Payal just stepped into Surarquía’s sun-lit workshop near the Sagrada Familia and straight into the story of two South-American dreamers who turned a Barcelona flat into a leather lab. Alejandro (Venezuela) and Felipe (Colombia) swapped architecture sketches for pattern-making, taught themselves to sew, and after kitchen-table prototypes, opened this atelier where every bag is cut, skived, and stitched by their own hands . In 2023 they finally moved the machines out of the apartment and into a purpose-built space, but the process is still gloriously slow and local In today’s episode, Payal gets the founders’-eye tour: the vintage Adler stitcher, the splitter that hums like an old Vespa, and the stopwatch that shows why a single Surarquía piece takes an entire workday to earn its seams. Episode available on all podcast streaming platform and on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Blanca Rodríguez (@thewoundedhealer) is a bilingual storyteller who turns untreated childhood trauma into teachable hope. On stage she champions the “happy-chemistry” formula she calls D.O.S.E.- Dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, endorphins and shows how music, laughter and dance spark each one for real body-mind repair. In this Melting Pot episode Blanca unpacks:• why a two-minute shoulder release on your dog can calm your own nervous system• her roadmap from shattered childhood to global speaker, massage therapist and ocean-volunteer Ready for a dose of movement-powered healing? 🎧 Tune in to your favourite streaming platform and dance your way to dopamine. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mid-divorce, Karen Rudolf rang her paralegal to vent. “Every complaint is cha-ching, and a judge will soon decide your kids’ future.” That blunt response snapped her Mama Bear wide awake. Instead of drowning in rage and legal fees, Karen plunged into communication bootcamps so she could speak for herself and for her children, inside the courtroom and beyond. Those hard-earned skills became her Stop-Change-Shift clarity framework, a sassy-classy-bad-assy method that helps you pause, breathe, ask sharper questions, and steer your own story. Ready to try it? The full journey is live on Melting Pot. Listen now on your favourite streaming platform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From Chicago to Hollywood sets and the heart of historic Greenwood Avenue, John Wayne S III’s path was anything but predictable. Once a pre-med student, a chance phone call landed him on a film set and he never looked back. Over a career spanning three decades, John has directed music videos for Grammy-winning artists, produced award-winning films like “Red All Over” and “The Tuskegee Airmen Project,” and founded Londyn Town Pictures, inspired by his daughter. But what sets his work apart isn’t just the credits, it’s his unwavering commitment to telling stories that push for change. Whether he’s exploring gun violence, mental health, or lost chapters of Black history, John’s films are rooted in truth, compassion, and the belief that cinema should start hard conversations. Dive into a conversation about creative detours, building legacy, and why the most powerful stories come from lived experience. Full episode now streaming on Podcast Now Boarding on all your favourite platforms (Spotify, Apple, YouTube) or wherever you listen to podcasts #filmmaking #blackhistory ##chicago #filmmakingchicago #race #mentalhealth #grammywinning #awardwinning #podcastmeltingpot #podcast #openconversations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if you didn’t have to choose just one life? Adam LaSalle never fit in a box and he doesn’t want you to, either. From teaching English and math, to leading a music program, to acting on NBC’s Chicago Fire and performing off-Broadway, Adam has built a career by refusing to follow the “one path” rule. In this episode, Adam reveals: - Why being a multi-hyphenate actor, musician, coach, writer is powerful. - The moment he realized he could rewrite his own story (and what it took to do it) - The lessons he carried from the classroom to the stage and why every audience just wants to feel seen. - His journey is proof that reinvention is essential. If you’re ready to break out of autopilot and claim your next act, this conversation is your permission slip. Listen now and get inspired by a story that doesn’t believe in limits. Episode available on Spotify, Apple podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Also available on YouTube #MeltingPotPodcast #Reinvention #MultiHyphenate #BreakTheRules #Inspiration #LifeStories #AdamLaSalle Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
“I flatlined. I lost my husband. I lost years. But I never lost myself.” -Cyndee DhalaiCyndee has been called a medical enigma. Surviving multiple near-death experiences, living 11 years in a wheelchair, and allergic to nearly every drug. But that’s not the story she chooses to tell.Instead, she tells us what it means to begin again. To grieve without drowning. To listen when the body breaks and answer back with spirit.A poet, educator, and the author of Grief is the Price You Pay for Love, Cyndee joins us for an unforgettable conversation about presence, purpose, and the long, slow climb back to yourself.More Than Flesh, streaming now on all Melting Pot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
"You’re not too old. You’re just telling yourself that.”After 34 years working with the blind, David Petrovay walked away- burnt out, but not done.Today, he helps people reframe their stories, identify their strengths, and step into careers that actually feel meaningful.David’s not just a coach. He’s a former educator, a narrative builder, and someone who’s walked the hard road of reinvention.In this episode of Melting Pot, we talk about:– Listening to the real story you’re telling yourself– Burnout, belief, and bold transitions– What makes a career “worthwhile”– And why it’s never too late to rewrite your next chapterEpisode streaming on Spotify, Apple podcast, YouTube or wherever you may listen to podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if your ‘positivity’ is actually hiding self-loathing?When Suzan Peltekian walked away from a thriving real estate career, it wasn’t just a professional pivot, it was a radical act of self-trust.In this episode, Suzan reveals: -The silent grip of toxic positivity-The one decision that rewired her life-Her Miracle Morning rituals that turn intention into action-Why your subconscious mind is running the show (and how to change the script)This one’s for anyone feeling stuck in a life that looks good on paper but feels like a lie.🎧 Episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts.#MeltingPotPodcast #SuzanPeltekian #MindsetCoach #MorningRituals #ToxicPositivity #HealingJourney #SelfWorth #LifeByDesign #SubconsciousWork #InnerWork #WellnessWisdom Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From tossing lo hei with Christabel to pickling tea leaves with Thet, this episode takes you on a journey across kitchens, wet markets, hawker stalls, and family dining tables—through the voices of the women who live in this city’s diversity every day.- A South African barbecue in the tropics.- A Singaporean-Indians go-to hawker stalls.- Banana stems and tea leaf salad in Peninsula Plaza.- Cheese, dim sum, and food rituals that span generations.🎙️ Listen to “Singapore’s Secret Ingredient? Women Who Keep Its Food Culture Alive” now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.Special guests- Christabel Lim, Cindy De Oude, Sofiah Schuetzenberger, Suzanna Rueegger Koechli, Thet MandelThis isn’t just about food, it’s about memory, identity, and the flavours that keep us rooted.Episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you may listen to podcasts#MeltingPotPodcast #NewEpisode #SingaporeFood #CulturalStories #WomenInFood #ExpatsInSingapore #SingaporeCulture #FoodIsMemory #GlobalVoices #HomeThroughFood #StorytellingThroughFood Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What do dinosaurs, planets, and squats have in common? For Raj Khedun, they were the starting points of a lifelong search for deeper meaning.In episode 9 of our ongoing season 19, we sit down with the dynamic founder of Keep Fit Kingdom, who’s on a mission to help a billion people live healthily to 100. A seasoned relationship coach, yogi, author, and wellness entrepreneur, Raj shares how his childhood curiosity evolved into the 3:3 Metaverse Breathing Method- a simple, powerful technique that’s helping people overcome anxiety and insomnia in under 3 minutes.We talk about:- How early questions about evolution and the cosmos sparked a quest for purpose- Why he believes wellness should replace pharma as the frontline of healing- What schools should be teaching about human potential- The 5 life areas every person needs to balance- And why squats might just be the secret to happinessIf you’re someone who’s constantly questioning, seeking alignment, or trying to tap into more of yourself- this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air.🎧 Listen now and find a deeper way of thinking (and breathing). Episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts.#RajKhedun #MeltingPotPodcast #KeepFitKingdom #7Minutes2Bliss #BreathworkHealing #HumanPotential #WellnessJourney #AnxietyRelief #InsomniaSupport #CuriousMinds #TransformationalCoach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
After walking away from a high-powered legal career and a life that wasn’t truly hers, Sophia Elan (aka Debra Buhring) found healing, purpose, and a voice. In this powerful conversation, she shares how she transformed years of trauma into a life of authenticity. Through travel, writing, and heart- centered living.Tune in to hear how Sophia broke free from toxic patterns and built a life aligned with who she really is.#SophiaElan #MeltingPotPodcast #TraumaToTransformation #HeartCenteredLiving #WomenWhoRewrite #HealingThroughTravel #EmotionalResilience #LiveAuthentically #BreakingFreeEpisode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, You Tube or wherever you listen to podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At 60, Barry Finlay climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, and it changed everything. What started as a personal challenge became a bestselling book, a decade of philanthropy, and an unexpected award from the Queen. In this episode, Barry shares the real story behind the mountain, the writing journey that followed, and why it’s never too late to start over.🎧 Hit play for a story of reinvention, resilience, and quiet courage.Episode available on all podcast streaming platforms, on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts.#AuthorLife #SecondActSuccess #ResilienceStories #RealLifeInspiration #AdventureToAuthor #BarryFinlayEpisode #TheKilimanjaroChapter #JustKeepClimbing #StoriesFromTheSummit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if the food you eat could help you feel calmer, more grounded, and less stressed?When Llance Kezner and his wife, Lori, started experimenting in their kitchen, they had no idea their creations would become award-winning products found in thousands of stores. But behind Keep Life Tasty is a simple mission—to make food that brings comfort, both physically and emotionally.From their first-ever garlic condiment (a happy accident) to Millie’s Sipping Broth, a soothing, savory tea bag that helps curb cravings and ease stress, their journey has been anything but conventional.In this episode, Llance shares:✨ Turning a tough moment into a thriving family business✨ The magic of food as a tool for emotional well-being✨ The real ups and downs of running a business with your partnerIt’s a story of resilience, creativity, and heart.🎧 Tune in now! #KeepLifeTasty #StressRelief #MeltingPotPodcastEpisode available on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In 1979, Chris Donaldson set out from Belfast to ride his Moto Guzzi Le Mans to Australia. He never made it. Instead, he crossed the Middle East, rode through the Sahara, hitched a yacht ride, and ended up in Argentina.44 years later, he picked up where he left off—riding the same bike across the world. But this time, the obstacles were bigger: age, political unrest, and a Parkinson’s diagnosis.Beyond adventure, Chris has spent 40 years in business across retail, property, health, and IT. He’s also a best-selling author and a fighter, reclaiming his businesses after banks placed them in receivership.In this episode, Chris shares:- The extreme highs and lows of his two-year journey- How travel shaped his business mindset- His legal battle to reclaim his company- Why he refuses to let age or illness slow him down📢 Do not miss this inspiring story of grit and resilience! #GoingtheWrongWay #Parkinsons #AdventureAroundtheWorld #BikingAdventure #ChrisDonaldson #MeltingPotPodcastEpisode available on all podcast streaming platforms and on You Tube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What if obstacles were actually guideposts?Author, screenwriter, and creator of Life is a Trip Reincarnation Stories, Brownell Landrum shares her journey of embracing the unknown.From a sudden decision to leave behind a settled life to an unexpected encounter in Tunisia, she reveals how unseen forces shape our paths.In this episode, Brownell talks about reincarnation, the voices that guide her writing, and the fine line between fiction and truth. She believes stories aren’t just entertainment—they hold deeper meaning, revealing the connections we often overlook.The universe is always at work. The key is learning to listen.You can reach Brownell on http://brownelllandrum.com/Don't miss this engaging conversation. Episode is available on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this fascinating episode of Melting Pot, we sit down with Csongor Daniel, a master of bioenergy healing with over 30 years of experience in harnessing the power of energy to promote healing and well-being. Originally from Hungary and now based in the United States, Csongor shares his extraordinary journey—from his engineering background to discovering the unseen forces of energy that shape our lives.Csongor discusses his unique approach to bioenergy healing, explaining how energy imbalances can lead to illness, and how healing involves restoring the body’s natural flow. He also delves into long-distance healing, quantum physics, and the connection between our thoughts and our physical health. With a mission to empower individuals to heal themselves, Csongor has helped thousands tap into their own energy to achieve balance and vitality.Tune in to hear about Csongor’s method of teaching people to harness their own healing ability, and learn how you can improve your own energy flow, health, and well-being.Episode available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this inspiring episode of Melting Pot, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Nadia Sethi, a former hospitality professional turned healer and coach. With over two decades of experience serving humanity in the corporate world, Nadia found her true calling during a life-changing transition catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Nadia shares her powerful shift from the fast-paced hospitality industry to embracing holistic healing practices that focus on empowering individuals to heal on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual levels.Join Nadia as she discusses the importance of unlearning old patterns, embracing self-love, and understanding the layers of human existence. She also explores the future of holistic coaching, spiritual empowerment, and how integrating these practices can lead to a more fulfilling life.Tune in for an enlightening conversation on how self-awareness, meditation, and a holistic approach can help you find balance and navigate personal challenges.Episodes available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In our final episode of our series Echoes of Impact we meet Matthew Carauddo—aka "Novastar"—a versatile creator with 30+ years in acting, directing, and staged combat. Mathew is a licensed fencing instructor, he has trained hundreds in the California Bay Area. Matthew Carauddo, is the visionary behind "Diamond Dragons," bringing the story to life as its creator, author, designer, and voice-over artist. With over 30 years in acting, directing, and staged combat, he has choreographed iconic plays like "Romeo & Juliet" and "Peter Pan," alongside dazzling Star Wars-inspired L.E.D. saber combat performances. A pioneer in sound font design for custom saber props, Matthew has left a lasting mark on the saber community, blending creativity and combat like no other. You can reach Mathew on https://diamond-dragons.com/Dive into his inspiring journey with host Payal Nayar, streaming now on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and YouTube or wherever you may listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 6 of our series Echoes of Impact, we meet Henry Woodman, a seasoned professional in film production and travel with an MBA from the University of Arizona and Nova Southeastern University. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, he co-founded WoodMark Productions in 1984, blending his passions. Henry’s career led him to Santiago, Chile, where he spent two years producing the hit game show Machos.Henry Woodman’s career is marked by four Emmy nominations and a passion for travel that has taken him around the globe. He has produced and directed films and videos for top travel destinations worldwide, collaborating with major travel companies like American Airlines, American Express, and several government tourism boards. In 1997,Henry founded World Travelvision (WTV), revolutionising the travel industry by pioneering Digital Brochures and Virtual Reality 360° Panoramic Photography. This innovation led to the creation of ICE Portal in 2004, a groundbreaking technology and marketing company. Today, Henry is recognised as a leading expert in visual content management and distribution in the travel industry. Tune in now for the second episode of our new series Echoes of Impact with our host Payal Nayar.Episode streaming on all podcast streaming platforms and on YouTube.Apple Podcasts: https://buff.ly/2Vf8vv8⠀Spotify: https://buff.ly/2Vf8uHA⠀-Original music credit: Rish Sharma.His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other streaming platforms.-October2019 voicesandmore Pte Ltd All rights reserved Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In episode 5 of our ongoing series Echoes of Impact, we meet Stefan Fehr, an AI pioneer and visionary entrepreneur since 2019. With a passion for content creation, marketing, and business development, Stefan crafted intelligent apps, founded an AI App Store, and designed cutting-edge websites. A sought-after speaker and blogger, Stefan shares insights on the future of work, society, and AI. As the founder of ModernIQs, Stefan has established an AI App Store specifically designed for B2B applications that efficiently perform complex tasks, such as creating deeply optimised SEO blog articles. With just one click, businesses can generate a whole month or even a year's worth of content, making these apps many times more efficient than traditional SaaS solutions or ChatGPT. After diving into the AI space in 2019, Stefan has made significant strides in content creation, inbound marketing, and large-scale website design. Listen to the full episode now as we dive deep into Stephan’s AI-driven world.Tune in on Spotify, Apple podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. Apple Podcasts: https://buff.ly/2Vf8vv8⠀Spotify: https://buff.ly/2Vf8uHA⠀-Original music credit: Rish Sharma.His music is available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and other streaming platforms.-October2019 voicesandmore Pte Ltd All rights reservedDo support the show with reviews, shares and a one time donation to help bring you a lot more important content.https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/meltingpotcollective Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.