In this episode, Erika Behl talks with Dr. Damini Chawla, a board-certified dentist turned speaker.

Damini shares her journey from clinical practice to the stage, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and inclusivity.

They discuss the challenges of cross-cultural communication, the role of empathy, and the significance of meeting people where they are.

Damini also shares personal stories from her life, including her experiences growing up in multiple countries and her career transition. This episode is filled with insights on personal growth, understanding cultural differences, and finding one's voice.

CONNECT

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✩ Instagram - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

✩ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-behl

✩ YouTube - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

SCENARIO CARDS

✩ scenariocards.org/ERIKA

Code: ERIKA10

TIMESTAMPS

The Story of Auntie Karen

(00:00:00) Damini shares a humorous story about a skeptical patient, illustrating the importance of meeting people where they are.

Career Transition

(00:03:12) Damini discusses her shift from dentistry to speaking and the creative passion that drove this change.

First Steps on Stage

(00:06:15) Damini recounts her initial experiences in public speaking and how she discovered her love for the stage.

Developing a Message

(00:08:36) The conversation explores the evolution of Damini's message and her focus on effective communication.

Meeting People Where They Are

(00:11:25) Damini elaborates on the concept of meeting people where they are and its significance in communication.

Hundred Conversations Project

(00:13:45) Damini shares insights from her project of meeting a hundred different people to understand their communication challenges.

Personal Journey and Cultural Adaptation

(00:19:00) Damini reflects on her childhood, cultural transitions, and how these experiences shaped her views on communication.

Challenges in Hong Kong

(00:33:41) A deep dive into Damini's time in Hong Kong and the personal and professional challenges she faced.

Lessons on Communication

(00:42:43) Erika and Damini discuss the role of listening and understanding in effective communication and personal growth.

Future Goals and Aspirations

(00:53:28) Damini shares her aspirations, including writing a book, starting a podcast, and her dream of delivering a TED Talk.

#EveryMomentisaChoice

In this episode of "Every Moment is a Choice," I'm joined by Shiao-Yin Kuik, a cultural change strategist and founder of Common Ground Consultancy and Civic Centre. Shiao-Yin thoughtfully shares her non-linear journey from studying architecture to becoming a nominated member of parliament in Singapore, and now as a leader in organizational development.

Shiao-Yin's insights into her spiritual motivation and how she incorporates them into her secular work in culture and societal change provide a refreshing perspective on leadership.

She now creates safe spaces for leaders to explore their internal challenges to build better, more thoughtful leadership in both the business world and society.

https://ourcommonground.com.sg

CONNECT

✩ everymomentpodcast.com

✩ Instagram - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

✩ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-behl

✩ YouTube - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

SCENARIO CARDS

✩ scenariocards.org/ERIKA

Code: ERIKA10

TIMESTAMPS

Culture Change as a Career

(00:02:32) From studying architecture to starting a tuition centre as a way to reach students to teach them the thinking skills they were missing, Shiao-Yin shares her non-linear path to a career in social good.

Serving in Singapore's Parliament

(00:15:57) Shiao-Yin served two terms as a Nominated Member of Singapore's Parliament--she shares what she learned about change at the societal level and herself when there was no instruction manual.

Leadership and Finding One's Voice

(00:21:21) How important it is for leaders to understand their identity to lead change, based on Shiao-Yin's work with leaders across the spectrum.

Transitioning Her Business Model

(00:46:46) Shiao-Yin talks about the dissolution of her business partnership and the evolution of her current consultancy approach.

Integrating Spiritual and Organizational Development

(00:50:58) Addressing deep-seated personal issues in organizational leadership and the concept of 'The Soul at Work.'

Personal Spiritual Awakening

(00:59:12) Shiao-Yin describes her spiritual awakening during university, how it influenced her life choices, and its impact on her professional and personal growth.

Future Vision and Personal Growth

(01:01:15) Shiao-Yin shares her future aspirations, including her interest in spiritual direction and leading retreats for leaders.

#EveryMomentisaChoice

In this episode of "Every Moment is a Choice," host Erika Behl explores Jin Shaun Ang's transition from a diverse corporate career in tech, government, and education to founding "Stranger Conversations."

Motivated by a desire to make an impact outside traditional corporate structures, Jin Shaun shares why he decided to leave his stable career to create a community focused on genuine connections—even amongst strangers. This bold move was driven by his passion for innovation and facilitating interactions beyond conventional boundaries.

Jin Shaun reveals what people seek within the "Stranger Conversations" community; a place that attracts individuals eager to step outside their comfort zones, engage in deep, meaningful interactions, and find inspiration and support among like-minded people.

Jin Shaun's story exemplifies the transformative power of following one's curiosity and the impact of creating a space for intentional community engagement.

@strangerconvos

CONNECT

✩ everymomentpodcast.com

✩ Instagram - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

✩ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-behl

✩ YouTube - @every_moment_is_a_choice_

SCENARIO CARDS

✩ scenariocards.org/ERIKA

Code: ERIKA10

TIMESTAMPS

The Genesis of Stranger Conversations

(00:01:59) Jin Shaun discusses the origins of his project, beginning during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his motivations behind creating a community for meaningful dialogues.

Career Journey and Inspiration

(00:02:15) Jin Shaun shares insights from his diverse career path and the consistent theme of seeking innovative solutions across various industries.

The First Community Event

(00:08:01) What happened during the first "Stranger Conversations" event on Clubhouse, including guest interactions and the initial audience response.

Building a Supportive Community

(00:17:06) Insights into the growth of the community, emphasizing the importance of serendipitous encounters and mutual support among members.

Realizing the Impact and Potential of the Community

(00:25:09) Jin Shaun reflects on moments that underscored the potential of "Stranger Conversations" to foster a genuine community.

Challenges and Rewards of Community Building

(00:26:20) Discussion on the occasional challenges faced and the unexpected rewards from hosting community events.

The Role of Intentional Space in Community Building

(00:41:30) Jin Shaun explores the concept of creating physical and metaphorical spaces that facilitate community interactions and personal growth.

Looking Forward

(00:49:24) Future aspirations for "Stranger Conversations," including the potential expansion of community activities and maintaining the ethos of meaningful engagement.

#EveryMomentisaChoice