Send us a Text Message.

Part Two of a Three-Part Series: Newlyweds and Their First Year Together as a Married Couple

In this series, we are following a couple's journey through their first year of marriage. The first year can be incredibly challenging, even for couples who have been together for a long time before getting married. The wedding often takes precedence over the marriage, leaving couples to navigate a myriad of emotions and transitions afterward. From dealing with the expectations of family members to figuring out life as a married couple, the first year is a period of significant adjustment.

Part 1 Recap: The First Year Check-Ins

In Part 1, we explored the initial months following the wedding. Our newlyweds, Simrit and Harjot, shared their experiences about the excitement and challenges they faced. We discussed their key lessons about marriage, evolving expectations, and how they navigated unexpected struggles. The couple also touched on cultural pressures, building a home together, and the transition from living separately to moving in together.

Part 2: Deeper into the Transition

Today, we are welcoming back Simrit and Harjot, our newlyweds from EP: 60, "You Need to Be Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable." We're excited to continue our journey with them and focus more on just how that transition is coming along. One of the key themes we'll be exploring today is the importance of starting with each other first when making decisions and navigating life together.

Key Topics in Part 2

Accountability of Time: Finding the balance between getting things done and slowing down to prioritize connection.
Mental Health and Marriage: How anxiety and mental health struggles have played a role in their first year of marriage.
Difference Between a Roommate and a Marriage: Understanding the unique dynamics and expectations that come with being married compared to just living together.
Intimacy and Stress Affecting Intimacy: Navigating the balance between love and desire while managing stress and maintaining passion.
Notable Quotes from Simrit and Harjot
"If you're not changing, you're stuck."
"What your partner wants or once wanted is going to change."
"It's not fair to her to not know what is going on with me."
"We are the most vulnerable when we are with each other."
"If you're apologizing, mean it, and learn from it."
"With change, there is going to be some friction."
"Is this a time for me to listen or a time for me to talk?"
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into these topics and more in Part 2 of our series. We'll explore how Simrit and Harjot are navigating the ups and downs of their first year of marriage, balancing their individual needs with their partnership, and continuing to grow together through the inevitable changes that life brings.

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

Today we sit down with Dr. Shazma Mithani, a dedicated ER doctor from Edmonton, Alberta. Dr. Mithani shares her journey into medicine, the story behind her educational platform on social media, and her mission to improve health literacy. She discusses the critical role of health literacy in preventing unnecessary ER visits and the importance of being critical consumers of health information, especially on social media.

Dr. Mithani sheds light on the difference between dietitians and nutritionists, the public vs. private healthcare debate, and the significance of preserving the right to health care in Canada. She emphasizes that health care is a basic human right and highlights her involvement with Canadian Doctors for Medicare.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Mithani offers practical advice on how to navigate health information online and debunk common health myths. She stresses the importance of keeping an open mind, recognizing one's privilege, and being critical of the information we consume.

Join us for this enlightening discussion on how to empower ourselves with accurate health knowledge, stay informed, and keep out of the ER. This episode provides valuable insights into the importance of health literacy and the role of accurate health information in maintaining our well-being. Dr. Mithani's expertise and passion for educating the public make this a must-listen for anyone interested in health care, debunking myths, and making informed decisions about their health. Tune in and learn how to be a critical consumer of health information and support the right to health care for all.

Instagram: drshazmamithani

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

Today, we're thrilled to sit down with Alfred Kainga, the 2023 Breakout Comedian of the Year, who has been making waves in the comedy scene from Zimbabwe to Dallas. I had the privilege of catching Alfred's show here in Calgary and was blown away by his wit and genuine presence. I laughed so hard I knew I had to reach out and meet the man who had the entire theater laughing from the moment he walked out on stage until the final curtain.

Alfred shares his journey from growing up as a boy in Zimbabwe to immigrating to Dallas, Texas, where his comedy career took off. He humbly recounts being discovered by comedian and actor Kevin Hart, a pivotal moment that launched him into the spotlight. "You dream big, you act big, you will get big" he says.

In our conversation, Alfred opens up about his first time on stage, the cultural shifts he experienced, and the humorous perspectives he brings to his jokes about the gaps many immigrants find themselves in. He emphasizes the importance of laughter in life, stating, "At the end of the day, let's just laugh about it." Alfred also reflects on his journey from Zimbabwe, emphasizing, "Don't ever let anyone tell you you can't do it."

Join us for an engaging episode filled with laughter, wisdom, and a deeper understanding of the power of comedy from Alfred Kainga, a comedian who's making his mark in the world.

Instagram: alfredkainga
Linktree

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

Today we are thrilled to welcome Neha, the founder of Ninja Nari, a platform dedicated to celebrating South-Asian roots and empowering women. This conversation came at a pivotal time for me, as Neha and I explore the complexities of navigating multiple identities and the responsibilities of discussing race. We also discuss the work upon us as POC to learn how to speak up in these situations and manage what is not ours to hold.

Neha opens up about:

The challenges and joys of cultural fusion
Learning the language behind toxic masculinity
Mental health in the South-Asian community
Balancing mom life with her mission
Navigating racialized experiences and speaking up.

Sometimes, we think we have to know everything about a topic to discuss it meaningfully. However, the important thing is that we remain curious and open to learning about where issues like toxic masculinity come from.

Join us for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation filled with Neha's wisdom and uplifting quotes like, "To grow we have to uplift each other," "Say no to self-doubt," "If you’re making round rotis, let me know, that’s a superpower," and "If she grows, then I grow." This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the power of storytelling and community support.

ninjanari.yyc

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

In this special episode, I feel incredibly lucky to have the opportunity to sit down with my very first male role model, the person who has influenced my understanding of male relationships at every stage of my life—from girlhood, through young womanhood, to womanhood. I am honored to welcome to the podcast, my Papa Varinder Singh Randhawa a South Asian immigrant.

Together, we reminisce about his early days in Canada, sharing nostalgic NHL memories and the cultural shocks he experienced upon arrival. We tap into his thoughts on important issues such as abuse and the powerful impact of Jeeti Pooni's book, The Silent Stoning. This book highlights the harrowing experiences of a South Asian woman facing sexual abuse by a family member, and its high-profile criminal court case. It serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles many girls and women face, often in silence, within their own families and communities. My father shares his reflections on the book and the importance of recognizing and addressing such issues.

Papa emphasizes the need to teach our young men how to treat the women in their lives, stressing the importance of change that begins at home. He reflects on the progress he's seen across generations, particularly in the growing awareness and education around mental health.

Throughout our conversation, Papa's words resonate deeply:

"Sometimes, to get a better life, you’ll do anything."
"Sometimes you have to give up something to get something."
"We have to teach our sons how to treat women."
"Before I talk to anybody else, I want to make a change."
"It only takes one person."
"Communicate and seek help."
"There is nothing wrong with asking for help."

Join us as we explore these themes and more, in an intimate and heartfelt conversation with my Papa, reflecting on the past, present, and future of our family and community.

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

In this episode, we welcome back Doreen, who previously joined us in Episode 17. During her first appearance, Doreen shared her experiences as a first-generation Canadian navigating body image, diet culture, and finding self-love in her 40s. Today, we’re thrilled to have her back to talk about what has been on our minds lately.

Episode Highlights

Life in Your 40s:

Doreen reflects on turning 40 and how her views on body image and self-love have evolved.
"When you keep coming up against your own body being your enemy, it just takes the wind out of your sails."
We discuss the impact of hormones, managing guilt and shame from childhood, and finding joy.
Struggles for Women to Support Each Other:
Challenges women face in supporting each other, influenced by societal and historical factors.
"People are uncomfortable with other people’s discomfort."
We explore fostering stronger community bonds and mutual support among women, especially those from marginalized groups.

White Academia:

Doreen's journey of applying to graduate programs as a BIPOC individual.
Systemic barriers like being told she is not diverse enough.
Doreen shares why it is important for her to continue trying to get into her graduate program: "I'm going to do it because you don’t think I can." For her, it’s more than framing a degree on a wall; it’s about using her voice for immigrant families who are accessing the mental health system.
Strategies for breaking down systemic oppression.

Mental Health and Therapy:

The importance of mental health in our 40s, including therapy and finding a racialized therapist.
"It is hard to shake off decades of internalized messages."
Receiving therapy from a professional who shares relatable experiences provides culturally sensitive and supportive care, helping clients navigate and address the unique challenges of racism and cultural identity.
The impact of systemic oppression on friendships.

Relationships and Fertility:

Following up on Doreen's previous struggles with fertility and its impact on mental and physical health.
"This is not my fault."
"I've been afraid to speak up most of my life," but now embracing her voice and encouraging others to "get over that hump and just talk about it."

Join us as we dive into this inspiring story of resilience and growth faced by women in their 40's, particularly those from marginalized communities. Empowering and enlightening, this episode, offers valuable perspectives and a call to continue learning and supporting one another.

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

In this episode I sit down with the hilarious and insightful Grand Komanda, a Nigerian comedian making waves in Calgary. Grand shares his journey into comedy, highlighting the highs and lows of performing on stage. He discusses the role of comedians as social commentators and the endless possibilities in delivering a single joke in countless ways.

Together, we explore important themes such as mental health within the Nigerian community and community integration, reflecting on how even the tough moments keep us grounded. Grand emphasizes the significance of seeking help when needed, the power of collaboration in our city, and how sometimes laughing about our hardships can help us cope. We also touch on often unspoken issues within the community, including fertility and mental health.

Tune in to hear how, as a young person, Grand discovered his gift for writing by crafting love letters for his friends to help them land dates. I am grateful for the time Grand shared with us, highlighting relatable and significant issues. Join us for a thought-provoking and entertaining conversation as we explore the multifaceted world of comedy, fatherhood, and being better human beings.

Here - - BUY TICKETS
Instagram:
grandkomanda_

Youtube:
www.youtube.com/@grandkomanda

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.

Send us a Text Message.

This episode features Sunny Chopra, host of the 'South Asian Healing Podcast.' Sunny dives into the challenges faced by South Asian men regarding mental health and well-being. We explore the impact of cultural expectations and intergenerational trauma, while offering tips for fostering open communication and healthy boundaries.

The conversation today includes:

The unique struggles of South Asian boys and men when it comes to mental health
How to address the impact of fathers and intergenerational trauma
Common communication challenges within South Asian households
Setting boundaries with parents and in-laws
Sunny's personal journey of healing from childhood bullying and his parents' divorce
How to reclaim happiness and joy without resorting to unhealthy coping mechanisms
The importance of growth, resilience, and understanding within the South Asian community

Join us for an insightful conversation about mental health, healing, and finding joy in life!

Instagram:
sunnyccoaching

LinkTree

If you like what you hear please click on "subscribe" or "follow" - It's free and you will get notified when the newest episodes are posted! Check us out on Instagram and X @mfupodcast. Give feedback, middle finger recommendations as well as random thoughts to info@mfupodcast.com. Thank you for listening!

In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.