Episodes

  • #19: Take a Breath, Believe, and Parent with Love, ft. Amita Malhotra

    #19: Take a Breath, Believe, and Parent with Love, ft. Amita Malhotra
    Jan 15 2025
    This episode features an inspiring conversation with Amita Malhotra, an entrepreneur, advocate for gender equality, and mother to a spirited daughter, Tarini. Amita’s journey, from navigating the early uncertainties of parenting to balancing her professional aspirations, is an ode to resilience, growth, and reimagining societal norms. With stories filled with humor, wisdom, and vulnerability, this episode captures the transformative power of parenting and its impact on personal and professional life. Key Highlights: Amita’s philosophy of "Expect the Unexpected" in parenting.How parenting provides a "second chance" to rediscover life.The transformative power of being vulnerable and authentic as a parent.Tarini’s wisdom: "Take a breath, take a break, and believe." Why You Should Listen This episode isn’t just for parents. It’s for anyone looking to reflect on relationships, self-growth, and the beauty of embracing life’s unexpected turns. Amita’s wisdom, coupled with practical advice and relatable anecdotes, makes this a must-listen for anyone navigating the complexities of life and love. References & Recommendations Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Tarini’s favorite childhood show that introduced the concept of the “Three B’s.”Bollywood’s Influence: Amita shares her love for the color, humor, and vibrancy of Bollywood, reflecting its impact on her identity.Books and Media: Amita mentions her passion for rediscovering childhood concepts like math and the joy of learning alongside her daughter.Podcast: Raising an Athlete: Amita’s initiative to support parents and athletes through stories of sports journeys and expert advice.Workshops: Equal Sports’ upcoming workshops, starting with sport psychology for parents, highlighting the mental aspect of raising athletes. About the Guest Amita Malhotra is a changemaker, founder of Equalsportz and Equalitee, and an advocate for gender inclusivity. A mother to a bright and mature daughter, Amita draws inspiration from her parenting journey to challenge societal norms and create impactful initiatives. From her podcast Raising an Athlete to workshops for parents, Amita’s work empowers families to build supportive and inclusive environments. Follow Amita's work: Equalsportz: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equalsportz/Equalitee: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equalitee/Raising An Athlete: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/raising-an-athlete-7262774910849028097/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitamalhotra/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamamitamalhotra Listener Takeaways How parenting transforms identity and confidence, helping you grow alongside your child.The importance of intuition in parenting in an era dominated by data and information.Insights into challenging gender stereotypes early in a child’s life.Amita’s strategies for finding joy and balance as a parent, professional, and individual.Why vulnerability and self-reflection are essential parts of parenting. Join the Conversation Review & Subscribe:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family! Follow Us: Instagram: Parenthoot InstagramLinkedIn: Parenthoot LinkedIn Support Us: https://buymeacoffee.com/gargneha Your support helps keep the show running.
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    54 mins
  • #18: Reliving Childhood Through Parenthood, ft. Karandeep Kapany

    #18: Reliving Childhood Through Parenthood, ft. Karandeep Kapany
    Jan 8 2025
    Karan, Regional Marketing Director at Duolingo, shares his deeply personal journey through parenthood and life’s complexities in this episode. A storyteller at heart, Karan draws on his experiences as a father to Ziyah, his five-year-old daughter, and a partner to Reety, a molecular biologist at CRISPR-Bits. Together, they’ve created a life filled with rituals, humor, and deep introspection. In this conversation, Karan candidly discusses the joys, challenges, and transformative lessons he’s encountered while juggling his roles as a parent, partner, and professional. This episode dives into the essence of modern parenting, exploring themes like boundary-setting, unlearning societal pressures, and finding beauty in the mundane. Karan also reflects on how his partnership with Reety has evolved over nearly two decades and how they’ve managed to keep the spark alive while growing individually. Key Highlights Karan’s perspective on unlearning cynicism and rediscovering the world through his daughter’s eyes.The power of rituals, from storytelling to Sunday breakfasts, in building meaningful family bonds.Why emotional intelligence and boundary-setting are cornerstones of effective parenting.The dynamic balance between career, family, and personal growth. Why You Should Listen This episode is a heartfelt mix of practical wisdom and endearing anecdotes. Whether you’re a parent seeking inspiration, a professional balancing work and home life, or someone navigating relationships, Karan’s reflections will leave you with valuable takeaways. References & Recommendations Books: While no specific titles were mentioned, Karan emphasizes the importance of reading to children. He credits Reety’s nightly reading habit for Ziyah’s advanced vocabulary and love for language.Movies: Ziyah’s favorite movies include Pixar’s Luca and Inside Out, which Karan describes as regulars in their family movie nights.Pop Culture: Karan mentions Ziyah’s admiration for cricketers like Mithali Raj and Virat Kohli, showcasing how sports inspire her enthusiasm.Rituals and Food: The family cherishes small joys, like weekend trips to Cubbon Park, and Sunday breakfasts with filter coffee and masala dosas.Art and Community: Karan describes Ziyah’s participation in a Sonic Picnic activity at Cubbon Park, which combined storytelling, art, and interactive installations.School and Nature: Ziyah’s Montessori school, The Earth School, is noted for its focus on nature and creativity, which aligns with her love for gardening, insects, and outdoor exploration. Memorable Moments: Karan recalls Ziyah’s heartfelt comment introducing him as “the best storyteller in the world.”The transformative experience of watching Ziyah delight in nature, such as finding a leaf and calling it “the best day of her life.”His candid advice to his pre-parenting self: “Sleep as much as you can—it’s a rare luxury after kids.” About the Guest Karandeep is the Regional Marketing Director at Duolingo, known for his wit, leadership, and storytelling abilities. With a knack for balancing professional demands with his personal life, Karan brings a unique perspective on parenting, marriage, and finding joy in the small moments. His wife, Reety, a molecular biologist, complements his creative approach with her scientific rigor, and together, they are raising Ziyah in a home filled with love, laughter, and curiosity. Follow Karan: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdkapany/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kdkapany/ Join the Conversation Review & Subscribe:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family! Follow Us: Instagram: Parenthoot InstagramLinkedIn: Parenthoot LinkedIn Support Us: https://buymeacoffee.com/gargneha Your support helps keep the show running.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • #17: Short Stories of Life, Parenting, Love, and Change, ft. Arundhati Kumar

    #17: Short Stories of Life, Parenting, Love, and Change, ft. Arundhati Kumar
    Jan 1 2025
    In this episode, we sit down with Arundhati Kumar, an entrepreneur, sustainability advocate, and single mother to a spirited teenage daughter. Through her lens, parenting isn’t about perfection but rather about persistence, patience, and embracing life’s unpredictability. Arundhati opens up about her journey of navigating co-parenting, fostering resilience in the face of challenges, and her unwavering commitment to sustainability. With her honest reflections and inspiring anecdotes, she encourages listeners to find beauty in life's short stories and redefine the traditional narratives of family, success, and personal growth. Whether you’re a parent seeking guidance, a professional juggling roles, or someone passionate about creating a better world, this episode is brimming with wisdom, practical insights, and heartfelt stories you won’t want to miss! Why You Should Listen For Parents: Discover relatable parenting struggles and triumphs, from balancing independence to creating a nurturing family dynamic.For Professionals: Learn how Arundhati balanced being a single parent with running a business and her transition to sustainability consulting.For Everyone: Get inspired by Arundhati’s resilience, her approach to personal growth, and her ability to turn life’s challenges into meaningful lessons. This episode isn’t just about parenting; it’s a heartfelt exploration of what it means to live authentically, embrace imperfection, and create an impact. References & Recommendations Books: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: A story of resilience and breaking barriers, loved by both Arundhati and Neha; Books on climate change, sustainability, and kindness recommended throughout the episode. TV/Streaming Recommendations: Lessons in Chemistry (Apple TV adaptation): A series showcasing perseverance in the face of adversity. Other Mentions: The importance of small conscious choices in daily life for sustainability. Personal anecdotes of travel, family moments, and finding kindness in unexpected places. About the Guest Arundhati Kumar is an entrepreneur and former founder of Studio Beej, a sustainable bag brand. Over five years, she built the brand with passion and purpose, advocating for eco-conscious living. Today, Arundhati is stepping into the world of consulting, helping organizations and individuals adopt climate-conscious behaviors and sustainable strategies.As a single mother, Arundhati shares a profound connection with her 14-year-old daughter, Ikvira, and her two dogs, Buddy and Leah. Her journey of co-parenting and resilience has shaped her into a powerful advocate for leading with love, embracing imperfection, and fostering positive change in both family life and society. Follow Arundhati's work: Studio Beej Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiobeej/Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foolishly_brave/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kumararundhati/ Listener Takeaways Parenting isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up with love, intent, and a willingness to learn.Resilience comes from facing challenges head-on and trusting that “everything passes.”Open, honest communication with kids can build strong, enduring relationships.Sustainability isn’t optional—it’s a way of life that starts with small, conscious choices.Life isn’t a linear journey; it’s a series of short, beautiful stories waiting to be written. Join the Conversation Review & Subscribe:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!Follow Us: Instagram: Parenthoot InstagramLinkedIn: Parenthoot LinkedInSupport Us: https://buymeacoffee.com/gargneha Your support helps keep the show running.
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    1 hr
  • #16: Finding Grace in Chaos, ft. Vaishnavi R

    #16: Finding Grace in Chaos, ft. Vaishnavi R
    Dec 25 2024
    In this episode, we’re joined by Vaishnavi—mom, entrepreneur, and candid storyteller—who takes us through her transformative journey as a parent. From navigating the early turbulence of raising her first child, Meera, to finding empowerment through the birth of her second child, Advait, Vaishnavi’s story is one of resilience, introspection, and growth. Along the way, she opens up about the joys and challenges of co-parenting with her husband, Vishwanathan, and the life-changing impact of prioritizing self-care. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of parenting or looking for inspiration in finding balance, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and heartfelt insights. Key Highlights The Beauty of Gentle Weaning: Vaishnavi shares her thoughtful, six-month-long process of preparing Meera for weaning, showing the power of patience and communication.The Illusion of Choice: By giving children a sense of autonomy, parents can foster trust and receptiveness in even the youngest of minds.Empowering Birth Stories: Vaishnavi reflects on two vastly different birth experiences, one in a traditional hospital and the other at a midwifery center, highlighting the importance of informed choices and supportive care.The Evolution of Co-Parenting: Vishwanathan and Vaishnavi’s partnership is a testament to the power of equality and teamwork in building a strong family foundation.Healing Through Self-Care: After years of running on empty, Vaishnavi’s decision to prioritize her well-being transformed her parenting and personal life.Resilience in Parenthood: From moments of empowerment to embracing imperfection, Vaishnavi’s reflections remind parents that showing up with love and effort is what truly matters. About the Guest Vaishnavi is the proud mother of two children, Meera (9) and Advait (2.5). She is also the founder of Nestery, an online marketplace for premium maternity and children’s brands, where she combined her entrepreneurial drive with her passion for creating meaningful resources for families.Vaishnavi’s parenting journey is a masterclass in resilience and growth. She candidly shares how her children have shaped her perspective: Meera, with her empathetic nature, taught her to advocate for herself and others, while Advait’s high-energy personality brought lessons in patience and adaptability.Beyond her parenting role, Vaishnavi is a staunch advocate for equitable partnerships in marriage. She describes her husband, Vishwanathan, as an equal partner and co-parent who brings calmness, support, and humor into their lives. Their dynamic reflects the evolving roles of modern parenting, where mutual respect and teamwork take center stage. Currently on a self-care sabbatical, Vaishnavi has dedicated the last few months to prioritizing her physical and mental health through therapy, fitness, and introspection. She is exploring new opportunities while enjoying a more present and mindful approach to parenting. Follow Vaishnavi's work: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaishnavir/ Why You Should Tune In Gain practical strategies for gentle parenting and fostering resilience in children.Discover how co-parenting dynamics can evolve into a partnership of mutual respect and equality.Learn how prioritizing self-care can transform your parenting journey and personal life.Be inspired by Vaishnavi’s empowering birth stories and her candid reflections on the highs and lows of motherhood. References Books: The Conscious Parent by Dr. Shefali Tsabary (on mindful and empathetic parenting). Birth Practices: Vaishnavi shared her experiences with Hypnobirthing and a midwifery center. Join the Conversation Review & Subscribe: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family! Follow Us: Instagram: Parenthoot InstagramLinkedIn: Parenthoot LinkedIn Support Us: Buy me a Coffee! Your support helps keep the show running.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #15: Breaking the Cycle of Judgement, ft. Mahima Vashisht

    #15: Breaking the Cycle of Judgement, ft. Mahima Vashisht
    Dec 18 2024
    In this candid and empowering episode, I sit down with Mahima Vashisht, a development sector professional, writer, podcaster, and mother. Mahima shares her deeply personal experiences with parenting, mental health, and self-discovery. From navigating the challenges of early motherhood, postpartum depression, and trauma to advocating for self-care as a parenting cornerstone, Mahima’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience and intentionality.This conversation is an eye-opener for anyone navigating the highs and lows of parenting while juggling the many hats life demands. Why You Should Listen This episode is for every parent feeling the weight of societal expectations, for every person striving to balance self-care with caregiving, and for anyone curious about breaking toxic cycles and embracing the messy beauty of parenting. Mahima’s story is raw, relatable, and incredibly empowering. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Redefining motherhood: Why self-prioritization is essential for being the best parent you can be.Unlearning societal expectations: The impossible standards placed on mothers and how Mahima overcame them.Marriage reimagined through parenting: How Mahima and her husband rediscovered their partnership after becoming parents.Breaking the cycle of judgment: Teaching children to respect others and themselves through open, honest communication.Healing through diagnosis: How ADHD and OCPD diagnoses brought clarity and peace to Mahima’s life.The power of words: Funny and profound nuggets of wisdom from Mahima’s curious and thoughtful five-year-old son.The mental load of motherhood: Dealing with unsolicited advice, societal pressure, and internalized guilt. Pop Culture References Untamed by Glennon Doyle: A book that inspired Mahima’s approach to authenticity and self-discovery.Grey’s Anatomy: Mahima discussed how her postpartum experience made her see medical dramas differently, shifting her empathy toward patients.Calvin and Hobbes: A favorite of her five-year-old, who was gifted the complete box set as an introduction to comics.Revenge Bedtime Procrastination: A concept Mahima referenced to explain why parents delay sleep to reclaim personal time. About the Guest Mahima Vashisht is a development sector professional, writer, podcaster, and a passionate advocate for gender equality. She is the creator of Womaning in India, a popular newsletter that explores the nuances of gender, parenting, and self-care. Mahima lives with her husband, Salil, and their five-year-old son in a quiet, green city in India, where she continues to write, parent, and inspire. Follow Mahima’s work: Newsletter: https://womaning.substack.comTwitter: https://x.com/mahimavashishtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/womaninginindiaYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@womaninginindiaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/womaninginindia Join the Conversation Review & Subscribe:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!Follow Us on Instagram: Parenthoot Instagram or LinkedIn: Parenthoot LinkedIn Support Us: Buy me a Coffee! Your support helps keep the show running.
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • #14: Parenting with Love, Purpose, and Impact, ft. Arun Gupta

    #14: Parenting with Love, Purpose, and Impact, ft. Arun Gupta
    Dec 11 2024

    In this candid conversation, Arun Gupta delves into his parenting philosophy, sharing lessons from raising two resilient daughters. From balancing career and family to supporting his daughter's nonprofit journey, Arun reflects on doing what's right over what's easy. Listeners will find relatable insights, heartwarming stories, and practical advice for navigating parenthood with purpose and love.

    Key Highlights:

    • 5:30 – Arun shares his unique approach to dividing parenting responsibilities with his wife.
    • 12:45 – The story behind Pinkishe and how Khyati’s vision inspired a family legacy.
    • 19:20 – Arun’s thoughts on the role of parents in shaping a child’s decision-making and resilience.
    • 26:10 – A discussion on the importance of emotional intelligence in parenting and setting examples for children.
    • 32:55 – Arun’s perspective on measuring success beyond material possessions.

    References:

    • Books: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie – A book Arun credits for shaping his outlook

    About the Guest

    • Arun Gupta is a proud father, visionary, and social changemaker with a background in IT. After a successful corporate career, he transitioned into the nonprofit sector to support his daughter Khyati’s inspiring initiative, Pinkishe. With over three decades of parenting experience, Arun shares timeless wisdom on resilience, empowerment, and family dynamics, making this episode a heartfelt guide for parents and changemakers alike.

    Social Media Links:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunguptapinkishe/
    • Other Work: Pinkishe Foundation – Learn more about Khyati’s nonprofit organization.

    Theme & Tags:

    • Theme: Parenting, Empowerment, Resilience
    • Tags: #Parenting #FamilyValues #Empowerment #PurposefulLiving #Parenthoot

    Join the Conversation

    • Review & Subscribe:If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!
    • Follow Us:⁠
      • Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/parenthootwithneha/⁠
      • LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/parenthoot⁠
    • Support Us:⁠Your support helps keep the show running!
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    1 hr and 17 mins
  • #13: Core Memories and Quiet Miracles: Finding Joy in Parenting, ft. Apoorva Maheshwari

    #13: Core Memories and Quiet Miracles: Finding Joy in Parenting, ft. Apoorva Maheshwari
    Dec 4 2024

    #13: Core Memories and Quiet Miracles: Finding Joy in Parenting


    About the Guest

    Apoorva is a mother, creative professional, and firm believer in parenting as a journey of self-discovery. Through her experiences raising two children, she has navigated the chaos and beauty of early motherhood, learning to embrace imperfection and patience along the way. Apoorva’s reflections on balancing growth as a parent and as an individual offer valuable insights for anyone walking the parenting path.

    In This Episode

    Apoorva joins us to talk about the transformative power of parenting—how it challenges us, changes us, and teaches us more about ourselves than we ever imagined. From sleepless nights to joyous core memories, she reflects on her journey of raising two children while growing into her unique parenting style. We explore:

    • Why parenting is a learning curve and not a predefined plan.
    • The beauty of letting time take its course—why you can’t rush milestones like walking or speaking.
    • How early parenthood reshapes you into a different human being.
    • Raising kids to value “otherness” and appreciate diversity in people.
    • Doing what’s right because it’s right—not for recognition.
    • How parenting is less about managing children and more about navigating your internal growth.

    Apoorva’s candid insights will resonate with parents and non-parents alike, offering wisdom about patience, resilience, and embracing life’s natural rhythms.

    Join the Conversation

    • Review & Subscribe: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!
    • Follow Us: Instagram
    • Support Us: Your support helps keep the show running! Share this episode, tag us on social media, and tell us your favorite moment from the conversation with Apoorva.
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    51 mins
  • #12: Growing Together: When Parents Become Friends and Siblings, ft. Priya Lobo

    #12: Growing Together: When Parents Become Friends and Siblings, ft. Priya Lobo
    Nov 27 2024

    #12: Growing Together: When Parents Become Friends and Siblings

    About the Guest
    Priya Lobo is the CEO at Ormax Compass, a parent, an advocate for intentional family living, and a firm believer in parenting with honesty and authenticity. As a mother of an only child, Priya brings a unique perspective to parenting, emphasizing the importance of embracing imperfection, nurturing mutual growth, and creating a bond that evolves over time. With her candid reflections and heartfelt anecdotes, Priya reminds us that parenting is not just about guiding children—it’s about growing alongside them.

    Social Media Links:
    Instagram | LinkedIn

    In This Episode
    In this episode, Priya Lobo joins us to share her refreshingly honest approach to parenting. Priya’s journey as the mother of an only child has taught her invaluable lessons about growth, connection, and resilience. From acknowledging that “parents are not perfect” to discovering how the parent-child bond can sometimes feel like a sibling relationship, Priya’s insights are both relatable and deeply insightful.

    We discuss:

    • Why parenting decisions should be driven by what’s right for your family, not societal pressure.
    • The beauty of children’s honesty, and how it teaches us to value authenticity.
    • How parenting can be a shared journey of growth for both parent and child.
    • Priya’s thoughts on raising an only child and the evolving dynamics of their relationship.
    • Embracing imperfection as a parent and owning your mistakes.

    Through her warm and candid reflections, Priya inspires parents to let go of external expectations and focus on what truly matters: love, honesty, and mutual growth within the family.

    Join the Conversation
    Review & Subscribe: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!
    Follow Us: Instagram | LinkedIn
    Support Us: Your support helps keep the show running! Share this episode, tag us on social media, and let us know your favorite moments from the conversation with Priya.
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    1 hr