Stories and Stanza
Stories and Stanza delivers authentic storytelling through two distinct series: intimate conversations with writers revealing their craft, process, and struggles; and transformative explorations of emotional intelligence, mental health, and resilience with wellness experts.
Episodes

Saturday Feb 22, 2025
Break Free from Anger and Resentment
Saturday Feb 22, 2025
Saturday Feb 22, 2025
In this episode of Stories and Stanza, host Abhra is joined by Anumeha Gupta, an Ayurvedic wellness counselor and theta healer, who helps mothers manage and release anger. Anumeha shares her personal journey with anger, the importance of understanding its roots, and offers practical tools for listeners to use in their own lives. The conversation covers topics like body and mind triggers, ancestral trauma, the impact of patriarchy, and more. An effective meditation exercise to release resentment is also included, providing immediate value to anyone dealing with anger.
Connect with Anu on her website: https://www.ayuwise.com/

Sunday Feb 16, 2025
HEALING After Divorce, Now What For MEN?
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Sunday Feb 16, 2025
In this powerful episode of 'Stories and Stanza,' Abhra interviews Jeff, a tech veteran and founder of 'Divorce Daddy,' about his journey through a painful divorce and how it transformed his life. Jeff discusses the importance of embracing failure as a step towards success, the profound impact of divorce on fathers, and the emotional journey towards self-discovery and inner strength. He shares practical advice on building emotional intelligence, finding wisdom, and staying grounded through awareness, movement, and presence. Join us for an inspiring conversation on resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of life’s challenges.
00:00 Introduction: Embracing Failures01:27 The Power of Stories02:06 Guest Introduction: Meet Jeff02:26 Jeff's Journey Through Divorce03:36 Creating a Better Life Post-Divorce04:18 The Concept of 'Fail With Me'08:38 Navigating Emotional Challenges15:39 Building Emotional Intelligence28:38 The Role of Writing in Healing38:06 Conclusion: Be the Sky
About Jeff:
For a long time, he lived in a fog, struggling through dark days. A toxic marriage led to an even worse divorce, throwing him into a battle he wasn’t prepared for. He lost a lot, faced slander, and left his home with nothing but the clothes on his back. Now, he feels he is fully awake. Trying to face a heart problem with his head, life didn’t make sense to him. Once he understood that, Jeff had a choice: either become a victim or learn how to win. He chose to win. Today, Jeff has a great relationship, a strong bond with his kids, and he’s living his purpose. He’s building a legacy and embracing the grand adventure of life. Jeff created Divorce Daddy to help others follow the same path.
Find his website here: https://divorce-daddy.com/
#podcast #motivation #divorce #mensmentalhealth #divorceddad #sepratation #storiesandstanza #failwithme

Saturday Feb 08, 2025
Is Your Brain Secretly Working Against You?
Saturday Feb 08, 2025
Saturday Feb 08, 2025
Unlock the secrets of your mind and discover how to break your mental resistance to achieve personal growth and development. In this motivational video, we explore the mind-brain connection and how it can either hinder or help you in unlocking your potential. By cultivating mental strength and resilience, you can develop a growth mindset that allows you to unleash your full potential and become mentally strong. This video is designed to inspire and motivate you to take control of your thoughts and emotions, and to overcome mental toughness and resistance that may be holding you back. Through a powerful motivational speech, you will learn how to tap into your inner strength and achieve self improvement, leading to a more fulfilling life. By embracing the concept of personal development and self improvement motivation, you can unlock the doors to a brighter future and become the best version of yourself. So, watch this best motivational video and start your journey to mental toughness and resilience today.
Join host Abhra in a captivating episode of 'Stories and Stanza' as he sits down with Kam Knight, an acclaimed author and international speaker. In this enlightening conversation, Kam delves deep into the intricacies of concentration, detailing its paramount importance and offering practical techniques to enhance it.

Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Are You Caught in the IMPOSTER SYNDROME Trap?
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Sunday Feb 02, 2025
Do you often feel like you're just pretending to be something you're not? Like you're just one mistake away from being exposed as a fraud? You're not alone. Imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon where high-achievers feel like they don't deserve their success and are just waiting for someone to reveal their "true" incompetence. But here's the thing: it's all in your head. In this video, we'll explore the signs and symptoms of imposter syndrome, why it's so prevalent, and most importantly, how to overcome it. Learn how to break free from the cycle of self-doubt and start owning your accomplishments.
In this episode of Stories and Stanza, Abhra welcomes back Melissa, an award-winning presentation coach, to discuss imposter syndrome and how to build genuine confidence. The conversation covers various strategies, including visualization, power poses, and mindset shifts, to help you conquer your fears and achieve your goals. Melissa shares her journey from struggling with imposter syndrome to becoming a successful communication consultant and coach. Whether you're an entrepreneur or working professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you step into your confidence. Melissa also introduces her free ebook filled with strategies to overcome self-doubt and live out your purpose. Tune in to learn how to replace 'I'll be ready when' with 'I'm ready now' and start making strides toward your dreams.
00:00 Understanding Imposter Syndrome01:05 Introduction to Stories and Stanza01:43 Welcoming Melissa Back02:40 Melissa's Journey with Imposter Syndrome04:36 Defining Imposter Syndrome06:00 Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome16:43 Visualization Techniques for Confidence26:41 Power Up Rituals and Body Language30:04 Handling Negative Feedback38:10 Final Thoughts and Resources
Links to Melissa's books: https://takingyourstage.myflodesk.com/uxmri1sq3dhttps://takingyourstage.myflodesk.com/confidenceonline

Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Mental Health: Awareness, Misconceptions, and Self-Care
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Sunday Jan 26, 2025
Could mental health awareness be holding you back? In this video, we'll explore the impact of mental health awareness on your personal growth and success. We will navigate Anxiety, Depression, and Self-Care.
In this episode of Stories Stanza, host Abhra, a writer based in Melbourne, interviews Debanjali, a counseling psychologist, about the complexities of mental health. They discuss the importance of addressing mental health struggles with courage, the role of self-care, and the misconceptions around mental illness. Debanjali shares her journey into psychology, provides insights on how to identify mental health issues, and offers practical advice on self-care routines. They also touch upon the impact of social media on mental health and the importance of seeking professional help. Join them as they shed light on creating a supportive space for discussing failure and mental health openly.
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Awareness01:44 Meet the Guest: Debanjali, Counseling Psychologist03:15 The Concept of 'Fail with Me'06:39 Understanding Mental Health: Definitions and Misconceptions24:00 Common Mental Health Issues and Their Manifestations29:17 Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-being36:42 The Role of Social Media in Mental Health41:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
As a dedicated Counseling Psychologist, Debanjali Roy Choudhury passionate about promoting mental health, education, and research. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from BHU and experience working with over 1,000 clients, my expertise includes addressing anxiety, depression, OCD, self-esteem, and relationship conflicts. I also provide support in life coaching, grief management, and workplace stress management through an integrative, client-centered approach. As a writer and research enthusiast, I contribute to mental health awareness through articles, workshops, and webinars, aiming to create a safe environment for individuals to heal and grow.

Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Breaking FREE from Societal Expectation for Holistic Wellness
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Tuesday Jan 21, 2025
Finding Light in Darkness: Embracing Failure and Transformation with Rhonda Linn
Join Abhra, a writer based in Melbourne, on 'Stories and Stanza' as he converses with Rhonda Linn, an author and entrepreneur who focuses on amplifying spiritual and holistic wellness voices. In this episode, Rhonda shares her journey from feeling a disconnect in her successful outward career to embracing her true calling as a writer. The discussion delves into the importance of understanding and transforming failure into resilience, the spiritual connection with nature, and practical steps for personal healing and growth. Rhonda also highlights the significance of following one's heart, even amidst cultural pressures for perfection. Tune in for heartfelt poems, insights on wellness and spirituality, and inspiration for embracing your authentic path.
Rhonda Linn is a writer and multi-passionate entrepreneur who has spent the last 11 years (slowly) planting a food forest on her 36 acres in Michigan. Her Substack community, Earthen Jar; Stars, empowers members to envision a different world through seasonal living-- a world where we are cradled by nature through the beauty (and muck) of our daily lives.
Her first book, The Chapel of Small Breath which has been called “a work of art” by reviewers was published by Bell Publishing House in Fall 2024.
In addition to homesteading and writing, Rhonda runs a business that provides full-stack organic marketing services to holistic wellness, spiritual, and heart-centered entrepreneurs. Please find her details below.
Earthen Jar; Stars https://rhondalinn.substack.com/Book: https://www.rhondalinn.com/chapel-of-small-breathWebsite: https://rhondalinn.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhonda.linn.3Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhonda.m.linn/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhondalinnvirtualsolutions/

Friday Jan 17, 2025
Discovering the SECRET to Self-Awareness
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Friday Jan 17, 2025
Understanding Self-Awareness and Emotional Intelligence with Preeta
In this enlightening episode of 'Stories and Stanza,' host Abhra from Melbourne talks with Preeta, a wholeness coach from India, about the crucial role self-awareness and emotional intelligence play in our lives. They delve into how emotions are just energy, the importance of validating ourselves, and strategies for building emotional intelligence. Preeta shares her personal journey from the corporate world to becoming a coach and the radical life choices she has made, such as moving to Goa at the age of 62. The discussion also highlights the concept of failure, self-validation, and why gratitude is essential for healing. Preeta concludes by sharing how her spiritual practices, especially Advaita Vedanta, aid in her coaching and personal growth. This episode is packed with wisdom on managing relationships, emotional health, and self-awareness.
00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence01:59 Meet the Guest: Preeta's Journey07:57 The Concept of 'Fail with Me'09:59 Exploring Failure and Success15:14 Self-Worth and Relationships30:33 Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness31:17 Understanding Heavier and Lighter Emotions31:42 Dealing with Heavy Emotions32:21 Emotional Intelligence and Patterns33:22 Processing Emotions in the Body33:51 Techniques for Emotional Release35:23 Choosing Your Response41:10 Activating the Parasympathetic Nervous System48:34 Gratitude and the Healing Journey53:14 Spiritual Awareness and Self-Understanding59:05 Conclusion and Contact Information
If you wish to work with Preeta, feel free to reach her on social media or whatsapp.
https://www.facebook.com/wholenesscoachpreeta
https://www.instagram.com/wholenesscoachpreeta/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emotionalwellnesscoachpreetapradhan
https://wa.me/919205369296

Monday Jan 13, 2025
Embracing Failure: The Key to Success in Health and Fitness
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
In this enlightening episode of Stories and Stanza, host Abhra welcomes Kristen Carter, an experienced exercise physiologist and wellness coach, to discuss the importance of embracing failure and the realistic strategies for achieving long-term health and fitness goals. Drawing on years of experience and extensive certifications, Kristen sheds light on why most diets fail and how shifting focus from blaming oneself to improving strategies can lead to better outcomes. The discussion also covers crucial topics like emotional eating, the impact of processed foods, the significance of self-compassion, and practical tips for setting realistic health goals. Whether you're on a weight loss journey or simply seeking a healthier lifestyle, this episode provides valuable insights and resources, including Kristen's books and coaching services. Tune in to discover how small, mindful changes can make a big difference in your overall wellbeing.

About This Podcast
I am a software engineer with a creative spree and the heart to make a difference. I live in Melbourne with my family and enjoy photography and creative writing.
Inspired by the quote from Rainer Maria Rilke, "If your daily life seems poor, do not blame it — blame yourself for not being poet enough to call forth its riches." I created this podcast to bring out the real stories that make life as beautiful as poetry. I'll take you on a journey through the human experience, sharing stories and conversations to uplift your spirit. Here are the key 3 areas on this podcast.:
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In Author's chair: where I talk to writers about their journey. or upcoming publication
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Fail With Me: Where I explore what failure truly is and link it with emotional intelligence.
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Oh! Past, speak out: Where I talk about forgotten chapters of history.
If you are interested in my poetry, this is my Amazon author page. Follow my newsletter here.