Drop your noise

What if happiness science isn’t just about positive thinking but about building a life you actually want to live. This week I sat down with Dr. Louise Lambert to understand the real science behind happiness, why “feeling good” isn’t the full story, and more about quality of life. Dr. Lambert shares actionable strategies for moving beyond “ill-being” and into a more intentional, joy-filled life (no fake positivity required).Before we move on, if you enjoy our show, please give us a review. It helps us reach more listeners. Chapters:
00:00 – Intro: “What does happiness really mean?”
03:13 – Happiness Science vs. Pop Cult...

How does life in a fast-moving city like Dubai change when AI steps into our conversations, our therapy sessions, and even our classrooms? This episode explores how AI can both help and hinder true emotional connection. We'll unpack what it means to be emotionally efficient vs. emotionally expressive, why context is king (even for chatbots), and how slowing down—just a little—can help us reconnect with ourselves and others. Plus, I share two powerful reminders from my books and some honest stories about facing speed, burnout, and the pressure to be 'productive.' Let’s get real about balancing comfor...

How do our layered heritages shape the stories we tell? In this deep and personal episode, Kirti sits down with Angela , author of the profound novel-memoir Meditations of a Former Statue, to talk about navigating identity, cultural legacy, trauma, and self-awakening. Angela opens up about her fascinating life as a woman with Indian and Italian roots, growing up in the UK, and her transition from a banking career on the trading floor to finding her voice as a writer, and how heartbreak and self-reflection spurred her towards deeper healing and creative expression.Get her book: https://books2read.com/u/4Xl...

Eden offers us a fresh perspective from intergenerational expectations, cultural shame, to the life-changing impact of sharing authentic stories. Their conversation shines a light on the importance of well-being support and culturally sensitive spaces in our AI-driven era. 
Instagram @dearasiangeneration EVR's is @evr_eseaAbout EdenEden is a queer Chinese Malaysian woman, creative, and podcast host. Community-led changemaking and world building lies at the heart of her work. Her primary role is with End Violence and Racism (EVR), a grassroots community organisation and mental health service provider for East and South East Asians (ESEAs) in the UK. Eden also cohosts t...

Are we losing our wisdom to AI’s convenience? This episode dives deep into the power of human storytelling, urging us to protect our inner discernment and celebrate the real, messy stories that make us who we are. Tune in for an honest reflection on how sharing our voices shapes the next generation—and why now, more than ever, we need to connect on a truly human level.
00:00:02 – Welcome & Theme Kirti introduces herself and sets the stage for this month’s focus: the intersection of AI and storytelling. She highlights why understanding personal and cultural narratives is essential in the age o...

This week, I share my personal experience on dealing with self-doubt in a new place, Dubai to sharing my "pitch" . My insights from fitting into a new culture, struggling with comparisons, and figuring out how to trust myself without needing others' approval or advice from AI. A great listen for anyone who's feeling that pesky imposter syndrome or unsure about their own voice. You'll leave with some really heartfelt insights, useful mindfulness tips, and a little push to look for answers inside yourself.
Kirti’s confession of self-doubt despite expertise ([00:00:45])Breaking through comparison and simply being real ([00:02:09])Linking transformative mind...

Thaisa shares her inspiring journey from Brazil to the UK and how her multicultural background helped her move from a corporate career to a rewarding life in massage therapy. Discover the power of resilience, turning fear into excitement, and the beauty of connecting across cultures. Thaisa’s story reminds us of the strength in diversity , the courage to follow one’s heart and explore how embracing life's challenges can lead to personal growth and thriving.Show Notes:[00:00:01] Introduction: Kirti's thoughts on cultural transitions and surviving vs. thriving.[00:01:20] Thaisa's Motivating North Star: How her parents' sacrifices fuel her drive.[00:02:11] Moving to the UK...

Meet Doctor Terry, a skincare expert with a holistic approach to beauty. They explore the connection between science and spirituality in skin health and provide practical tips for incorporating these ideas into everyday life. Doctor Terry discusses burnout recovery, cultural beauty perceptions, and the significance of self-trust and responsibility. Tune in to a treasure trove of wisdom for those seeking a balanced and personalized approach to skincare and beauty that goes beyond the surface. W: www.drterryloong.com ,  IG: @dr_terry_ LI: @drterryloongNewsletter: http://tiny.cc/8y2e001Dr Terry is an Integrative Aesthetic Doctor for more than 15 years. After s...

Guest, David Horne, a finance expert turned advocate for female entrepreneurs, delves into the importance of male allies in championing women in business. Discover how his journey from finance to running a social enterprise aimed at levelling the playing field for female founders can inspire change. Learn about the challenges women face in securing funding. Also, the pivotal role that men can play, by being the spotlight for women and a part of creating a more equitable business environment.
FOLLOW..... David B Horne is Founder of Add Then Multiply, a consultancy working exclusively with business founders who want to...

This insightful conversation with guest Sabryna Karim as she delves into the challenges and triumphs of women in the STEM field. Discover the power of "seeing is being," explore shocking statistics about gender representation in STEM, and uncover the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping future innovations. Whether you're in STEM or simply curious about gender dynamics and ethnic diversity in various industries, this episode offers valuable perspectives.Dr Sabrya Carim is a trained scientist, with a PhD in Cell Biology. Sabrya has worked in lab-based research for 10 years across two continents, before transitioning into science publishing. She is...

Are you caught in the relentless cycle of multitasking and struggling to find the right balance? Join me in an inspiring discussion with Anita, a master multitasker, as she shares her secrets to juggling motherhood, career, and personal growth with effortless grace. Discover the power of intentional planning, prioritizing your yeses and noes, and embracing change for a more fulfilling life. Dive into this episode to unlock shortcuts to peace and productivity.

Meet Leah, as she invites us to her unexpected journey into entrepreneurship as a EDtech startup. Discover how Leah seamlessly integrates creativity and business acumen, and how she applies into beyond her career into balancing family, mentoring on entrepreneurship and following her passions of life. ( notably the upcoming London Marathon 2025) Listen to her insightful approach on choices, compromises and applied creativity to greet uncertain moments with light-heartedness. Whether you're a parent juggling multiple roles or curious about entrepreneurship, Leah's insights provide a refreshing take on pursuing a fulfilling and balanced life.
More about LeaLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in...

I sit down with Pavi to explore what it truly means to take a leap of faith. We dive deep into her journey from navigating traditional expectations to stepping boldly into her own path of courage and resilience. From her experiences of making life-changing decisions, finding strength in loneliness, to create a life she on her terms. Tune in to discover how to embrace faith over fear and live boldly in your truth
ABOUTPavithra is an Executive Director in a large global bank in London. An ex management consultant from the big 4, she’s alumni to the London school of...

Meet my mentor Paul Carroll, who shares his transformative journey into the world of debating. Discover how debating can enhance critical thinking, improve public speaking skills, and help you present your viewpoints more persuasively. Gain invaluable tips on navigating disagreements, practicing empathy, and finding common ground in a world filled with contrasting perspectives and overwhelming information from social media and AI.Show Notes 00:00:00
- Kirti introduces her experience with expressing opinions and finding confidence through debating.00:01:49
- Paul Carroll shares his first debate experience during high school and the impact it had on his interest in public speaking.00:03:32

Delve into the art of disagreement and finding mental calmness, or equanimity, in today's fast-paced world. From navigating political discussions at the dinner table to the importance of critical thinking in the era of AI, this episode explores how embracing change and understanding different perspectives can strengthen relationships and build resilience... and did you know Monks Debated? Get practical tips on thriving in these challenging times. Shownotes [00:00:02] Welcoming February and reflections on a recent dinner at Ceru Restaurant. [00:00:39] Discussing politics and the impact of change amidst diverse cultures. [00:01:29] The year of the snake: embracing new beginnings and shedding old beliefs. [00:02:12...

Are we headed towards a Star Trek-like cooperative civilization or a divided Star Wars scenario? Listen in as Paul explains why our current times are crucial for shaping this future for global cooperation. If you’ve been skeptical about generative AI, this conversation may just challenge your thoughts as we touch on AI Ethical Considerations and Outcomes. oooh .. and I wonder if you expect the end of our conversation. Before you read on Hit follow and let's continue to expand the human connection. Here's why you shouldn't miss this episode Kirti and Paul dissect the ethical dilemmas and global challenges we...

If you've ever wondered what it means when AI invades your privacy or affects your productivity, this discussion with Paul will open your eyes. From managing your inbox more efficiently to the terrifying reality of deepfakes and surveillance, we dive deep into the good, the ugly, and the ethical dilemmas AI introduces into our lives. Understand how crucial it is to be aware of your digital footprint and the future landscapes shaped by AI technology.
00:00 "The Ethical Dilemma of AI" 05:03 Deepfake Concerns with Meta Glasses 08:02 Orwellian Digital Surveillance Risk 10:26 Loneliness, AI, and Mental Health 15:27 Unstoppable AI Wave 18:50 Disinformation Fuels...

Curious about the impact of AI on our daily lives? You're not alone! Dive into our latest episode as I chat with AI expert , Paul about everything AI – from the good to the ugly. Can AI help you with anything from speeding up mundane tasks to potentially swaying elections. Intrigued? You should be! Why tune in? If you’ve ever wondered how AI affects your job security, how deepfakes could influence politics, or what the difference is between predictive AI and generative AI, then check out this episode.
Find out more about Paul Paul is a futurist and an advo...

Listen to insights from leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs from around the globe, each bringing unique perspectives from their multi-ethnic backgrounds. Hear them share their life experiences, career journeys, and the valuable lessons they've learned along the way. Elevate your mindset and expand your horizons with the wisdom of diverse voices. Enjoy these transformative conversations!
Do you have a guest or would like to sponsor an episode? Contact us : podcast@kirtana168.com

Yesica  talks about her incredible experience moving from Colombia to London. Discover how Yesica juggles work, supports her family, and maintains cultural traditions while pursuing her dreams abroad. An inspiring episode on love, dedication, and sacrifice.
Bio:Yesica Sanchez. She is a Mom, Creative, Entrepreneur, and works at Trade Desk. But really she is a kind-hearted souls who any person who walked through the doors of Trade Desk UK, would tell you that her warmth and kindness always makes a difference. Stay tuned here, as I will update her details how to connect with her.
Do you have a...

Eugene Rhuggenaath's story is a must-listen for anyone grappling with societal pressures, especially around masculinity, leadership, and cultural heritage. His journey from the Prime Minister of Curaçao to finding his path at the World Bank is filled with relatable struggles, profound insights, and practical wisdom.
He discusses his personal growth, navigating comparison, and overcoming rejection, and the importance of staying true to oneself in a multi-cultural world.
Bio: Eugene Rhuggenaath is an experienced executive and leader, building on a rich career history covering both the private and public sectors. Following successful roles in international financial services, he d...

Susan took me on a raw , real and unexpected journey through her experiences with anger, uncertainty and find her purpose by perservering and finding a loving relationship with God. Susan is now a regional manager in Europe for the Curaçao Tourist Board and is also on a mission to help others go through their struggles with the wisdom gained from her struggles. She also surprised me on the history of Curaçao, making it a solid location for wellness retreats.  Whether you're interested in spirituality, cultural identity, or personal growth, this conversation has something for everyone. Want to explore mor...

Liam shares his unconventional yet powerful journey of forgetting rather than forgiving. Listen to his transformative experience of embracing himself, overcoming family challenges, and understanding the dynamics that shaped him. Insights into LGBTQ+ struggles, family expectations, and the power of personal growth make this a must-watch. For more : https://kirtana168.substack.com Bio Liam: Voice and dialect coach with an MA in Voice Studies from The Royal Central School, backed up with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology from Birkbeck College, University of London. I mostly work in Film and TV. Though I also work with private clients. Who knew that...

Discover the tragic story of Anna Perayil, A youth-Asian young professional, and understand the complex layers of burnout in high-pressure jobs. In this episode, we explore the personal, cultural, and corporate factors that contribute to burnout and offer practical advice on how to protect your mental health. Learn about the importance of balance and the steps you can take to avoid falling into the burnout trap. For more about how to befriend your mind and communication , check out : https://www.kirtana168.com/connect
Here some links related to this weeks episode including the late Ms Perayil's mom letter . https...

Yatsen recounts his journey growing up in a multicultural family with roots in Curacao, Suriname, and New York. Despite coming from a broken family, Yatsen shares his gratitude for the enriched upbringing he received. He talks about his profound friendships in China, the challenges of being openly gay, and his recent registered partnership. Listen as Yatsen reflects on the complexities of identity, belonging, and the impact of cultural diversity on his life. 
A polyglot of many histories and traditions. Self dubbed “Blasian” from Curaçao.
BIO Grew up Black & Chinese & queer in the sunny Dutch Caribbean and in part i...

Discover the intricacies of cultural adaptation, identity, and the impact of familial influence in this insightful episode featuring Eileen. Eileen shares her experiences navigating Canadian and UK cultures, the role of humor, and the significance of community building for East Asians in the UK. Kirti reflects on the challenges of adapting to new environments and the value of human connections in an increasingly digital world. Tune in for a rich dialogue that delves into 1. Exploration being with different heritage 2. historical perspectives 3. personal anecdotes 4. collective need for belonging and understanding Find out more about East Asian Girl Gang https://www.eastasiangirlgang...

Eileen shares her journey from co-founding a multi-award-winning company, Cucumber Clothing, to starting her own community initiative, the East Asian Girl Gang. From overcoming the fear of public speaking to successfully shutting down a business, her story is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to start, grow, or pivot their own ventures. Before you read on: be sure to hit follow and get notified when we drop our latest episode.
Eileen's Upcoming event will be hosted at the prestigious Allbright UK on the 3rd of October 2024 For tickets ⁠https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/modern-beauty-culture-empowering-or-toxic-tickets-935933120157⁠
More about Eile...

Eileen shares her journey from co-founding a multi-award-winning company, Cucumber Clothing, to starting her own community initiative, the East Asian Girl Gang. From overcoming the fear of public speaking to successfully shutting down a business, her story is packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to start, grow, or pivot their own ventures. Before you read on: be sure to hit follow and get notified when we drop our latest episode.
Eileen's Upcoming event will be hosted at the prestigious Allbright UK on the 3rd of October 2024 For tickets ⁠https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/modern-beauty-culture-empowering-or-toxic-tickets-935933120157⁠
More about Eile...

This week discusses the vital difference between living in fear and pursuing your true purpose. Learn how her experiences with family and nature have helped her find balance and joy. Ideal for anyone curious about enhancing their emotional and mental well-being. Find out more on how to find your courage to be ok with the discomforts of communication to make smarter decisions.

Join Duygu and me as we dive into the world of entrepreneurship, exploring the importance of aligning work with personal values, the significance of passion in driving success, and the challenges women face in the business world. Discover how to leverage your unique story, maintain balance, and navigate the dynamics of making a meaningful impact while pursuing financial gain. Her book is available on amazon: The Playbook for Entrepreneurship Llink : https://a.co/d/hyghDJ3
About Duygu In the past 10 years, she has been advising, mentoring and angel Investing in start-up companies across various sectors. She is now working...

I'm inviting you to explore the theme of decluttering our communication and why it can lead to better relationships, confidence, and, of course, a more organized life!  Sharing my reflective moments and whats coming up for the month.

We're diving deep into a fascinating topic: the cultural nuances around praise and how it impacts our sense of belonging and mental health.
💌 Drop Your Noise 📱 @kirtana168 https://link.kirtana168.com/connect

Ever wondered what following your heart really looks like? Gustavo shares his diverse experiences, living across countries, including Venezuela, the US, Curacao, Bolivia, and Chile, as we unravel how embracing uncertainty can lead to a life that feels just right. Each place has added layers to his identity, contributing to a feeling of being internationally minded.  📚 **Table of Contents:** 00:00 - Intro to Gustavo Siever 01:45 - Leaving Chile: The Decision 05:30 - Moving to Venezuela: A Heartfelt Choice 09:20 - Giving Back to Community 14:00 - Feeling at Home: An International Perspective 18:45 - Making a Difference in Education 23:30 - Life in Curacao, US, Bolivia, and...

I'm diving deep into that overwhelming numbness we feel from consuming repetitive content. In this episode, I share my personal journey of stepping back, reassessing consumption habits, and reigniting creativity. If you're feeling stuck or uninspired, this one's for you.

As a researcher, psychologist, speaker, author, consultant, and dedicated mother, Marjorie's life took a dramatic turn following an accident that left her paraplegic. She shares her journey through pain, resilience, and ultimately, grace, offering profound insights on parenting with disabilities and advocating for change.
Meet Marjorie: Marjorie Aunos, Ph.D. is a psychologist, researcher, speaker, and consultant on accessibility  and inclusion. She teaches organizations to solution-find and build environments that are accessible, inclusive, and welcoming to families with disabilities. As a Disability Advocate, she speaks to educators and professionals about embracing change, social justice and our need to support ou...

How does accents influence identity and professional life? Ever wondered if social status also plays a role? From Poland to London, hear Paulina's personal experiences and their implications on self-esteem, identity, and career. Discover her thoughts on current research on accents and positive takeaways to challenge accent discrimination. 

Join me and Paul in a raw, powerful talk about his journey on making the most of his adversities, honouring his (in) visible difference and his courage of self-acceptance. I was left in deep reflection about his courage to make every moment in his life matter and transform his life realisations to support communities to understand the societal biases on facial differences and disfigurements and its emotional impact. Paul is an advocate and sits on the board of Face Equality Tune in to hear how Paul's story of resilience encourages us to embrace our assumptions and how we can pivot...

This episode discusses undergoing a period of transition, contemplating a name change for the podcast, and revisiting her branding to better reflect her goals. She mentions her latest book, 'Drop Your Noise,' and her focus on a communication-based approach to helping people. I wanted to share my thoughts prompted by a recent conference and a conversation with a friend, where we discussed personal challenges and communication issues. Also this episode emphasises the importance of truthful communication and self-perception, acknowledging past struggles with relationships and self-expression. This weeks reflections lead to talk about the essence of being true to oneself...

Catch up with Kirti in this month’s laid-back podcast where she opens up about her own battles with comparing herself to others and how she learned to switch gears towards a healthier mindset. Kirti, inspired by her latest book "Drop Your Noise," dives into why we often feel the need to compete and how embracing consideration can change our outlook.
Music credit: simple miracle by RA Discover more https://link.kirtana168.com/connect

Kirti is joined by Ajay, a passionate advocate for productivity, neuroscience, and, importantly, men's mental health. Ajay opens up about how meditation and a supportive environment have transformed his ability to manage anger and stress, referring to life-changing concepts from notable books like "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise Hay and "Atomic Habit" by James Clear. He emphasises the importance of physical health as a cornerstone for mental stability, advocating for a diet rich in fish oil and minimal processed foods. Throughout the episode, Ajay will share how societal norms and expectations often pressure men into silence about their...