Are you someone who constantly needs reassurance in a relationship? Do you have a fear of abandonment? Do you think you can only count on yourself? – You may have an insecure attachment! This week on Through the Looking Glass, Lavanya delves into attachment styles. With social media overload about anxious and avoidant attachment styles, it's hard to what information is accurate. If you are serious about your dating goals, understanding attachment theory is critical. Lavanya personally experienced anxious attachment, so she is invested in sharing tips to move towards a secure attachment. This episode focuses on understanding signs of anxious attachment and how to heal your wound. Lavanya summarizes what is attachment theory and how it is developed in early childhood. You will get scenarios to identify signs of anxious attachment with 10 explicit signs to look out for. The remainder of the episode focuses on 5 step guide to healing anxious attachment. Thank you for joining me on this journey to heal anxious attachment. I hope you found these tips helpful. Feel free to share your experiences or suggestions. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Understanding Attachment theory 05:47 Recognizing Anxious Attachment (10 signs) 08:47 Step 1 – Inner work 10:56 Step 2 – Identifying Triggers 12:30 Step 3- Avoid Overreacting 14:19 Step 4- Give and Take Space 16:05 Step 5 – Setting Boundaries 17:35 Bonus tip and summary

Are you going through an identity crisis? Maybe you are one of the graduates this May, and you are struggling with identity change as a student, or you moved cities or pivoted careers. This week on Through the Looking Glass Podcast, Lavanya talks about going through identity shifts. This episode is particularly relevant for graduates tackling life-altering transitions. Lavanya shares insights on recognizing signs of identity crisis and offers actionable tips for coping with uncertainty and embracing change. She has a 4-step guide to navigate this confusing time period. Whether you're graduating, changing careers, or embarking on a new chapter, this podcast offers practical advice to help you find your footing. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 What is Identity change? 02:55 7 Signs of Identity Crisis 03:44 Identity Change as new Graduates 05:50 Tip 1: Acknowledge and accept your feelings 07:38 Tip 2: Understand negative emotions 09:38 Tip 3: Redefine core beliefs and values 10:45 Tip 4: Goal Setting 11:49 Summary

Have you ever found yourself in the midst of a heated argument? Whether it's with your significant other, family, or colleagues, communication breakdowns can be daunting. In this episode of Through the Looking Glass Podcast, host Lavanya introduces “DEAR MAN”, a Dialectical Behavior Therapy technique. Lavanya dives into the seven-step process of DEAR MAN. It teaches a strategy for effective communication structured to guide individuals towards constructive dialogue and conflict resolution. Lavanya illustrates DEAR MAN in two scenarios, involving romantic relationships and family dynamics. Listeners can gain insight into how to implement this technique in real-life situations. Learn how to set boundaries in any relationship and navigate conflict with confidence and compassion. Get to know me better: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:58 What is DEAR MAN? 04:15 Example 1 in Romantic Relationship 06:12 Example 2 with Family 07:51 Summary

Are you trying to climb the corporate ladder? This week’s episode on Through the Looking Glass, Lavanya shares her top 10 tips for climbing the ladder and becoming a corporate BADDIE and BOSS. Drawing from her professional experiences, Lavanya breaks down strategies for success in the workplace. Lavanya guides you through each step, offering practical advice and personal anecdotes to empowers listeners to upgrade their career. From cultivating a strong presence and dressing for success to maintaining discipline and overcommunicating! Whether you're navigating your first job or aiming for a promotion, this episode is packed with pointers to help you thrive in your tech job. Tune in, take notes, and start your journey to becoming a corporate BADDIE today! Get to know me better on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:12 1. Strong Presence 01:12 2. Dress for Success 03:53 3. Organized/Schedule/Discipline 05:56 4. Overcommunicate! 08:27 5. Keep Records! 10:09 6. Team Culture/Be a Team-Player 12:07 7. Network 14:12 8. Pivot/Grow 15:34 9. Boundaries! 19:10 10. Conflict Resolution 20:36 Summary

Do you have a toxic family member? This week’s episode on Through the Looking Glass, Lavanya delves into setting healthy boundaries and dealing with toxic behavior among brown family members. Lavanya describes recognizing and addressing unhealthy dynamics within familial relationships to improve your emotional and physical well-being. Generational trauma often perpetuates patterns of behavior such as people-pleasing, lack of boundaries, anxiety, burnout, and toxic relationships. These behaviors, while normalized within brown communities, can hinder personal growth and fulfillment. From assuming adult responsibilities from a young age to being labeled as the black sheep or rule-breaker, many of us have experienced the detrimental effects of toxic family dynamics. To navigate these challenges, Lavanya outlines four essential steps. Tune into this week’s podcast with a growth mindset to learn how to implement these tools and strategies. The episode wraps up with discussing how to build habits to shift your mindset to set healthy boundaries. Take the first step towards reclaiming your power and begin your journey towards healthier relationships and personal fulfillment. Get to know me better on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Recognizing generation trauma 04:05 Step 1: Conflict Resolution 08:05 Step 2: Dissociation 11:05 Step 3: Emotional Detachment 13:07 Step 4: Financial Independence 15:22 Building Habits for Emotional Regulation 16:54 Summary

Have you ever considered moving to a new country? This week’s episode on "Through the Looking Glass," Lavanya goes down memory lane about Marcos’ journey spanning continents. Marcos Salido, originally from Spain, moved to America at the age of 16, to immerse himself in new cultures! He shares his experiences navigating through the educational systems of both Spain and the US, from Anchorage, Alaska, to Southern California! Marcos recounts the challenges and triumphs of finding his place in a foreign land. Their conversation delves into the intricacies of cultural adaptation, the pursuit of education abroad, and the evolving definition of home. Marcos reflects on the support of his family, the warmth of his communities, and the opportunities that led him to pursue an MBA. They discuss our career aspirations, and the diverse paths MBA experience opens. They explore the intersections of identity, ambition, and anxiety. Their dialogue offers a poignant reflection on the effect of anxiety and the fear of unknowns as a 20 something year old. Both stress the importance of living in the moment, cherishing friendships across borders, and navigating the transition into adulthood. Tune in for a cozy chat this week! From reminiscing about childhood best friends to pondering the excitement of impending graduations, this podcast episode offers a heartfelt exploration of personal journeys. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:14 Study Abroad in High School 04:58 Education in Spain vs. USA 06:48 Finding community as a Foreigner 09:28 Lifestyle & Career in Spain vs. USA 13:38 Career growth & MBA 17:00 Dealing with Anxiety as an Over-achiever 22:02 Growing Friendships over time 25:14 Childhood Friends 26:28 Relationship with Siblings 28:44 Next chapter & Advice

In this week's episode, the tables have turned! I am in the interviewee's chair and got the opportunity to delve in my story of how I got started with podcasting. I sat down with Kathy Mou, a fellow podcaster and host of Ignite your Power Podcast. We spoke about my childhood and career particularly as a South Asian woman and immigrant in the US. Throughout the episode, we discuss the challenges and experiences that shaped my journey so far and finding my purpose in life. We talked about what empowerment means to us, how to live authentically, and self-love. One of the toughest challenges is how to navigate societal expectations and we share our perspective and lessons learned. Tune in to the full episode for a fun, thoughtful and collaborative episode. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Get to know Kathy: ⁠Ignite Your Power: The Kathy Mou Podcast on Apple Podcasts

If you don’t love and accept yourself – how can you expect other people to? This episode is for you if you are struggling with self-love and acceptance. Welcome back to "Through the Looking Glass"! In this episode, Lavanya delves into the intricacies of self-love, offering insightful strategies to help you embrace your worth and empower yourself on your journey towards personal fulfillment. Lavanya breaks down self-love into 5 simple steps! Lavanya begins by emphasizing the importance of positive self-talk, challenging listeners to confront and transform their internal narratives. Acceptance is a significant step in the journey of self-love, learn how to release self-judgment and the connection between self-acceptance and gratitude. Next, Lavanya delves into the concept of forgiveness as a powerful tool for self-love. In the fourth step, Lavanya discusses the importance of defining personal values and setting life goals aligned with one's authentic self. She shares reflection questions and practical strategies to help listeners gain clarity and direction in their lives. Finally, Lavanya elaborates on the significance of choosing oneself and setting boundaries as the ultimate act of self-love. Whether you're seeking inspiration or practical strategies, this episode is sure to leave you feeling motivated and empowered on your journey of self-discovery. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:58 Positive speech 05:40 Acceptance 09:19 Forgiveness 13:25 Strong values and life goals 17:03 Chose yourself (Boundaries) 19:33 Conclusion

In this week’ episode, delve into the realms of self-discovery, purpose, and raising your vibrational energy with Kathy Mou. Kathy shares her personal journey of overcoming depression and finding her life purpose. She is an empowerment coach and host of “Ignite your Power” podcast. Lavanya and Kathy discuss the power of gratitude, self-love, and the importance of embracing life's challenges. Discover actionable steps, from journaling to affirmations, that can kickstart your own transformation. Learn about Kathy’s theory called soft bliss life -- a way of living your highest potential! Explore the importance of seeking help and trusting your intuition when feeling stuck. The conversation unfolds into insights about the simplicity of raising your vibration and embracing a purpose-driven life. They discuss the essential elements of happiness, self-love, and surrounding oneself with positive energy. Kathy introduces a spiritual perspective, emphasizing that everything is energy, and shares how connecting with one's soul can lead to a higher vibrational existence. Join Lavanya and Kathy in this empowering episode that combines personal stories, practical advice, and spiritual insights to guide you on your self-discovery journey. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Get to know Kathy: Ignite Your Power: The Kathy Mou Podcast on Apple Podcasts Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:58 Journey of Podcasting 07:45 What is Bliss Soft Life? 13:09 How to live in the moment. 15:50 How to raise your vibration. 19:00 Tips to cultivate Self-Love. 21:00 Finding your unique path in life. 30:12 How to get into a positive mindset 34:40 Getting over being stuck 36:50 How to find your life purpose 45:07 How to tap into your higher self

Do you need advice on friendship drama? Join Lavanya, your host, in this cozy bonus episode where I answer the internet’s friendship questions. Lavanay provides valuable insights on handling friendship challenges, dealing with one-sided relationships, and making new connections as an adult. From learning to set boundaries to the importance of trusting your instincts, Lavanya shares personal experiences and advice to guide you through the ups and downs of friendships. So, grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy this cozy chat filled with wisdom and relatable stories. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:40 Handling Friendship Mistakes 03:38 Friend Breakups 08:00 Making New Friends as an Adult 12:22 Large vs. Small Friendship Circles 14:50 Learning from Friends 17:28 Navigating Toxic Friendships 20:31 Advice to Younger Self

(Solo episode) Are you struggling to find your confidence? In today's episode, we're exploring the essential steps to be your confident self in 8 simple steps! I'm Lavanya, your host, and I'm thrilled to kick off the year with a positive self-improvement episode. Season 2 of "Through the Looking Glass"! will dive into the unique struggles that ambitious South Asians, particularly millennials, face every day. My goal is to empower you, even in the smallest way, to improve your well-being. I will explain how these 8 key elements will guide you on your confidence journey: (1) conquer emotional regulation (2) shift into a positive mindset (3) practice positive self-talk (4) distance yourself from negative people and (5) jealous behavior (6) perfect your self-care routine (7) set healthy boundaries and (8) tap into your authentic energy! Whether you're starting your self-improvement journey or continuing it, remember that the pursuit of bettering yourself is admirable. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:06 How to Emotionally Regulate 02:47 Shift into a Positive Mindset 04:40 Practice Positive Self-talk 06:01 How to deal with Negative people 08:12 How to deal with Jealously 11:26 Physical Appearance 13:30 How to set Boundaries 15:29 Be your Authentic Self Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

(Solo Episode) In this week’s insightful episode, your host, Lavanya Uthaman, takes you on a journey of reflection and gratitude as she delves into the unique struggles faced by ambitious South Asians, especially millennials. Lavanya shares three significant milestones from 2023, expressing gratitude for personal and professional growth. Discover the top five lessons Lavanya learned throughout the year, ranging from the power of asking questions to the transformative concept of 1% improvements. Explore the profound impact of trusting one's gut and the liberating strength found in saying "No." Tune in to uncover Lavanya's personal discoveries, including a re-evaluation of her 9-to-5 corporate life and a powerful shift towards letting go of anger. As she wraps up the episode, Lavanya unveils her chosen "Word of the Year" for 2024! Don't forget to follow or subscribe if you've enjoyed the podcast, and take a moment to reflect, reset, and embrace the holiday season. See you in 2024 for the second season of "Through the Looking Glass." Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

(Video Episode) Are you an ambitious female professional aspiring to be a BOSS? You need to meet Joanna Pinkerton, the CEO of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA). Joanna shares her remarkable journey from an engineering background to becoming CEO. In our candid conversation, she reflects on her first job in a medical office, shedding light on the early experiences that shaped her perspective on systems and problem-solving. Our discussion delves into the challenges of negotiating salary and the importance of advocating for oneself, especially in addressing gender and race pay gaps. Joanna shares personal experiences and insights on determining one's worth during salary negotiations, emphasizing the significance of allyship and transparent conversations. Our conversation touches on the intersection of technology, leadership, and emotional intelligence, highlighting the role of curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning in building successful careers. Joanna provides valuable advice on when it might be the right time to leave a job and navigating the challenges of public speaking as a woman in a male-dominated field. Our discussion concludes with a focus on empathetic leadership and the human aspect of engineering challenges, reminding us that every problem is, at its core, a human engineering problem. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion on authenticity, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of technology in the digital age. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Connect with Joanna: (5) Joanna M. Pinkerton, PE | LinkedIn

(Video Podcast) Welcome to this week’s episode of "Through the Looking Glass," where friendship takes center stage! Maliha and I dive into the heart of what friendship truly means to us. We explore the evolution of friendships and the importance of loyalty, mutual respect, and the unique dynamics that shape platonic connections. From childhood simplicity to the complexities of adult friendships, we share personal experiences and insights. Join the conversation as we dissect the effort required to transition friendships to deeper levels, addressing the challenges of maintaining connections amidst busy lives. We share our thoughts on the art of communication and creating space for meaningful connections. We particularly delve into the unique challenges of sustaining strong connections when best friends find themselves separated by long distances! We explore lots of profound questions that shape the essence of friendship: How has your definition of a friend evolved over time? How do you create space for each other? How do you deal with friends growing apart? How do you know who’s your true friend? Tune in for an engaging dialogue that will resonate with anyone who values the beauty and complexity of true friendship. I would love to help answer any questions anyone has about friendship! Share them in the comments sections or DM me privately. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

(Video Podcast) Are you struggling with imposter syndrome, gender biases and want to know how to find your voice to speak up? Tune in to this week’s episode of "Through the Looking Glass," with the inspiring Dr. Taha Khan, a pediatric neurologist, child rights activist, and founder of the Child Awareness Project. Dr. Khan shares her remarkable journey from becoming a physician to her finding her passions. She reflects on her path to medicine and the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome. The episode delves into her experiences as a female doctor, addressing stereotypes and biases in the medical field and the power of storytelling in advocacy. Dr. Khan emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between clinical medicine and policy. Highlighting her work in pushing for gun control measures through impactful storytelling, she shares insights into the intersection of medicine and advocacy. Join the conversation as Dr. Taha Khan provides valuable advice for aspiring advocates, emphasizing the role of social media in amplifying voices and fostering positive change. Discover the power of storytelling in influencing health policies and learn how individuals can make a difference in advocating for meaningful causes. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

[Video Podcast] How have your struggled to remain positive and maintain healthy boundaries? In this week’s episode on Through the Looking Glass, Maliha is back with a refreshing conversation on the power of maintaining a balance that energizes your life. I kick off the conversation by dissecting positivity’s healthy and toxic manifestations. Maliha shares her insights on maintaining a positive mindset amidst the complexities of modern culture. Both of us share our personal experiences and shed light on our unique approaches to finding happiness and re-energizing. We share how to balance self-discipline and indulgence in self-care routines. Tackling the challenge of shifting from a negative to a positive mindset comes with setbacks. We provide practical tips for listeners to implement in their own lives. We reflect on resilience and how growth often emerges from struggles, shaping individuals into stronger, more compassionate versions of themselves. We explore the intricacies of maintaining positive energy amidst draining relationships and toxic friendships. From recognizing the signs of being emotionally drained to setting boundaries and fostering genuine connections, we share personal insights and practical tips for creating a positive environment. Discover how tuning into your own emotions, expressing your boundaries, and embracing a mindset focused on positivity can lead to self-discovery and transformative life changes. As you navigate the complexities of life, we invite you to join us in cultivating mindful musings on positivity, self-care, and the perpetual journey toward happiness. Get to know me better on Instagram: Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

[Video Podcast] Welcome to a heartfelt and eye-opening episode with special guest Nicole Melendez Pena, a fitness enthusiast and finance professional. Nicole, affectionately known as "Boyfriend Nicole," opens up about her weight loss journey, sharing her experiences growing up and her evolving relationship with body positivity, and a healthy lifestyle. Our conversation delves into adolescence when, like many, she didn't think much about her appearance as a child. It was during these challenging years that she sought solace in food and developed an unhealthy relationship with it. The turning point came when she was prevented from doing something she loved. Her pursuit of a healthier lifestyle ultimately stemmed from a desire to escape a darker place. Nicole shares valuable insights into developing a healthy relationship with food and one's body. We explore the broader landscape of body positivity, fitness, and the intricacies of these issues. We touch upon the physical, genetic, and mental health aspects of wellness and how they intertwine. We comment on the impact of social media, and how unrealistic standards portrayed in the digital world can affect one's self-image. Nicole discusses how everyone's definition of "healthy" varies, and the importance of recognizing that health doesn't conform to a one-size-fits-all model. The conversation delves into the impact of societal beauty standards, particularly in South Asian communities, where a specific body image is often idealized. I share my personal experiences of navigating this cultural expectation and the insecurities it planted in her mind during her younger years. Both of us emphasize the powerful impact of the words we use to compliment or comment on others' appearances. We share personal stories of our own insecurities and the importance of self-love. Join us in this inspiring and insightful conversation that will undoubtedly make you rethink your relationship with fitness, body image, and the path to a healthier, happier you. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

[Video Podcast] Are you in your 20s or 30s, trying to juggle the complexities of work and life? In this week’s episode on Through the Looking Glass, I am introducing a debate series with Maliha Masood! We explore the various challenges and triumphs of our professional journeys, particularly amidst the challenging backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. We dive deep into finding balance during this pivotal stage of our life. The conversation begins with Maliha describing her bold move to California, a job that thrust her into a high-pressure role. As we explore the shifting dynamics of work in the post-pandemic era, Maliha reveals her career progression, her aspirations, and the pivotal moment that led her to reevaluate her professional path. The conversation takes an honest and raw turn as Maliha discusses how the onset of COVID-19 and the transition to remote work affected her mental health, making her reassess her career choices. Join us as we discuss our unique journeys and the lessons learned along the way about the intricacies of navigating life and career changes. Maliha reflects on her transformative journey, starting with a decision to leave her high-pressure job and embark on a quest for self-discovery. She touches on the emotional aspect of changing her identity, breaking free from the label of her profession, and experiencing an identity crisis. We delve into the complexities of how our jobs often become intertwined with our identities and the challenges of dealing with comparisons in the context of career and personal choices. The conversation revolves around the struggle to balance a traditional career path with personal aspirations. We share guidance on what individuals can do when grappling with feelings of comparison. Both hosts reflect on the positives and negatives of their choices and offer valuable insights for listeners facing similar challenges. We discuss how to reframe your mindset, stay positive, and embrace a non-traditional path in your 20s and 30s. Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or simply looking for inspiration, we hope our insights will resonate, offer guidance, and a fresh perspective on navigating the intricate dance of work and life! Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

[Solo episode] Welcome back to "Through the Looking Glass!" To kickoff fall episodes, I wanted to kick things off with a personal reflection on turning 29. When I was younger, I had this vision of being a seasoned adult by this age, but here I am, still feeling like I'm just scratching the surface. I share my thoughts on my childhood expectation of adult me and how that image has evolved for me in recent years.   I share my struggles with feeling like I was behind, and my journey with anxiety. In this episode, I reflect on my past and future expectations, impact of societal pressures on me, and the challenges I've faced in my 20s. Particularly I share the ups and downs of dealing with changes in your 20s and finding your place in the world. I speak about finding my path to being in tune with myself! I talk about how my 28th year was a mix of surprises and tests. I share my lessons learnt on growing comfortable with external changes and changes with close friendships and relationships. I dive into situations where I needed to let go of people and things and how’s impacted my anxiety. Listen to the full episode to learn about how I tune out negativity and set energy boundaries to prioritize myself. I reflect on achievements and struggles during 28 and how that has impacted my personal growth. I share the power of leaving comfort zones. I dive into how my go-go-go lifestyle led me to feel sad and drained. I acknowledge short fallings and coming to terms with societal and external pressure. My quest to finding purpose and passions in life starts with letting go of perfection. I speak about my Virgo tendencies holding me back and how I’ve worked past my perfectionist attitude allowing me to take actions towards my long-term goals. I wrap up the episode looking ahead on turning 30 next year and set 3 incredible intentions! So, here's to my 29th year—a year of peace, balance, and personal growth. I can't predict what this next chapter holds, but I'm excited to have you along for the journey. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast

[Solo episode] This week on Through the Looking Glass, we delve into my journey through personal growth, resilience, and the power of finding my voice. Get to know me better, as I speak about my past life experiences with public speaking and the transformative journey that led me to embrace the world of podcasting. From a shy and reserved schoolgirl to a confident and poised presenter, my path has been anything but linear. I trace back to my pre-school days, standing frozen on stage during a poem competition, and take you through the various twists and turns that shaped me into the individual I am today. I speak about my diverse upbringing that spanned across continents and languages, my journey through school, college, and career unfolded against a backdrop of personal and societal challenges that pushed me to speak up for myself. Through my anecdotes and personal reflections, I share my evolution from a PowerPoint engineer to a confident storyteller, learning the art of public speaking along the way. My experiences may resonate with anyone who has faced anxiety, fear, and the pressure to conform. I speak about my period of self-reflection inspiring this podcast idea, and the reasons why I started Through the Looking Glass. A podcast that not only gives voice to the underrepresented but also serves as a medium for storytelling, exploration, and empowerment. Thank you for joining me on this adventure, and remember, your story matters too. Until next time! Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast