6 South Asian podcasts to listen to
2 min
During the pandemic, I took a class called Narrative Audio at Pitt where we studied podcasts from various genres. From Dolly Parton’s America (if you’re not a Dolly fan already, this podcast will definitely make you one) to Floodlines by The Atlantic, we learned about scriptwriting, production, research, and more. Since then, I became fascinated by the podcast industry and knew I wanted to be more than just a listener.
At the same time, I discovered my passion for PR and decided to blend my two interests into a freelance career. I’m so fortunate to have now worked a little over 1 year in this space and be able to bring my life’s mission into reality. This community holds a special place in my heart as I’ve learned so much from many talented hosts and writers.
Podcasts are the perfect accompaniment as you walk to class or drive to work and with my expertly curated list, you’ll find the right conversation to keep you educated and entertained. Check out these 6 amazing South Asian podcasts to add to your next commute!
South Asian Trailblazers
South Asian Trailblazers dives deep into the journeys of world-renowned South Asian leaders and innovators in industries from finance to skincare. Join the host, Simi Shah, as she leads refreshing and insightful conversations with guests that will leave you feeling inspired to trailblaze in your own way.
Recent episode: Shilpa Shah
Favorite Episode: Arianna Afsar
The Desi Condition
The Desi Condition explores various topics in mental wellness and how our history and sociology often serve to exacerbate mental health conditions, jeopardize wellness, and delay progress and treatment. Follow the host, Tanushree Sengupta, as she and guests create a community of relatability and unity. The Desi Condition serves as a catalyst in the South Asian community to bring awareness, create empathy and foster support for mental health.
Recent episode: Sujata Day and Ritesh Rajan
Favorite episode: Sameer Gadhia
South Asian Stories
South Asian Stories is an award-winning podcast that profiles South Asians in unconventional career paths around the world. Join the host, Sameer Desai, as he chats with guests and uncovers their identities, successes, failures, and most importantly, stories. From comedians to chefs, South Asian Stories never fails to lift your day up with energizing conversations.
Recent episode: Dr.Siva Sivaram
Favorite episode: Madame Gandhi
Mild Mannered and Timid
Mild Mannered and Timid is a podcast by 3 brown folks that are tired of the safe sh*t. Join Kaly, Rianjali, and Kush as they take an irreverent look at what it means to be brown, across the diaspora. From pop culture to politics, MMT covers a wide variety of topics every episode with honest and hilariously, unfiltered conversations.
Recent Episode: Indian Liberals Hail Will Smith
Favorite Episode: Nikhil Seetharam
Two Chickpeas in a Podcast
Two Chickpeas in a Podcast follows two West London sisters, Nikita and Natasha Begji, as they question different issues that arise from being 3rd-generation Asians. Guests often join the Two Chickpeas in helping them understand their identity and heritage as British Asians. The Begji sisters are a bubbly pair that always has me laughing every episode.
Recent episode: Brown Munde with the Timepass Podcast
Favorite episode: Priya Ragu
Brown History Podcast
Brown History Podcast is an educational podcast that uncovers South Asian history through the lens of South Asians. Learn about important topics that are often left out in the Western curriculum with host, Ahsun Zafar, and guests. Every episode teaches you so much with its well-intentioned dialogue and will leave you coming back to learn more.
Recent Episode: Jinder Mahal
Favorite Episode: Jai Wolf
(P.S. Are you looking to start a podcast? Have no experience in mixing, but want to put out high-quality episodes? Learn about how RRA can help you make your podcast audio dreams come true here)
Stay well, shine bright.
~Meera
