Global Desi Women with Arti Solanki

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Episode Description

What happens when the life you planned no longer feels like your own?

In this conversation, Arti speaks with Abhi about navigating independence, immigration, career uncertainty, and the pressure to make every choice look successful from the outside. Abhi shares how moving from India to the United States reshaped her definition of success, how she worked through more than a thousand job rejections, and why learning to focus on her core strengths changed her career path.

They also explore writing as a tool for self-reflection, the value and limits of using AI during difficult seasons, building genuine connections through networking, and the importance of asking for help when you need it.

A candid, encouraging conversation for anyone finding their way through a nonlinear path.

In this episode:

• Redefining success at different stages of life
• Navigating family expectations, guilt, and independence
• The emotional reality behind job rejection and career uncertainty
• Finding clarity in transferable skills rather than job titles
• Writing, journaling, and reflection as tools for growth
• Using AI thoughtfully without replacing human or professional support
• Building confidence through connection and networking
• A reminder for anyone who feels behind in life

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Global DAC Women Podcast
01:49 Who is Abhi beyond the résumé?
03:56 Moving to the U.S. and not feeling like she belonged
04:58 How her definition of success changed
07:39 Family expectations, guilt, and choosing an independent path
10:28 The messy middle: culture shock, fear, and uncertainty
12:06 Job rejections, work visas, and separating worth from outcomes
14:50 Changing direction by focusing on core strengths
16:33 Working across startups, nonprofits, and higher education
18:05 How writing became part of Abhi’s journey
20:49 Using AI for reflection during a difficult season
23:34 Setting healthy boundaries with AI and building human connection
25:50 Sharing her story publicly and discussing AI responsibly
29:35 Advice for anyone feeling alone or behind
31:24 Closing thoughts and thank you

Arti Solanki

https://artisolanki.com/landing/book-a-free-call

https://m.mtrbio.com/theartisolanki

Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/globaldesiwomen/

https://youtube.com/@globaldesiwomen

Hindu Rituals Book - https://amzn.to/3QtHxvq 

Hindu Coloring Book: Coloring Book For Adults - https://amzn.to/46fIKzt

Unlock Your Full Potential - https://amzn.to/3VPIBQj

Amazon Store Link - https://www.amazon.com/shop/theartisolanki

Abhigna Yerabati

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yabhigna

Sponsorship / Guest Forms - https://globaldesiwomen.com/contact-me/

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Global Desi Women

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In this episode, we explore the journey of MissFit Writes, a Pakistani author based in Dubai, who shares her story of resilience, identity, and challenging cultural norms through her book 'I Did Not Survive, I Refused to Stop.' We discuss themes of faith, culture, gender roles, and the importance of self-discovery for women in Desi communities.

 key  topics

The significance of the book's title 'I Did Not Survive, I Refused to Stop'
The questioning of inherited cultural and religious norms
The impact of societal expectations on women in Desi communities
The evolution of beauty standards influenced by media and consumerism
The importance of embracing individual uniqueness and authenticity
The role of faith and culture in shaping women's identities
The generational shift in women's empowerment and self-expression
The challenges of separating religion from cultural practices
The importance of allowing children to make their own choices
The power of storytelling to inspire change and self-acceptance

 sound bites

"I just refuse to stop, even on difficult days."
"I am a proud misfit because the mold was not for me."
"Beauty is temporary, but authenticity lasts."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Miss Fit and the Book's Theme
02:11 The Meaning Behind 'I Did Not Survive, I Refused to Stop'
04:00 The Journey of Questioning Cultural and Religious Norms
07:22 The Concept of Being an Average but Extraordinary Desi Muslim Girl
08:53 Breaking the Mold: Rejecting the 'Good Woman' Stereotype
11:08 Faith, Culture, and the Roots of Patriarchy
13:18 The Empowerment of Women in Islam and Cultural Misinterpretations
15:49 The Power of Societal Expectations and Their Short-Lived Impact
18:54 Evolving Beauty Standards and Media Influence
21:38 Embracing Uniqueness and Authenticity in Appearance
24:20 The Impact of Writing and Publishing on Personal and Community Change
27:56 Encouragement for Women to Choose Themselves and Their Path
30:04 The Role of Generational Change in Breaking Cycles
32:44 Where to Find Miss Fit's Book and Connect

Arti Solanki

https://artisolanki.com/landing/book-a-free-call

https://m.mtrbio.com/theartisolanki

Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/globaldesiwomen/

https://youtube.com/@globaldesiwomen

Hindu Rituals Book - https://amzn.to/3QtHxvq 

Hindu Coloring Book: Coloring Book For Adults - https://amzn.to/46fIKzt

Unlock Your Full Potential - https://amzn.to/4epBCUp

Amazon Store Link - https://www.amazon.com/shop/theartisolanki

Sponsorship / Guest Forms - https://globaldesiwomen.com/contact-me/

MissFit Writes
Writer  |  Observer | Unapologetic | Writing the Unwritten 

Author of: I Did Not Survive. I Just Refused To Stop.
The Extraordinarily Abnormal Life of an Average Desi Muslim Girl

Website  | Goodreads 

Available worldwide in ebook & paperback
◎ Follow: @missfit.writes

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Global Desi Women

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What happens when life changes and you realize you’re no longer the same woman you used to be?

In this episode of the Global Desi Women Podcast, host Arti Solanki sits down with Shruti Seth for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about identity, reinvention, personal growth, and learning to embrace the different versions of ourselves throughout life.

Shruti shares her perspective on navigating change, challenging expectations, finding your own voice, and creating an identity that goes beyond the roles women are often expected to play.

We talk about the experiences that shape us, the courage it takes to evolve, and why reinvention doesn’t always mean starting over—it can simply mean becoming more of who you truly are.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Who am I now?”, this conversation is for you.

🎙️ Hosted by Arti Solanki
Business Coach | Entrepreneur | Real Estate Broker | Author

https://artisolanki.com/landing/book-a-free-call

https://m.mtrbio.com/theartisolanki

Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/globaldesiwomen/

https://youtube.com/@globaldesiwomen

Hindu Rituals Book - https://amzn.to/3QtHxvq 

Hindu Coloring Book: Coloring Book For Adults - https://amzn.to/46fIKzt

Unlock your full Potential - https://amzn.to/46Zqxp6

🌎 Global Desi Women Podcast brings together inspiring women from around the world for meaningful conversations about life, careers, culture, relationships, health, identity, entrepreneurship, and the experiences that connect women across borders.

✨ If this conversation resonates with you, please LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE & SUBSCRIBE to support Global Desi Women and help us bring more meaningful conversations to women around the world.

💬 Question for you:
Have you ever reached a point in your life where you felt you needed to rediscover who you were? Tell us in the comments.

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Global Desi Women

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Join host Arti Solanki as she sits down with obesity medicine specialist Dr. Sejal Desai for an insightful conversation about navigating midlife health, hormones, and metabolism with confidence.

Why does it suddenly feel like your body has changed overnight in midlife? If your usual diet and exercise routine no longer seems to work, you're not imagining it—and it's not a lack of willpower.

In this episode, obesity medicine specialist Dr. Sejal Desai breaks down the science behind perimenopause and menopause, explaining how hormonal changes affect metabolism, weight, hunger, energy, and overall health. She shares why so many women feel frustrated during this stage of life and, more importantly, what they can do to take back control.

Together, we discuss practical strategies for supporting your body through midlife, including the importance of protein, strength training, mental health, and sustainable lifestyle habits. Dr. Desai also challenges common myths about aging, showing that weight gain, osteoporosis, and declining health are not simply inevitable parts of getting older.

As a South Asian physician, Dr. Desai also highlights the unique health risks women in the South Asian community face, including diabetes and heart disease, and explains why understanding your family history and advocating for your health are so important.

If you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply want to feel stronger and healthier as you age, this conversation is filled with evidence-based advice, reassurance, and actionable tips to help you prioritize your health—without guilt.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why hormones—not a lack of discipline—often drive midlife weight gain
• How metabolism changes during perimenopause and menopause
• The role of protein, fiber, and strength training in healthy aging
• Why mental health deserves as much attention as physical health
• Common myths about aging and menopause that deserve to be challenged
• How South Asian women can reduce their risk of chronic diseases through proactive care.

This episode is a reminder that midlife isn't the beginning of decline—it's an opportunity to better understand your body and invest in your long-term health.

Dr. Sejal Desai

Instagram - @tulamedicalweightloss

Facebook - Tula Medical Weight Loss & Wellness

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sejal-desai-md-dabom-4b5597125/

Email - drdesai@tulawlw.com

Arti Solanki

https://artisolanki.com/landing/book-a-free-call

https://m.mtrbio.com/theartisolanki

Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/globaldesiwomen/

https://youtube.com/@globaldesiwomen

Hindu Rituals Book - https://amzn.to/3QtHxvq 

Hindu Coloring Book: Coloring Book For Adults - https://amzn.to/46fIKzt

Amazon Store Link - https://www.amazon.com/shop/theartisolanki

Sponsorship / Guest Forms - https://globaldesiwomen.com/contact-me/

Support the show

Global Desi Women

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Global Desi Women Podcast, host Arti Solanki—Business Coach, Real Estate Broker, Entrepreneur, Author, and Founder of Global Desi Women Podcast sits down with Harita Gandhi for an important conversation about mental health awareness in the South Asian community.

Harita courageously shares her personal journey and her family's experiences with depression, anxiety, and suicide attempts, offering an honest and deeply moving perspective on the realities of mental health struggles. Together, we discuss the stigma surrounding mental health, the importance of recognizing warning signs, and why checking in on our loved ones can make a life-changing difference.

This episode serves as a reminder that mental health affects individuals, families, and entire communities, and that seeking help is a sign of strength. Through compassion, understanding, and open conversations, we can help break the silence and support those who may be struggling.

Whether you are navigating your own mental health journey or supporting someone you care about, this episode offers hope, awareness, and practical insights for fostering emotional well-being.

🎙️ Hosted by Arti Solanki – Business Coach, Real Estate Broker, Entrepreneur, Author, and Founder of Global Desi Women Podcast.

https://artisolanki.com/landing/book-a-free-call

https://m.mtrbio.com/theartisolanki

Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/globaldesiwomen/

https://youtube.com/@globaldesiwomen

Hindu Rituals Book - https://amzn.to/3QtHxvq 

Hindu Coloring Book: Coloring Book For Adults - https://amzn.to/46fIKzt

Amazon Store Link - https://www.amazon.com/shop/theartisolanki

Support the show

Global Desi Women