A Sri Lankan hotel, a Harlem nightclub and orgasm-induced amnesia — Dasha Ross' epic adventures
Oct 10, 2024
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Dasha Ross, an adventurous author and filmmaker, shares her wild tales of managing a hotel in Sri Lanka alongside her husband John. She dives into a bizarre episode of transient global amnesia at dinner, linking surprising memories with orgasms. Dasha reflects on her childhood and her grandmother's wartime romance, while also navigating the challenges following her father's loss. Her journey from a wine bar in Sydney to filmmaker highlights resilience through life's unexpected turns, making each story an engaging exploration of love and community.
Dasha Ross highlights the unforeseen challenges and cultural adaptations she faced while running a beachfront hotel in Sri Lanka with her husband.
The emotional impact of her husband John's terminal cancer diagnosis profoundly shaped Dasha's life journey and her approach to embracing adventure.
Deep dives
Unexpected Memory Loss
Dasher Ross experienced a sudden and perplexing episode of memory loss known as transient global amnesia, which left her in a repetitive 15-second loop. During this time, she struggled to recall where she was supposed to go for dinner and kept introducing her new friend to her daughter, not remembering any of it. Ultimately, her daughter was alerted by friends and rushed to her aid, leading to a hospital visit where Dasher had no memory of the events of the day. Thankfully, her memory returned later that night, though the doctors were initially baffled by her condition and could offer little explanation.
Life's Colorful Journey
Dasha's diverse life experiences span from her beginnings in Australia to adventures abroad, including a nightclub venture in Harlem and running a hotel in Sri Lanka. She vividly recounts her youthful escapades as a filmmaker and early career moves that shaped her life, emphasizing her passion for storytelling and cultural experiences. Her time in Harlem presented challenges, particularly due to the socio-economic climate of the area, yet she embraced the opportunity to connect with a vibrant community. These monumental experiences serve as the backdrop for her memoir, highlighting her resilience and continuous quest for adventure.
The Complexities of Hospitality
Dasha and her husband John accepted a unique opportunity to run a beachfront hotel in Sri Lanka, which required them to adapt to local customs and expectations without prior experience in hospitality. They encountered significant challenges upon arriving, especially in managing relationships with existing staff, including a former manager who resented their presence and undermined their authority. As they worked long hours to improve the hotel's reputation and service, they faced numerous unforeseen hurdles that threatened the hotel's operations. Ultimately, their trial culminated in a dangerous confrontation with the former manager, which compelled them to leave Sri Lanka for their safety.
Navigating Personal Loss and Healing
John's unexpected diagnosis of terminal cancer changed the trajectory of Dasha's life, leading to a deeply emotional journey as they navigated his illness together. John maintained an impressive attitude towards his situation, focusing on living life fully without dwelling on a 'bucket list,' as he believed he had achieved all he desired. His death prompted a memorable farewell celebration including a creative send-off that captured his larger-than-life spirit, showcasing the love and respect those around him had cultivated. In the years since, Dasha has sought comfort in community and the ocean, cherishing her past adventures while finding solace in the familiar.
Dasha Ross' most epic adventures were chartered with her larger-than-life husband John Pinder, including the time they managed a beachside hotel in Sri Lanka. Things did not go as planned.
Dasha Ross has lived a life full of adventures, from nude modelling in Sydney and making films in Brazil, to renovating a nightclub in Harlem with a baby on her hip.
But Dasha's biggest adventures were with her beloved husband John Pinder, including the time the two of them took up a surprising offer to revamp and manage a beachside hotel in Sri Lanka.
Things did not go as planned as they battled typhoons, demanding guests and a meddling, possibly murderous, manager.
This episode of Conversations explores epic adventures, cancer, the death of a loved one, grief, travel, Sri Lanka, Harlem, New York City, film production, journalism, film making, Brazil, marriage, amnesia, brain conditions, medical enigmas.
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