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Through the Looking Glass
Lavanya Uthaman
32 episodes
1 hour ago
Are you an ambitious individual part of the South Asian diaspora, trying to find your authentic voice and place in a community? Look no further! Through the Looking Glass podcast, with Lavanya Uthaman, is one Zillennial’s viewpoint on life’s struggles. She explores different perspectives by sharing personal stories with guests and solo episodes biweekly. Her vision is to empower listeners, even in the smallest way possible, to enhance personal well-being and cultivate an inclusive community. Get to know the Host better: https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman/
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Self-Improvement
Education
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All content for Through the Looking Glass is the property of Lavanya Uthaman and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Are you an ambitious individual part of the South Asian diaspora, trying to find your authentic voice and place in a community? Look no further! Through the Looking Glass podcast, with Lavanya Uthaman, is one Zillennial’s viewpoint on life’s struggles. She explores different perspectives by sharing personal stories with guests and solo episodes biweekly. Her vision is to empower listeners, even in the smallest way possible, to enhance personal well-being and cultivate an inclusive community. Get to know the Host better: https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman/
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Self-Improvement
Education
Episodes (20/32)
Through the Looking Glass
Things I wish I knew in my 20s

Are you looking for some guidance? Do you want to thrive in your 20s? In this week’s episode, Lavanya shares her list of things you wish you knew in your 20s! Lavanya turning 30 recently reflects on the lessons, tough truths, and personal growth that shaped her during her 20s.

From learning the power of saying “no” to cultivating financial independence and recognizing the value of self-love, Lavanya shares invaluable insights to help you navigate this transformative decade.

Whether you're dealing with uncertainty, seeking better relationships, or aiming to build confidence, this episode will empower you to thrive. Tune in, take what resonates, and start living your best life!

Get to know me better on

Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/lavanya.uthaman

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughthelookingglasspod

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:32 1. "No" is a full sentence

2:10 2. Stop being friends with Negative People

3:03 3. Financial Independence

4:01 4. Money Empowers You

4:38 5. Time Doesn’t Heal Everything

5:22 6. You Won’t Find Someone by Not Looking

6:07 7. Wait 30 secs Before Reacting

6:41 8. Don’t Work for “Free”

7:32 9. Let Go of Things You Can’t Control

8:03 10. Not Everyone Has Your Best Interest

8:29 11. Keep It Private Until It's Official

9:03 12. Avoid Long-Distance Relationships

9:38 13. Stop Waiting for the Right Time

10:15 14. Only Compare Yourself to Yourself

10:53 15. No One Is Thinking About You

11:43 16. Enjoy Being Young & Hot

12:15 17. Over-Communicate

12:45 18. Stop Being Nice to Everyone

13:19 19. Spend on Experiences, Not Things

13:59 20. No One Will Love You as Much as Yourself



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1 year ago
15 minutes 19 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Identity, Family and Mental Health as a South Asian Woman with Dr. Nadia Huq
Are you a second generation South Asian trying to balance cultural expectations? Navigating traditional gender roles, generational conflicts, parental pressure can all be challenging! In this week’s episode on "Through the Looking Glass," Lavanya interviews Dr. Nadia Huq, a clinical psychologist specializing in family dynamics. Dr. Huq shares insights on generational shifts, the nuances of managing parental expectations, particularly around marriage, and setting boundaries while maintaining healthy relationships. This podcast offers practical advice for young South Asian women navigating these unique cultural and ethnic identity challenges. Get to know Nadia more: Dr. Nadia Huq earned her Bachelor's in Brain, Behavior, and Cognitive Science from the University of Michigan in 2008, followed by a Master's and PhD in Clinical Psychology from UNC Greensboro by 2016. She completed her Pre-doctoral Internship at Children’s National Health Systems and a Postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Child Psychology at NYP-CUIMC. Dr. Huq served as a clinical psychologist and faculty member at Columbia University Irving Medical Center for six years, specializing in therapy for children and families and training psychology interns. She joined TMB Psychological Services in 2023. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://tiktok.com/lavanya.uthaman Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@throughthelookingglasspod Chapters: 00:00 Intro to Dr. Nadia Huq 02:24 Understanding gender roles in South Asian families 05:25 Cultural identity and acculturation conflicts 09:42 Managing parental expectations 14:32 Mental Health in South Asian Immigrant families 18:25 Navigating toxicity in families 22:37 How to set boundaries w/family 30:28 Navigating familial pressure 38:22 Marriage in South Asian culture 49:55 Advice for brown girls in their 20s
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1 year ago
52 minutes 55 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to stop being a GOOD GIRL | a South Asian perspective

Were you ever told to be a “good girl” by your family? To please others, avoid mistakes, and keep the peace? In this episode of Through the Looking Glass Podcast, Lavanya dives deep into the "good girl" syndrome, a mindset that many women, especially in South Asian communities, have internalized from a young age.


She discusses the impact of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and sacrifice culture, and offers practical steps to shift away from these internalized habits. But how do you break free from this cycle? Lavanya shares 5 actionable steps to shift your mindset to take your power back! Don’t miss this episode to learn how to prioritize your well-being, set boundaries, and embrace personal empowerment.


Get to know me better on

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lavanya.uthaman


Chapters: 00:00 Introduction

01:12 What is "Good Girl" Syndrome?

02:34 Why you need to stop being a Good Girl

04:50 Mindset shift 1: Be Inconvenient

06:50 Mindset shift 2: Setting Boundaries

09:01 Mindset shift 3: What Do I Need Right Now?

10:32 Mindset shift 4: Stop Saying Sorry

11:58 Mindset shift 5: Sit in the Discomfort


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1 year ago
14 minutes 3 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to be a Girl’s Girl | Stop being a Pick-me Girl
Are you losing friends? Are you called out for being a "pick-me girl"? This week on Through the Looking Glass Lavanya talks about pick-me-girl syndrome and the dynamics of female friendship etiquette. Discover the definition and signs of a "pick-me girl" and learn how to shift from being one to embracing the empowering role of a girl's girl. Lavanya breaks down five practical steps to go from pick-me girl to girl’s girl! This episode is all about prioritizing female friendships, how to uplift the women around you, avoid toxic behaviors, and create lasting, meaningful connections. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:52 What is a Pick-me Girl and Signs! 03:55 Step1: Stop dropping everything 05:28 Step 2: Peer Pressure 07:34 Step 3: Work on Maturity 09:30 Step 4: Stop Gossiping 11:10 Step 5: Defend your friends!
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1 year ago
13 minutes 29 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Entrepreneurship with a dose of Imposter Syndrome with Dhaval Patel

Are you considering starting your own company? And you feel like an imposter? Highly recommend tuning into this episode of Through the Looking Glass, with Dhaval Patel. He is the CEO and founder of Lotus Labs, dedicated to empowering individuals with limited mobility. Dhaval shares his personal disability story that sparked the creation of the Lotus ring and how he went from an Apple engineer to an entrepreneur. We spoke about the challenges, triumphs, and all of the self-doubt in between. Are there philosophical motivations behind taking the entrepreneurial leap? We took a real look at the reality of entrepreneurship – passion, resilience and mindset. Gain insights into Dhaval’s perspective as a South Asian tech founder and how he counteracts imposter feelings. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or navigating the corporate world as a minority, this episode provides inspiration and actionable lessons! Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Get to know Dhaval: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhaval-c-patel/ Learn about Lotus Ring: https://getlotus.com/


Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

03:10 How did you get started with your company?

05:55 Is finding purpose in work important?

10:38 How to choose co-founders/partners

20:05 How did you overcome a challenge in entrepreneurship?

27:30 How was your experience as a minority entrepreneur?

37:00 Uncharted career path as a South Asian

42:27 How to shift out of imposter syndrome

47:42 Dhaval’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs

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1 year ago
50 minutes 47 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Imposter Syndrome | Is it real or not?
Do you feel like you don’t deserve your success? Do you question your talents or abilities? – You may be feeling imposter syndrome! In this week's episode Lavanya shares how to overcome imposter syndrome. Lavanya discusses the various signs of imposter syndrome, including her personal journey with imposter syndrome, reflecting on her experiences as an engineering student in a male-dominated field. Listeners will learn practical strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, including reframing negative thoughts, recognizing and celebrating achievements. Lavanya also addresses the broader societal context of imposter syndrome and why we need to challenge these limiting beliefs. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:03 What is Imposter Syndrome? 02:02 Signs of Imposter Syndrome 04:10 Personal Storytime 06:29 Signs you don’t have Imposter Syndrome 07:52 Overcome Imposter Syndrome 10:20 Bicycle Face Storytime 12:59 Summary
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1 year ago
13 minutes 32 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
10 Dating Rules of a High-Value Woman
Are you the one getting played or manipulated? Chasing an emotionally unavailable man? GIRL, STOP and listen to this episode. Welcome back to Through the Looking Glass Podcast. In today's episode, Lavanya shares a list of dating rules that resonates with her. Whether you're navigating situationships, learning to let him take the lead, or setting strong boundaries, these rules are designed to help you become a high-value dater. Lavanya gives some practical examples and tips to help you apply these rules in your dating life. If you're ready to stop settling and step into your black cat era, this episode is for you. You will learn how to become a high-value dater. Get to know me better on Instagram: ⁠Lavanya | Podcast Host (@lavanyauthaman) | Instagram profile⁠ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ttlg_podcast Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:33 Stop with the Situationships 03:24 Let him Lead 06:20 Set Boundaries 09:15 Be Independent 12:23 Stop making his life easier 14:39 Don’t Nag 17:11 Control your emotions 19:24 Financial Independence 20:55 Mental Challenge 22:00 Keep it Private 23:20 Summary
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1 year ago
24 minutes 17 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to Heal Anxious Attachment Style
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
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1 year ago
18 minutes 43 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to deal with identity change (Graduation, Big life transitions)
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
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1 year ago
12 minutes 15 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to Resolve Conflict | DEAR MAN Technique
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
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1 year ago
8 minutes 25 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to be Corporate BOSS
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
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1 year ago
21 minutes 4 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to Set Boundaries with your Toxic Family | Brown Girl Edition
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
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1 year ago
17 minutes 43 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Finding Yourself, Friendships and Coping with Anxiety with Marcos Salido

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

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1 year ago
31 minutes 12 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
My Story: Finding Purpose and Navigating Expectations (with Kathy Mou)

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

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1 year ago
41 minutes 25 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to love yourself | 5 steps to be self-obsessed

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

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1 year ago
20 minutes 21 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Bliss Soft Life: Happiness, Purpose, & High Vibration with Kathy Mou

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

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1 year ago
49 minutes 47 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
AMA: Friendship Breakups, Toxic Friends and Growing New Friendships!

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

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1 year ago
22 minutes 22 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
How to be your Confident self in 2024!

(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


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1 year ago
18 minutes 50 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
2023 Reflection, Gratitude and Lessons with Lavanya Uthaman

(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


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1 year ago
13 minutes 5 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Breaking Barriers: Leadership Lessons with CEO Joanna Pinkerton

(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

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1 year ago
47 minutes 39 seconds

Through the Looking Glass
Are you an ambitious individual part of the South Asian diaspora, trying to find your authentic voice and place in a community? Look no further! Through the Looking Glass podcast, with Lavanya Uthaman, is one Zillennial’s viewpoint on life’s struggles. She explores different perspectives by sharing personal stories with guests and solo episodes biweekly. Her vision is to empower listeners, even in the smallest way possible, to enhance personal well-being and cultivate an inclusive community. Get to know the Host better: https://www.instagram.com/lavanyauthaman/