Living, with Dr. Monica Shah

About Living, with Dr. Monica Shah

A podcast exploring the many different ways we can lead meaningful, fulfilling lives—especially when we’re walking a path that doesn’t look like everyone else's. Episodes feature real stories from real people who are honoring their own truth, charting their path, and redefining what living can look like. You’ll hear honest conversations and therapeutic insights, to help you feel more confident in living a life that fits you. Whether you’ve chosen a non-traditional life, or life chose it for you, this show is here to support your journey and remind you that you’re not alone.

Publisher

Dr. Monica Shah

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

19 Oct 2025

Latest episode

1 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   1 Aug 2026

   Turning Pain into Purpose: Service, Slowing Down, and the Power of Stories

   Keywords mental health, leadership, self-care, slowing down, redefining success, immigrant stories, autoimmune health, work-life harmony, slow living, storytelling, resilience, community, nature, self-care, personal growth, authenticity, purpose Summary Dimple Dhabalia shares her journey from a childhood in immigrant communities to a career in service. Her perspective offers powerful tools for transforming stories and crafting a life filled with purpose, connection, and compassion. This conversation explores the impact of vicarious trauma, the importance of self-care, and how leaders can foster well-being in themselves and others. Dimple shares personal experiences of living intentionally amidst life's chaos, offering deep wisdom gained from her own life’s challenges. She catalyzes her pain into life lessons and advocacy work to help others live with more balance and compassion. Discover practical insights on slowing down in a fast-paced world, challenging inner narratives, and embracing your unique path. Key topics Impact of trauma and vicarious trauma invservice work The importance of mental health and self-care for leaders Redefining success and embracing life fully Conditioning of productivity and dehumanization in society Strategies for slowing down and living in harmony The importance of nature and awe in fostering perspective The dialectic of holding pain and hope Micro practices for slow living amidst a busy world Challenging and rewriting internal narratives The role of community and collective care in resilience Sound bites "We are more resilient than we give ourselves credit for." "Hopeful action takes courage and collective imagination." "We have the capacity to hold pain and possibility together." "Being human is messy, but serving other humans is messier." "Self-care must always go hand in hand with community care." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 00:33 Introduction to Dimple Dhabalia 03:22 Cultural Background and Community Influence 05:30 Mental Health Issues and a Call to Service 06:49 Education and Early Career Choices 08:30 Experiences in Public Service 11:01 Personal Struggles and Relationship Challenges 12:28 Grief and Its Impact on Life Decisions 13:37 Finding Purpose in Asylum Work 14:25 Vicarious Trauma and Professional Challenges 17:43 Leadership and Advocacy in Humanitarian Work 19:18 Health Crisis and Its Lessons 22:25 Self-Worth Beyond Professional Identity 24:54 The Dehumanization of the Industrial Revolution 27:00 Compartmentalization and Its Consequences 28:49 The Burden of Leadership 29:47 Work-Life Harmony 30:56 Humanizing Service Work 32:16 Challenging the Narrative of Service Before Self 33:06 Living the Best Version of Your Life Now 37:03 Appreciating the Vastness of Nature 38:39 Holding Pain and Possibility 40:05 Importance of Community 41:43 Slower Living in a Fast-Paced World 45:12 Navigating Identity Through New Ventures 46:23 Connection Through Grief 47:11 The Power of Our Internal Stories 47:58 Practicing Self-Compassion 49:09 Challenging Internal Narratives 50:57 Self-Compassionate versus Self-Critical Coaching 52:02 The Journey of Overcoming Our Stories 53:37 Redefining Success in a Cultural and Societal Contexts 55:16 Finding Meaning in Life Choices 56:52 Reflecting on Life, Connecting the Dots 58:42 Embracing the Complexity of Life 59:33 Tips for Gratitude Practice 01:02:25 Opportunities for Daily Reset 01:03:42 Rewriting Your Own Story 01:04:53 Tips for Charting Your Own Path 01:08:04 Where to Find Dimple 01:09:41 Outtakes Guest links Tell Me My Story: Challenging the Narrative of Service Before Self - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXYZ1234 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CN3TYYP7?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback) Dimple Dhabalia's Website - https://dimpledhabalia.com Roots and Clouds Journal - journal.rootsintheclouds.com Dimple Dhabalia on Instagram - https://instagram.com/dimpstory love in action cards - https://loveinactioncards.com/ (https://loveinactioncards.com/)

2. 

   23 May 2026

   Uncharted Waters: A Psychologist's Guide to Radical Authenticity, with Dr. Kiki Fehling

   Keywords psychology, life transformation, mindfulness, out-of-the-boxliving, trauma, societal expectations, LGBTQ+, DBT, dialectical behavior therapy, self-exploration, personal growth Summary What if stepping off the beaten path wasn't just a daringadventure, but a profound way to understand yourself better? Kiki Fehling, a psychologist who traded in her traditional career for the open seas, reveals how deliberate experiments with discomfort and core principles like dialectical thinking can unlock a more authentic path. Her story of surviving a heart attack at 29, and later choosing to live on a sailboat for a year, demonstrates how breaking prescribed paths fosters self-discovery, creativity, and deep fulfillment. In this episode, you'll discover: This episode is perfect for anyone feeling stuck, curious about unconventional living, or seeking new ways to align their life with their true self. By sharing her own journeys - big and small - Kiki exemplifies the power of intentional risk-taking and mindful adjustment. These insights will inspire you to explore, experiment, and trust that accepting life’s fluidity is where growth and fulfillment truly reside. Prepare to see life as an ever-changing dance with nature and self - hit play to rethink what’s possible for your life. Key topics External life events serve as crucial catalysts for internal re-evaluation. Internalized societal expectations often mask our true preferences. Changing internal narratives about fixed identities can enable profound transitions. Environments shape behavior, but internal agency enables adaptation. Small experiments cultivate the courage to diverge from prescribed paths. Dialectics are a mental model for fostering flexibility amid life's constant flux. Self-compassion, mindful inquiry, and body-based practices offer a route to internal clarity. Sound bites "Real transformation begins when we challenge our own stories." "Approaching change as a series of small experiments reduces fear." "Life is unpredictable, and change is constant." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 00:33 Introduction to Kiki Fehling 03:19 Kiki's Journey: From Traditional Paths to Unconventional Choices 07:44 Shifting Expectations After a Health Scare 11:23 Navigating Internalized Expectations 14:27 Building Your Life Worth Living: Lessons from Therapy 17:51 Exploring Flexibility in Life Choices 20:32 Small Steps to Big Changes: The Sailboat Decision 22:59 The Weight of Expectations: Perception vs. Reality 25:09 Embracing Uncertainty and Change 26:22 Navigating Life Choices with Dialectics 28:15 The Challenge of Open Possibilities 29:57 Awareness and Acceptance in Life Choices 31:21 Facing Challenges: Anxiety, Shame, and People-Pleasing 32:47 Opposite Action: Approaching Fear and Shame 35:19 Self-Compassion, Movement, and Interconnectedness in Healing 39:05 Understanding People-Pleasing: A Psychological Perspective 45:35 The Reality of Nuanced Identities 46:47 Living Life on a Sailboat: Embracing Adventure andChange 48:55 Overcoming Identity-Related Barriers to Change 50:45 Embracing Creativity and Nature Through Change 53:48 Finding Stability in Uncertainty 56:14 Bringing Connectedness into Structured Life 59:05 Tips for Going Off the Beaten Path 01:01:01 Where to Find Kiki 01:03:04 Outtakes Guest links Kiki Fehling's Website (https://kikifehling.com) Upcoming LGBTQ+ Mental Health Workbook, by Kiki Fehling (https://kikifehling.com/books) Kiki's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dbtkiki/) Social media handle on all platforms: @dbtkiki

3. 

   5 Apr 2026

   Journey to Myself: Lessons from a Life Rebuilt, with Dr. Monica Shah

   Keywords authenticity, life transitions, identity, building community, self-discovery, life lessons, resilience, self-love, living in the questions, radical acceptance, fulfillment Summary Dr. Monica Shah shares her journey of balancing dance, psychology, and personal growth, highlighting both the challenges and joys of living authentically. She charts her path to self-love through rebuilding her life multiple times, and she reflects on feeling lost while becoming herself. Discover insights on radical acceptance, building community, and embracing life's uncertainties. Topics Balancing career, passions, and personal life The importance of nurturing self-love and authenticity Challenges of life transitions Overcoming changes in social circles The role of radical acceptance in living well Releasing control over how you think your life should go Building authentic community Sound bites “You can both want something in your life and feel satisfied in your life just as it is” “Releasing control helps you cultivate more enjoyment in the moments that you experience” “Not needing to have an answer right now and also trusting that one will unfold with time” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 03:17 My Journey: Roots and Influences 07:09 Navigating Career Choices, Fears, and Identity 08:28 Life Changing Decisions 10:15 Rebuilding Life in Vancouver 12:26 Feeling Unsettled and Getting Unstuck 13:27 Pursuing a Doctorate and New Beginnings 15:08 Support Systems and Community 16:05 Challenges of Shifting Social Circles 16:55 Embracing Sadness 17:42 Questioning Traditional Norms and Beliefs 18:37 Holding Onto Yourself Amidst Others' Voices 20:01 Living with Openness and Uncertainty 21:13 Dealing with Modern Dating 21:49 Self-Discovery, Authenticity, and Fulfillment 25:21 Radical Acceptance and Realms of Control 27:17 Gratitude and Living in the Questions 28:28 Joy and Purpose 29:35 Reflections on My Journey Guest links Website – www.drmonicashah.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drmonicashah

4. 

   18 Feb 2026

   Courage to Pivot: Leaving Corporate, Discovering Purpose, and Your Ideal Life, with Hannah Kissel

   Keywords coaching, personal growth, transformation, ambition, purpose, self-doubt, ideal life, women empowerment, high achievers, entrepreneurship, community support Summary What happens when you have the title, the success, the achievements - and you still feel like something’s missing? In this episode, Hannah shares her journey from thriving in a corporate career to stepping into her calling as an executive life coach.  We talk about redefining ambition, navigating career transitions, and discovering a purpose that feels aligned. Hannah and I explore: Why success doesn’t always equal fulfillment The quiet “not enough” feeling that many people carry How your purpose isn’t fixed - it evolves as you do What it really means to design your ideal life (hint: it starts with your everyday experience) And why joy and fun are not luxuries - they’re essential This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and ask yourself: Am I chasing success - or creating a life that actually feels good? If you’re questioning your next chapter or craving deeper purpose, this conversation will remind you: you don’t have to abandon ambition - you just have to align it. Takeaways Achievement is often confused with self-worth. Many high achievers struggle with feelings of not being good enough. Community support is vital during major life transitions. Your purpose can evolve and change over time. Defining an ideal life involves envisioning daily experiences. Joy and fun are essential for a fulfilling life. Unhealthy ambition can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Women often face unique pressures regarding purpose and achievement. It's important to explore interests without the pressure of outcomes. Sound bites "What do you actually truly want?" "I always confused achievement for love." "You can shift and change your purpose." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 01:57 Hannah's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching 05:41 Patterns in High Achieving Women 08:29 Societal Influences on "I'm Not Enough" Beliefs 11:33 Healthy Ambition vs. Unhealthy Ambition 14:31 Challenges in Career Transitions and Entrepreneurship 18:22 Support Systems When Going Against the Grain 22:34 Confronting Parts During Times of Change 24:16 Coping with Isolation and Financial Fears as an Entrepreneur 27:22 Understanding Purpose and Purpose Anxiety 31:29 Finding Purpose in Your Day-to-Day 34:07 Women and Purpose 35:05 Crafting Your Ideal Life 37:37 Joys of Leading An Ideal Life 40:05 Locating Your Internal Compass 42:04 Finding Community and Starting Small 44:10 Joy for the Sake of Enjoyment 45:26 Where to Find Hannah 47:11 Outtake 47:49 Subscribe Follow Hannah Kissel on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/hannahmaekissel/) Connect with Hannah Kissel on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkissel/) Access the Free Career Confidence Cours (https://www.hannahkissel.com/careerconfidence)e Visit www.hannahkissel.com (http://www.hannahkissel.com/)

5. 

   12 Jan 2026

   Beyond the Spotlight: Aging, Authenticity, and Creative Fulfillment, with Ulka Mohanty

   Keywords creativity, success, rejection, aging, single life, risk-taking, personal growth, artistic journey, resilience, personal fulfillment Summary What does success really mean - especially in the arts, in Hollywood, and in life? In this conversation, Ulka shares her journey from a stable IT career in Montreal to pursuing her passion for the arts in LA. We highlight how aging in Hollywood brings both challenges and hard-earned wisdom, and why embracing your current chapter - whether single, partnered, thriving, or uncertain - is essential to living well. Ulka discusses redefining success in the arts, especially when life doesn’t follow the traditional timeline, and encourages listeners to take risks and follow their curiosity. We look at the benefits of late career transitions, challenging the idea that it’s ever “too late” to pivot or start something new, and underline how growth happens when we stay curious and honest with ourselves. Through honest reflection on creativity, aging, singledom, rejection, and personal growth, this conversation reframes what it means to live a fulfilling and meaningful life. If you’re seeking clarity, inspiration, and permission to define success for yourself, this episode is for you.  By questioning traditional prescriptions for happiness, we open space for more authentic ways of living and creating. Takeaways Making a big life change can start with a quiet decision. Success in the arts is not solely defined by monetary gain. Rejection is often not personal; it's about fit. Aging in Hollywood can be challenging, but wisdom grows with age. Living authentically means embracing your current situation, whether single or partnered. Curiosity can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. It's important to redefine what success means to you personally. Taking risks is essential for personal fulfillment and growth. Your past experiences can inform and enhance your current pursuits. Focus on the process rather than the outcome to find fulfillment. Sound bites "No knowledge is wasted." "What am I aging into?" “Action begets action.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 00:33 Ulka Mohanty: A Modern-Day Renaissance Woman 01:33 The Journey to LA: A Leap of Faith 08:37 Redefining Success in the Arts 14:32 Navigating Rejection and Building Resilience 20:42 Benefits of Late Career Transitions 27:45 Challenging Traditional Prescriptions 30:16 Cultural Pressures to Be in Partnership 33:49 Navigating the Question of Singledom 37:10 Aging in Hollywood: Shifting Perspectives 42:07 Embracing Curiosity, Risk, and Action in Your Life 47:52 Where to Find Ulka 49:46 Outtakes 50:55 Subscribe Website: www.ulkamohanty.com Instagram: @UlkaM

6. 

   27 Dec 2025

   Feeling Stuck? How to Break Through Mental Blocks and Finally Take Action, with Dr. Monica Shah

   Keywords mental blocks, podcasting, self-doubt,motivation, perfectionism, resilience, procrastination, overcoming challenges, self-criticism,self-compassion Summary In this solo episode, Dr. Monica Shah shares her journey of launching a podcast while navigating various mental and physical blocks. She discusses the common challenges people face when trying something new, including time management, life circumstances, overwhelm, procrastination, perfectionism, and self-doubt. Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and resilience in overcoming these obstacles. The conversation serves as a guide for listeners who may be facing similar blocks to embarking on something new, encouraging them to embrace their unique paths in life. Takeaways It's normal to feel nervous when starting something new. Common blocks include time management, life circumstances, and overwhelm. Self-doubt is a common barrier to pursuing goals. Motivation often comes after taking action, not before. Perfectionism can hinder progress and creativity. Procrastination often stems from fear and overwhelm. Comparison to others can diminish motivation. Setting external deadlines creates accountability and can distract from mental blocks. Self-criticism is detrimental; self-compassion is crucial when facing challenges Embrace the journey and learn from each experience. Sound bites “Work in the windows of time.” "Done is better than perfect." "Just start somewhere and you can modify as you go." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 00:37 Pulling Back the Curtain: My Podcast Journey 02:51 My Why 04:11 Block #1: Time 05:38 Block #2: Life 06:12 Block #3: Overwhelm 07:05 Block #4: Intellectualizing 08:19 Block #5: Procrastination 09:26 Block #6: Perfectionism 11:22 Block #7: Motivation 12:50 Block #8: Self-Doubt 13:34 Block #9: Vulnerability 14:39 Block #10: Social Comparison 15:35 Setting Goals and Deadlines 16:31 Block #11: Self-Criticism 18:42 Reconnecting with My Why 19:30 First Solo Show Done! 20:59 Please Like, Share, and Subscribe Passengers on the Bus metaphor (from ACT) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z29ptSuoWRc

7. 

   14 Dec 2025

   Redefining Home: Immigration, Intuition, and the Journey to Belonging, with Reet German

   Keywords Immigration journey, belonging, intuition, change, travel, resilience, identity, personal growth, authenticity, family, identity, redefining home, self-acceptance, resilience, living authentically, India to Canada, healing, trusting yourself, identity and belonging Summary In this powerful and heartfelt episode, I sit down with Reet German to explore her transformative journey of immigration,identity, and belonging. From moving from India to Canada to traveling the world with her family, Reet shares how embracing change reshaped her understanding of home, self- acceptance, and personal growth. We discuss the role of intuition in decision-making, the challenges of embracing change, and how leaning into discomfort can lead to profound healing and resilience. Reet opens up about redefining success on her own terms, living authentically, and cultivating compassion for oneself during times of uncertainty. Her story serves as a call for us all act as active participants in our own lives. This conversation is for anyone navigating life transitions, questioning where they belong, or seeking the courage to trust themselves more fully. Whether you’re an immigrant, a traveler, or simply someone longing to feel at home within yourself, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom for living a more intentional life. If this episode resonates, please subscribe, rate, and share it with someone navigating change or searching for belonging. Takeaways Reet's journey from India to Canada shaped her identity. The quest for belonging is a lifelong journey. Intuition plays a crucial role in decision-making. Embracing change can lead to personal growth. Traveling the world offers valuable life lessons. Home is a feeling, not a physical place. Resilience is built through facing challenges. Leaning into discomfort can lead to transformation. Living authentically requires self-acceptance. Compassion for oneself is essential in the healing process. Sound bites "You are your own home." “Be an active participant in your life.” "Clarity comes after action." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living, with Dr. Monica Shah 00:33 Reet German: Coming Home to Yourself 02:12 Journey of Transformation: Searching for Self 11:08 The Quest for Belonging: Navigating Identity and Acceptance 22:05 Breaking Through: Facing Pushback, Uncertainty, and Change 28:57 Embracing Uncertainty: Deciding to Travel the World 34:03 You Are Your Own Home 35:52 Redefining Success, Creating Your Dreams 38:16 Lessons from Parenting and Self-Discovery 39:49 Joys of Choosing Your Path 41:51 Cultivating Compassion and Acceptance in Relationships 42:49 Be an Active Participant in Your Life 44:27 Progress Over Perfection 46:10 “Lean In” to The Challenge 50:34 Where to Find Reet Instagram: @reetgerman Podcast: Reignite with Reet

8. 

   2 Dec 2025

   Beyond Convention: Reimagining Family, Career, and Fulfillment, with Natasha Bakht

   Keywords authentic living, parallel careers, family dynamics, dance, law, personal growth, community support, unconventional paths, self-discovery, acceptance, unexpected opportunities, multi-hyphenate life, multiple passions, creative career paths, redefining family, overcoming fear, practice and preparation, self-discipline, staying curious, openness to possibilities, lifelong learning, happiness through authenticity, designing your life Summary In this episode we explore the journey of Natasha Bakht, an award-winning dancer and law professor who navigates dual passions through a parallel career. Natasha shares her influences, including her supportive family and the impact of her dance teacher, and highlights the importance of acceptance in creating a foundation for living uniquely. The discussion delves into how to lead a multi-hyphenate life, the significance of community, and the unexpected paths that can lead to fulfillment. Natasha emphasizes making choices based on oneself, using practice and preparation to combat fear, and the beauty of creating a family beyond conventional norms. We discuss how openness can lead to the most unexpected joys, underlining the importance of staying open to both possibilities that we can imagine and those that we cannot imagine. Takeaways Living authentically means honoring your truth. Support and acceptance at a young age can shape one's identity. Navigating parallel careers can be fulfilling. Individual choices must be made when charting your own path. Embracing unconventional paths leads to unique experiences. Community support is vital for personal growth. Curiosity keeps life exciting and fresh. Practice and preparation are essential for overcoming fear. Being open to new possibilities can lead to unexpected joys. Creating a family can take many forms beyond convention. Sound bites "You're not alone on this journey." "Curiosity allows you to remain new." "Practice is key to overcoming fear." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living Authentically 02:00 Natasha Bakht: Defining Your Own Life 05:05 Influences Of Family and Culture 08:39 The Role Of Acceptance In Shaping Identity 12:10 Navigating Parallel Careers 14:32 Finding Balance Between Dance And Law 16:16 Embracing Individual Choices 18:43 Using Happiness As Your Guide 21:16 Charting A Non-Traditional Path 23:25 Leading A Multi-Hyphenate Life 26:22 Navigating Multiple Interests and Career Paths 27:39 Unexpected Joys Of An Unexpected Life 29:40 Embracing Curiosity And Lifelong Learning 31:57 The Importance of Practice and Preparation 35:32 Openness To Possibilities: Re-Defining Family 41:52 Where To Find Natasha Photo Credit: Neo Media group

9. 

   1 Nov 2025

   Embracing Uncertainty: The Art of Trust, with Ishita Mili

   Keywords creativity, uncertainty, intuition, career transition, creative career paths, overcoming fear, trusting the process, life transformation, making a career change, full-time creative career, diversifying career paths, creative entrepreneurship, leap of faith in life and work, transitioning from a stable career to a creative one, using intuition and trust to navigate life decisions, personal growth, community support, stress management, iconoclast Summary In this episode, we follow Ishita’s journey from aspiring doctor to full-time creative director and choreographer. Rejecting limiting labels, Ishita shows how embracing uncertainty and trusting your intuition can guide major life and career decisions. We dive into practical strategies for managing stress by controlling reactions rather than external circumstances, the importance of community support, and how diversifying career paths can provide stability in uncertain times. We also discuss leaps of faith, trusting the process, and self awareness fueling personal growth. If you’re considering a career pivot, pursuing a creative passion, or seeking guidance in navigating life transitions, Ishita’s story offers inspiration, actionable insights, and encouragement to trust yourself and embrace the journey. Takeaways Ishita rejects label culture, believing it limits human complexity. Her journey involved a significant pivot from medicine to dance. Embracing uncertainty is essential for personal growth. Community support plays a crucial role in navigating career challenges. Stress management is about controlling reactions, not the stressors themselves. Diversifying career paths can provide stability in uncertain times. Transitioning to full-time creativity requires a leap of faith. Unexpected joys can arise from embracing spirituality and trust in the process. Intuition is a vital compass for making life decisions. Sound bites: "Uncertainty is the rule." "Stress is something that you choose to do." "We're all making it up!" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living 00:33 Ishita Mili: From Medicine toMovement 02:57 Accepting Complexity, Rejecting Labels 05:10 Jumping Off "The Path" With No Plan 08:26 Uncertainty As The Rule, Embracing The Unknown 11:37 Dealing With External Pressure And Critics 15:02 Stress As A Choice, Managing Your Reactions 19:37 Self-Care As A Necessity 21:22 Transition To Being A Full-Time Creative 24:49 Taking The Leap, Doubting The Decision 29:05 Developing Faith In The Journey 30:44 Surrendering To The Flow of Life 33:00 Trying Without Knowing 34:22 Intuition As Your Compass 36:10 Accepting The Path As It Unfolds 38:38 Where To Find Ishita Ishita's Bio: Ishita Mili is a Bengali American director, choreographer, and scientist. She founded [IMGE] Dance as a performance company based in dance, film, and music, and over the last 8 years, IMGE has built bridges across concert, commercial, musical theater, academic, and independent arts industries through their distinct intersection between Indian and American classical to street styles. Ishita was awarded Artist of Exceptional Merit by the Asian American Arts Alliance, received a Folks Arts Apprentice grant under theNJ State Council of the Arts, and taught the IMGE methodology at Princeton University and Gonzaga University. She most recently completed the LabWorks '24-'25 cohort at New Victory Theater and received a 2025 Individual Artist Fellowship award from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. Ishita is also a deeply involved community advocate and activist. She is the founder of South Asian American Arts Solidarity (SAAAS), the co-host of the South Asian Performing Arts Summit, and is also the co-host of Kinetic Dance Film Festival. Alongside her achievements in the arts world, Ishita holds a BS in Chemistry and MBS with a concentration in Drug Discovery and Development, and spent 5 years working in biotechnology. Instagram: @ishitamili @imgedance Website: www.imgedance.com

10. 

    1 Nov 2025

    Rooted and Rising: Reinventing Yourself at Any Age, with Rachna Nivas

    Keywords artistic expression, cultural identity, personal growth, women's empowerment, dance, creativity, immigrant experience, self-discovery, resilience, life reinvention after 40, unlocking your true power, overcoming self-doubt and fear, finding your true potential, becoming your own champion, nurturing your desires, art and activism, starting over in a new city, growth through struggle, fertility journey, creative empowerment tips, New York arts scene Summary In this conversation, Rachna Nivas shares how personal struggles, cultural heritage, and artistic expression shape identity and fuel creativity. We explore the challenges and triumphs of the artist’s journey, uncover the transformative power of moving to a new place, and discuss how women in their forties experience a powerful awakening. Learn how nurturing your desires, embracing your cultural roots, and becoming your own champion can lead to personal fulfillment and self-discovery. Whether you’re an artist, a creative soul, or someone seeking life reinvention, this episode will inspire you to overcome self-doubt, recognize your true power, and turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Takeaways Cultural heritage plays a significant role in personal identity. Artistic expression can be a powerful form of activism. The journey of an artist is filled with challenges and triumphs. Personal struggles fuel creativity and growth. Moving to a new place can open new opportunities. Women in their forties experience a powerful awakening. Nurturing your desires is essential for personal fulfillment. You must be your own champion in pursuing your dreams. Self-doubt is overcome by recognizing your true power. Sound bites: “Answer the intuition.” "Wisdom is sexy." "Your plan is actually blocking you." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Living 00:35 Rachna Nivas: A Journey of Artistic Expression 03:34 Influence of Family and Activism 08:45 Embracing Cultural Pride and Authenticity 12:05 The Unexpected Path to Arts and Activism 18:54 Deciding to Follow the Artistic Path 24:23 Confronting Financial and Societal Pressures 27:17 Challenges of Choosing This Path 31:09 Bridging Art and Activism 34:44 Confronting Loss: A New Chapter in NYC 39:30 Redefining Womanhood and Creative Power 41:32 Intuition as a Light Through Darkness 44:47 Embracing Age and Wisdom 47:31 Rewards of Risk-Taking 51:19 The Beauty and Power of Aging 55:49 Nurturing Desires and Going Against the Grain 01:00:13 Belief in Possibility 01:05:27 Where To Find Rachna Rachna's bio: Rachna is a performing artist, choreographer, educator, community organizer, scholar, and activist of Indian classical art.  A radical artist whose practice is both deeply protective of tradition but also interrogative, her work is rooted in feminine consciousness and Eastern philosophies that challenge Eurocentric cultural paradigms. She is co-founder and co-artistic director of Leela Dance Collective, and is building her own solo body of work in a generative chapter of her artistic journey. As an educator and community organizer, Rachna also currently directs Leela New York’s thriving training institution.  She was also a recipient of the New York Public Library for Performing Arts Dance Research Fellowship and is currently an artist in residence at 92NY's Harkness Dance Center. Instagram: @rachnanivas Website: www.rachnanivas.com

11. 

    19 Oct 2025

    Trailer

    Introducing Living, with Dr. Monica Shah! A podcast exploring the many different ways we can lead meaningful, fulfilling lives—especially when we’re walking a path that doesn’t look like everyone else’s. What if the traditional timeline—the job, the marriage, the house, the kids—just isn’t your path? Or maybe life didn’t unfold that way, and now you’re asking, What do I do with my life? If you’re living differently—by choice or circumstance—you’re not alone. I'm Monica - psychologist, dance artist, writer, and your podcast host. I started this show because I kept hearing the same thing: “I feel behind.” Like there’s one direction and timeline we’re all supposed to follow — and if you miss a turn, you’re lost. And honestly, I’ve been there. My own path has been far from traditional - dancing professionally while studying and working, moving to cities alone, starting over while my friends were settling down, beginning my doctorate in New York at 35 — and now, I’m forging a new career - dating - in my 40s. It’s definitely not what I expected — and, it’s full, beautiful, and real. What I’ve learned is this: There is no one right way to live. There are challenges and joys in every version of life, and trying to follow a checklist for living can be limiting, and keep us feeling stuck. This podcast is for anyone who’s ever felt out of sync with the traditional model and timeline. Each episode features real stories from real people who are honoring their own truth, charting their path, and redefining what living can look like. You’ll hear honest conversations and therapeutic insights, to help you feel more confident in living a life that fits you. So if you’re navigating change, seeking meaning, or simply questioning the blueprint handed to us — you’ve found the right place. Join me on Living, with Dr. Monica Shah. New episodes drop the 1st week of every month - free, wherever you get your podcasts. Because there’s no one way to live — and it’s time we start talking about it. The podcast launches on Saturday, November 1st! Before you forget, follow Living, with Dr. Monica Shah so you'll get every show as soon as it's released. Join a growing community of people redefining what living means—together. 📺 Watch on YouTube: Search @drmonicashah 📝 Find episode notes and bonus content at: www.drmonicashah.com 📲 Follow along on Instagram: @drmonicashah for more inspiration and behind-the-scenes content

Reach and audience

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

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Contact Living, with Dr. Monica Shah

Guest appearances

Books guests

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