The Her American Story podcast idea came amidst chaotic days.

My two babies were quite little, my baby girl was just a bit over three years old and my son was about eighteen months old. Between working full time, trying to stay afloat as a Mom, Wife, and Physician, I tried to create time for myself.

In the delirium of my evening elliptical machine workouts I started listening to podcasts. It started as a way for me to have some “me time”. I had listened to podcasts in the past, I lived in Atlanta at one point in my life and had an hour commute. Back then I had plenty of time to leisurely listen to a variety of shows.

This Was Different.

This was different, I wanted to listen to podcasts where I felt like I was making good use of my free time.

I found a few I really enjoyed. I realized that although I had common interests with these hosts, they were mostly White American females.

My parents were both born in Pakistan, my Father moved here when he was around 9 years old, he went back to Pakistan and had an arranged marriage with my Mother bringing her back to the States when she was 18.

I was born in Colorado and grew up in Reno, Nevada.

As a personal challenge, I tried to find podcasts hosted by South Asian females and stumbled upon one or two. I enjoyed these because I felt like I could relate to the hosts. I found I especially enjoyed the memories they shared about growing up in the United States.

Growing Up a Minority.

Growing up in a small town as a minority I always sought out other South Asian Americans.

In my town, South Asian Americans were few and far between. Growing up I did not have much in regards to representation in the media or in my community.

I identified with pretty much anyone that was different. I became the person I am today due to the environment in which I was raised but I can’t help but wonder if representation and connection with others like me would have enhanced my experience.

My Podcast.

Each Her American Story podcast episode has a guest share a memorable story or event from her formative years when she realized she was different and how she dealt with the emotions related to this knowledge.

The conversation includes a discussion regarding whether the guest had a mentor that helped lead her to where she is now as well as any advice for those looking for representation and encouragement.

Starting My Platform.

As soon as I got the idea last Spring, I instantly became consumed with starting this podcast.

I started looking into what kinds of podcasts are currently available in this general genre. I created a Twitter account and started recording short stories. I have been both surprised and encouraged by the positive feedback. I have even met guests via Twitter which I have interviewed on the show.

I have interviewed many diverse women including Qaali Hussein MD a Somali-American Trauma Surgeon from Florida and Dayna Smith MD Jamaican American OB/GYN who currently practices in Georgia. I have many more interviews scheduled and planned with Women from many different backgrounds.