center) or email us at DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com (mailto:DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com) and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Sonora Jha (https://www.sonorajha.com/) Intemperance (https://bookshop.org/p/books/intemperance-a-novel-sonora-jha/3552e23fad94d4a9?ean=9780063440845&next=t) (forthcoming) The Laughter (https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-laughter-sonora-jha/18828784?ean=9780063240261&next=t) Rafael Frumkin (https://www.rfrumkin.com/) Frumpkin's New York Times Book Review (https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/14/books/review/the-laughter-sonora-jha.html) of The Laughter

4. 

   2 May 2025

   Shasti Conrad's Journey: From Navigating Identity to Redefining Representation

   What does it mean to lead with both purpose and identity in today’s political landscape? Shasti Conrad, the first woman of color to chair the Washington State Democratic Party, shares her powerful story of identity, activism, and political leadership. Adopted from India and raised in a small, predominantly white town in Oregon, Shasti's journey defies expectations. Her path took her from a transformative education at Seattle University to a seat in the Obama White House and into the top ranks of political organizing. Shasti opens up about the importance of inclusivity, representation, and finding your place in spaces that weren’t built for you. In this episode, Shasti shares her invaluable insights on: (02:03) Growing up as a transracial adoptee in rural Oregon (09:40) Discovering purpose at Seattle University (14:11) Getting her start in national politics (20:05) Working in the Obama White House (27:05) Expert segment with Angela Tucker on transracial adoption (31:49) Becoming chair of the WA State Democrats (34:20) Advice for future leaders Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center, delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans. Exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center) or email us at DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com (mailto:DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com) and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Washington State Democrats (https://wadems.org/about/meet-the-chair/) Angela Tucker (https://www.angelatucker.com/)

5. 

   4 Dec 2024

   Krishna Thiagarajan's Journey: From Concert Halls to Cultural Leadership

   Krishna Thiagarajan, CEO of the Seattle Symphony, shares his journey from performer to leader, revealing how his multicultural background and experiences inform his inclusive vision for classical music.

6. 

   15 Nov 2024

   Ankur Vora's Journey: From Strategy to Social Change

   How does a commitment to social good inspire a global leader to dedicate their life to solving complex public health challenges? Ankur Vora (https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/leadership/ankur-vora) is a distinguished leader in global health, guiding impactful initiatives as Chief Strategy Officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (https://www.gatesfoundation.org/). From his early days at BITS in India to working with global nonprofits, Ankur’s path reflects a commitment to applying his talents toward improving public health and equity worldwide. Inspired by his parents' values of service and purpose, Ankur transitioned from a successful career in the corporate world to one where he could leverage his skills for lasting societal change. In this episode, Ankur shares his invaluable insights on; (01:19) Immigrating to the U.S. (04:20) Studying at the prestigious BITS University (05:25) Nalini Iyer’s Segment: India’s Education System and the IIT structure (10:10) The journey from corporate success to philanthropic impact (13:03) The work of the Gates Foundation to address systemic issues (19:48) The importance of community and celebrating your cultural identity (24:25) Advice for aspiring leaders aiming to create change in global health Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center)! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (https://www.gatesfoundation.org/) India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) (https://nfsa.gov.in/portal/PDS_page) Birla Institute of Technology and Sciences (BITS) (https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in/)

7. 

   1 Nov 2024

   Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s Journey: From Advocate to Policy-Maker

   What unique perspectives do immigrant leaders bring to building a more inclusive political landscape? Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal is a trailblazing leader in American politics, known for her dedication to immigrant rights and progressive change. From her beginnings in India to her impactful role in Congress, Pramila’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to justice. This episode explores her pathway from community organizer to U.S. Congress, illuminating her influential role in building coalitions and inspiring a new generation of leaders. In this episode, Pramila shares her invaluable insights on; (01:10) Immigrating to the U.S. (08:08) Founding OneAmerica (11:32) Why Congress (13:43) Importance of Representation in Politics (16:05) Segment covering the Indian American influence on US political parties with Karthick Ramakrishnan (20:22) Immigration Reform (22:45) Segment covering why it’s difficult to pass laws on immigration reform with Steve Yale-Loehr (30:25) Advice for those who want a career in advocating for equity and justice. Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center)! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Voter Registration and Information (https://vote.gov/) OneAmerica (https://weareoneamerica.org/) Roundglass India Center - Indian Americans and Politics with Karthick Ramakrishnan (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=smUACEKfUUI) The Indian Express article: The long history of immigration in the U.S. (https://indianexpress.com/article/research/the-long-history-of-immigration-in-the-us-part-2-9626879/) Cornell White Paper: Immigration Reform: A Path Forward (https://www.lawschool.cornell.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Cornell-immigration-white-paper-10-5-23.pdf)

8. 

   18 Oct 2024

   Pallavi Wahi’s Journey: From Junior Associate to Trailblazing Leader

   What does it take for an immigrant woman to become a powerful voice for authenticity and mentorship in the U.S. legal system? Pallavi Mehta Wahi (https://www.klgates.com/Pallavi-Mehta-Wahi) is the Managing Partner at K&L Gates’ Seattle Office, representing one of the largest law firms in the United States. Her journey from India to becoming a leader in the legal field is marked by a deep commitment to mentoring, fostering inclusivity, and building authentic communities. Pallavi’s path highlights the importance of embracing identity while navigating challenges in the professional world. In this episode, Pallavi shares her invaluable insights on: (01:26) Immigrating to Seattle (03:09) Finding Success at K&L Gates (08:37) Nalini Iyer’s Segment: Intersectionality in the Workplace (13:17) The importance of being authentic (17:35) Recognizing your own power (19:22) Building communities from the ground up (24:05) Creating a better world for the next generation Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kilantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center)! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: K&L Gates (https://www.klgates.com/) Book - On Intersectionality: Essential Writings by Kimberlé Crenshaw (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Intersectionality-Essential-Writings-Kimberle-Crenshaw/dp/1620975513) South Asian Bar Association of Washington (https://www.sabaw.org/) API Chaya (https://www.apichaya.org/) SU News: University Designated as Minority Serving Institution (https://www.seattleu.edu/newsroom/2024/university-designated-as-minority-serving-institution.php)

9. 

   4 Oct 2024

   Rita Meher's Journey: From Hate to Healing Through Film

   How does a hate incident spark a storyteller’s successful film career and inspire a lifelong commitment to confronting difficult experiences and shining a light on them? Rita Meher (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rita-meher/) is a filmmaker, activist, and co-founder of Tasveer, the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival. Her path from a small village in India to becoming a leader in the arts community of Seattle is one of resilience and purpose. Inspired by the challenges she faced as an Adivasi and the post-9/11 climate in America, Rita has dedicated her career to creating space for marginalized voices and becoming a trailblazer within the film community for social change and justice. In this episode, Rita shares her invaluable insights on: (1:45) Growing up as an Adivasi (4:40) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: how caste discrimination persists in the Indian diaspora (11:30) The effect of post 9/11 hate incidents in America (17:05) The role of film festivals and film markets (23:51) Growing to love Seattle (27:06) The importance of staying focused Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kilantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center)! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Tasveer Film Festival (https://tasveerfestival.org/) Tasveer Film Fund (https://tasveerfestival.org/filmfund/) Tasveer Film Market (https://tasveerfestival.org/tasveer-film-market/) Art Beat - Office of Arts & Culture (https://artbeat.seattle.gov/)

10. 

    20 Sept 2024

    Sunny Singh’s Journey: From Entrepreneur to Philanthropist

    What motivates a successful tech entrepreneur to shift focus towards giving back and creating lasting change in global health and education? Sunny Singh (https://roundglassliving.com/sunny/about-sunny) is a tech entrepreneur, philanthropist, wellbeing seeker and founder of the Roundglass Foundation. His journey to success in America is one of integrity and perseverance, guided by the lessons instilled from his parents back in India and touched by the recognition that we must give back in this life. He charts the unknown in search of passion and purpose. In this episode, Sunny shares his invaluable insights on; (01:38) Growing up in Delhi (07:05) Immigrating to America without a plan (09:30) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: the history of Indians immigrating to the Pacific Northwest (17:30) Why the corporate world isn’t for everybody (20:17) How to build a unicorn tech company (23:30) The power of proactive philanthropy (27:23) And the importance of creating a legacy that outlives the individual Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kilantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America. Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/5muCDW1RPESatXBrZ9xHLT?si=1fef4f9910f14d04), Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/desi-roots-routes/id1766579374), or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/) and following us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/roundglassindiacenter/) and YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@roundglassindiacenter)! And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here (https://seattle-university.read.axioshq.com/signup/seattle-universitys-roundglass-india-center)! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections. Additional Resources: Book: Nalini Iyer & Amy Bhatt - Roots & Reflections (https://uwapress.uw.edu/book/9780295994260/roots-and-reflections/) Book: Karen Leonard - Making Ethnic Choices (https://www.amazon.ca/Making-Ethnic-Choices-Californias-Americans/dp/1566392020/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3M0N714HR1DVQ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.--2p6ppCHiRyMrQ4cn8-wQ.bA7BaJ78ah97pX7p_EhRcU1OVw3Ivp44JnnRbNZq8Gc&dib_tag=se&keywords=Book%3A+Karen+Leonard+-+Making+Ethnic+Choices&qid=1725394880&sprefix=book+karen+leonard+-+making+ethnic+choices+%2Caps%2C249&sr=8-1) Book: Chitra Divakaruni - Leaving Yuba City (https://www.chitradivakaruni.com/books/leaving-yuba-city) Book: Amy Bhatt - High Tech Housewives (http://amybhatt.com/?page_id=23) Roundglass India Center Website (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/)

11. 

    4 Sept 2024

    Introducing Desi Roots & Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America

    Join us as we explore the determination, brilliance, and luck that have shaped the journeys of Indian-American leaders who have achieved remarkable success. Desi Roots & Routes (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/news-and-media/podcast/)brings you the inspiring stories of people with roots in India whose paths have led them to break barriers and create lasting legacies in America. Hosted by Sital Kalantry (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/), this podcast offers a window into their world—where cultures intersect, and new opportunities are forged. But this is just the beginning. What are the challenges their industries currently face, and how have they overcome them? How do these leaders balance their identities while giving back to the communities that shaped them? Tune in to Desi Roots & Routes (https://www.seattleu.edu/roundglass-india-center/news-and-media/podcast/) and uncover the stories that connect us all.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

2,901,879

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 57 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

66

Social presence

0

YouTube

86

Engagement

32

Contact Desi Roots & Routes

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.