Golden Handcuffs: An Immigrant's Pursuit of Happiness with Author Varuni Sinha Part 2

She's Brave Podcast - Kristina Driscoll

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In part 2 of 3 of this multi-episode conversation with author Varuni Sinah, she narrates a pivotal moment in her life when she confronted her CEO about being fired.

Varuni describes her challenging work dynamics, her employment struggles that followed. She provides a candid look into the ensuing depression, the pressures to maintain family traditions, and how this period contributed to a significant identity crisis.

The discussion shifts to capture her perseverance despite constant setbacks, eventually leading to a deep depression marked by severe self-neglect and alcoholism, further straining her marriage.

Evocatively, Varuni shares an extraordinary subway encounter with a homeless man whose words made her realize her negative behavior towards her husband. This encounter, coupled with her husband's heartfelt plea and temporary move to Los Angeles for a job, propelled Varuni towards self-healing.

Her journey towards recovery saw her engaging with the city’s vibrant life through street photography and volunteer teaching at the Bowery Mission, where she found profound connections with children. These experiences helped her rediscover purpose and meaning in her life.

The episode doesn't shy away from discussing the COVID-19 pandemic's impact, recounting Varuni’s husband’s heroic efforts as a stroke surgeon in New York City. He faced severe challenges, inadequate PPE, the loss of colleagues, and incidents of prejudice. Varuni also outlines their joint effort to raise awareness about the disproportionate COVID-19 deaths among African-American essential workers.

The episode concludes with a focus on Varuni's continued journey of healing and the couple’s reunion at the end of 2020, reminding listeners of the resilience and strength found in love and determination amidst adversity.
Part 3 of this multi-episode conversation airs August 13, 2024.

Varuni Sinha Bio:
Varuni Sinha is a New York City-based writer and multimedia producer. She has written for The Post and Courier, Time Out New York, and created 360-degree campaigns for global brands such as Yamaha and Panasonic. A former guest lecturer at the University of Delhi, she taught “Race and Politics Through Literature” and wrote a dissertation on the history of Indian comic superheroes, tracing their origin story to Hindu gods and their American cousins. Her paintings have been displayed in solo and group exhibitions in galleries across India.
Varuni Sinha Bio:
Varuni Sinha is a New York City-based writer and multimedia producer. She has written for The Post and Courier, Time Out New York, and created 360-degree campaigns for global brands such as Yamaha and Panasonic. A former guest lecturer at the University of Delhi, she taught “Race and Politics Through Literature” and wrote a dissertation on the history of Indian comic superheroes, tracing their origin story to Hindu gods and their American cousins. Her paintings have been displayed in solo and group exhibitions in galleries across India.

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Chapter

1. Introduction and Recap (00:00:00)

2. Introduction and Recap (00:00:00)

3. Facing the CEO (00:00:15)

4. Family Pressures and Cultural Expectations (00:01:49)

5. Struggling with Identity and Employment (00:04:18)

6. Deepening Depression (00:11:05)

7. Moments of Realization (00:15:41)

8. Encounters with Strangers (00:19:50)

9. The Breaking Point: A Night of Revelation (00:27:44)

10. A New Beginning: Embracing Separation (00:29:25)

11. Finding Solace in New York (00:30:44)

12. The Healing Power of Story-Telling (00:31:57)

13. A Therapy Dog Named Mowgli (00:33:21)

14. Street Photography: Love and Hate (00:39:51)

15. Volunteering and Learning from Children (00:45:42)

16. COVID-19: ASurgeon's Battle (00:49:47)