UNAPOLOGETIC

About UNAPOLOGETIC

UNAPOLOGETIC, a podcast by SilverJay, explores contemporary grievances through the lens of an Indian woman navigating a postcolonial world. Grounded in feminist thought and a critical reading of our colonial past, the podcast centres women of colour as thinkers, disruptors, and cultural authors of the future. Unapologetic challenges dominant narratives, brings academic critique into popular culture, and insists on making space for voices that have long been dismissed, softened, or silenced.

Publisher

SilverJay

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Oct 2023

Latest episode

13 Jan 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Jan 2026

   Luxury Was Never Neutral: Power, Performance & the South Asian Wedding Industry

   In this episode, SilverJay breaks boundaries in a powerful and necessary conversation with Raj Somaiya of Silverfox Events, exploring the South Asian diaspora wedding market through a critical, sociological lens. Raj Somaiya, founder and CEO of Silverfox Events, is one of the most influential voices in the wedding industry, with over 30 years of experience planning events for ultra-high-net-worth clients across the globe. Known for his appearances as a judge on BBC’s Ultimate Wedding Planner and Channel 4's My Big Fat Asian Wedding, Raj is not shy to openly talk about his experience the industry often avoids. Whilst taking an intergenerational deep dive into the ultra-luxury market we discuss how luxury has historically functioned as a code for white bourgeois standards. Reiterating that Luxury Was Never Neutral, we controversially challenge the idea that the term 'luxury' is not a harmless aspiration, but a performance of wealth, class and love. This episode explores: How the Somaiya's have broken boundaries as a brown creative family The importance of individuality and authenticity in creative industries How colonisation impacted how we see and experience luxury Why the concept of 'old money' is code for white elitism compared to 'new money' The rise of the social media bride How the pressure to perform class and love is damaging weddings Why brides are burdened with unattainable standards to create the perfect day Why this conversation is so important Thank you for all your support! Please don't forget to like, share and comment if you liked this podcast. Follow SilverJay on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/)and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya). Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (mailto:silverjay.pod@gmail.com) Lots of love, The SilverJay

2. 

   6 Jan 2026

   We Are Each Other's Liberation: Black and Brown Feminists Must Unite

   In this incredible episode, SilverJay delves into the tension and need for collaboration amongst black and brown feminists with Celine Apollon, a Haitian-American Pan-African feminist,  filmmaker and researcher born and raised in Atlanta. Celine has been living in Congo Brazzaville broadly for the past three years focused on researching creative and decolonial ways to support African survivors of gender-based violence and caregivers. Therefore, with her lived experience, nuance and understanding of the feminist landscape, we thought it extremely important to bridge the intersectional feminist gap. Essentially, the podcast explores the divisions among feminists of colour caused by Orientalism, highlighting the resulting jealousy and tension between black and brown feminists. It delves into the complexities of colourism and how it shapes perceptions within feminist discourse, emphasizing the emotional impact of these divisions on the community. Please don't forget to like, share and comment if you liked this podcast! Follow SilverJay on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya)and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/)! Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com)

3. 

   23 Dec 2025

   Faith Was Never Straight: Queer Hinduism & Decolonial Thinking

   Faith Was Never Straight: Queer Hinduism & Decolonial Thinking is a bold exploration of queerness, spirituality, and resistance through a Hindu lens. In this episode, SilverJay tackles one of today’s most polarised conversations - LGBTQ+ theory - by tracing the spiritual and historical roots of queerness within Hinduism. Moving beyond Western frameworks, the discussion highlights how gender fluidity, individuality, and feminism have long existed within Hindu scripture and ancient storytelling. Joined by the brilliant guest Hiren Patel, SilverJay explores how faith and queerness not only coexist, but enrich one another. Hiren shares his journey of navigating sexual identity through Hinduism, revealing how the religion encourages self-realisation rather than conformity. Together, they examine how colonialism reshaped South Asian understandings of gender and sexuality, and why reclaiming indigenous spiritual knowledge matters today. From controversial practices like Sati (widow burning) to conversations around masculinity and femininity in South Asian men, this episode invites listeners to rethink what they’ve been taught about faith, identity, and queerness. They discuss: How queerness and Hinduism coexist and deepen one another The colonial roots of modern gender and sexuality norms in South Asia Individualism as a core Hindu philosophy Spirituality’s role in personal identity What Hinduism can teach us about gender today Why South Asian men should not shy away from femininity If you liked this episode, please don't forget to like, share and comment! Follow SilverJay on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya)and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/). Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com)

4. 

   16 Dec 2025

   Correcting the Narrative: A Brown Girl's Guide to Challenging the System with Shilpa Sajan

   This podcast leans into the discourse surrounding South Asian representation, Diwali parties and influencer culture. In discussing the role influencers play as role models versus advertisers, they analyse whether brown creators play a role in shaping society's perception of South Asians. The 2025 Diwali parties sparked a controversial debate amongst the Brown Girl community in the UK and US due to the contested narratives on whether the influx of parties are representation or commodification. Overall, this podcast unapologetically analyses the discourse paying particular attention to what it means to advocate for the South Asian voice. SilverJay and Shilpa discuss: How representation is more than just visibility; it's about meaningful inclusion Whether influencers have a significant impact on cultural perceptions and consumer behaviour The commercialisation of cultural celebrations can dilute their traditional significance Why critical thinking is essential in evaluating the narratives presented by media and influencers Why influencers should be aware of their role in shaping young minds and cultural norms The balance between materialism and advocacy is a complex but necessary conversation How understanding the historical and political context of cultural identities is important If you liked this podcast, please don't forget to like, share and subscribe! Follow Silver Jay on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya?_r=1&_d=efbf9j219c609f&sec_uid=MS4wLjABAAAA4_Iw8ezcac-wbS1Oz6Qzg209DAvxNt6sDB5DUEWYe4rigK6TjAOR0Pjf-hJeh0yT&share_author_id=6895396034073478145&sharer_language=en&source=h5_m&u_code=dfekk0l6llh706&item_author_type=1&utm_source=copy&tt_from=copy&enable_checksum=1&utm_medium=ios&share_link_id=974C1FBD-155F-46C4-B8F8-62FF2F051A6A&user_id=6895396034073478145&sec_user_id=MS4wLjABAAAA4_Iw8ezcac-wbS1Oz6Qzg209DAvxNt6sDB5DUEWYe4rigK6TjAOR0Pjf-hJeh0yT&social_share_type=4&ug_btm=b8727,b0&utm_campaign=client_share&share_app_id=1233)and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya?igsh=MTA5aXN5eDd5czFjdw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr). Any questions? Email them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com).

5. 

   9 Dec 2025

   Why I Don't Hate Men, I Fear Them

   In this powerful solo episode of UNAPOLOGETIC, podcast host SilverJay (aka Rhea Somaiya), delves into the complex relationship women have with men, emphasising that the fear many women feel is not rooted in hatred but in a history of colonial exploitation and societal norms. She discusses the intersectionality of gender and race, highlighting the unique challenges faced by women of colour in the Global South. The conversation delves into human rights issues surrounding women's safety, particularly in relation to access to toilets, and how socio-economic differences shape the experience of fear and safety for women globally. In this podcast SilverJay discusses: 'I don't actually hate men, I'm just scared of them' Women of colour must be centralised in discussion Access to safe toilets should be prioritised How feminism is abused in the gender neutral toilet debate Indian mass marriages keep women institutionalised No woman is free until every woman is free If you liked this episode, please don't forget to like, share and subscribe! Follow SilverJay on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya?_r=1&_d=efbf9j219c609f&sec_uid=MS4wLjABAAAA4_Iw8ezcac-wbS1Oz6Qzg209DAvxNt6sDB5DUEWYe4rigK6TjAOR0Pjf-hJeh0yT&share_author_id=6895396034073478145&sharer_language=en&source=h5_m&u_code=dfekk0l6llh706&item_author_type=1&utm_source=copy&tt_from=copy&enable_checksum=1&utm_medium=ios&share_link_id=974C1FBD-155F-46C4-B8F8-62FF2F051A6A&user_id=6895396034073478145&sec_user_id=MS4wLjABAAAA4_Iw8ezcac-wbS1Oz6Qzg209DAvxNt6sDB5DUEWYe4rigK6TjAOR0Pjf-hJeh0yT&social_share_type=4&ug_btm=b8727,b0&utm_campaign=client_share&share_app_id=1233) and Instagram. (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya?igsh=MTA5aXN5eDd5czFjdw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr) Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com )

6. 

   4 Feb 2025

   Breaking the Silence: Unapologetic Conversations on Sexual Harassment

   In this powerful episode, UNAPOLOGETIC & Two Chickpeas in a Podcast collaborate and dive deep into the ongoing conversation surrounding sexual harassment, shining a light on the real stories and struggles that too often remain unheard. From personal experiences to high-profile cases involving figures like P-Diddy, Mohamed Al Fayed, and Huw Edwards, we tackle the complex dynamics of power, manipulation, and abuse. We explore the dark reality of victim-blaming and how it continues to perpetuate harmful societal perceptions. We also discuss the crucial signs of grooming and domestic abuse, emphasizing the need to spot them early and act with empathy and awareness. Throughout the conversation, we draw from academic insights while pushing for a cultural shift in how we view and address sexual harassment. Above all, we emphasize the power of sharing stories to break the stigma, support survivors, and show that women are never to blame. In a world that still tries to silence these voices, this episode is a call to action: Keep breaking the silence. Make sure to check out Two Chickpeas in a Podcast on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/2v8Jg6lMCWv9b8s5vBEvPm?si=sj8JboHCQPim16U4ehALVA)and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/twochickpeasinapodcast?igsh=MTEwOGF6bGY1cG5ldA==)! Follow Unapologetic on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya?igsh=MTA5aXN5eDd5czFjdw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr)and TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@rheasomaiya?_t=ZG-8tcOOscAyWW&_r=1). Any questions? Email them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com).

7. 

   10 Sept 2024

   Swipe Right on Masculinity: Dating, Identity & Modern Manhood with Uncle Pri

   This Week on UNAPOLOGETIC: Dating, Identity & Modern Manhood with Uncle Pri from the Unfltered Podcast In this powerful episode, SilverJay sits down with Uncle Pri from the Unfltered Podcast for an eye-opening discussion on modern masculinity. Together, they tackle tough questions from a feminist perspective, aiming to bridge the gap between straight men and feminists, especially for listeners from diverse backgrounds, including South Asian women and young men navigating today’s world. How Toxic Masculinity Shapes Our Lives We’ve all seen how toxic masculinity distorts perceptions of men. It doesn’t just harm women—it affects the way men see themselves and how they relate to others. This episode explores how rigid ideas of what it means to "be a man" have fractured the natural balance between masculine and feminine energies, all while often side lining the LGBTQ+ community in these conversations. A New Approach to Understanding Masculinity This isn’t about attacking men—it’s about fostering real, honest conversations. SilverJay dives deep into reshaping our understanding of masculinity in a way that empowers both men and women. The goal? To dismantle harmful stereotypes and create space for new perspectives, free from judgment. Let’s Talk Dating With over 366 million people using dating apps like Hinge, the dating landscape has never been more complex. But what does this mean for men and their sense of identity? Are modern dating apps contributing to a crisis of masculinity, leaving many young men feeling broke, loveless, and isolated? SilverJay and Uncle Pri discuss the real impact of dating apps on how we connect and the larger implications for society’s perception of manhood. Please don't forget to like, share & subscribe! Follow SilverJay on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/)& TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic.silverjay). Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com)

8. 

   3 Sept 2024

   "I was force fed a PEACOCK FEATHER to ensure I had a boy!" Sandie Basra on Marriage, Divorce & Success

   In this week's episode, SilverJay hands the mic over to Sandie Basra who tells us about her 6 month marriage that ended in divorce. Sandie Basra, a profound makeup artist and pioneer for women, shares an uncomfortable yet inspiring story about breaking out of a cycle of psychological abuse and pursuing her passion. This story, filled with pain that Sandie turned into her power, showcases how South Asian women can become complicit in their abuse due to the pressure to stay in marriages that no longer serve them. However, in this story, Sandie shows us how the birth of her child filled her with a maternal courage which ultimately saved her life. The purpose of the pod is to create a safe space for women who have, too, struggled with their lives and who feel there is no way out. The community of UNAPOLOGETIC is here, and SilverJay along with other feminists are here to support you always! Please don't forget to like, share and subscribe! Follow SilverJay on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/) & TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic.silverjay). Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com (silverjay.pod@gmail.com).

9. 

   20 Aug 2024

   Bethan Walters on Myth, Magic & Menstruators

   Around 1.8 billion people menstruate every month yet society still censors the subject matter. From a global perspective, menstruation is a distant topic shadowed by myths which ends up diluting research and sugar coating the impact it has on the world's economy. A topic that underpins the human condition, an area that is weaponised to discriminate, yet a magical feature of our existence that we should prioritise understanding better. SilverJay sits down to discuss these very issues with an incredible human right's activist Bethan Walters. Bethan advocates for global menstruation health, education and dignity at the United Nations. She passionately underscores that the menstrual cycle is a vital sign, and beyond just the period, as it offers insight into overall health. In this podcast, they discuss: Inclusive language, supporting the LGBTQ community Sustainable period products Tampon tax and free products Men’s 24-hour cycle Period poverty & child marriage Body literacy; reading your body signs Menstrual disorders, PCOS Politics of the pill Hormonal health Sexual colonisation Period hygiene and discrimination Fertility awareness Natural contraception Preparing for menopause If you liked this podcast, please don't forget to like, share and subscribe! Follow SilverJay on ⁠TikTok⁠ (Inclusive%20language,%20supporting%20the%20LGBTQ%20community%20%20Sustainable%20period%20products%20%20Tampon%20tax%20and%20free%20products%20%20Men’s%2024-hour%20cycle%20%20Period%20poverty%20&%20child%20marriage%20Body%20literacy;%20reading%20your%20body%20signs%20%20Menstrual%20disorders,%20PCOS%20%20Politics%20of%20the%20pill%20%20Hormonal%20health%20%20Sexual%20colonisation%20%20Period%20hygiene%20and%20discrimination%20%20Fertility%20awareness%20%20Natural%20contraception%20%20Preparing%20for%20menopause%20) and ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/). Any questions? Send them to ⁠silverjay.pod@gmail.com⁠ (silverjay.pod@gmail.com).

10. 

    13 Aug 2024

    Part 1 - Nihal Arthanayake on How to Have Better Conversations

    On this week's episode, SilverJay had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Nihal Arthanayake to discuss all things current affairs, conversation and culture. Nihal is a force to be reckoned with and consistently breaks societal boundaries by saying it how it is! As an author, broadcaster and podcaster, most well known as a co-host for BBC Radio 5 Live, Nihal has a knack for asking what other people are thinking. The conversation between SilverJay and Nihal sparks an interesting debate, connecting the generational thought gap. Topics of conversation include: Issues surrounding the implementation of Diversity & Inclusion Finding your voice in a polarised society Opinions on Brexit, Prison Reform and Piers Morgan iPhone's, androids and addiction Narcissism in today's world Social media protections Immigration and border control Follow SilverJay on ⁠TikTok ⁠ (https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic.silverjay)& ⁠Instagram⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/). Any questions? Send them to: ⁠silverjay.pod@gmail.com⁠ (silverjay.pod@gmail.com).

11. 

    6 Aug 2024

    Tanvi Shah on The Creator Space: A (Brown) Girl's Guide to Influencing

    SilverJay and Tanvi sit down to discuss all things influencing. From the difficulties surrounding South Asian pigeonholing, to breaking boundaries in mainstream media, Tanvi opens up about her successful journey. Her pragmatic approach to 'success' opened up a real conversation about the realities of influencing in today's world. SilverJay and Tanvi discuss: • The corporate world and burn out culture • Journey of becoming and influencer • How to become an influencer • How race affects your influencing career • Friendships when starting a business • How to make money on social media • Difficulties of content creation • Management and agencies • Honesty and integrity Follow SilverJay on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic.silverjay) & Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/rheasomaiya/). Any questions? Send them to: silverjay.pod@gmail.com.

12. 

    14 Nov 2023

    Anchal Seda on What Would the Aunties Say?

    SilverJay and Anchal sit down to discuss various issues, thoughts and ideas surrounding the brown communities and have an incredible and open conversation. Whilst South Asian communities have similarities, SilverJay and Anchal reassert the differences between individuals and communities to ensure we don't fall into the trap of brown stereotypes. They discuss: Community support Brown men Cultural stereotypes Anchal's story & book release The notorious brown aunties Marriage Please don't forget to like, share and follow if you enjoyed this podcast! Any questions? Send them to silverjay.pod@gmail.com Enjoy!

13. 

    7 Nov 2023

    We're all jealous, let's Be Real

    Welcome to SilverJay’s first video podcast where she sits down with her sister Risha to explain, comprehend and understand the concept and emotion of jealousy. In this podcast, SilverJay and Risha discuss: The difference between jealousy and envy Naturality of jealousy South Asian communities and their relationship to jealousy Social media and TikTok Evil eye and nazar They explore an array of topics that ultimately make you question your own habits and others. If you like this episode, please don't forget to like, share and follow! Any questions? Send them over to silverjay.pod@gmail.com Enjoy!

14. 

    31 Oct 2023

    Spiritual Freedom and Femininity

    In this week's episode, SilverJay and Mosna sit down to discuss new age spiritualism and accessing our femininity. In a world dominated by masculinity, they share their personal experiences as South Asian women in the working world. SilverJay and Mosna have a conversation about: Religion and spirituality Greed and the chase Spiritual habits Energy and manifestation Femininity versus masculinity Western gender stereotypes If you like this episode, please don't forget to like, share and follow! Any questions? Send them over to silverjay.pod@gmail.com Enjoy!

15. 

    24 Oct 2023

    Myth, Magic & Menstruators

    In this new episode, SilverJay discusses Global Menstrual Health with a United Nations human rights activist, Bethan Walters. Due to the limited distribution of knowledge and information in this area, SilverJay and Bethan have a conversation about: • The free bleed movement • Perceptions about period activism and feminism • Tampon tax • The Global South and colonisation • Access to sanitary products • Period poverty • Issues with debating human rights issues • Personal experiences • Abortion • Eating disorders • Relationships with our periods • Gaslighting and period pain If you like this episode, please don't forget to like, share and follow! Any questions? Send them over to silverjay.pod@gmail.com Enjoy!

16. 

    17 Oct 2023

    Up Close and Personal

    On SilverJay's first podcast, she will be taking you back through her life to explain what has got her here today! SilverJay touches upon: Self belief Being delusional Proving people wrong Our purpose in life South Asian elders Navigating our dual cultural experiences in the West She wants to demonstrate that understanding the philosophy of ourselves can truly help us move through the world in a clearer and lighter way. Also, there's nothing wrong in being delusional... SilverJay hopes you enjoy!

Reach and audience

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

YouTube views

24,817

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

4.9 / 5

21 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 49 / 100

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

Quality

25

Social presence

94

YouTube

85

Engagement

51

Contact UNAPOLOGETIC

Guest appearances

Does not typically book guests

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