Unscripted With Karishma Patel

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by the magnetic and multi-talented DJ Cassandra Shankman: a sound curator, community builder, and Austin’s Best DJ (yes, she won the title!). Cassandra is a creative force in the city’s music scene, and in this convo, we dive into her journey, what it really means to create a vibe, and how music has always been a bridge between her identity, community, and purpose.She shares how she found her voice through sound, what inspires her sets, and why creating inclusive, intentional spaces through music matters now more than ever. From live events to personal growth, this conversation is about honoring your roots, trusting your rhythm, and showing up with realness, on and off the stage.In this episode:How Cassandra got started as a DJ and found her signature soundWhat it meant to be named Austin’s Best DJThe emotional power of music and its role in storytellingCreating inclusive spaces through intention and energyNavigating identity, creativity, and authenticity in male-dominated spacesWhat connection through sound really looks like and why it mattersWhether you’re into music, energy, or stories that move you. This one will leave you feeling inspired to turn the volume up on your own path.Connect with CassandraInstagram: www.instagram.com/djcassandra_Stay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Saral Sethi—the voice behind The Steak & Eggs—to unpack the unspoken thoughts he shares (and sometimes doesn’t) on relationships, masculinity, marriage, and modern-day self-awareness.Saral opens up about why he started the page, what inspired him to finally say the things most people don’t, and how marriage has shifted his perspective on life, love, and growth. We talk about vulnerability, gender roles, the power of pausing before reacting, and the humor that keeps it all grounded.Whether you’ve read one of his posts and said “Wait… SAME,” or you’re just curious about what really goes on in a guy’s mind—this episode brings the honest, hilarious, and unexpectedly insightful energy you didn’t know you needed.In this episode:The origin story of The Steak & EggsWhat men really talk about (and don’t)Marriage lessons, the hard convos, and finding balanceHow writing became Saral’s way of processingHumor, honesty, and calling yourself out—in a good wayConnect with Saral:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesteakandeggsStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with the vibrant and fearless Shreya Kolluri—realtor, content creator, and unapologetically herself. We dive into her journey of coming out as a queer South Asian woman, navigating relationships, family dynamics, and how she’s building a career in real estate while living life on her own terms.This conversation is real, raw, and full of warmth. Shreya opens up about what it was like coming out to her parents, finding acceptance within herself, and creating a life where authenticity leads the way. We also talk about what it means to break cultural expectations, build community, and show up boldly—both personally and professionally.In this episode:Shreya’s coming out journey and redefining “normal”Navigating identity in the South Asian and LGBTQ+ communitiesReal talk on love, relationships, and living with a partnerWhat it’s really like working in real estate as a queer woman of colorOwning your truth—and turning it into your powerWhether you’re on your own journey of self-discovery or just love hearing inspiring stories, this one’s for you.Connect with Shreya:Instagram: www.instagram.com/shreyakolluriTikTok: www.tiktok.com/shreyakolluriStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions around mental health, including topics of suicide. Please take care while listening, and prioritize your well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available.In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Dr. Natasha Gambhir—known online as Dr. Psych & Styles—to talk all things mental health, identity, and personal style. Natasha is a licensed clinical psychologist who's rewriting the rules of what a therapist “should” look like. We dive into how fashion became her form of self-expression, why therapy is anything but boring, and how she’s helping others heal while staying true to herself.We also chat about confidence, culture, and navigating the world as a South Asian woman balancing science and creativity. Whether you're in therapy, thinking about it, or just here for the fashion inspo—this one’s for you.In this episode:How Natasha chose psychology as her careerBreaking the stigma around therapy in our communitiesFinding confidence through authenticityWhat it's really like being a therapist on social mediaStyle tips and the power of dressing for yourselfHit play and get ready for a real, raw, and stylish convo.Connect with Natasha:Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.psychandstylesStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with the incredibly confident, warm, and inspiring Dhanvi Sandesara, founder of Ilume Artistry Co. What started as a love for beauty has evolved into a luxury bridal makeup brand that empowers women to show up fully — inside and out.We talk about the creation of Ilume, what it means to build a brand rooted in confidence, and how Dhanvi balances motherhood, entrepreneurship, and showing up authentically online. She opens up about her journey from working at MAC and NARS to becoming a full-time business owner, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the mindset that keeps her grounded and glowing.This episode is for anyone building something meaningful, redefining beauty on their own terms, or simply learning how to believe in themselves a little more.In this episode, we cover:The inspiration behind Ilume Artistry Co and what it stands forWhat luxury beauty means beyond just the lookHow confidence became a key part of her brand and personal storyNavigating business ownership, motherhood, and identityBuilding boundaries, finding balance, and staying true to your visionThe power of representation and showing up unapologeticallyAdvice for creatives, entrepreneurs, and aspiring makeup artistsConnect with Dhanvi:Instagram: www.instagram.com/ilumeartistrycoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ilumeartistryco?_t=ZT-8vhx4Dzk57a&_r=1Website: https://www.ilumeartistryco.com/Stay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleWebsite: www.thrivewithkp.com Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with visionary entrepreneur Ritesh Agarwal, the founder and CEO of OYO, to talk about building one of the world’s largest hospitality brands — and all the risk, resilience, and reinvention it took to get there.From launching his first startup as a teenager to becoming the youngest self-made billionaire from India, Ritesh opens up about the highs, the hurdles, and the mindset that’s powered his journey. We dive into how he navigated rejection, scaled globally, stayed grounded through rapid growth, and continues to evolve as a leader and innovator.Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a dreamer in motion, or someone curious about the real story behind big success — this conversation is packed with wisdom, heart, and seriously valuable takeaways.In this episode, we talk about:The early days of OYO and what sparked the ideaWhat taking risks looked like at 17 — and what it looks like nowHow Ritesh handled failure, rejection, and pressure at a young ageThe mindset that helped him scale OYO across countriesStaying grounded while leading at a global levelHow he reinvents himself personally and professionally through each phase of growthAdvice for young entrepreneurs navigating uncertainty or big dreamsWhat success means to him now, beyond the numbersConnect with Ritesh Agarwal:Instagram: www.instagram.com/riteshagarYoutube: https://youtu.be/NlNqZVQbX4AStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by the incredibly talented and driven Bella Garza — full-time baker, content creator, and founder of her own baking business, Bella Bakes in Austin. But Bella isn’t just a baker. She’s a visionary, a hustler, and a creative building something truly her own from the ground up.We get into her journey of turning a passion for baking into a full-time career, the behind-the-scenes of growing a business in real-time, and how she balances creativity with entrepreneurship. Bella shares what it’s really like to go all-in on yourself — the fears, the freedom, and the sweet rewards.This episode is about more than cupcakes and cookies. It’s about building something that reflects who you are, taking risks, staying inspired, and learning to own your path even when it doesn’t follow a traditional recipe.In this episode, we talk about:Bella’s journey from baking as a hobby to building her brandWhat it means to be a creative and a business owner at the same timeThe day-to-day realities of being a full-time entrepreneurHow she finds inspiration and keeps baking funThe ups and downs of social media as a creatorNavigating burnout, boundaries, and staying groundedWhy community matters and how Austin has shaped her storyConnect with Bella Garza:Instagram: www.instagram.com/bellaabakesssStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with the incredible Ngozi Musa — a track athlete turned creative force — to talk about her evolution as a runner, content creator, and all-around powerhouse.From D1 sprinting to building a personal brand, Ngozi shares the behind-the-scenes of her unique journey: the discipline and identity that came with competing at a high level, how her mindset has shifted since stepping off the track, and how she’s now building a life that’s rooted in both movement and creativity.We talk about the duality of being both athlete and artist, the pressure to perform, and the process of figuring out who you are beyond what you do. Ngozi opens up about identity, consistency, confidence, and the beauty of evolving while staying grounded in your truth.Whether you're chasing a goal, redefining your path, or just trying to stay in flow—this episode will speak to you.In this episode, we cover:Ngozi’s background as a competitive runner and her relationship with the sportTransitioning from athlete to creator and what that looked and felt likeThe role of discipline, routine, and mindset in both running and content creationLearning to listen to your body and intuitionNavigating identity beyond athletics or external validationHow she’s finding her voice in the digital spaceWhat creativity and “flow” mean to her nowConnect with Ngozi Musa:Instagram: www.instagram.com/ngozimusaStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:This week on Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by none other than the multi-hyphenate powerhouse, Jyoti Chand — writer, content creator, stand-up comic, and full-time mom of three. If you’ve ever seen her viral Reels or laughed at her hilariously relatable takes on parenting, you already know: Jyoti keeps it so real.In this heartwarming and unfiltered conversation, we dive into the inspiration behind her upcoming book, what it’s really like raising a family while building a personal brand, and how she navigates the emotional rollercoaster of motherhood — all while staying grounded, funny, and fiercely authentic.Jyoti opens up about the pressure of being a “mom influencer,” how she protects her mental health in the chaos, and the importance of showing the messy parts of life online. We also talk about identity, creativity, burnout, cultural expectations, and the moments she almost gave up — and why she didn’t.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed, underestimated, or just in need of a good laugh and a reminder that they’re not alone.In this episode, we cover:The story behind Jyoti’s new book and what pushed her to write itBalancing mom life, content creation, and mental wellnessWhat it means to “influence” when you’re just trying to survive bedtimeHow she navigates vulnerability vs. performance on social mediaThe reality of being a South Asian woman raising kids in today’s worldWhat’s next for Jyoti — and what she’s learning to let go ofRapid Fire Round:Stick around for a fun rapid-fire Q&A where Jyoti and I have some fun and she shares something I definitely did not see coming!Connect with Jyoti:Instagram: www.instagram.com/mamajotesWebsite/Book Info: https://a.co/d/di7yMbLStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode OverviewAND WE ARE BACK FOR ROUND 2! If you’re tired of the same old social media advice that doesn’t actually work, this episode is for you. I’m sitting down with Sejal Patel (@socialsej)—a social media strategist and content creator who knows exactly what it takes to grow online without the gimmicks.In this no-BS conversation, we’re cutting through the fluff and talking about what really works, what’s completely overrated, and how to build a strategy that actually gets results. Whether you're a new creator or looking to level up, Sejal drops insights you won’t hear from most "social media gurus."What We Talk About:The Chaos & The FunThe biggest challenge Sejal has faced as a creator—and how she pushed through itThe funniest or weirdest DM she’s ever received from a followerThe Social Media Hot Takes & EducationThe most overhyped social media strategies that need to goThe worst social media advice that people still believeIf you only have 10 minutes a day, here’s where you should focus your energyThe biggest mistake new creators make and how to fix itA social media trend that secretly makes Sejal roll her eyesRapid Fire – No Overthinking!Would you rather go viral for something embarrassing or never go viral at all?Accidentally post your analytics dashboard or your content calendar for six months?Every photo you post is slightly blurry or every caption has a typo you can’t edit?Have to talk in every single video or do an hour-long live stream every week with zero viewers?Sejal’s Personal ReflectionsA bucket-list milestone she hopes to hit in her content creator journeyHer personal mantra that keeps her motivated on tough daysGuest Spotlight: Sejal Patel (@socialsej)Sejal Patel is a social media strategist and content creator who helps brands and creators grow authentically. She’s known for her no-BS approach to social media, helping people cut through the noise and focus on what actually works.Follow Sejal:Instagram: www.instagram.com/socialsej Stay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show