

A Millennial Mind
Shivani Pau
A Millennial Mind is a podcast about perspective, because when you understand someone’s mind, you understand their world. But we all live with limited data. Our beliefs, experiences, and knowledge are just a few dots. And if you don’t collect enough dots, you can’t connect them and you can’t grow.That’s why this podcast exists: to gather those dots.Each episode, I invite experts, thought leaders, and change makers to challenge how I think, on everything from mental health, hormones, and habits to relationships, identity, and success. We bust myths, reframe narratives, and explore what it really takes to shift your mindset. Because when you change your mind, you change your thoughts.And when you change your thoughts, you change your life. So if you’re ready to think differently, welcome to the reimagined A Millennial Mind.Hit subscribe and let’s start connecting the dots together.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 12, 2025 • 15min
Toxic In-Laws: Save Your Marriage Before It's Too Late! | AMM Minutes
77% of marriages END because of In-Laws... Will yours be next?
This week on Millennial Mind, I chat with therapist Harriet Shearsmith about toxic parenting, recognising if you experienced childhood trauma and how to break the cycle and become the parent you WANT to be, not what you HAD.
This week's AMM Minutes highlight, Harriet and I discuss the complexities of in-law relationships. We explore how family dynamics can cause tension, the impact of childhood experiences, and the importance of maintaining authenticity and boundaries.
Harriet shares valuable insights on recognising toxic versus healthy family environments and emphasises the role of emotional maturity in resolving conflicts. Catch the full episode for a deeper dive into these essential relationship dynamics.
A breakdown of what we cover:
00:00 Introduction: The In-Law Relationship Dilemma
00:13 The Impact of In-Laws on Relationships
00:30 Navigating Family Dynamics and Childhood Trauma
02:14 Changing the Narrative with In-Laws
02:49 Family Enmeshment and Boundaries
09:11 Authenticity and Expectations in In-Law Relationships
12:09 Identifying Toxic vs. Healthy Family Dynamics
13:27 Conclusion: Handling Conflicts and Emotional Maturity
Have you ever experienced a relationship breakdown due to toxic or bad relationships with your parents-in-law?
Watch the full episode with Harriet here: https://youtu.be/wRBxZS-M0p4
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠
Credits:
Filmed & Edited by HAMLIN STUDIOS: https://www.instagram.com/hamlinstudios/?hl=en-gb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 11min
End Generational Trauma: Heal Your Inner Child From Toxic Parenting | A Millennial Mind
"You aren't just an 'old soul', you had a toxic parent"
Have you ever thought to yourself, 'This is just the way I am'? That could be a result of childhood trauma. In this revealing episode of 'A Millennial Mind,' I sit down with Harriet Shearsmith, an award-winning content creator and parenting advocate, to discuss the often hidden conversations surrounding family toxicity and breaking generational cycles.
Harriet shares her insights on addressing difficult family dynamics, establishing healthy boundaries, and improving relationships with in-laws. We delve into the realities of family dysfunction, the impacts of parentification, and provide practical advice on overcoming guilt and obligation in familial relationships.
This week's episode includes a paid advertisement for Better Help. You can get your exclusive discount as a Millennial Mind listener using the link www.betterhelp.com/millennialmind to start your therapy journey and become your best self.
In this episode, we will cover:
00:00 Introduction: The Unspoken Conversation
00:14 The Impact of In-Laws on Relationships
00:33 Personal Growth Through Family Dynamics
00:52 Sponsor Message: Lovable AI Platform
01:47 Introducing Today's Guest: Harriet Shearsmith
02:20 Breaking Generational Cycles
04:10 Understanding Cycle Breaking
04:44 Common Patterns in Family Dynamics
05:56 The Role of Early Childhood in Shaping Behaviour
06:35 Navigating Family Dysfunction
13:27 The Challenge of Confronting Parents
23:31 The Concept of Parentification
35:21 Estrangement and Reconciliation
38:01 Avoiding Confrontation: The Pain of Acceptance
38:58 Healing from Family Estrangement
40:31 The Power of Community Healing
41:19 Practical Tools for Emotional Release
43:41 Navigating In-Law Relationships
52:46 Setting Boundaries with In-Laws
55:57 Understanding Toxic vs. Healthy Family Dynamics
57:57 Choosing Between Partner and Parents
01:01:21 The Importance of Boundaries and Cycle Breaking
01:08:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
**AD**This episode is sponsored by Lovable, an AI tool that lets you create beautiful, functional websites in minutes just by typing a few prompts. So if you’re planning a wedding, launching a brand, or just want a sleek site without the tech stress, Lovable makes it so simple.No tech skills needed. Just your ideas. Give it a go and start your free trial at https://lovable.dev#ad #LovablePartner
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 5, 2025 • 11min
Tell your boss how you REALLY feel with these easy steps! | AMM Minutes
In this small section of this week's bigger episode of 'A Millennial Mind,' I sit down with the insightful Heather Elkington to explore why people, especially Gen Z, frequently change jobs due to career growth and feeling undervalued.
Heather shares compelling statistics from LinkedIn and discusses the inherent need for people-pleasing and its impact on professional life. We delve into the challenges of difficult conversations, the importance of being transparent about our needs, and how to identify and prioritise tasks that truly energise us.
Watch the full episode here! 💖 https://youtu.be/jDmZmTIWkto
00:00 Understanding People Pleasing and Job Hopping
01:13 The Evolutionary Roots of People Pleasing
01:50 The Modern Dilemma of Saying Yes
03:26 The Cost of Avoiding Difficult Conversations
04:50 Evaluating Your Commitments
06:45 Defining and Leveraging Your Strengths
08:20 The Importance of Preparation and Caring
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 5, 2025 • 11min
Tell your boss how you REALLY feel with these easy steps! | AMM Minutes
In this small section of this week's bigger episode of 'A Millennial Mind,' I sit down with the insightful Heather Elkington to explore why people, especially Gen Z, frequently change jobs due to career growth and feeling undervalued.
Heather shares compelling statistics from LinkedIn and discusses the inherent need for people-pleasing and its impact on professional life. We delve into the challenges of difficult conversations, the importance of being transparent about our needs, and how to identify and prioritise tasks that truly energise us.
Watch the full episode here! 💖 https://youtu.be/jDmZmTIWkto
00:00 Understanding People Pleasing and Job Hopping
01:13 The Evolutionary Roots of People Pleasing
01:50 The Modern Dilemma of Saying Yes
03:26 The Cost of Avoiding Difficult Conversations
04:50 Evaluating Your Commitments
06:45 Defining and Leveraging Your Strengths
08:20 The Importance of Preparation and Caring
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 2, 2025 • 1h 15min
Leadership Expert: "Gen Z Aren't LAZY, You just Don't Know How To Manage Them!"
In this episode of 'A Millennial Mind', I'm joined by Heather Elkington, a leadership expert and first-time author of 'Your Boss Era'. Heather shares her journey from studying outdated leadership models to redefining management in a small startup, growing it significantly, and finally navigating through the corporate world. We discuss the apparent differences in work ethics between millennials and Gen Z, the importance of transparency in the workplace, and why embracing hard conversations is crucial for effective leadership. Heather also sheds light on the importance of intentionality in work, the pitfalls of toxic meetings, and the significant shifts in workplace dynamics post-COVID. Tune in for a deep dive into managing Gen Z, fostering a high-performance culture, and the essential elements of being a great leader.
00:00 Introduction: Millennials vs. Gen Z Work Ethic
00:50 Meet Heather Elkington: Leadership Expert
03:04 Heather's Career Journey and Insights
06:05 The Impact of COVID on the Workplace
12:40 Transparency and Trust in Leadership
25:12 Balancing Work Hours and Burnout
37:19 The Challenge of People Pleasing and Career Growth
41:30 The Importance of Confrontation
41:57 Evaluating Your Social and Work Calendar
42:38 Balancing Wedding Planning and Work
43:46 Understanding and Leveraging Your Strengths
47:21 Emotional Intelligence and Energy Awareness
49:55 The Art of Confrontation: A Four-Step Framework
55:13 Transparency in the Workplace
01:00:29 The Reality of Entrepreneurship
01:04:10 The Challenges of Balancing Roles and Responsibilities
01:05:24 Advice for Managers and Employees
01:10:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 15, 2025 • 13min
Dr Tara: How Swinging And Sex Parties Can Save Your Relationship! | AMM Minutes
In this small section from this week's episode, I sit down with Dr. Tara to explore the fascinating world of swingers, especially within the Indian community. We break down the key differences between swingers and sex parties, the unique symbols used within the swinger community, and the vital importance of communication and consent in non-monogamous relationships. Dr. Tara also sheds light on overcoming societal stigma and the benefits of hiring a non-monogamy coach. Tune in for an insightful and candid discussion that challenges traditional relationship norms.
00:00 Introduction to Swinging in the Indian Community
01:17 Exploring Swingers and Their Signs
02:26 Rules and Communication in Swinging
04:30 Sex Parties: What to Expect
06:25 Navigating Non-Monogamous Relationships
10:04 Overcoming Stigma and Building Supportive Relationships
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 2min
Non-Monogamy: Is Sexual Monogamy the Downfall of Relationships? Sex & Relationship Expert Dr Tara
This week on A Millennial Mind, I'm joined by Dr. Tara, a leading expert in sex and relationships, to dive deep into the realities and misconceptions surrounding monogamy. We explore whether monogamy actually works, discuss the rise of ethical non-monogamy, and highlight the importance of communication and consent in all relationships. Dr. Tara also shares her personal journey from a conservative background to becoming a sex-positive influencer.
What we'll cover:
00:00 Introduction: Does Monogamy Actually Work?
00:51 Sponsor Message: Lovable AI Platform
01:46 Exploring Modern Love and Relationships
03:04 Guest Introduction: Dr. Tara's Expertise
05:13 Defining Monogamy in Today's Society
07:21 The Challenges of Sexual Monogamy
09:03 Evolutionary Perspectives on Monogamy
14:24 Ethical Non-Monogamy and Self-Worth
22:03 Understanding Different Types of Non-Monogamy
30:48 Communicating Non-Monogamy in Relationships
32:29 The Goal of Parenting and Emotional Infidelity
35:25 Cultural Misconceptions and Upbringing
37:52 Journey to Sexual Liberation
40:55 Swingers and Sex Parties
45:37 Navigating Non-Monogamous Relationships
53:13 Respect and Value in Relationships
56:53 Concluding Thoughts on Monogamy and Non-Monogamy
Whether you're curious, open-minded, or questioning traditional views on love and commitment, this episode promises to challenge your perspectives and encourage meaningful conversations. Join us as we uncover what it really means to build a relationship that reflects your values.
**AD**
This episode is sponsored by Lovable, an AI tool that lets you create beautiful, functional websites in minutes just by typing a few prompts. So if you’re planning a wedding, launching a brand, or just want a sleek site without the tech stress , Lovable makes it so simple.
No tech skills needed. Just your ideas. Give it a go and start your free trial at https://lovable.dev
#ad #LovablePartner
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 8, 2025 • 12min
How To Be Successful But STILL Find Joy! | AMM Minutes
In this clip from this week's full episode, I sit down with Dr. Judith Joseph to explore the nuances of high functioning depression, a condition still not widely recognised by the medical community. We discuss the critical role of identifying early signs and symptoms, such as anhedonia and psychomotor agitation, before they escalate into a crisis.
Dr. Joseph highlights the disparity between advancements in physical and mental health approaches and stresses the importance of incorporating daily moments of joy to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. Tune in for practical advice on how to manage success without sacrificing happiness.
00:00 Understanding Anhedonia and High Functioning Depression
00:47 The Renaissance in Physical Health vs. Mental Health
01:31 Identifying Signs of High Functioning Depression
02:43 The Impact of Restlessness on Joy
06:16 Balancing Success and Joy
08:49 The Role of Gratitude and Other Emotions in Happiness
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 5, 2025 • 55min
5 Signs You're Living With High Functioning Depression | Top Psychiatrist: Dr Judith Joseph
In this insightful episode, I sit down with Dr. Judith Joseph, a leading psychiatrist and author of 'High Functioning: Overcome Your Hidden Depression and Start to Reclaim Your Joy.' We delve deep into the often misunderstood realm of high-functioning depression—where individuals maintain external success while silently struggling with inner turmoil.
Dr. Joseph explains the differences between happiness and joy, the symptoms of high-functioning depression, and the crucial concept of anhedonia (a lack of joy and interest). She also shares practical advice on how to detect and address hidden depression before it leads to a crisis. This episode is for anyone who has ever been told, 'but you don't look depressed' and is seeking to understand the science of joy and happiness.
Tune in to gain a fresh perspective and practical tools for reclaiming your mental well-being.
00:00 Understanding Clinical Depression Beyond Sadness
00:13 The Divide Between Happiness and Joy
01:46 Introducing Dr. Judith Joseph and Her New Book
02:12 Exploring High Functioning Depression
05:26 The Science of Happiness and Joy
10:05 Identifying and Addressing Anhedonia
14:16 The Importance of Preventative Mental Health
20:24 Balancing Success and Joy
27:34 The Impact of Social Circles on Joy
27:50 The Struggle of Sharing Difficulties
29:00 Invalidation and Toxic Friendships
29:57 Cultural and Religious Invalidation
31:26 Understanding High-Functioning Depression
32:41 The Importance of Validation
38:48 Mental Health Across Cultures
41:19 Supporting a Partner with Depression
48:16 Lifestyle Changes for High-Functioning Depression
50:55 Final Thoughts on High-Functioning Depression
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 1, 2025 • 17min
Living In Circadian Alignment Will Make You Live Longer! | AMM Minutes
Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/snm5MB0oMjA
This week's guest is Ayurvedic health consultant, Dr Sam Watts. In this small section of our full weekly episode, we dive deep into the fundamental importance of circadian alignment for not only cancer prevention but overall health and longevity.
Sam breaks down the science behind circadian medicine, including its Nobel Prize-winning recognition in 2018, and explains how even our ancient Palaeolithic genome influences our need for natural light exposure. We discuss the detrimental effects of circadian misalignment, now classified as a type 1A carcinogen, and provide practical tips for achieving optimal circadian rhythms by aligning sleep and wake cycles with natural light patterns.
Join us for a comprehensive guide on how to live a healthier, happier life through circadian alignment.
So tell me... Did we change your mind? 🤔
00:00 The Importance of Circadian Alignment
01:30 Circadian Misalignment: A Modern Carcinogen
01:58 The Evolutionary Perspective on Circadian Rhythms
03:26 Personal Struggles with Circadian Rhythms
06:25 The Science Behind Circadian Rhythms
11:06 Consequences of Circadian Misalignment
13:29 The Role of Light in Regulating Circadian Rhythms
🔔 Subscribe for more discussions on mental health, personal growth, and healing! / @shivanipaupodcast
✨ Connect with Millennial Mind ✨
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amillennialmind
Shivani Pau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shivani.pau
Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/shivanipaupodcast
Performance Planner: https://my-performance-planner.myshopify.com/
Let Me Change Your Mind 🧠 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices