The Soarce

Riddhima Kapoor from Veggie Vice on Creating Things You Wish Existed

Arpita Mehta — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What do you get when you mix an MBA, a love for snacks, and a lot of trial-and-error zucchini experiments? Veggie Vice. In this episode, we're joined by Riddhima—aka the Chip Queen—founder of the cult-favorite veggie chip brand Veggie Vise. We talk about her career pivot from finance and beauty into the wild world of CPG, how an air fryer in her NYC apartment sparked a viral business, and why TikTok became her unexpected marketing superpower. Plus, we get into what it really takes to build something from the ground up—and yes, we end with a live taste test. Spoiler: broccoli has never been sexier.

Watch the episode on our YouTube

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Rachel Stahlke on Balance, Self-Worth, and Being An Everyday It Girl

Arpita Mehta — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Soarce, Arpita sits down with Rachel Stahlke—finance girl by day, content creator by night, and forever the Everyday It Girl. You might know her from TikTok or Substack, but today we go deeper.

Rachel opens up about how she balances corporate life, motherhood, and creative expression—and why she’s done pretending to be someone she’s not. We talk about everything from skincare scams and friendship breakups to redefining success and navigating the noise of modern womanhood.

This conversation is raw, real, and full of high-low moments (including drugstore lip gloss recs and hot takes on Substack supremacy). If you’ve ever felt pressure to be everything at once—or questioned what it really means to “have it all”—this one’s for you.

BONUS: Watch the full episode on The Soarce's YouTube

Not To Be Dramatic...But We're Sooo Back

Arpita Mehta — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the first episode of the Soarce Podcast (formerly The Modern Millennial), where we're diving deep into growth, reflections, and all the messy bits of life that make us who we are. Today, I'm excited to share some real talk about the ups and downs we've all been through—because let's be honest, life is never just a straight shot; it’s more like a wild rollercoaster ride. I’ll be spilling the tea on the lessons I’ve learned this past year, from the importance of rest being the ultimate flex to how we’re all just trying to figure it out as we go along. Plus, we’ll chat about the beauty of nostalgia and why it’s totally okay to reminisce about the good ol' days while still keeping our eyes on the present. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s get ready to soar through this journey together.

Trailer

Arpita Mehta — Sat, 12 Jul 2025 02:30:00 -0400

The Soarce Podcast serves as a weekly sanctuary for those who seek permission to engage in intentional spirals of self-reflection amidst the chaos of contemporary life. This inaugural trailer introduces listeners to a space where self-awareness and a touch of delightful delusion coexist harmoniously. I'm your host, Arpita Mehta, a brand strategist and media creator, inviting you to join me on this journey, particularly tailored for the modern woman who navigates the complexities of self-growth, beauty, and the multifaceted nature of existence. Throughout our episodes, we delve into topics such as friendship, career aspirations, pop culture, and the intricate chaos that envelops our lives.

54. Sujata Assomull ON The Renaissance of Indian Fashion, Personal Style in the Age of Trends, Tackling Ageism & More

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This week on the heels of Fashion Month across the globe, we’re having a fashionable conversation with a very stylish guest. Sujata Assomull is a renowned figure in the Indian and luxury fashion industry as the founding editor-in-chief of Harpers Bazaar India, a contributing editor to Vogue India, and an author with a sharp eye for analyzing Indian style trends. She truly has an incredible personal style and such a refreshing and honest perspective on the Indian fashion industry. In our conversation, we dive into the recent growth of Indian fashion, the promotion of slow and sustainable clothes by Indian designers, and the role of aging in the fashion world.

Sujata has become increasingly vocal about ageism issues in the industry throughout recent years. We discuss how our culture is fixated on youth, the lack of representation of older people in the industry, and how to balance personal style with trends.

Plus, Sujata shares her expert tips and tricks for building an Indian fashion capsule wardrobe and her expert advice for anyone looking to break into the Indian fashion scene.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

The recent growth of the Indian fashion industry
How Indian designers are promoting the slow fashion movement
Sujata’s perspective on re-wearing pieces, the rental market, and buying vintage
Ageism in a society and industry obsessed with youth
Finding a balance between staying true to your unique style and keeping up with trends
Advice on just being you when it comes to fashion

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53. Dee Gautham ON The Importance of Balance, Body Neutrality, & Healing From Weight Loss Culture

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The majority of millennial women I talk to, including myself and especially those raised in South Asian households, face constant and exhausting body image issues. I can’t remember a time where I wasn’t hyper-aware of my body from a very early age. Today, I’m in conversation with Dee Gautham, who has dedicated her life to changing the narrative of diet culture, especially within the South Asian community. Dee is the founder of Boss Body Revolution, a coaching company that helps women build and maintain their confidence through fitness and health. In this episode, we discuss the all-too-common relationship with disordered eating, the nuances of body image and our upbringing, and practical strategies for maintaining a healthy routine while unlearning the lifelong normalization of unrealistic beauty standards.

Dee shares her personal journey with body image, which started at the age of 13 when she began her first diet. Her experiences motivated her to found The Boss Body Revolution and address the gap in the market for health and fitness coaching tailored to South Asian women. She shares her brilliant advice and actionable tips for understanding the root of emotional eating, practicing body neutrality, building healthy habits, and shifting self-criticism into self-love.

Topics Covered:

Dee’s history with disordered eating and how she repaired her relationship with food
The extremes of diet culture and how to find a middle ground for a healthy body image
Understanding emotional eating and actionable tools for separating it from physical hunger
How to build a linear and consistent routine and maintain healthy nutritional habits
The normalization of body shaming in South Asian culture
Practicing body neutrality to help develop a balanced perception of your body as a whole
Strategies for shifting self-criticism to self-love
The role social media plays in body image, especially for millennials
Undoing the negative yet lifelong ingrained beauty standards

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram.

Resources mentioned

Daring Greatly by Brene Brown

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52. Career Chat: The Sisters & Founders Behind CTZN Cosmetics On Representation, Beauty, & Lipsticks

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0400

I first discovered CTZN Cosmetics when their website crashed after a viral TikTok, and I've been a huge fan ever since – their lipsticks are worn by Beyoncé (my queen), SZNA, and Megan Fox. In this episode, I sit down with the sisters behind the brand in a Career Chat to learn about their journey in creating such a groundbreaking brand that's all about inclusivity and representation in the beauty industry. We dig into the details about the initial launch of CTZN, tips for working alongside family, advice for aspiring beauty entrepreneurs, and so much more.

One of the things that sets CTZN apart is their commitment to considering complexion in every aspect of your beauty routine, from nude lipsticks to eyelid pigmentation to blush and contour. They also really understand the needs of their demographic, particularly millennials and Gen Z. Throughout our conversation, we discuss how important it is to use your platform to share important messages and the steps they've taken to create a brand committed to making a change.

Aleena, Aleezeh, and Naseeha are truly redefining the standards of the beauty industry and their approach to developing incredible and innovative products is so inspiring. So, if you're looking for a culturally responsive brand with approachable and authentic founders, CTZN is the perfect addition to your makeup collection.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Founding CTZN Cosmetics on the need for inclusivity and representation in the beauty industry
The sisters’ process for developing their products
How they use “Culture-Torials” to merge makeup tutorials with cultural awareness
The importance of having an open mindset towards inclusivity and welcoming feedback
How they have humanized the brand experience and strive for authenticity
Insights and lessons from their initial ideas to launching a startup
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs entering the beauty space or working with family
Why you should always stay true to your values and mission

Resources mentioned

Follow Aleena, Aleezeh and Naseeha

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51. State of the Union: Pop Culture, Reccs, & Fun Things

Arpita Mehta — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 12:00:00 -0400

POV: You're FaceTiming with me on a Sunday. Listen in for pop culture updates & reccs, thoughts on Filmare Awards, the "Pookie" episodemic, Lovers & Friends Music Tour, an official skincare routine reveal, and lot's more.

Music:

Lovers & Friends Playlist

TV Shows/Movies:

Abbott Elementary Season 3 (Feb 7th)

Heeramandi

12th Fail

Animal

Products Mentioned:

Owala Water Bottle

Uriage Thermale Serum

Klorane Micellar Water

Avene Hydrance Gel Moisturizer

Avene Cicalfate Restorative Cream

Summer Fridays Jetlag Mask

Arrae Constipation

Fashivly Personal Styling

50. The Big 5-0: Things I Wish I Knew In My 20s, Reflections, and Non-Negotiables

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to our 50th episode celebration! It's been an amazing two-year journey filled with so many ups and downs, and I'm extremely grateful for all the growth, lessons, and positive change TMM has brought into my life. I've learned so much from the amazing guests I've had on the show, and each season has been unique, filled with topics that reflect where I was in that exact moment. It has truly been so special. Today, I’m sharing the biggest lessons and insights I've gained over these two super transformative years as I’ve navigated the complexities of being a millennial woman with all of you.

I've had the privilege of chatting with over 40 incredible guests, each offering so many valuable lessons and perspectives. From choosing my own “heart” to embracing my insecurities and failures to strengthening relationships, my worldview has completely expanded from where I was when I started this podcast. Plus, as an Indian American millennial woman, it's such an honor to acknowledge our unique cultural background on my platform and how it affects the conversation about wellness, career, relationships, and mental health.

As we're still adjusting to the New Year, I also highlight my new goal of having more fun and the non-negotiables I'm taking with me into 2024. Thank you so much for being part of the TMM community, and here's to many more episodes filled with authenticity, laughter, and wellness!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

The beauty of the opportunity to choose your heart
Why there’s power in accepting your insecurities
How to learn from failure and embrace trial and error
Prioritizing more joy and fulfillment in your daily routine
The true meaning of being a “multi-hyphenate”
Understanding that asking for help and taking your health seriously is a great thing
The best advice for strengthening your relationships in 2024
My new non-negotiables influenced by the last two years
My version of an “award show” thank you

Resources mentioned

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49. Jessel Taank ON Life, Fashion, & What It's Like To Be A Real Housewife of New York City

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0400

I've been obsessed with The Real Housewives franchise on Bravo since the very first season and excited to welcome Jessel Taank from the newest cast. , and I can't express how excited I was when my guest today, Jessel Taank, joined the cast of The Real Housewives of New York. It's truly been amazing to see Jessel breaking barriers as the first Indian and South Asian housewife on the show and being unapologetically herself the whole way through. In our chat, we talked about her journey to joining the show, her new fashion venture, ŌUSHQ, and how she manages to stay true to herself with all those cameras following her around, fashion, parenting in NYC and more.

Jessel opens up about the challenges of being put under the reality TV microscope and shares some brilliant tips for staying mentally healthy on social media and with the press. Jessel also talks about her passion for the fashion industry and how she has committed herself to making beautiful South Asian and Middle Eastern brands more accessible to everyone through her upcoming curated catalog. We also touch on some of her favorite designers as of late, how she landed in Jenna Lyons’ circle, and what she predicts for the future of the industry.

This episode is such a refreshing and inspiring way to kick off our 2024! Jessel is so authentic and grounded in her beliefs, so I know you will adore our conversation.

Topics Covered:

Jessel's IVF journey and how she navigated sharing her story
The way Jessel is representing South Asian authenticity and breaking stereotypes on Bravo
Why Jessel decided to join the cast
The ups and downs of navigating life with cameras following her every move
How Jessel adjusts her daily routines on and off of the show
Life advice for moms raising their children in big cities
How Jessel is making Indian fashion more accessible
The emerging fashion designers Jessel is currently loving

Resources:

ŌUSHQ

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Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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48. Parul Somani: ON How Intentional Actions Lead To Powerful Outcomes & Frameworks For Making Hard Decisions

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0400

I’m joined by the incredibly inspiring mindset expert and speaker Parul Somani. She shares her journey beginning in tech, to then receiving a breast cancer diagnosis shortly after her second child was born, and how she cultivated mindset techniques to overcome cancer in community.

Parul walks us through her four-step framework to truly live with intention. I can say from experience her approach changed my perspective over the past few months at a time when I needed it most. Intention setting is about jumping into the future, considering what you want your future self to feel and have experienced, and then working backward to inform your decision-making. Parul is a strong believer that the more you can articulate the life you want to lead, the more you can manifest that reality.

One of the key tenets of Parul’s intentional living framework is making decisions. Decision-making can bog us down at the best of times. From her own experiences, Parul illustrates how choosing the path of least regret can offer the most peace of mind and eliminate feeling stuck in the middle.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How Parul’s breast cancer journey became a lesson in self-advocacy and approaching health care with strong intention
The four steps to living with intention
How to recognize you’re at a decision point and change your reality
Introducing Life Strategy Sessions to reframe overwhelm and the burden of responsibility
Why achievable aspirations are an antidote to passive manifesting
How the path of least regret can simplify decision-making

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47. January Faves: Beauty, Wellness, Reading & More Reccs

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I’m rounding up some of my recent routine favorites and new additions as we kick off 2024. I want to keep things light and relaxed and share some of my recent favorites that have made my days a bit more exciting and my routine a bit more fun. I've got you covered, from skincare products to wellness tips to yummy snacks and much more! Some of my favorite podcast episodes are when the host gets real about the little things in their day-to-day that bring them some extra joy.

Topics Covered:

My current skincare go-tos
Lipsticks and blushes I’ve been loving
The best routine to set your makeup
How I rekindled my love for reading
The TV shows and movies that are lighting me up
Recent routine, wellness, and food recs
What I’m doing to feed my coffee addiction
The best wine for the pinot noir fans

Resources mentioned

BEAUTY

READS

WATCH

Kho Gaye Hum Kahan (Netflix)
The Looming Tower (Hulu)

FOOD

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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46. Hitha Palepu ON Cultivating A Soft Start To The New Year, "Wintering," & Why It's Ok To Not Be Ok

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0400

As this year wraps up, I know I’m not alone in feeling pressured to make outrageous goals and sudden life overhauls, but this conversation with Hitha Palepu, a writer, creator, CEO of a pharmaceutical company, mother of two, and overall one of my favorite multi-hyphenates, is a balm to resolution urges. Hitha is so well versed in all things rest, wintering, and creating intentional rituals that her descriptions of adding more comfort to our lives are like meditations.

We discuss how to determine what wintering means to each of us by honoring the needs of the season we are in. Wintering looks different for everyone, but the through line is always finding lower-impact things, making fewer plans, refreshing our cozy nooks, and shifting focus to easing into the new year instead of rushing in to create drastic change. By keeping our life visions close to our hearts, it becomes simpler to identify priorities and let the rest fall away.

Hitha shares her experience of how a recent hysterectomy surgery, along with other major life events, forced her to consider what it means to pause. We must remember that after change, there is no going back to old versions of ourselves. Take the time to consider who you want to be in the next chapter.

One of my favorite ways to do this is to read what makes me happy! I recommend beginning with something you love, like reading cheesy romance novels and asking yourself how you can layer more soothing rituals on top. Wishing everyone gentleness and ease during this winter season.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How to normalize being not ok, especially at the end and beginning of the year
Why “new year, new you” is an outdated way of thinking
The importance of questioning all narratives accepted as truth to ensure deep alignment
Ways to live a softer life
How to acknowledge the different seasons of life and consciously pause what’s not in season
Tips for winter well-being
Following what makes you happy instead of what you think you “should” be doing

Resources mentioned

Wintering by Katherine Mae

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45. The Everything Episode: Holiday Gift Guide, Defining Core Values, Things Money Can't Buy, Recipes & Reccs

Arpita Mehta — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 11:45:00 -0400

This week's episode is a solo one and wraps up season 3 of the podcast as we head into the end of the year. We're covering our "Not Another Gift Guide" gift guide and spotlighting unique gifts, understanding our core values and why this are important to identify, some random chit-chat, and of course TV recommendations & more.

Not Another Gift Guide (all the gifts & more linked here)
Article mentioned on 99 Things Money Can't Buy
Great IG Follow @smarterinasec
Understanding core values (excercise & explanation)
The Chutney Life Ricotta Dip
Easy Icebox Cake Recipe

TV Reccs:

The Railway Men (Netflix)
Lessons in Chemistry (AppleTV)
Aarya Season 1 (Hotstar on Hulu)

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44. Understanding the Skin Microbiome & Why Our Skin Health Is Often Overlooked With Monique Menses, Founder of iota

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400

With all of the noise on social media, it can be tricky to figure out what's right for your body and skin type. That's why I'm excited to share my chat with Monique Meneses, the founder of iota, a body care brand that uses prebiotics and postbiotics to promote skin health. She's an absolute skincare expert with so much wisdom to share about caring for your unique skin type.

In our conversation, Monique explains the science behind skin microbiomes, why using clean ingredients in personal care products is essential, and how to be more mindful about what you put on your skin. We also talk about how your skin connects to your overall health and why understanding ingredient lists can help you make conscious choices.

If you're interested in beauty, skincare, or if you've struggled with skin issues like eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or acne, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Why our skin health often gets overlooked
The science behind iota's brand and why Monique prioritizes her skin
The consequences of choosing body care products from a drugstore without understanding their ingredients
Defining the skin microbiome
How iota uses prebiotics and postbiotics in their products

Resources mentioned

Follow Monique

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43. Reshma Chamberlin, Co-Founder of Summersalt: Asking For What You Want, Making Real Connections & Why Entrepreneurship May Not Be For Everyone

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 08 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400

I've been obsessed with Summersalt for the past few years, and today, I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with their co-founder, Reshma Chattaram- Chamberlin. She is truly an inspiration with such a positive energy and willingness to get real. In our conversation, we talk about Reshma's background growing up in Bombay, how Summersalt has completely revolutionized the swimwear market, and the highs and lows of building the company.

Throughout the episode, Reshma encourages you to ask for what you want and not wait for opportunities to come your way. She shares her advice for setting intentions rather than resolutions and highlights why it's so important to have a growth mindset as an entrepreneur.

Plus, Reshma offers some strategies Summersalt used during the pandemic to stay adaptable and handle the challenges they faced.

She also emphasizes the importance of considering your unique situation and timing before jumping into entrepreneurship and shares tips for knowing if it's the right path for you!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Reshma's background before co-founding Summersalt
The importance of authentic connections and manifesting your desires
Tips for navigating the realities of entrepreneurship
How Summersalt creates intentional and body-positive clothing
The highs and lows of building a brand
Why you have to recognize capacity and maintain consistency in entrepreneurship
Recognizing that entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone
Reshma's closet staples, TV binges, and current practices

Resources mentioned

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42. Monday Chit-Chat: Diwali, Drake's Birthday & Current Reccs

Arpita Mehta — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400

A Monday morning edition of commentary, reccs, and other fun pop-culture commentary. This week, I'm going through:

Diwali reflections,
The no-pants fashion trend
Drake's birthday, snooze alarm dilemma
Snooze alarm & the science behind it
Taylor Swift's night out
Podcast/movie/product recommendations

Article Rec: The Couple Behind The Skims Industrial Complex

Podcast Recc: Groupchat Podcast: Scooped Bagel Edition

TV Recc: Pain Hustlers & The Family Switch (Netflix)

Home Recc: Rocco Fridge (Drinks Fridge)

Gift Recc: DS & Durga Candle

Beauty Reccs: olive&june Instant Mani & CTNZ Cosmetics Lipsticks in Lahore & Koh Samui

Check out TMM's Diwali Gift Guide and subscribe to our newsletter

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41. Meghana Dhar ON The Power of Vulnerability & Trusting Your Gut In Your Career

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Join me as I sit down with Meghana Dhar, a speaker, investor, and advisor to tech companies. Meghana's journey is truly incredible, having worked at top-tier companies like eBay, Instagram, and Snapchat and even being featured in Forbes 30 under 30. If you're navigating career changes, embracing self-discovery, and in your personal growth era as we approach a new year – this episode is for you.

In our conversation, Meghana shares her transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges and reflections that led to her pivot. She highlights the importance of self-advocacy as a woman in the corporate world, self-awareness, and why you should always trust your gut.

Meghana encourages you to consistently consider your aspirations, values, and definitions of success, as these things tend to evolve over time. We also talk about the strength of vulnerability and how it's important to balance how you present yourself on social media with your authentic and real human experiences.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

The challenge of taking up space, especially for women, in the workplace
How Meghana landed high-profile roles early in her career
The importance of self-awareness and listening to your instincts when making career decisions
Shedding your old layers and how it can lead to powerful, transformative decisions
Why your unique version of success evolves as you do
Tips for embracing vulnerability as a strength
What Meghana is currently working on and her best advice

Resources mentioned

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40. Friday Chit Chat: Pop-Culture Faves, Life Updates, and Fun Reccs

Arpita Mehta — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Welcome to a quick edition of commentary, reccs, and other fun pop-culture commentary. This week, I'm going through caffeine addictions, Taylor Swift, Koffee with Karan, the Sephora sale, TV show reccs, thoughts on getting an MRI, Halloweekend, and lots more.

39. Nina Davuluri ON Getting Real About Body Image, Self-Esteem and The Role Social Media Plays

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Today, I'm so excited to welcome Nina Davuluri to the show! She made history as the first South Asian woman to win Miss America, and in this episode, she gets vulnerable about topics that affect all of us almost every day. We dive into beauty standards, body image, media influence, cultural impacts, and why it's important to question norms. Nina has such a warm, unique, and truthful perspective on these complex issues, having experienced them firsthand in the pageant world.

Nina won Miss America back in 2013, and throughout our conversation, she reflects on all the ways she's grown and changed since and how society has evolved. She opens up about how being a beauty pageant winner influenced her self-perception and how she separates beauty trends as self-care versus seeking outside validation. Nina also shares her advice for unlearning harmful beliefs, overcoming societal pressures, and deconstructing generational body image trauma, especially in South Asian households.

Plus, we chat about how Nina has found her calling in storytelling and why sharing our personal stories is a potent tool for encouraging meaningful change and empowering the next generation to challenge the norms.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

How much perceptions can change over a decade
Exploring the influence of pageantry on body image and beauty standards
Why social media has a massive impact on our self-esteem
Nina’s journey with weight fluctuation and tips for combating negative body comments
Advice for unlearning harmful generational beliefs, behaviors, and colorism
The power of storytelling and Nina’s goals for her documentary, COMPLEXion

Resources mentioned

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38. Nidhi Pandya ON How, When, and What We Should Be Eating According to Ayurveda

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

After my recent episode on gut health, I received a flood of messages from many of you who have gone through similar experiences. It's so challenging to navigate through the influx of gut-related problems and the countless products that promise quick fixes in our modern world. That's why I invited Ayurvedic expert and coach Nidhi Pandya to the pod to simplify Ayurvedic food practices for our everyday life, because one thing I’ve learned is how and what we eat impacts so much of our everyday lives.

Nidhi's approach to Ayurveda is so refreshing! She aims to be jargon-free and demystify key digestive concepts like microbiome and Agni. In our conversation, she shares her perspective on mindful eating and how we should enjoy our foods rather than obsess over specific nutrition issues, weight management, or calorie counting. The best part about Nidhi's method is that it's effortless to incorporate into your existing daily routine. She breaks down her Inner Climate™ principles that prioritize the temperature of foods and the timing of when you eat them.

Ultimately, your gut controls everything from stress to skin health to happiness. And it all starts with what you eat and listening to your body! So tune in for all the tips on eating with love, connecting with your food, and reclaiming your inner balance.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Reframing the way you think about your nutrition
The core principles of how Ayurveda views food
Demystifying microbiomes and Agni (digestive fire)
Understanding Nidhi’s concept of Inner Climate™
Why Nidhi would rather eat potato chips than a cold smoothie
Quieting the noise and jargon around digestive health
What to reach for during breakfast, lunch, and dinner
A quick fact or fiction for getting started

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37. Solo Episode: Reflections on the Pandemic Skip & Marriage

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Have you heard about the "Pandemic Skip"? I recently read an article about it in The Cut, and it got me thinking about how it has affected my life, particularly my marriage. I used to feel like I was falling behind in my marriage because I thought it was supposed to be like a Bollywood romance movie. But I've realized that the pandemic has blurred my sense of time and milestones. Let's be real – navigating relationships, career, and personal growth as a millennial is so different from any other generation because of this massive time jump we experienced.

As I celebrate my fourth marriage anniversary, I share what I believe makes up the core of modern relationships. I also highlight the lessons I've learned about choosing yourself in a relationship, nurturing your friendship, and always carving out time for those meaningful moments.

Life is all about how you react to what it throws at you, and trust me, I'm still on the learning curve! What I do know is that marriage requires growth, evolution, and vulnerability to allow yourself to be whole alongside your best friend. I encourage you to listen in and take a moment to reflect on your journey.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

How the “Pandemic Skip” altered my timeline
My Bollywood marriage misconceptions
The importance of individuality and personal growth in your relationship
Prioritizing and nurturing a friendship in your marriage
Why you need to be going on more date nights and shared experiences
An invitation to take a step back to reflect on your journey

Resources mentioned

The Cut: The Pandemic Skip

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36. Rooshy Roy of Aavrani ON How Personal Growth Leads To Professional Growth

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

I love having deep conversations with my guests where we can really dive into what drives them and helps them succeed beyond what we see on social media. That's why I'm thrilled to introduce you to Rooshy Roy. She's an amazing entrepreneur who left her banking career to pursue her dreams, resulting in the highly successful skincare brand Aavrani. Aavrani is inspired by ancient Ayurveda rituals, traditions, and ingredients and was one of the first to bring South Asian-inspired skincare and beauty to the forefront. Rooshy's journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship and the resilience required to reach your goals.

In our chat, Rooshy shares how she built her brand against all odds, landed a collaboration with Lily Singh for an upcoming hair care line, and talks about the unique challenges she faces as a female South Asian founder. She emphasizes the need to stay open-minded and adaptable, as unexpected opportunities can arise when you least expect them. Rooshy also reminds you that success takes time, and patience is key, especially in the startup world.

She talks candidly about how she nearly quit during the pandemic and offers advice on overcoming self-doubt, playing to your strengths, and staying motivated when things aren't going as planned. As a South Asian founder, Rooshy shares her experiences setting boundaries with family, breaking the traditional cycle of people-pleasing, and letting go of negative energies. And as a millennial, she's optimistic about the current narrative of vulnerability and empathy as a younger generation takes on more prominent roles in the professional world.

Be sure to tune in because this episode is jam-packed with inspiration and insight!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Aavrani’s exciting partnership with Lilly Singh
How to combat feeling unmotivated or uncertain about your career
Tips for navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome
The power of self-work, setting boundaries, and surrounding yourself with people who encourage you
Breaking free from the vicious cycle of people-pleasing and embracing authenticity
Rooshy's approach to managing her team with thoughtfulness and empathy
Rooshy’s favorite ways to unwind, recommended books, productivity hacks, and her self-improvement era

Resources mentioned

The Creative Act: A Way of Being

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35. Solo Episode: The TMI Edition (Digestive Drama, Surgery, and Mental Health)

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

We made it to episode 35! Today, I'm getting really personal and sharing my health journey over the past year. I'll be honest – it's one of the hardest things I've ever had to go through till date. As women, it's so important to talk about our gut health and ask for support when we need it. Listen, everyone poops! So, let's get comfortable talking about it.

Throughout the episode, I dive into how my gut health affected my relationship with food, my loved ones, and my mental health. I share how I advocated for my diagnosis and the steps I took to reach a full recovery. Plus, I highlight how I'm finding a balance between natural remedies and Western medicine and why this journey has changed my social media presence and content.

I'm so grateful that I was able to get to the bottom of my pain and health issues and I hope If you're struggling with this or something else, please know you're not alone. Don't be afraid to share your story, seek professional help, or confide in a friend. You deserve to be heard and pain-free!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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Topics Covered:

My health journey starting in December of 2021
Getting a diagnosis of hemorrhoids and anal fissures
Meeting with a gastroenterologist and colorectal surgeon
The ways my gut health altered my mental health, physical health, and relationships
My surgery and the recovery
How I took control of my health
A balance between natural gut health remedies and Western medicine
Why I’m thankful for this experience

Resources mentioned

Use code TMM20 for 20% off Supergut
Squatty Potty

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34. Hema Persad ON Embracing Self-Doubt, Working Smarter, and Rewriting Your Career

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

I'm back! Today's guest, Hema Persad, is the epitome of authenticity and a personal inspiration when it comes to thinking about my career. She's an interior designer based in LA and the founder of Sagrada Studio. Her portfolio includes homes of A-list clients like Jay Shetty, Deepika Mutyala, Poorna Jagannathan, and many more. In our conversation, we get real about pivoting careers, navigating self-doubt, and finding your voice through your interior design.

Hema's journey is a true testament to self-discovery. She began as an attorney, practicing for several years, then moved across the country to LA, where she worked in celebrity fashion styling for nearly a decade before eventually finding her passion in interior design. She shares her insights on work ethic and how she managed all this while raising a family. We touch on why self-doubt can be a driving force, the idea that you don't have to love everything you do, and her design recommendations for finding individuality in your living spaces.

Hema reminds you that sometimes, you have to shed old identities and connections to become the person you want to be. It's all part of the process of personal evolution! She’s not just an incredible interior designer; she's a genuinely inspirational person with so many life lessons to share. Tune in and soak up her wisdom!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Advice for pivoting careers
How Hema transitioned from styling to interior design
Why you should embrace self-doubt as part of your journey
Being a supportive yet realistic parent
Tips for balancing your creative passions and your career
High/low design approach
The #1 design rule you should live by
Hema’s favorite color palette, celebrity project, and TV shows

Resources mentioned

10x Is Easier Than 2x

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33. 8 Lessons (and Hard Truths) I've Learned About Life

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Earlier this summer, I wrote down some thoughts, reflections, aspirations, and lessons on the first half of the year. I gathered them for my newsletter as eight quick lessons I've learned about myself or hard truths I've had to come to terms with. Today, I'm diving deeper into these reflections as I continue to unlearn, grow, and nurture positive changes in my mindset. Plug in those earphones for a walk, or crank up the volume in your car for this heart-to-heart solo episode!

We all know that classic advice - you won't be everyone's cup of tea. When you're too caught up in seeking validation and approval from others, you tend to forget who you are. I share my advice for staying true to yourself, navigating your subconscious negative self-talk, and being your own biggest cheerleader. Plus, I offer tips for picking the right people to surround yourself with, preserving your energy, and trusting your intuition. If your gut tells you 'no,' pay attention and save yourself from energy-draining situations.

I admit that I'm still on the journey of discovering and accepting my value. But I've learned that embracing what makes you unique and cherishing your essence are the keys to realizing your self-worth. Part of this is also accepting your failures and seeing the beauty in your mistakes because that's where true evolution happens. Also, you’re allowed to switch things up, explore new possibilities, and redefine yourself whenever you want. Whether it's trying out a new hobby (for me, it's pickleball), embracing new passions, or imagining a completely different career, the only rule is to follow what brings you joy!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Making intentional and mindful purchases
Maintaining your individuality to avoid burnout
Tips for overcoming the subconscious negative self-talk
Why you should be cautious of who you share your whole self with
The ways the digital era is disrupting our boundaries
Advice for navigating shifts within friendships
Trust your gut!
The constant challenges of realizing your self-worth
Welcoming the beauty of failure and making mistakes
Continue to reinvent yourself
A reminder that it’s never too late to do what you want to do

Resources mentioned

Use code TMM20 for 20% off Supergut
Use code TMM20 for 20% off Neeshi

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32. Solo Episode: New Month, New Energy (Beyoncé, Reflections, and Skin Talk)

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to another TMM solo episode! Today, I'm sharing some recent reflections, thoughts, and pop culture moments that have been swirling around my mind. For these solo episodes, I've been jotting down random topics and ideas on my Notes app whenever they pop into my head. Sometimes the notes look like gibberish, but that's the beauty of it. It's raw, authentic, and you know I'm all about keeping things real.

Do you ever feel like you're constantly in a "work in progress" state? No matter how much you learn, grow, and evolve, there's always more to explore and discover. For me, I've been facing some decision paralysis. That feeling when you want to do something but are stuck in your own head, overthinking everything. Whether it's about a career move, a big life decision, or just figuring out your next step, I share some of my strategies and tips for self-reflection, self-improvement, and dedicating time to yourself. These tools have helped me in my daily routine to stay on task and remind myself that it's okay to feel stuck sometimes.

By the time this episode airs, I'll have attended Beyoncé's Renaissance tour. This concert is a huge deal for me because I was a massive fan of Destiny's Child when I first moved to America from Bombay. Their music was more than just songs; it was a message of empowerment.

Also, "Made in Heaven" season 2 is back! This Indian-produced series is transcendent and touches on universal themes that resonate with everyone. The storyline is so captivating, and the production quality is truly top-notch. Plus, I share my "Barbie" movie thoughts and my recent experience getting microneedling and a chemical peel.

I can't wait to connect deeper with you during these solo episodes. Remember, you are a beautiful work in progress, and I'm so grateful to have you here with me on this ride!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

A TMM update
My August intentions to be present, have fun, and be me
Navigating being in a “work in progress” state
Advice for moments when you’re feeling stuck or in decision paralysis
Strategies and tools to become a morning person
Prioritizing time with yourself by treating it like a meeting. Don't cancel it!
Beyoncé background
Unpacking my “Barbie” thoughts
“Made in Heaven” is back
My experience with microneedling and chemical peels

Resources mentioned

Sign up for The New Happy Newsletter
Download One Sec
My Alarm Clock – Amazon

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31. Career Chats with Simi Shah, Founder & Host of South Asian Trailblazers

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

As I navigate this major career pivot I’m going through, Simi Shah’s podcast ‘South Asian Trailblazers’ reminds me of how important it is to let instinct and passion flow alongside ambition. Simi uses her platform to highlight South Asians have really made their mark in different industries like tech, media, healthcare, and beyond.

In our conversation, Simi and I discuss common themes of South Asian culture, storytelling, and career development. We talk about the importance of evaluating your relationship with goals and achievement, especially as first-generation South Asian immigrants. Simi shares key takeaways from her interviews with everyone from comedian Zarna Garg to the founder of ClassPass, Payal Kadakia.

Simi also reflects on her experience with hustle culture and the subsequent burnout she faced while working in finance. She shares incredible insight for anyone who’s thinking about making a career change, including questions to help guide your next move and create a more sustainable work-life balance. Plus, Simi pulls back the curtain about what’s coming up next for the Trailblazers community.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

What inspired Simi to start South Asian Trailblazers
Simi’s take on the ‘South Asian’ label and what it symbolizes
Common themes from Simi’s interviews with influential South Asians
The two key elements of a fulfilling career
Understanding what’s holding you back from making a career change
Detaching your identity from your job title and salary
Simi’s standout guests and conversations from South Asian Trailblazers

Resources mentioned

Use code TMM20 for 20% off your purchase at supergut.com!
South Asian Trailblazers: Zarna Garg
South Asian Trailblazers: Reflections on 50 Trailblazers
The Defining Decade by Meg Jay

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30. Israa Nasir of Well Guide ON Exploring Modern Relationships, Interdependence vs. Interdependence, and Parallel Play

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

I've been married for four years, and my husband and I have been dating for thirteen years. We practically grew up together, and our relationship has been through so many transformations. In this episode, I'm joined by one of my favorite digital creators, Israa Nasir, to discuss the relationship dynamics in millennial marriages. She is the licensed therapist and mental health educator behind the Instagram account @well.guide.

Israa's content on mental health is truly inspiring. She brings a fresh perspective to relationships, marriage, and emotional growth by considering the cultural, societal, and economic factors that play a significant role in the discussion. Whether you're dating, single, married, or seeking validation and guidance to improve your relationship, this episode is for you!

We dive into several aspects of modern relationships, including interdependence, independence, codependency, conflict patterns, setting boundaries, and the concept of "parallel play." Israa explores how millennials, particularly South Asian millennials, are redefining relationships by breaking away from traditional societal norms and creating their own dynamics and cultures within their partnerships.

With extensive social media experience, Israa emphasizes that while social media can be informative, you should take everything on social media about relationships and mental health at face value. Use it as a point of reference, a moment of reflection, or an opener for a dialogue, not a judgment about your partner.

Israa offers her wisdom and many practical tips for all types of relationships so you can be a healthy communicator and strengthen your connections with your loved ones!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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Topics Covered:

Codependency vs. hyper-dependency
Independence and interdependence in South Asian marriage
Navigating differences in a relationship to meet each other’s needs
Lessons from How To Lose a Guy In 10 Days
What makes a relationship “toxic?
Identifying typical conflict patterns and effective solutions
Parallel play and how it relates to healthy relationship dynamics
Technology and social media’s impact on relationships
Questions to ask someone when you want to get to know them on a deeper level
Israa’s perspective on celebrity marriages

Resources mentioned

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29. Everything You Need To Know About Retinol and Hyperpigmentation with Dr. Mona Mislankar

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Skincare is something I'm incredibly passionate about. I've experienced my fair share of skin troubles since my teenage years, ranging from acne to eczema and dermatitis on my scalp. It seems like a never-ending cycle of skin issues, and I know I'm not alone in this struggle.

Dr. Mona Mislankar joins me today to break down all things retinol, hyperpigmentation, sunscreen, and how to build your daily skincare routine. She is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Oath MD, a dermatologist-founded skincare line. Dr. Mislankar has a unique approach to skincare that is relatable, educational, and refreshingly real.

I've been looking to incorporate retinol into my routine to help with my acne scarring and hyperpigmentation. But, the constant noise with content on TikTok, the extensive product research, and conflicting advice from various doctors have left me feeling stuck. As someone with South Asian skin, I've always wondered if retinol is suitable or necessary for all skin types. In our conversation, Dr. Mislankar answers all of my questions and gives her insight on the best way to start using retinol for your skin type, common misconceptions about retinol, and when it’s the best time to consult a dermatologist.

We dive into the importance of sunscreen, the effects of sun damage, and how to correctly apply sunscreen with your makeup. Dr. Mislankar emphasizes that everyone, regardless of melanated skin, skin type, or sun exposure, needs to use sunscreen daily. We talk about SPF in tinted moisturizers and other preventative measures you can take to combat sun damage. Dr. Mislankar also shares her opinion on more intense cosmetic treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, and medical spas.

Whether you're just starting your skincare journey or have been on it for years, Dr. Mislankar gives her advice for all skin types, ages, and concerns!

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

What exactly does retinol do?
Common myths about retinol
The best way to start using retinol
When to see a dermatologist
The importance of consistency with a skincare routine
How to determine what skin type you have
What causes hyperpigmentation and how to combat it
Hyperpigmentation in brown skin
Why it’s so crucial to wear sunscreen every day
Cosmetic treatments such as lasers, chemical peels, and medical spas
How to layer your makeup with your skincare
Dr. Mislankar’s favorite skincare products and wellness trends

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28. Solo Episode: Overcoming The Self-Promotion Ick, Wellness Era Reset, and Current Faves

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I’m recapping some fun life updates, what’s been on my mind lately, and the routines and products that I'm loving at the moment.

ICYMI, I was a hair model for Chris Appleton on the TODAY Show! It was such a pinch-me moment getting to see the behind-the-scenes of live TV and check that off my bucket list. I shared a lot about it on Instagram, which brought me back into this internal battle I have between wanting to put myself out there and celebrate my accomplishments, but also questioning if I deserve the attention and praise.

I’m in this career transition period where I’m having to confront a lot of limiting beliefs that are blocking my success, but I’m realizing this discomfort is better than the pain of complacency. If you haven’t already listened to it, check out episode 2 with my life coach Yash Parikh where we cover mindset strategies around this topic.

I’ve also been incorporating two practices for my mental and physical health: walking barefoot on grass and seed cycling. I’m going to dive deeper into these topics in future episodes, but listen in to hear what I’m noticing since I started exploring these wellness trends.

Don’t miss the links below for all the shows, books, and product recommendations I highlight in this episode!

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

The back story on how I ended up on TODAY
My newfound appreciation for all things glam and celebrity lifestyle
Why I wholeheartedly believe that if you don’t talk about yourself, no one else will
Recognizing areas of my life where I minimize myself
Ways that I’m actively working on building my confidence
What I’m loving about my new morning routine
The basics of seed cycling is and how it’s been affecting my PMS symptoms

Shows and movies mentioned :

Books mentioned:

Products mentioned:

Makeup by Mario - MoistureGlow™ Plumping Lip Color (Cool Pink & Smoky Pink)
Clean Skin Club Face Towels
Supergut Mocha Latte Protein Shake
The Scribes Journals
Doritos Hot Mustard Flavor

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27. Navigating Digital Authenticity, The Power of Community, and Recognizing Self-Worth with Ashna Mankotia

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

It seems like the concept of authenticity is everywhere lately. But what does that really mean? Ashna Mankotia is a content creator who I believe fully embodies authenticity, and I admire her perspective on human connection and storytelling within her various online platforms. In this episode, we unpack how Ashna translates her authenticity into her digital content and the value of community.

We dive deep into how Ashna shares every side of herself online, finds time for the small things, and frees herself from the pressure of always being perfect and presentable. We highlight how our cultural backgrounds have shaped us and the importance of reflecting on our journeys. We also talk about embracing your successes in the digital space, finding pride in sharing success with others, and visualizing big goals for yourself.

Beyond her Instagram and TikTok, Ashna is the founder of Saffron, a new membership community that focuses on building connections and friendships with women all across the globe. As millennials, it can be challenging to develop meaningful friendships. I love the way Ashna views shared experiences and the power of working through your problems within a group of like-minded women.

Join us for this relatable and fun conversation about navigating life and how we each uniquely show up in the world, but we don’t need to show up alone.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

How to make time for the small things in life
The ways Ashna incorporates storytelling into her content creation
Tips for staying present while keeping up with content
The importance of finding joy in your career
Overcoming the pressure to always look perfect for your followers
Why having representation of a South Asian woman who is happily living her life is revolutionary
Developing friendships with other women
Ashna’s membership community, Saffron
Embracing confidence, big thinking, and success
Reflecting on your journey in every stage of it
Ashna’s favorite beauty products

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26. Ami Desai ON Navigating Modern Motherhood, Evolving Identities, and Partner Relationships

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Watching Ami Desai's content over the years has been like having an older sister by my side. Her life advice has been so helpful to me in every stage of my life including those I’ve yet to experience. In this episode, we have a candid conversation about all things motherhood, so whether you're thinking about having kids, pregnant, just had a baby, or already on your second or third child, Ami’s perspective will absolutely give you comfort.

Ami is a lifestyle and beauty expert, influencer, and on-air personality who has worked in broadcast journalism as both a producer and host. Ami has been featured multiple times on The Today Show, had a show on Oprah Winfrey’s digital network (OWN), and built her own platform where she shares her makeup, skincare, and motherhood expertise. Throughout the episode, Ami unpacks how she maintains a career as an influencer while being present for her three children. She shares her advice for staying true to yourself, seeking comfort from your loved ones, and drowning out the noise of unhelpful opinions.

As a millennial, Ami has experience raising children before and during the digital age. We discuss the unrealistic expectations social media has put on new moms in terms of body changes and parenting styles. Ami emphasizes that new moms should feel empowered in their childbearing bodies and ignore the pressure to do things a certain way, be put together, or fit into a dress.

Join us in our honest conversation about being a millennial mom and how to balance your career passions and parenting style in alignment with your most authentic self.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

Ami’s experience with preparing for motherhood versus figuring it out on the go
Advice for finding your rhythm while facing outside opinions
Managing your different personas and finding true authenticity
How to show up as your whole self while juggling your career and building a family
Conversations to have with your partner when preparing for parenthood
Understanding that your parenthood journey is fluid and ever-evolving
The importance of granting grace to yourself as well as other parents
Balancing South Asian culture in an American upbringing
Tips for staying connected with your partner while raising children
Ami’s perspective on parenting in the digital era
Coping with body changes and self-consciousness during and after pregnancy
Ami’s favorite upcoming skincare brands and current fashion trends

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25. Diipa Khosla ON Life, Career, and Finding Balance

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0400

I'm back! And even more excited to share my conversation with global fashion influencer and entrepreneur Diipa Khosla. We dive into a range of topics that will resonate with anyone going through a career change, facing personal challenges, or trying to find a balance between the two.

Diipa has worn many hats in her life, making her the definition of a modern millennial. She's currently in a pivot era, transitioning from being primarily an online influencer to an activist and entrepreneur. Naturally, these life changes often come with feelings of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. Diipa shares some of her techniques for overcoming these feelings, which include relying on the support of your family and loved ones, emphasizing prioritization, and spending time with the things that remind us of our essence. Dealing with rejection is an experience we all face. Diipa opens up about how she manages online haters and turns rejection into a catalyst for self-improvement. She shares her approach of using rejection as a redirection, guiding her towards betterment and growth.

We also talk about how Diipa modernizes Indian traditions while honoring them in her line of Ayurveda skin and hair care, called Inde Wild. I truly believe these products were specifically designed with the modern millennial in mind because they are all-encompassing and perfect for those leading busy lives filled with travel and adventure.

Tune in to our conversation as we touch on everything in Diipa’s life, from her favorite celebrity moments to her advice on being physically and spiritually ready to take on the world.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow along @themodernmillennialpodcast on Instagram and sign up for our Newsletter.

Topics Covered:

How to recover from being overworked and manage overwhelming opportunities
Advice for dealing with self-doubt and imposter syndrome
The value of embracing tough love from your inner circle
Tips for being physically and spiritually prepared to face the world
Rejection as redirection and using it as a catalyst for growth
Ways to remain grounded while juggling multiple responsibilities
Why prioritization is a key factor in all aspects of life
Exploring the fascination with Ayurveda in the wellness industry
Maintaining a skincare routine while traveling and leading a busy lifestyle
Recognizing the human beings behind the online personas
Diipa’s experience meeting Zendaya and Gigi Hadid
Diipa’s favorite Red Carpet looks and her thoughts on emerging South Asian fashion designers

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24. How To Reframe Expectations and Create Standards For Yourself

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

This week, I’m joined by Yash Parikh (from Season 1) to discuss expectations and how to tackle them. We all struggle with this, whether they’re our own expectations of others or what others expect from us. We get real on how to shift the mindset and take the power and control into our own hands in these situations.

Yash likes to think of expectations as standards that are linked to actions, not intentions. We often get frustrated when people put us in situations where we either have to uphold our standards or abandon ourselves. We talk about why it’s so important to get really clear on your values for the different containers in your life, like work, romantic relationships, friendships, and family.

I’ve been working a lot on being okay with saying no to things in order to protect my peace, which is a lot easier said than done. I’ve been focusing on how to effectively communicate and accept that I might let people down in the process. I know going through situations that push me and feel uncomfortable are proof that I’m growing and changing, so I’m trying to embrace that and step into this new version of myself.

Tune in to hear more of my conversation with Yash on how to transform your mindset around expectations and boundaries.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How to create standards based on your values
Self-regulating your reaction to an unmet expectation
Committing to being the only person that you allow to control your experience of life
Why we think boundaries are bullshit
Recognizing that you don’t have to make other people comfortable and adhere to their expectations of you at the expense of your own happiness

Resources mentioned

Episode 2 - On Feeling Stuck and Personal Growth with Yash Parikh

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23. Kirat Randhawa ON The Importance of Stillness

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 30 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

We hear it all the time that stillness, breathwork, and meditation are amazing tools for busy millennials, but sometimes it feels impossible to stay consistent with those grounding practices. In this episode, I’m joined by New York City-based meditation instructor Kirat Randhawa to discuss how to curate a supportive lifestyle and indulge in creative experimentation around mindfulness.

According to Buddhist tradition, without the presence of stillness, we're not truly connected to life. Kirat dives into what stillness really means and shares simple ways that we can tap into a calmer state. Letting yourself sit and savor your morning coffee, really taking time to wash your hair, or noticing the sensations you feel when you get into bed in the evening are all examples of sustainable mindfulness practices.

Kirat describes how stillness is the gateway to setting boundaries, preventing burnout, and creating space for healthier habits. She talks about the myth of the 21-day habit and offers her science-backed approach to implementing new practices. Plus, as a little bonus gift for listeners, Kirat guides us through a calming box breathing exercise at the end of the episode.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How mindfulness practices can be used as instruments for individual change
The importance of setting an intention for your practice and honoring what you really need in that moment
One of the easiest ways to feel more present
Kirat’s suggestion for what to do when you’re feeling overwhelmed in the middle of your workday
The key elements of moving through the world in a mindful way

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22. ZeeMuffin ON Exploring Identity and Breaking The Norm

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 16 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Looking back on the last decade, the thing that has shifted the most in my life has been my identity. I think a lot of millennials can relate to that, especially as we navigate our careers, relationships, and create a life based on our own vision and values.

I recently sat down with Pakistani-American DJ, music marketer, and food content creator Zainab Hasnain, aka @zeemuffin, to discuss what it’s like to step into a new version of yourself and shed some of the programming that so many of us first-generation immigrants face.

We talk about our feelings around having a “multi-hyphenate” career path and the reality of monetizing your hobbies. Zee and I also dive into the pressures that come from being raised in Desi households and how we’re working to deconstruct some of that generational trauma. She recently married her Colombian-Italian husband and talks about her experience opening herself and her family to new ways of thinking, living, and celebrating.

Zee and I also tap into ways to keep your passions and hobbies alive and why it’s so important to let yourself be a beginner. Through our lived experiences and stepping out of the bounds that our cultures may have put up for us, we can get really clear on what really makes us happy. Listen in to hear our conversation on exploring and redefining who you are in your 30s.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Developing your career around your life, not your life around your career
How growing up in a Desi household and being the first-born daughter in her family shaped who Zee is
Working through the discomfort and guilt that comes when you disappoint someone you love
Embracing the freedom to choose your own path and create your own happiness

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21. The 5-Letter G Word with Psychiatrist Saumya Dave

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Because millennial women are facing a unique set of stressors, guilt can be such a pervasive force in our lives. I want to break the cycle of girls and women being disproportionately affected by guilt, and joining me to discuss this is Saumya Dave, a writer, resident psychiatrist, and co-founder of thisisforHER.

In today’s episode, Saumya and I discuss tools for understanding where your emotions stem from, how to process guilt, and ways to lift yourself out of a situation where you’re feeling guilt tripped.

Saumya breaks down the difference between valid and unfounded guilt, and explains how getting really clear on what your values are can help you determine which kind of guilt you’re sitting with. She uses what she calls an ‘empathy thermostat’ to help her client to recognize when they’re taking on other people’s emotions or experiences. Oftentimes, guilt is piggybacking off another emotion like anger, loneliness, or fear, and we don’t even know it.

There’s a certain contagious quality to guilt, but we can start to break that pattern by developing the muscle of saying no to things that are out of alignment. Saumya shares her tips for coming up with go-to responses and getting comfortable with upholding your standards. We also discuss what she does to stay grounded and reduce opportunities for guilt to creep in.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Where guilt comes from
Why doing the right thing for ourselves can invoke guilt, especially for women
Learning to sit and be okay with the discomfort of guilt
How to approach difficult conversations with people who make you feel guilty
Prompts to practice treating yourself with the same compassion that you do with loved ones

Resources mentioned

Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski

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20. All Things Hair Loss and Scalp Health with The Scalp Therapist

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

I’m joined by Bridgette Hill, aka The Scalp Therapist, to discuss all things hair and scalp health. I’ve noticed major changes in my hair since I hit my mid-20s一breakage, shedding, and flyaways have become my norm. I wanted to get Bridgette’s opinion on restorative hair care techniques, what to look out for when shopping for hair products, and how our scalp health impacts hair loss.

Bridgette is a certified trichologist and hair professional with over 20 years of experience. She’s all about healing from the inside out and provides holistic therapeutic solutions for her clients. We get into the science behind scalp and hair health, and how it’s indicative of your physical, emotional, and spiritual health. Besides amping up your pre-shampoo routine, Bridgette

believes that the solution to many of our hair concerns lie within lifestyle factors like diet and stress management.

Bridgette shares her recommended hair cleansing and drying approach for all different hair types and textures. We also touch on her tips for genetic-based hair loss and conditions like alopeciaI. Plus, I get her take on today’s top hair trends, including biotin supplements and overnight hair treatments.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

What’s considered normal versus abnormal hair loss from an expert’s perspective
Ways to limit mechanical damage relating to hair care habits and practices
Common misconceptions around shampoo ingredients
Tips to immediately change the function of your hair growth and the environment of your scalp
The optimal way to brush, comb, and style your hair

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19. Navigating Breast Cancer as a Millennial with Ana Calderone

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 06:00:00 -0400

When Ana Calderone was diagnosed with breast cancer, specifically stage 2B invasive ductal carcinoma, she was determined that her diagnosis wouldn’t define her or slow her down. Now that she’s cancer-free, she’s on a mission to spread awareness around breast health for millennial women and provide support for anyone who is facing a similar situation.

In our conversation, Ana takes us back to the day she felt a lump on her breast and found out she had cancer. She walks us through how she worked with her doctors to come up with the right treatment plan for her and breaks down the vocabulary associated with breast cancer. She also highlights some of the side-effects of the different treatments and talks about her personal experience with hair loss, fatigue, and nausea.

Ana ultimately chose to do chemotherapy, get a double mastectomy, and then do proton radiation therapy. She describes what that process was like for her and talks about how her mindset changed throughout the healing process. Ana also explains what she’s doing differently now that she’s cancer-free, including dabbling with sobriety and living a more active, holistic lifestyle.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How Ana detected there was something wrong with her breast
What went into Ana’s decision to get a double mastectomy
Techniques to reduce hair loss due to chemotherapy, including cold capping
Why having a supportive community is so important for the healing process
How Ana empowered herself and cultivated a positive mindset throughout her cancer journey

Resources mentioned

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18. Understanding the Science Behind CBD from a Neuroscientist

Arpita Mehta — Fri, 27 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

CBD has been one of the biggest wellness trends over the past couple of years, but what does it actually do? I wanted to learn more about CBD from a scientific point of view, so I invited neuroscientist Dr. Dilara Bahceci on the show to break down the fundamentals of CBD and educate us on how to be better consumers. Dr. Bahceci specializes in sharing correct information on medical cannabis, CBD, mental health, and psychedelics. On today’s episode, she explains what goes on in the mind and body when we ingest or apply CBD products, and debunks some common myths about cannabis.

Cannabis is known for its mind-altering effects, but it's actually made up of over 400 chemicals, and THC is the only chemical that is responsible for that effect. CBD doesn’t get you high, but instead helps boost your body's natural regulating system. Many people are finding it aids with anxiety, stress, and sleep management, as well as improves their general wellbeing. Scientists are also exploring the benefits of CBD for chronic pain and conditions like childhood epilepsy.

With so many different brands, products, and price points, it can feel overwhelming to figure out what to invest in. Dr. Bahceci shares her suggestions for how to navigate the market and discover brands that you trust. She also explains the best methods for consuming CBD and why some modalities are gimmicky. Listen in to learn more about the benefits and science behind CBD.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Addressing common misconceptions about cannabis products
How CBD impacts your brain
What the endocannabinoid system is
Ways to determine the quality of ingredients
Adverse effects that suggest you’re overdoing it with CBD
Why it’s so important to check with your doctor before adding CBD products into your wellness routine

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17. Real Talk: Welcoming My 30s and Some Inner Thoughts

Arpita Mehta — Fri, 20 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

There’s been a lot on my mind this past month as I approach my 30th birthday, especially about what I’m looking forward to in this new decade and what I'm ready to leave behind in my 20s. The past ten years have felt like a whirlwind of graduating college, building my career, getting married, moving to New York City, and so much more. I want to shift my focus on being more present and practicing gratitude for where I’m at right now in my life. I’m working on adapting when things don’t go to plan, creating space for people and experiences that really light me up, and learning how to trust and surrender. Join me in this solo episode as I ring in this new chapter in my life.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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16. Diving Deep into Digestion with Dr. Supriya Rao

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 18 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Everybody poops but so many of us suffer in silence when it comes to our digestive issues. I’ve been vocal about my GI journey and my crappy (literally and figuratively) start to the year, with the saga still continuing. On today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Supriya Rao, a board-certified physician in gastroenterology, obesity medicine, and lifestyle medicine. She’s dedicated to reducing the shame and stigma around what happens in the bathroom and empowering people to be proactive about their gut health.

We discuss everything from bowel movements, bloating, hemorrhoids, and chronic illness. Dr. Supriya notes that she’s seen a trend in younger adults seeking treatment for GI issues, and a lot of that comes down to stress management and our dairy-rich diets. One of the most common conditions that Dr. Supriya treats are hemorrhoids, and she shares her top tips for prevention and management, including one of my favorite household must-haves, the Squatty Potty.

When I was first experiencing my digestive issues, I was overwhelmed with the amount of information and supplements out there. Dr. Supriya gives her take on what to keep in mind when buying products and highlights the importance of checking in with your primary care physician before self-diagnosing and adding or eliminating anything from your diet. If you're someone that has suffered with digestion issues, is curious about it, or you’re somewhere in the middle, tune in to learn more about how to take care of your gut health.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

What the Bristol Stool Chart is and what’s considered normal for bowel movements
Why constipation and diarrhea happens
When to reach out to a doctor and talk about changes in your GI health
The connection between meditation, mindfulness, and gut health
How overindulging in dairy can affect your digestive tract
Simple ways to get started with taking care of your gut health

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15. How To Dress For Yourself (and Shop Smarter) with a Professional Stylist

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 11 May 2022 05:00:00 -0400

I’m chatting with Ashlyn Greer, founder of personal styling company Fashivly today because as much as I love to dress up, I hate shopping. Do you ever have that moment where your closet is packed to the max, but you still feel like you have nothing to wear? I want to really declutter my wardrobe, hone in on my personal style, and become a smarter shopper. There are so many voices in the styling space, but I wanted to speak with someone that understood ‘real girl’ style, like dressing for work or a dinner date. As much as I love Euphoria and Gen Z trends, I don’t think those outfits work for my everyday life, so I wanted to get a professional opinion about how to stay on trend while still being appropriate.

Ashlyn and I discuss what a staple piece is and how to build a capsule wardrobe that actually has clothes that you’re excited about. We get into where to splurge vs. save, why you should invest in jackets over tops, and how to become a more sustainable shopper. Plus, we touch on how to feel more confident in your clothes by dressing proportionally for your body instead of following rigid and outdated fashion rules.

Ashlyn explains her process for selling and donating clothes, and breaks down the two criteria that she judges a piece on to decide if she’s going to keep or get rid of it. We also do a rapid fire round of questions about common fashion misconceptions, summer trends, her favorite jeans, go-to brands for sustainable clothing, shopping tips, and closet must-haves.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Redefining what a staple piece is
Having an open mind about trying new styles
Simple and affordable ways to refresh your wardrobe
Updating the language around shopping for your ‘body type’
Tips for cleaning out your closet

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14. Understanding Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture with Dr. Debbie Kung

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 04 May 2022 03:00:00 -0400

I’ve been open about my struggles with my gut health, acne, and stress management, and one recommendation that I consistently get is to try Traditional Chinese Medicine, specifically acupuncture. I wanted to educate myself on what it actually is and how it works, so I invited board-certified Doctor of Chinese Medicine and a licensed acupuncturist Dr. Debbie Kung on the show to see if I should book an appointment.

Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on the principle that all parts equal the whole一there’s no way to treat one problem without addressing the entire being. Acupuncture works to unblock the Chi, or energy life force, so that it becomes more free flowing and results in feeling balanced and grounded. And for all my needle-phobic listeners out there, Dr. Kung addresses my fears and questions about the technique and assures me that it isn't too painful.

We also discuss practices like tongue reading and face mapping, and Dr. Kung shares her tips for how to get started with holistic medicine. Though the healing process can take longer than some Western methods, Eastern medicine is all about empowerment, prevention, and true self care. Join us as we talk about how to bring yourself back into your body and heal from the inside out.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

The foundations of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Examples of what an acupuncture session might look like
Acupuncture and fertility
Science-backed evidence about the effects of acupuncture
Addressing misinformation about Eastern medicine

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13. How To Foster Better Friendships with Marissa Meizz of No More Lonely Friends

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

What would you do if a TikTok about your friends going out of their way to exclude you went viral? Marissa Meizz was faced with that dilemma a year ago, and decided that instead of brushing it off, she was going to create No More Lonely Friends, a community that makes it easy to build new friendships. Since then, she’s been on a mission to help people foster genuine connections and has hosted meet-up events in 30 cities and three different countries.

As I approach this next decade of my life, it’s made me reflect on the people who I surround myself with and realize that friendships are all about quality, not quantity. Life is too short to feel insecure and unsupported by the people in your life. Marissa and I discuss what defines a good friend, the number one red flag in friendships, and why it’s so hard to let go of bonds that we’ve made in the past, even when they no longer serve us.

It can feel daunting to make friends as an adult, but Marissa is hoping to change that with No More Lonely Friends. We talk about how to deepen your connection with new people and get beyond small talk. Marissa shares her tips for how to create an environment where people can open up and feel comfortable, and explains why it’s so important to be vulnerable with people outside of your romantic partner and family.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How to be a better friend
Normalizing friendship breakups
Learning the difference between sharing and trauma dumping
Marissa’s favorite ice breaker
Breaking through surface level friendships
Marissa’s vision and plans for No More Lonely Friends

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12. Get Your Sleep Wellness In Order

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Sleep affects every single cell in our bodies, and after a bad night of sleep, I’m sure you’ve felt like every fiber of your being was moving in slow motion. Between aging and the major lifestyle changes that have come about due to the pandemic, it’s possible that your sleep rhythm has been totally out of whack.

On today’s episode, I’m talking about all things sleep hygiene with Dr. Sarah Silverman, a Stanford-trained sleep psychologist, holistic sleep wellness consultant, and insomnia expert with over a decade of experience. We discuss why our sleep cycle changes, how to tackle anxious and restless sleep, and why sleep impacts so much of your life. She shares her top science-backed tips for how to sleep better and her take on supplements like melatonin and cannabis products.

Because we often don’t give ourselves enough time during the day to process what’s going on and our feelings around it, it can be challenging to shut down the racing thoughts that come up once we get into bed. Dr. Sarah walks through a couple of journaling techniques to help work through the stressors that come up during the day so that it doesn’t hit you right when you’re trying to relax. She also dishes out her best advice for getting a better night’s sleep and what to do if you’re experiencing chronic or acute insomnia.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

What the circadian rhythm sleep cycle is
How sleep affects your metabolism, digestion, food choices, and hunger cues
A constructive worry exercise to help you sleep at night
Why you shouldn’t journal and make to-do lists in bed right before you go to sleep
The difference between chronic and acute insomnia
Supplements that Dr. Sarah recommends to help manage stress and anxiety
How a 20-minute power nap can help boost your day
The importance of setting an alarm everyday and getting your dose of morning light

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Real Talk #1: Our Obsession with Weight

Arpita Mehta — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In this solo episode, I deep dive into a recent newsletter I sent where I shared my thoughts around body image and society’s obsession with weight loss. I recently saw this post from Camilla Cabello where she opened up about struggling with her body image and the constant commentary about her weight. When I read it, I felt like she was speaking directly to me. For the past decade, I feel like I’ve been in this vicious dieting cycle, and it wasn’t until I was faced with digestive health issues earlier this year that I’ve had to really confront my relationship with food and my body. I subscribed to the idea that once I reached my goal weight, everything would fall into place and I would finally be happy.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

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10. Baking, Butter, and Basics with Hetal Vasavada of Milk & Cardamom

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Hetal Vasavada is a baker and cookbook author behind @milkandcardamom. I’ve been following her drool-worthy account forever and she was such an inspiration to me when I got into baking over the pandemic. So, when I was thinking about who I could reach out to to answer my questions about how to become a better home baker, Hetal was the first person who came to mind.

Hetal’s book Milk & Cardamom was named one of the top cookbooks of 2019 by The Washington Post and San Francisco Chronicle. Her recipes have also been featured in major food publications like The New York Times, Food and Wine, and Bon Appetit. Despite seeing major commercial success as a pastry chef, she keeps home bakers at the forefront of her recipes and product recommendations. We chat about measuring techniques, her kitchen must-haves, and tips for vegan baking.

Hetal touches on common mistakes that she sees home bakers making and offers up simple solutions for taking your baking to the next level (hint: parchment paper and aluminum foil aren’t interchangeable). We also discuss how she’s carving her own path as a content creator and traditional pastry chef, and all the projects that she’s currently working on.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Baking as a practice in staying focused and present
Why you need to buy a kitchen scale ASAP
What we like to bake vs. buy
Using aquafaba in eggless desserts
Hetal’s favorite semi-homemade dessert
How Hetal balances social media, recipe writing, and her bakery

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09: On Following Your Career Dreams and Facing Your Fears with Kristina Rodulfo

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 05:00:00 -0400

From the outside, Kristina Rodulfo had it all: Beauty Director at Women's Health Magazine, appearances on The Today Show, and features in top beauty publications. But, she felt like she was on autopilot and not reaching her true creative potential. She knew how to create and curate content for other brands, but was craving building something that was totally from her perspective.

Instead of just dreaming about it, she slowly made moves to build up her social media presence and become a full-time beauty content creator. Thanks to therapy and a book called Design Your Life, Kristina was able to tap into her calling and really understand what she wanted to do with her career. She utilized her professional and social network to jumpstart her new endeavor and is now working with top beauty brands like Tatcha, L'Oreal, IT Cosmetics, and more

In today’s episode, we discuss how she made this major career move, staying confident and authentic online, and what success means to her now. She shares how she’s learned to let go of other people’s judgments and detach her worth from social media metrics. Definitely easier said than done, but she also recommends some tools for staying sane in the social media space. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to pursue your dreams, listen in and learn more about Kristina’s inspiring story.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How Kristina knew she needed to make a career change
The first steps that she took to launch her new career
Why the idea that ‘if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life’ is BS
Redefining what success looks like beyond your paycheck

Kristina’s Things Found

Ultra Violette SPF Skincare

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08. Identifying Emotional Burnout, Boundary Setting, and Feeling Guilty

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 30 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

The concept of burnout is usually linked with career fatigue, but what if you’re feeling emotionally drained in other aspects of your life, like your relationships or day-to-day responsibilities? Emotional burnout is probably something that you’ve experienced but didn’t have the words to describe it. It can feel like chronic stress and anxiety that slowly builds up over time. In today’s episode, I’m joined by therapist, mental health educator, and advocate Divya Robin to discuss what emotional burnout is and how to go about treating and preventing it.

Emotional burnout can look like a lack of motivation or purpose, difficulty concentrating, fixating on negativity, or feeling like your emotions and behaviors are out of control. Because we’re so ingrained in this hustle and urgency culture, there can be a lot of pressure to constantly be performing. Sure, that’s a good quality to have when you’re trying to set goals and grow, but it’s important to set limits and practice self-care.

Divya is all about unlearning toxic productivity and protecting your energy. She shares her tips for gentle ways to set boundaries and talks about the reality of how difficult it can be to do that. We discuss simple ways to add more joy to your day and how to break the cycle of emotional burnout.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How emotional burnout develops
Triggers to recognize when you’re dealing with emotional burnout
Being intentional about understanding other people's emotional reactions
Recognizing when a person or situation no longer serves you
Overcoming the reflex to immediately respond
Working on not jumping to conclusions
Setting boundaries with social obligations

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07. What You Need To Know About Hair Color From A Professional Colorist

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Growing up, I never did anything to my hair. I always had simple, black hair that fell the same way, but right around my 25th birthday, something came over for me and I needed a change. I didn’t do a ton of research and ended up with overly bleached and damaged hair, but luckily today’s guest, Liz Rhodes, saved my hair and completely changed my perspective on hair coloring.

Liz is a senior colorist at Spoke & Weal in New York City, and she has a wealth of knowledge and wisdom when it comes to hair coloring. She addresses some common misconceptions about hair coloring and shares her top tips for mitigating all types of hair damage. We discuss her approach to formulating the right hair color for her clients and some of the biggest trends in hair coloring from the past few years.

She shares what to look out for when deciding on a hair colorist and what to bring with you to your consultation. We also discuss simple ways to conceal grays, her best low-maintenance hair care tips, and her love-hate relationship with purple shampoos.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Chemical versus mechanical hair damage
The importance of reference photos for your hair colorist or stylist
The difference between balayage, ombre, highlights, and lowlights
Hair colorist red flags
Liz’s top tips for hair color protection and prevention
Making your hair coloring routine work for you

Liz’s Things Found

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06. Demystifying Basic Astrology

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

If you would’ve told me two years ago that I would get an in-depth astrology reading and learn more about the cosmic universe, I would’ve never believed you. At the end of last year, I was craving some clarity and guidance before heading into 2022 and spontaneously reached out to today’s guest, Sophie Won to do an astrology reading which turned out to be an awesome, eye-opening experience. Sophie is an astrologer and Co-Founder and CEO of the app Reha, a love and relationship app based on Vedic Astrology.

Sophie shares her wisdom with me and answers questions that I have about what ‘Mercury retrograde’ and ‘Saturn return’ actually mean. We discuss why they have bad reputations, even though they’re meant to redirect and protect you. Sophie breaks down why Saturn return is particularly helpful for millennials to be aware of and how we can utilize that energy to align with the right path.

We also talk about how understanding your astrological chart can help you maximize your potential. Sophie’s approach to astrology isn’t about providing general advice or predicting the future, but rather giving her clients foresight into their cosmic energy and space to make their own decisions accordingly. Whether you’re an astrology expert or star sign skeptic, listen in to hear more about what astrology is really about and how it can be a helpful guide for millennials.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How astrology works
Ways that Mercury in retrograde and Saturn return impact millennials
What inspired Sophie to become an astrologer and launch her app
The connection between astrology and free will
How to utilize your sun, moon, and rising signs

Sophie’s Things Found

Spirit Hacking by Shaman Durek

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05. What (Really) Is Self Love with Nitika Chopra

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

When you think of self love, what’s the image that comes to mind? Social media will have you believe that it’s sitting in meditation surrounded by crystals or splurging on a massage, but the reality of self love is so much deeper than that.

Today, I’m talking about all things self love with chronic illness advocate, digital creator and the founder of Chronicon, Nitika Chopra. Nitika has battled with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for most of her life, and she’s dedicated to helping other people living with chronic illnesses elevate their lives. As she works to heal the physical, spiritual and mental suffering that her diagnosis entails, she continues to develop a deep discipline of self love.

Nitika and I connect on the struggles that we’ve experienced to express our feelings and include our families in our exploration around healing. Part of her inspiration to start Chronicon was to create a community where people living with chronic illnesses had the space to connect and live without judgment. Through the online platform, members can attend weekly events and interact with daily content that highlights the real and challenging work around self love.

Listen to today’s episode to learn more about how Nitika is changing the conversation around chronic illness and self love.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

What chronic illness is
The surface level representation of self love on social media
Creating a life that supports the truth that you are living
Viewing self love through the lens of partnership
How growing up as an Indian-American has affected her self love journey
Nitika’s vision for the Chronicon community

Nitika’s Things Found:

Vanity Planet Facial Steamer

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04. Yin and Yang of Social Media with Abbey Bonadies

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:15:00 -0400

Like most millennials, my relationship with social media is complicated. I’m finally in a place where I can embrace it and be authentic, but I still have boundaries. I admire content creators like Tinx, and today’s guest, Abbey Bonadies, who live their lives online in an unapologetic way.

Abbey is a content creator, digital marketer, and TikTok expert who’s known for her punny humor and relatable stories. She’s intentional about showing up in real life and online with the same positive and uplifting energy.

In this episode, we take the filter off social media and get real about what life is like online. We discuss staying candid, building confidence, and her top tips for ignoring internet trolls. She also shares where she draws the line for deciding what’s public or private and her love for using social media as a digital photo album to look back on.

Listen to today’s episode to hear more about Abbey’s refreshing and real approach to social media.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Why so many millennials are drawn to sharing on social media
Aligning your online persona with who you are in real life
How to decide what to share and what to keep private
The ups and downs of my relationship with social media
What Abbey loves about TikTok
Not interpreting people’s opinions as personal attacks

Abbey’s ThingsFound recommendations

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03. Acne Talk with Dr. Naana Boakye

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:10:00 -0400

Today, I’m joined by board-certified dermatologist, founder of Bergen Dermatology and co-founder of Karité skincare, Dr. Naana Boakye. I’ve been dealing with acne for more than half of my life and Dr. Boakye was the first dermatologist I went to as a teenager. Like most people who struggle with acne, my progress has been non-linear, but with Dr. Boakye’s guidance, I’ve been able to find which products, treatments, and lifestyle choices work best for me.

In our conversation, we cover everything from my skincare journey, debunking myths about Accutane and Spironolactone, the mental impact of dealing with acne, and her top acne recommendations. She shares the best way to test out new products and how to decipher between good ingredients and good marketing. We also get real about before-and-after skincare photos on social media, which is something that’s helped me change my mindset around my own results.

Tune in to learn more about Dr. Boakye’s unique approach to treating acne and what you can start doing today to take better care of your skin.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

My acne journey
The marriage of dermatology and holistic skincare
Reducing the stigma and fear around acne medication
The importance of sunscreen, especially for melanated skincare
Three products that you should always have in your regimen
The best way to shop for products
How to approach treating acne scarring

Get in touch with Dr. Naana Boayke

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02. On Feeling Stuck and Personal Growth with Yash Parikh

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:05:00 -0400

Today, I’m joined by life strategist, coach and co-founder of Me Versus Me, Yash Parikh. Yash has been instrumental in my ongoing personal development journey. After struggling with self doubt and reading countless self help books to overcome it, I finally reached out to Yash and knew that his guidance was the missing piece that I needed to reach my goals.

Yash has a different approach to coaching. He doesn’t believe in simple guides or generic advice. Instead, he focuses on bespoke solutions for each of his clients. In today’s episode, we discuss how to overcome the victim mentality, tune out external pressures and take back control of your life. Yash also shares the first steps that people should take if they’re feeling unfulfilled by their career, relationship, body or general mindset.

It’s so important to zoom out of your life and take a look through a third person perspective. It’s not easy work, but I can tell you from experience that it’s worth it. Listen in to hear more of Yash’s refreshing and real approach to personal growth.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

How to take accountability for your life
Yash’s CEO analogy for mind, body, soul alignment
Why complacency is a bad thing
What makes Me Versus Me different from other coaching programs
The most important thing that you can do for your own mind
Why comfort and growth can’t co-exist
How to actually consume self help or personal development books

Resources mentioned in this episode

Outwitting the Devil by Napoleon Hill

Get in touch with Yash

*Me Versus Me is running a coaching promotion. This includes a single day full immersion 1:1 mastermind / coaching deep dive (6-8 hours) followed by (2) 1 hour calls the following week and (1) 1 hour call the week after that, along with other added bonuses. Reach out to Yash above to learn more.

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01. The First of Many with Arpita Mehta

Arpita Mehta — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the first episode of The Modern Millennial! I’m Arpita Mehta, an Indian-American millennial living and working in New York City who’s trying to find answers to the questions we’re all asking. On today’s episode, I’m sharing some background on who I am and what you can expect to hear on The Modern Millennial.

I never thought that I’d be broadcasting my life (and my AIM screen names) to the world, but if these last two years have taught me anything, it’s that I crave authenticity and vulnerability. I finally feel like I’m in a place where I’m free to be real and share my journey, and I’m excited to have conversations with people who are willing to do the same.

The Modern Millennial covers themes of wellness, health, careers, mental health, nutrition, skincare, and more. I want this to be a corner of the internet that’s fun and honest, and a place to make sense of all the noise out there in the world. Listen to today’s episode to hear more about my non-traditional career path, what inspired me to launch The Modern Millennial and my vision for this community.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

Quick hit facts about me
An overview of my career history
Growing up in Mumbai and the US
How I’ve grown over the past two years in the midst of a global pandemic
My plans for the direction of this podcast

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