Stories and a Cup

Stories and a Cup

Stories and a Cup is a reflective podcast centered on meaningful conversations about identity, faith, belonging, and becoming. Through gentle, raw, unscripted dialogue with women, the podcast explores the stories we carry, the ones we silence, and the courage to speak them aloud. Each episode invites listeners to slow down, listen deeply, and reconnect with what matters- best enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or tea and an open heart! **DISCLAIMER: This podcast features personal stories and perspectives shared by guests. The views expressed are their own and are not intended to represent professional, medical, or therapeutic advice, nor the views of the host or podcast.

Episodes

  1. A Journey of Faith: Rewriting My Story

    22 HR AGO

    A Journey of Faith: Rewriting My Story

    Keywords Islam, conversion, community, culture, parenting, faith journey, support, marriage, traditions, personal growth Summary This conversation explores Linda's journey of conversion to Islam, her experiences with cultural differences in marriage, the importance of community support, and her reflections on parenting and traditions. Linda shares her personal challenges and triumphs, offering insights and advice for those considering a similar path. Takeaways Linda was born and raised in California and has three sisters. She discovered Islam through a Christian chat room after high school. Her conversion journey began after feeling contradictions in Christianity. Community support played a crucial role in her faith journey. Linda faced cultural differences after marrying into an Arabic family. She emphasizes the importance of teaching her children gratitude and respect. Linda wishes for more family traditions in her Islamic practice. She advises new reverts to be honest and seek support. Linda reflects on her growth and the lessons learned over the years. She encourages continuous learning in one's faith journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Linda's Journey 02:59 Discovering Islam: A Personal Transformation 05:56 The Role of Community in Faith 08:47 Cultural Differences in Marriage 12:01 Navigating Parenthood and Cultural Values 14:46 Reflections on Family and Tradition 17:48 Advice for New Reverts 20:47 Looking Back: Lessons Learned 24:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    31 min

  2. 3 DAYS AGO

    Season One Finale - The Space Between Stories

    Keywords reflection, identity, grief, courage, independence, motherhood, transformation, belonging, personal growth, storytelling Summary This episode reflects on the first season of 'Stories and a Cup,' exploring themes of identity, grief, courage, independence, and motherhood through personal stories. Each episode highlights the quiet transformations that occur in life, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and the courage to embrace change. Takeaways Transformation rarely happens overnight. Grief can coexist with growth. Fitting in is not the same as belonging. Starting again is not a failure, it is an act of faith. Independence is learned in the aftermath. Finding your voice is about becoming clearer. It's never too late to reclaim your voice. Awakening isn't dramatic, it's subtle. Choosing alignment over approval is courageous. You're not late, you are still becoming. Chapters 00:00 Reflections on Beginnings 01:43 Navigating Grief and Identity 03:08 The Courage to Start Over 04:39 Separation and Self-Discovery 06:05 Devotion and Reclaiming Self 07:55 The Space Between Stories 08:18 artsEntertainment-intro-low-short.wav

    9 min

  3. 10 FEB

    A journey of honoring her own voice

    In this conversation, Rola shares her rich tapestry of experiences shaped by her Lebanese roots, Australian upbringing, and life in the US. She reflects on the lessons learned from being the youngest of eight siblings, the importance of family and faith, and her journey towards self-discovery and honoring her own voice. Rola's story is one of resilience, cultural blending, and the nurturing of her identity as a mother and individual. Takeaways Rola's diverse cultural background has shaped her identity positively. Being the youngest in a large family provided Rola with unique experiences. Family dynamics influenced Rola's sense of belonging and self-worth. Rola's parents instilled strong Islamic values through love and storytelling. The warmth of family dinners created lasting memories for Rola. Rola aims to pass on her father's storytelling legacy to her children. She acknowledges the complexities of cultural influences in her life. Rola's journey includes a significant shift towards self-acknowledgment. The importance of nurturing one's own dreams alongside family responsibilities. Rola's reflections highlight the beauty of cultural diversity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rola's Journey 01:30 Cultural Influences and Identity 03:10 Lessons from a Large Family 04:47 Faith and Family Values 07:31 Finding One's Place in the World

    44 min

  4. 26 JAN

    A Journey of Courage and Reinvention

    Mona's journey reflects immense courage and resilience. The importance of community and connection in a new country. Facing cultural challenges, especially post-9/11, shaped her experience. Separation led to personal growth and self-discovery. Mona emphasizes the importance of raising children with strong values. Her faith played a crucial role in navigating life's challenges. Mona's story highlights the importance of self-reliance and independence. Chapters 00:00 A Journey of Courage and Reinvention 01:40 Navigating Life in a New Country 06:29 Facing Challenges Post-9/11 10:54 Pursuing Professional Equivalency 15:23 The Impact of Separation 20:09 Building a New Life in Dallas 24:13 Personal Growth and Transformation 29:51 Reflections on Identity and Faith 33:22 Empowerment and Independence 39:43 Raising Children in a New Environment

    43 min

  5. 16 JAN

    Between what was and what's next?

    In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of a Muslim woman who moved from the UAE to the United States in her 40s. She shares her experiences of starting over, navigating cultural adjustments, and the challenges of finding her place in a new society. The conversation delves into her professional life, the nuances of being a single woman in different cultures, and her journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of resilience, the value of community, and the complexities of identity and belonging in a foreign land.

    27 min

  6. 15 JAN

    Cultural Transitions: From Lebanon to the USA

    In this conversation, Lara shares her journey of moving from Lebanon to the USA, reflecting on the seasons of her life, cultural transitions, and personal growth. She discusses her career changes, the challenges of maintaining relationships across cultures, and the core values that guide her life. Lara also opens up about defining moments that shaped her resilience, her longing for family and friendships, and her aspirations for the future.

    23 min

  7. 15 JAN

    Reflections on Home and Identity

    In this conversation, Dr. Heba Sallam shares her unique journey from the US to Egypt, discussing the cultural shocks she faced, her experiences in medical school, and the profound personal growth that resulted from her time abroad. The conversation concludes with her thoughts on home and the experiences that shape who we are.

    26 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

Stories and a Cup is a reflective podcast centered on meaningful conversations about identity, faith, belonging, and becoming. Through gentle, raw, unscripted dialogue with women, the podcast explores the stories we carry, the ones we silence, and the courage to speak them aloud. Each episode invites listeners to slow down, listen deeply, and reconnect with what matters- best enjoyed with a warm cup of coffee or tea and an open heart! **DISCLAIMER: This podcast features personal stories and perspectives shared by guests. The views expressed are their own and are not intended to represent professional, medical, or therapeutic advice, nor the views of the host or podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Stories and a Cup
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stories and a Cup
  • Show Website
    Stories and a Cup