Sense of Self

About Sense of Self

Sense of Self showcases women of color who are confronting and challenging the stories they believe about themselves. Conversations between psychiatrist Dr. Gowri Aragam and our guests demonstrate—but do not preach—about therapeutic concepts, particularly personal narrative, its origins, and the power of reclaiming one's own story.

Publisher

Dr. Gowri Aragam, The Mission Entertainment, Andrew C. Coles, Elizabeth Rose, Allison Keeley

Category

education · health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

24 Apr 2024

Latest episode

10 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

5 of 16 episodes have a transcript.

1. 

   10 Jun 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Erin Gums on Starting Over After Trauma, and Building The Life You Want

   Dr. Gowri Aragam interviews certified coach Erin Gums about overcoming trauma to build an authentic life.

2. 

   27 May 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Jyoti Chand: @Mamajotes on How Quitting Alcohol Changed Everything

   Dr. Gowri Aragam interviews Jyoti Chand, known as Mama Jotes, about how quitting alcohol transformed her life and identity.

3. 

   13 May 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Pooja Bavishi: The Malai Ice Cream Founder on the Belonging she Built, One Flavor at a Time

   Dr. Gowri Aragam interviews Pooja Bavishi, founder of Malai, about building a sense of belonging and community through cultural identity.

4. 

   29 Apr 2026TRANSCRIPT

   KJ Miler: Mented Cosmetics Founder on Depression, Near-Bankruptcy and Embracing her whole self

   Dr. Gowri Aragam interviews Kristen Jones Miller, founder of Mented Cosmetics, about overcoming depression, near-bankruptcy, and embracing her authentic self.

5. 

   15 Apr 2026TRANSCRIPT

   Dr. Dhivya Srinivasa- The Chapter That Shattered Her

   Dr. Dhivya Srinivasa walked into plastic surgery residency as one of the most confident women she knew. The eldest daughter of Indian immigrant feminists, a person who had never once questioned her own capability. And then the system got to work. In this episode of Sense of Self, Dr. Gowri Aragam sits down with Dr. Dhivya Srinivasa, double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, microsurgeon, founder and CEO of the Institute for Advanced Breast Reconstruction, founder of Avara Skincare, and one of the most compelling voices in medicine today with over 600,000 Instagram followers, for the conversation behind the highlight reel. What unfolds is a story about what happens when the identity you've spent a lifetime building gets systematically dismantled by the very institution you sacrificed everything to join. A story about clinical depression that had nothing to do with postpartum and everything to do with a toxic culture designed to break people. And about what it looks like to walk away from the prestige, the title, the academic institution, and build something entirely your own. This one will stay with you. Meet Dr. Srinivasa! Dr. Dhivya Srinivasa is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and microsurgeon based in Los Angeles. She is the founder and CEO of the Institute for Advanced Breast Reconstruction, with locations across LA and Austin, Texas, and the founder of Avara Skincare, a line hand-formulated with a private chemist for women at every stage of life. She is a mother of three and a growing voice on social media with over 600,000 Instagram followers. Connect with Dhivya: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdhivyasrinivasa/ (https://www.instagram.com/drdhivyasrinivasa/) Institute for Advanced Breast Reconstruction: https://www.theiabr.com/ (https://www.theiabr.com/) Inside Thoughts Out Loud: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/inside-thoughts-out-loud/id1879385691 (https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/inside-thoughts-out-loud/id1879385691) Connect with Sense of Self: Subscribe for more episodes like this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sense-of-self/id1742905024 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sense-of-self/id1742905024) Follow the Sense of Self Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/senseofself.podcast/ (https://www.instagram.com/senseofself.podcast/) Connect with Dr. Gowri Aragam: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgowriaragam/ (https://www.instagram.com/drgowriaragam/) Website: https://www.drgowriaragam.com/ (https://www.drgowriaragam.com/) 00:00 Identity Shattered Teaser 00:16 Meet Dr Dhivya 02:45 Roots and Family Names 04:06 SoCal Upbringing Values 06:00 Confidence Built at Home 09:59 Eldest Daughter Energy 11:13 High Expectations No Anxiety 14:59 Bullying and Armor 17:11 Money Mindset and Drive 19:22 Parenting in a New Era 22:42 Residency Broke the Confidence 29:04 Toxic Labels in Plastic Surgery 30:53 Toxic Residency Spiral 32:36 Fresh Start at UCSF 35:02 Therapy and Reframing Reality 38:49 Drug Test Breaking Point 44:00 Anxiety and Burnout Fallout 46:38 Quitting to Protect Yourself 48:46 Rebuilding Confidence 51:15 Choosing Yourself Like Cancer 54:57 Life as Surgeon Entrepreneur 57:59 Why People Stay Stuck 59:05 Identity and Closing Thoughts A note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self

6. 

   2 Jul 2025

   I Spent My Childhood Shapeshifting to Be Loved with Janis Vogel

   Filmmaker Janis Vogel shares her experience of shapeshifting to gain acceptance as a mixed-race child and how motherhood led her to embrace authenticity in this interview episode.

7. 

   25 Jun 2025

   Breaking 20 Years of Silence: Why I Finally Told My Story with Francisca Alegría

   Chilean filmmaker Francisca Alegría shares her story of breaking twenty years of silence about childhood sexual abuse and reclaiming her narrative, discussing trauma's impact and healing in this interview.

8. 

   18 Jun 2025

   Sumbul

   Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui discusses how public service and leading Cambridge through COVID became a confidence-building experience that helped her overcome childhood bullying in this interview.

9. 

   11 Jun 2025

   Hetal

   Hetal shares her experiences growing up in an immigrant family, navigating cultural differences, and finding her voice in the culinary arts, in an interview with Gowri.

10. 

    5 Jun 2025

    Kayla

    Clinical psychologist Kayla Shabre reveals her journey of self-discovery, navigating body image challenges and eating disorders as a professional athlete before finding empowerment through dance and therapy in this interview.

11. 

    29 May 2024

    Seyi

    We made it to the finale of our first season, and it's a really good one. We had the opportunity to do a deep dive into Dr. Seyi Akintorin's journey of self-discovery and transformation. A first-generation Nigerian immigrant and doctor, Seyi shares her powerful story of breaking free from the expectations and pressures placed upon her by her family, society, and herself. Seyi opens up about the impact of racism on her mental health, the challenges she faced in her surgical residency, and the pivotal moments that led her to make life-altering decisions. She candidly discusses the internal struggles she faced, the feelings of inadequacy, and the realization that she needed to prioritize her own well-being over societal expectations. As Seyi navigates different phases of her life, from Chicago to Boston to California, she reflects on the importance of finding inner peace and fulfillment beyond external achievements. She shares her journey of rediscovering her true self, embracing her strengths, and letting go of the need for validation from others. Through Seyi's story, we witness the power of resilience, self-reflection, and the courage to redefine one's sense of self. Join us as we explore Shay's path to self-acceptance, healing, and the pursuit of a life that aligns with her authentic identity. Thank you for tuning in to Sense of Self. Stay connected for updates on future bonus episodes and the possibility of a second season. Remember, your sense of self is a journey worth exploring! A note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

12. 

    22 May 2024

    Ria

    A note on ethics, process, and safety: - The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. - Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

13. 

    15 May 2024

    Cierra

    Cierra Glaude, also known as “Shooter,” Cierra is an accomplished director and filmmaker from Mobile, Alabama. She initiated her career under the guidance of Ava DuVernay, beginning with a role on the film Selma. Cierra’s passion for filmmaking ignited during her tenure at the University of Alabama, where she was instrumental in launching the Black Warrior Film Festival, an experience that paved her path to meeting DuVernay. Her directorial journey includes four episodes of the series Queen Sugar, where she evolved from a production assistant to a director. Cierra’s directorial acumen extends to other notable TV series such as Power Book IV, BMF, Riverdale, and several others. Her work is marked by a commitment to diverse representation, particularly for people of color, women, and the LGBTQ community. She directed the poignant short film Last Looks, which was showcased at the Urbanworld Film Festival and later featured in Issa Rae’s “#ShortFilmSundays (https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/shortfilmsundays/)” series on YouTube. Cierra’s approach to filmmaking is deeply communal and collaborative, often emphasizing the importance of creating films with friends and nurturing relationships on set. She believes in a servant spirit in directing, focusing on serving the story and those who help bring it to life. Her career is characterized by a strong work ethic, personal connection, and joy. Shooter shared the profound impact of her brother's passing and the challenges she faced in coping with grief and loss. She opened up about her family dynamics, particularly her sometimes fraught relationship with her father and the responsibilities she has taken on as the eldest daughter, and setting personal boundaries. Shooter was candid about her need to protect herself, and the bifurcated self she has constructed—she is "Cierra" in certain situations, and "Shooter" in others. Shooter's remarkable resilience and determination shine brightly, as does her ability to find humor and wisdom in challenging circumstances. Thank you for listening to Cierra's story, and for being a part of our community. Tune in next week for episode 4 of season 1, and please subscribe. You can learn more about us at www.senseofselfpod.com (http://www.senseofselfpod.com/) and follow us for updates on  Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sense.of.self.pod/ (http://www.senseofselfpod.com/). A note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

14. 

    8 May 2024

    Joy

    Joy Melody Woods Bennett, Ph.D. is a scholar and strategist in interpersonal communication that empowers brands, organizations, athletes, and creatives of color to cultivate impactful cultural capital. Outside of work, she dedicates her time and expertise to advocating for Black women and reproductive health. Through speaking engagements at conferences, consultancy work for various organizations, and serving on nonprofit boards focused on addressing health disparities, she strives to make a positive impact in this critical area. The episode delves into Dr. Woods-Bennett's struggles with undiagnosed learning disabilities and the impact they had on her academic journey. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced in school, the pressure to excel, and the revelation of her learning disabilities later in life, which provided clarity but also raised questions about her perception of her intelligence and identity. Dr. Woods-Bennett also shared her experiences with mental health struggles, including being diagnosed with bipolar II disorder, and spoke openly about the impact of these diagnoses one her life her career, and how she viewed her younger self. Despite challenges she is determined to make a positive impact and help others. She describes herself as a sponge,  eager to learn and grow, and inspire others to seek help. Dr. Joy Melody Woods-Bennett's story of resilience, honesty, and commitment to self-discovery is deeply moving, and serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance, and seeking support. Thank you for listening to Joy's story, and for being a part of our community. Tune in next week for episode 3 of season 1, and please subscribe. You can learn more about us at www.senseofselfpod.com (http://www.senseofselfpod.com/) and follow us for updates on  Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sense.of.self.pod/ (https://www.instagram.com/sense.of.self.pod/). You can follow and get in touch with Joy here: LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joymelodywoods/) | X (https://twitter.com/smileitsjoy) | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/smileitsjoy/) She is the founder of Plus TwentyThree (https://www.plustwentythree.org/) Episode Credits: Produced by Andrew Coles, Elizabeth Rose, Allison Keeley, and Dr. Gowri Aragam Edited by: Ben Montoya Mixed by: Aja Simpson Music from:  Blue Dot Sessions Logo, branding, and graphic design by: Melanie Kwan Sense of Self is a podcast from The Mission Entertainment. A note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

15. 

    1 May 2024

    Akemi

    Welcome to Sense of Self, a podcast where we explore the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what happens when those stories stop working. In this episode, I had the privilege of chatting with Akemi Look, a multi-talented actor, producer, and writer based in Los Angeles. Akemi's journey is one of resilience, healing, and self-discovery. We delved into Akemi's childhood, where she shared her experiences of growing up half-Japanese, half-Chinese in Michigan. She opened up about the challenges she faced, including racial taunts and the struggle to assimilate in a predominantly white community. At the age of 10, Akemi set her sights on becoming a rhythmic gymnast, driven by a deep desire to prove her worth and be accepted as "American enough." She recounted the grueling training regimen, the sacrifices she made, and the pressure she felt to succeed. Akemi's dedication to her sport led her to represent the United States in international competitions, but it came at a cost. Our conversation took a poignant turn as Akemi shared about a life-altering accident that shattered her face and forced her to confront deep-seated trauma. This event became a turning point in her healing journey, prompting her to slow down, reflect, and prioritize her well-being. Akemi's vulnerability in discussing her struggles with mental health, addiction, and trauma highlighted the importance of self-care and seeking help. We also explored Akemi's relationship with her family, particularly her journey towards forgiveness and understanding with her parents. The role of friends, her husband, and her own inner strength in supporting her through difficult times was a testament to the power of community and resilience. As we wrapped up our conversation, Akemi reflected on her growth and transformation, describing herself as a bright, hopeful person ready to shine her light. Her journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance is an inspiring reminder of the healing power of self-discovery. Thank you for listening to Akemi’s story, and for being a part of our community. Tune in next week for episode 2 of season 1, and please subscribe. You can learn more about us at www.senseofselfpod.com (http://www.senseofselfpod.com/) and follow us for updates on  Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/sense.of.self.pod/ (https://www.instagram.com/sense.of.self.pod/). You can check out what Akemi is up to next here: www.AkemiLook.com (http://www.akemilook.com/) http://www.imdb.me/akemilook (http://www.imdb.me/akemilook) https://www.instagram.com/akemilook (https://www.instagram.com/akemilook/?hl=en) Episode Credits: Produced by Andrew Coles. Elizabeth Rose. Allison Keeley, and Dr. Gowri Aragam. Edited by: Ben Montoya Mixed by: Aja Simpson Music from:  Blue Dot Sessions Logo, branding, and graphic design by: Melanie Kwan Sense of Self is a podcast from The Mission Entertainment. A note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

16. 

    24 Apr 2024

    Season Trailer

    Sense of Self is a podcast that invites listeners to reflect on their own self-narratives and explore the forces that shape their identities. Through these conversations, we hope to inspire listeners to embrace their true selves, question the stories they tell themselves, and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery. A note from our host Dr. Gowri Aragam: I had the privilege of exploring the stories of women of color who have rewritten the scripts they were given. In each episode, we delved into their journeys of self-discovery, discussing the defining moments, relationships, and pressures that shaped them. These women shared their experiences of feeling disconnected from their self-narratives and the process of reclaiming their identities. In their stories, we hear about finding strength in adversity, rediscovering one's voice, and embracing authenticity, and the importance of inner security and self-acceptance. Ultimately I hope that Sense of Self can be a platform for listeners to reflect on their own narratives and explore the stories that shape who they are. Thanks for being here. An note on ethics, process, and safety: The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past. Thanks from all of us at Sense of Self and The Mission Entertainment.

Inside a recent episode

Erin Gums on Starting Over After Trauma, and Building The Life You Want

Published 10 Jun 2026 · Transcript excerpt

[…] And so he came to the Bay Area and that's where my grandparents met. And my mom's side of the family, my mom is Chamorro, which is indigenous people of the Northern Marianas Islands. Guam is maybe an island that folks are a little bit more familiar with, but both territories of the United States. So she grew up born in Saipan, grew up in Guam, and was there until she was about 19 and moved to California. So she's one of Nine siblings. So I have a ton of family still back in the islands. So culturally, I grew up mixed race, but really largely culturally identified with my black heritage because that's the family that I grew up around. […]

Who has been a guest on Sense of Self

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Erin Gums
• Jyoti Chand
• Pooja Bavishi
• Janis Vogel
• Francisca Alegría

Reach and audience

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

YouTube views

10,146

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.9 / 5

34 ratings

Spotify

4.6 / 5

9 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100

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

Quality

20

Social presence

0

YouTube

76

Engagement

51

Contact Sense of Self

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

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

Questions about Sense of Self