End of Season One
Recorded on her actual birthday, Anu wraps up Season One of Banter with honesty, reflection and festive warmth and is joined by her sister Nidhi, who is visiting from Los Angeles, for a powerful end-of-year conversation about burnout, recovery and starting again.
From saying yes more than ever before, to navigating money worries, family and slowing down at Christmas, this episode is a thoughtful, feel good close to the year.
Welcome back to Banter — real talk, real life and just enough chaos to keep it interesting ✨
Birthday Reflections & Saying Yes
Turning 51, Anu reflects on a year that went faster than expected. From scrolling through old photos to revisiting the intention she set last year, to say yes more, she shares how one small mindset shift led to joy, connection and unforgettable experiences… alongside tiredness and the need for balance.
Highlights of the Year
From her 50th birthday celebration, Wimbledon men’s finals with her dad, the Champions League final and finally starting Banter, Anu reflects on the moments that truly mattered and the power of going for things even when fear is present.
The Lowlights: Money & Mental Load
A refreshingly open conversation about financial stress, overspending and the quiet anxiety money can bring, even in a year filled with joy. Anu shares how planning, budgeting and small mindset changes helped her regain a sense of control.
Christmas in London (Without the Pressure) 🎄
A reminder that you don’t need constant plans to enjoy Christmas. One or two things a day is plenty - leave space for walks, rest and spontaneity.
Favourite festive ideas include:
(Piccadilly Circus → Fortnum & Mason → Jermyn Street → Arcades → Bond Street → Carnaby → Soho → Seven Dials → Covent Garden)
Banter Bites 🍝
La Mia Mamma — joyful Italian food, incredible value and perfect if you want a break from Christmas cooking.
Festive TV Pick 📺
Amandaland Christmas Special — Christmas Day on BBC iPlayer. Cosy, sharp and very funny.
Special Interview: Sisterhood & Starting Again
Anu is joined by her sister Nidhi, who is visiting from Los Angeles, for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation. Nidhi shares her journey through burnout, a serious car accident, traumatic brain injury, forced rest or as she likes to call it a sabbatical, and how surrendering to a slower pace changed her outlook on life, work and healing.
A powerful conversation about ambition, identity, recovery and redefining success.
Banter Recipes — Christmas Edition 🥬
Brussels Sprouts with Pancetta, Maple & Pecans
Ingredients:
Method:
Parboil sprouts, drain and dry well.
Fry pancetta until crisp, set aside.
Sauté shallots (and garlic if using), add sprouts and cook until golden.
Return pancetta, drizzle with maple syrup and finish with roasted pecans.
Simple, festive and genuinely delicious.
Thank you for being part of Season One of Banter — your support has meant everything 💛
This is your gentle reminder to slow down, reflect and carry what matters into the new year.
If you’re enjoying the podcast, please rate, review, comment or follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It truly helps the show grow.
Wishing you a warm, restful Christmas and a beautiful end to the year ✨🎄