What’s up, Brave Table fam? It’s Dr. Neeta here, your sassy, warm, and always-brave guide to unpacking life’s biggest questions. This week, we’re diving into a conversation that will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about productivity. Are you addicted to the hustle? Is your self-worth wrapped up in your to-do list? Well, buckle up, because today, the brilliant Israa Nasir—psychotherapist, mental health educator, and author of Toxic Productivity—is here to shake things up. Israa gets real about the immigrant hustle mentality, self-worth, and how shame and toxic productivity can sneak into our lives. We explore why achievement often equals acceptance in immigrant communities and how we can break free from these cycles to embrace joy, rest, and intentional living. This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a full-on permission slip to savor the slow and redefine what success looks like for you. Get ready to feel seen, heard, and totally inspired. What you'll get out of this episode…  Your worth isn’t your to-do list—your value is inherent, not earned! Rest isn’t lazy—it’s revolutionary, fueling your creativity and joy! Break the immigrant hustle mentality—success doesn’t require self-sacrifice! Triggers aren’t the enemy—your reactions are; manage them to build resilience. Self-awareness is your superpower—ask “Why?” to reclaim your time and energy. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] Welcome to The Brave Table + Meet Israa Nasir [00:02:00] What Is Toxic Productivity? [00:07:00] Israa’s Journey from Hustle to Healing [00:16:00] The Checklist Lifestyle: Why We All Deserve More [00:22:00] Self-Worth vs. Self-Esteem: Understanding the Difference [00:27:00] Productivity Dysmorphia: Why It’s Never “Good Enough” [00:33:00] Braving Difficult Conversations with Family [00:40:00] Managing Unresolved Shame and Triggers [00:46:00] The Art of Rest and Rejuvenation [00:53:00] How to Redefine Laziness + Where to Get the Book To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Israa Nasir IG /  @well.guide LINKEDIN / Israa Nasir  TIKTOK / @israajnasir Order Israa’s book “ Toxic Productivity” here  → https://www.israanasir.com/toxic-productivity Want more? Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 278: Why We Fear Rest: Unpacking the Guilt Behind Taking a Break with Dr. Neeta Bhushan  (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 223: What the real roots are beneath Perfectionism, Pleasing, Pushing Yourself with Dr Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 203: Here’s Why Chasing After Happiness Can Be Burning You Out  (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Hey loves, welcome back to The Brave Table! 💫 Today, we’re diving into one of the most requested topics: dating in the modern world. And guess what? You’re in for a treat. I’m sitting down with the OG Dating Coach himself, Evan Marc Katz—the world’s first dating coach and a bestselling author. He’s guided over 13,000 women through his Love U University, helping smart, strong, and successful women find lasting love. In this rollercoaster episode, Evan and I unpack why the dating apps feel broken, how to make meaningful connections in a swipe-culture, and why your checklist might be sabotaging your love life. He spills the tea on compatibility, courtship, and how to build a "dating practice" that works. Plus, we deep-dive into the five C’s you need for a thriving relationship: Character, Kindness, Consistency, Communication, and Connection. Trust me, this episode is dripping with insight and actionable tips to help you rewrite your love story. What you'll get out of this episode…  Spend 30 minutes daily on intentional dating—like a workout for your love life. Focus on lasting qualities over looks—compatibility beats attraction. Prioritize Character, Kindness, Consistency, Communication, and Connection in love. Use dating apps for meaningful introductions—flirt, connect, and screen before meeting. Never settle for someone who treats you worse than your dating coach would. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] Intro: Why the dating world feels broken [00:01:50] Meet Evan Marc Katz: The OG dating coach [00:03:45] Are you attracting the wrong men? [00:07:15] How dating apps have changed courtship [00:11:00] Building a “dating practice” that works [00:16:30] The 5 C’s of a healthy, lasting relationship [00:24:45] The illusion of connection on dating apps [00:27:50] Reframing the paradox of choice in dating [00:36:15] Neeta’s personal journey to finding love [00:45:20] How Evan’s Love U program transforms lives [00:50:30] Outro + Special gifts for The Brave Table fam To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL HERE Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Evan Marc Katz IG /  @realevanmarckatz YOUTUBE / Evan Marc Katz FACEBOOK / Evan Marc Katz PODCAST / The Love U Podcast Learn the 7 Massive Mistakes You’re Making in Dating: https://www.evanmarckatz.com/bravetable Book a free discovery call with Evan →  https://www.evanmarckatz.com/now Want more? Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 199: Heartbroken? Here’s How to HEAL and ATTRACT the Love You Deserve with Adora Aiza (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 209: 3 Secrets to HEALTHY FIGHTS Every Couple Should Master with Dr. Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 224: How Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies Can Revolutionize Society with Teal Swan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Unpack your emotional baggage and explore the significance of healing your inner child. Dive into the complexities of holiday triggers that can bring up old wounds. Learn practical tools like journaling and self-reflection to reparent yourself and cultivate compassion. Discover how family dynamics don’t have to define your self-worth. Embrace a journey of transformation and empowerment by nurturing your inner self, allowing for growth in personal relationships.

Hello Brave Table fam! What does it take to become one of only 20 women to build and exit a billion-dollar business? In this candid and inspiring conversation, I sit down with the powerhouse that is Suneera Madhani, a trailblazer in the male-dominated FinTech industry. We dive into everything from the grit of immigrant upbringing to breaking barriers as a woman of color in corporate America, and the art of building meaningful relationships that open doors. Suneera doesn’t hold back as she shares the raw realities of balancing ambition with motherhood, navigating burnout, and redefining success on her terms. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a mom juggling a million hats, or someone dreaming big but unsure where to start, this episode will ignite your inner fire. Get ready to laugh, cry, and take copious notes because Suneera’s wisdom is pure gold. What you'll get out of this episode…  Success isn’t about having ideas; it’s about executing them Building a diverse network unlocks opportunities and amplifies your impact. Adversity shapes you, but resilience empowers you to conquer every mountain True success begins with prioritizing your physical and mental health. True success lies in achieving freedom of time, thought, and impact—not just wealth. TIMESTAMPS [00:00] - Bravery in a male-dominated industry [01:00] - Suneera’s journey as one of 20 women to build and exit a billion-dollar company [02:00] - The immigrant hustle: Lessons from Suneera’s childhood [06:00] - Navigating corporate America as a woman of color [10:00] - The power of showing up authentically in the boys' club [16:00] - Managing a skyrocketing career and motherhood [20:00] - Execution vs. ideas: The key to entrepreneurial success [30:00] - Building equitable systems for small businesses with Worth [35:00] - The health wake-up call that changed everything [40:00] - Suneera’s morning routine and reclaiming her feminine energy [41:30] - How to connect with Suneera and join her empowering communities To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Suneera Madhani   IG /  @suneeramadhani WEB / https://suneeramadhani.com/ LINKEDIN / Suneera Madhani PODCAST /  CEO School Check your Business worth score here → https://worthai.com/business-credit-score/ Want more? Become a Certified Spiritual Life Coach ( grab the Early bird offer) →  Spiritual Life Coach program Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.#198: Build the Life YOU Want by Unlocking Your Next Vivid Vision with Jennifer Hudye (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#203: Here’s Why Chasing After Happiness Can Be Burning You Out with Dr. Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#243: How a Small Farm Business Brought Big Hope to a Rural Community With Seema Saroj (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Hey Brave Table fam! It’s solo-cast time, and we’re diving deep into a topic many of you have asked about—social anxiety. You know, that awkward, sweaty-palms feeling before a networking event, family gathering, or holiday party? Yeah, we’re tackling that head-on. In this episode, I’m sharing actionable tips to crush social anxiety and turn every interaction into a meaningful connection. From gamifying your conversations to mastering the art of mingling, this episode will empower you to show up fully as your authentic self. Plus, I spill the tea on my own awkward moments (hello, broken Hindi and introvert-hubby stories!) and share how you can reframe the way you approach social settings. Get ready to brave your edges, lean into your discomfort, and transform those “ugh” moments into “aha!” ones. KEY POINTS Get curious and make others feel seen. Meet people and learn three unique things about each. Bring engaging conversation starters. Visualize your confident self creating meaningful interactions. Practice the art of exiting gracefully Skip surface questions and ask something meaningful instead. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] Intro: Solo-cast vibes & why we’re diving into social anxiety [00:02:00] My personal struggles with shyness and social gatherings [00:05:00] Gamify your networking: A fun approach to meeting people [00:09:00] Broken Hindi moments: Navigating cultural insecurities [00:12:00] Conversation starters that actually work (+ card deck plug) [00:15:00] The art of exiting small talk gracefully [00:20:00] Why shallow questions suck (& what to ask instead) [00:22:00] Reframing social anxiety: From fear to meaningful connection To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Want more? Become a Certified Spiritual Life Coach ( grab the Early bird offer) →  Spiritual Life Coach program Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.#225: Beat Your Public Speaking Fear and Shine with Your True Self with Dr. Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#236: The Truth About Forever Relationships And What We're Getting Wrong with Dr. Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#245: How Self-Love Transforms Your Relationships: Attracting the Right People with Sanaiyah Gurnamal (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Loved this episode? Share it with your bestie, your introverted partner, or anyone navigating the holiday party circuit. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @thebravetable with your biggest takeaways! And remember, during this holiday season, be just a little bit more brave—in your actions, in your relationships, and in your life. See you next time, Brave Table fam! 🧡 Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Have you ever wondered if men and women can truly have platonic friendships—free from romantic tension? Or felt the pressure to abandon opposite-sex friendships in the name of a relationship? In this sizzling, soul-stirring episode of The Brave Table, I sit down with my two favorite brother besties—Himanshu Jocker, founder of Epic Businesses in Jaipur, India, and Erwin B. Valencia, a former mental health coach for the NBA and founder of the Gratitude Gang Foundation in the Philippines. Together, we dive into how opposite-sex friendships can enrich your life, your romantic relationships, and your personal growth. We discuss setting boundaries, navigating jealousy, and even the dynamics of “friend-zoning.” This is a must-listen if you’ve ever struggled to maintain balance between friendship and romance or wondered how to nurture healthy, meaningful relationships across the gender spectrum. 💡 Spoiler alert: You’ll leave with a renewed perspective on cultivating deep, authentic connections. What you'll get out of this episode…  Opposite-sex friendships enhance emotional growth, understanding, and life balance. Clear boundaries prevent misinterpretation in friendships. Jealousy arises from insecurity; love and action build trust. Authentic friendships enrich, not threaten, romantic relationships. Community approval means aligning with shared values and vision. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Introduction: Can men and women just be friends? 4:15 - Why opposite-sex friendships are crucial for emotional growth 9:50 - The Gen Z struggle: What’s your role in a friendship? 13:20 - Navigating blurred lines and setting boundaries 20:05 - Jealousy in relationships: How to address it head-on 28:40 - The importance of community approval in relationships 35:50 - Dim your light or embrace your truth? 44:00 - Lessons learned from ending toxic dynamics To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Erwin Benedict València  IG /  @erwinbvalencia WEB / www.gratitudegang.org YOUTUBE / @erwinbvalencia LINKEDIN / www.linkedin.com/in/erwinbvalencia TIKTOK / @erwinbvalencia YOUTUBE https://youtube.com/@erwinbvalencia   TWITTER/X/ @erwinbvalencia Clubhouse: @erwinbvalencia Grasshopper Project  → www.grasshopperproject.org  Connect with today’s guest, Himanshu Jakhar IG /  @himi.jakhar  Want more? Discover Your Unique Intuition Type → What’s your Unique Intuition Type Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 222: How Friendships and Self-Discovery Make Great Storytellers with Tehzeeb Ahmed (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 277: The Secret to Thriving Relationships: Boundaries, Healing, and Connection with Simone Heng (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 237: Finding Your Purpose With John Miles’ Passion Struck (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Hey Brave Table fam! Today, we’re diving into a topic so many of us wrestle with — rest! Why is it that we feel guilty when we take time for ourselves? Why does resting sometimes make us feel lazy or unproductive? Growing up in a household where rest was synonymous with "not enough," I get it. In this episode, I share my personal journey with redefining rest, unpacking those old narratives, and learning to truly savor the slow. I also reflect on insights from Dr. Avanti Singh, who reminds us of the dangers of constantly "pushing" — especially around the holidays when the pressure to "do it all" can feel overwhelming. So let's get comfortable, release the guilt, and step into a mindset where rest is not just okay — it’s necessary. Let’s explore this together and make peace with rest as part of our growth. What you'll get out of this episode…  Rest is an essential part of productivity, creativity, and well-being. Learning to Let Go Savor the Slow Rest creates space for miracles and unexpected opportunities Simple rituals remind us to slow down and embrace the present TIMESTAMPS [00:00:00] - Intro to the Brave Table [00:04:00] - Personal story: Family, rest, and health challenges [00:10:00] - Can we savor the slow and embrace boredom? [00:16:00] - The power of letting go and manifesting through rest [00:19:00] - Reframing rest with the “That Sucked, Now What?” Affirmation Deck To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Want more? Visit the website and order your free copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” ( just pay for shipping)  → neetabhushan.com/free-book-bonus/ Grab your Affirmation/ Conversation Card deck here → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/  Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.#196: The Secrets to Stepping Into Your Soft Girl Era Revealed with Simran Handa  (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#221: How to Calm Your Nervous System During Chaotic Moments with Dr. Navaz Habib  (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.#230: Why It’s NOT Selfish to Take Care of Your Mental Health with Karishma Patel (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Welcome back to The Brave Table, lovelies! Today’s episode is for anyone who’s ever felt the sting of a friendship breakup or the pull to step into a new version of themselves while navigating the complexities of relationships. I’m joined by none other than my beautiful friend, Simone Heng, author of Let's Talk About Loneliness and The Secret Pandemic. Simone is a human connection specialist, a former international broadcaster, and a powerhouse speaker. Together, we dive deep into the often-untold story of friendship breakups, how boundaries change everything after 40, and why true connection is the ultimate antidote to loneliness. If you’ve ever wondered if your relationships are in alignment or felt the pull to honor your boundaries unapologetically, this episode is for YOU! Get cozy, grab your tea (or wine!), and let's be brave together. What you'll get out of this episode…  As you age, you'll care less about others' opinions and confidently honor your boundaries. Friendship breakups are painful but open the door to more aligned connections. True connection conquers loneliness, thriving in deep, authentic relationships over superficial ones. Cultural differences shape us, but connection is universally vital. Healing begins with awareness of your needs and boundaries, whether in family, friendships, or personal growth. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Intro: Catching up with Simone Heng 04:30 – The “Ice Queen” Era: Why setting boundaries in your 40s is life-changing 12:45 – Friendship Breakups: How to heal and grow from loss 23:00 – Connection Science: The profound impact of feeling "seen" in society 36:15 – Navigating Family Dynamics: Boundaries and sisterhood 45:00 – Loneliness vs. Negative Connections: Which is worse? 51:30 – The Power of Relieving Cognitive Load in Communities 56:00 – Final Thoughts: Embracing your power, friendships, and self-alignment To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Simone Heng  IG /  @​​simoneheng WEB / https://simoneheng.com/ LINKEDIN / Simone Heng Take my friendship quiz here to find out what kind of connector you are: Friendship quiz Free-ebook Link: Your Questions on being an Author Book link: Let’s Talk About Loneliness Want more? Visit the website and order your copy of “That Sucked, Now What?”  → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/ Want to become a Certified Embodiment Coach? Learn more here → Here Learn more about Highest Self Institute and Dharma Coaching Institute → http://neetabhushan.com/dharma Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 232:  Simone Heng On Why Loneliness is Becoming the World's Next Big Health Problem (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 222:  How Friendships and Self-Discovery Make Great Storytellers with Tehzeeb Ahmed (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 226:  Healing From Trauma Through Self-Discovery and Inner Work with Sara Al Madani (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

Hello, Brave Table fam! Today, we're diving headfirst into the beautiful, wild, and sometimes downright chaotic world of motherhood. Imagine this: a morning filled with meltdowns, picky eaters, and somehow, no time for coffee! Sounds familiar? In this episode, I’m breaking down powerful techniques for creating a sanctuary of calm amidst all the crazy. This isn't just about managing; it's about reclaiming your inner peace. I share my top ways to re-center, from heart-centered grounding techniques to the science of "forest bathing" and therapeutic castor oil rituals. Get ready to take your self-care to the next level. Whether you’re a mom or simply navigating a busy life, these are your go-to tools to come back to yourself. Get ready to embrace a little more peace and a lot more power—it's time to bring the calm within you to the chaos around you! What you'll get out of this episode…  Recognizing nervous system triggers helps you respond mindfully Spending time in nature is calming and helps restore your mind and body. Heart-centered grounding, deep breathing, and daily movement improves your mood and reduces stress. Integrate a Nightly Wind-Down Routine Empower Your Children with Emotional Awareness TIMESTAMPS 0:05 – Introduction: Picture-perfect mom chaos and why we need to reset  2:27 – Creating Safety in Your Own Body: Techniques to avoid emotional spillover  4:50 – Signs of Nervous System Dysregulation: Understanding and identifying your triggers 7:10 – Connecting with Nature: How forest bathing can soothe your soul  11:45 – Practical Tools for Self-Regulation: Heart-centered grounding and breathwork  16:10 – Breathing Techniques for Calm: Simple exercises to reconnect with yourself  21:05 – Dance It Out: The power of movement to release stored emotions  23:00 – Nighttime Rituals: Epsom salt baths, castor oil applications, and the magic of magnesium To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Want more? Visit the website and order your copy of “That Sucked, Now What?” for free ( just pay for the shipping cost)  → ⁠https://neetabhushan.com/book-offer-bonus⁠ Grab the Conversation cards here → ⁠https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/⁠ Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com   If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 196: The Secrets to Stepping Into Your Soft Girl Era Revealed with Simran Handa (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 216: How to Take Back Your Mind: A Guide to Mental Clarity with Dr. Michael Beckwith (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Ep.# 268: Braving Health in a Busy World with Dr. Neeta Bhushan (Apple | Spotify | YouTube) Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.

In this episode of The Brave Table, I’m joined by the radiant Kanika Chadda Gupta—CNN journalist-turned-podcaster, mother of three, and host of the acclaimed podcast That's Total Mom Sense. Kanika shares her journey from media mogul to motherhood, offering insights into balancing career ambitions, navigating postpartum emotions, and trusting your intuition. She also reveals her “Straight-A Philosophy” for raising children with agency, autonomy, and advocacy. As host of That's Total Mom Sense, ranked #1 on Goodpods for parenting, Kanika has interviewed public figures like Chelsea Clinton, Kelly Rowland, and Kareena Kapoor Khan. Her work has been featured in Forbes, ABC, NBC, and more, and she’s been recognized by KNOW Women as one of “100 Women to Know.” This conversation will inspire you to embrace every season of life with confidence and grace. Let’s dive in! What you'll get out of this episode…  The power of trusting your intuition and advocating for yourself when others doubt you. The emotional challenges of postpartum life and the need to lean on your support network. The "straight-A philosophy" empowers children to decide, learn, and advocate for themselves. The importance of celebrating heritage and legacy It takes a village—don't hesitate to seek help, whether from a postpartum hotline or family, every bit matters. TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Welcome and Introduction to Kanika Chadda Gupta 10:00 - The power of intuition and advocating for yourself in medical situations 23:00 - The importance of taking help and the postpartum experience 32:00 - Raising children with agency, autonomy, and advocacy 40:00 - Embracing cultural traditions and passing them down 47:00 - What it means to be brave and legacy building To receive a free gift, email a screenshot of your 5-star review of The Brave Table to support@globalgrit.co 😘 Follow along for more tips, community, and resources to brave a better you! IG / @neetabhushan  IG / @thebravetable  TIKTOK / @neeta.bhushan WEB / https://neetabhushan.com YOUTUBE / @NeetaBhushanOfficial Connect with today’s guest, Kanika Chadda Gupta IG /  @​​kanikachaddagupta WEB / http://www.thatstotalmomsense.com/ YOUTUBE / Kanika Chadda Gupta LINKEDIN /  Kanika Chadda Gupta TIKTOK / Kanika Chadda Gupta PODCAST / That's Total mom sense Want more? Visit the website and order your copy of “That Sucked, Now What?”  → https://thatsuckednowwhat.com/ Take just 2 minutes and find what YOUR emotional type is by taking  my FREE quiz here →  theemotionalreset.com/quiz For a weekly dose of my hacks, tools, & tips to emotionally reset, join my newsletter here → yourweeklyreset.com If you loved this episode, check out… Ep.# 231: The Journey of Healing Through Motherhood With Tennis Star Shheethal Robin Uthappa (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)  Ep.# 241: How To Turn Your Child’s “Mental Mess” Into Resilience with Dr. Caroline Leaf (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)  Ep.# 246: Parenting Plot Twist: Your Kids Can Help You Heal Generational Trauma with Dr. Neeta Bhushan  (Apple | Spotify | YouTube)  Dr. Neeta Bhushan is a 5x Award Winning Author & world-renowned emotional health advocate & human connection expert. She’s written multiple best-selling books including her most recent book, That Sucked, Now What endorsed by Jay Shetty, Host of the Top 50 Mental Health Podcast The Brave Table, & CEO of Highest Self Institute, a coaching organization training coaches to become the highest versions of themselves. She’s been featured on Forbes, LA Weekly, ABC, NBC, CBS, Grazia, Ok! Magazine, Verve Magazine & Tatler.  After realizing how trapped she felt running the million-dollar dental practice she built, Neeta embarked on a journey that led her across 45 countries as she researched blending the intersection of human behavior, ancient wisdom, Eastern philosophy, and therapeutic psychology. That knowledge, along with other life experiences overcoming multiple adversities, which include being orphaned at a young age, surviving an abusive marriage, and extensive loss, contributed to the powerful message of resilience & connection she shares in her work. Neeta is a mother of two young children, wellness junkie & lover of chai.