The xMonks Drive

Gaurav Arora
  • 5.0 (6)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

What if wisdom had a voice and it sounded like this Welcome to The xMonks Drive with Gaurav Arora, where soulful conversations meet real-world insight. Hosted by Master Certified Coach and founder of xMonks Gaurav Arora, this weekly podcast brings together a rare mix of CEOs, monks, psychologists, spiritual masters, doctors, and changemakers. Together, they explore what it truly means to lead with purpose, live with clarity, and grow from the inside out. From mindfulness and emotional mastery to conscious leadership, healing, entrepreneurship, and legacy, these episodes are more than interviews. They are invitations to shift your perspective and awaken your potential. If you are done with surface-level talk and crave depth, truth, and transformation, you are in the right place. New episodes drop weekly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify along with short, powerful clips to fuel your daily journey. Come curious. Leave clearer.

  1. Neurologist Dr. Vinit Banga: Pollution Is Damaging Your Brain (Stress, Sleep & Stroke Warning Signs)

    3D AGO

    Neurologist Dr. Vinit Banga: Pollution Is Damaging Your Brain (Stress, Sleep & Stroke Warning Signs)

    Neurologist Dr. Vinit Banga explains stress, sleep, stroke symptoms, brain health, and the effects of pollution on the brain in this powerful podcast episode with Gaurav Arora. This episode covers: •Stress symptoms and how chronic stress damages the brain •Deep sleep and why sleep is essential for brain repair •Stroke warning signs (FAST symptoms) and why minutes matter •Brain fog, memory loss, cognitive decline, early dementia signs •Delhi pollution / AQI effects on brain ageing and intelligence •Migraine triggers, headaches, and dangerous neurological red flags •Doctor-patient trust, Practo ratings, healthcare commercialization in India 00:00 Impact of Delhi's Pollution on Brain Health 00:37 Stress and Its Effects on Health 01:39 Air Quality and Brain Aging 03:24 Blood-Brain Barrier and Pollution 06:03 Memory Issues and Aging 07:04 Understanding Memory Formation 12:20 Sleep Disorders and Brain Health 13:35 The Importance of Deep Sleep 16:09 Stress: The Silent Disruptor 46:38 Doctor-Patient Trust and Ethical Concerns 55:14 Commercialization in Healthcare 01:04:15 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude Dr. Vinit Banga is Director & Head of Neurology & Neurovascular Intervention at Fortis Escorts, and shares life-saving insights on preventing stroke, protecting brain function, and understanding modern neurological risk factors. Keywords: neurologist podcast, brain health India, stress and stroke, sleep and brain, stroke symptoms, stroke warning signs, Delhi pollution brain damage, brain fog, dementia signs, migraine, Fortis neurologist, Dr Vinit Banga, Gaurav Arora podcast. #Stress #Stroke #BrainHealth #Sleep #Neurology #Podcast #DrVinitBanga 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    1h 4m
  2. Ankur Warikoo’s Untold Story | Failure, Layoffs & Finding Real Freedom

    JAN 28

    Ankur Warikoo’s Untold Story | Failure, Layoffs & Finding Real Freedom

    He had five months of money left. School fees. Home loan EMIs. Responsibilities. And one decision to make. In this deeply honest conversation, Ankur Warikoo opens up about the moments that shaped him. Not the highlight reels, but the failures, insecurities, and turning points that most people never hear about. This isn’t a typical “success podcast.” It’s the real story behind the person India thinks it knows. ⸻ 🎙️ In This Episode, Ankur Talks About:  • The ambition spiral that quietly consumes high-performers  • The academic failures that stayed with him (IIT, CAT, career setbacks)  • Building Nearbuy, raising millions… and still falling apart  • The emotional weight of laying people off  • The books and music that helped him heal  • What “freedom” actually means beyond money  • Why slowing down might be the biggest form of growth ⸻ 📌 One of the Most Powerful Moments: “We had only five months of money left… and yet, we were excited about starting a new life.” That single moment changes how you see everything. ⸻ ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Initial Reflections 00:22 Chasing Ambitions and Insecurities 01:47 Life as a Student and Educator 03:35 Realizations and Changes in Life 06:49 Overcoming Personal Challenges 15:24 Dealing with Professional Setbacks 25:44 Finding Solace in Books and Music 30:09 Underrated and Overrated Traits 33:25 Myths About Entrepreneurship 34:36 Debunking Entrepreneurial Myths 36:33 Mindset Shifts from Corporate to Startup 37:22 The Reality of Startup Growth 40:15 Embracing Slow and Deliberate Growth 40:35 Surprising Facts About Ankur Warikoo 43:36 Dealing with Online Trolls 47:10 Realizing You Have Enough 53:28 The Meaning of Money and Freedom 55:00 Perspectives on Wealth Creation 01:01:36 Staying Grounded Amidst Success 01:07:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections ⸻ 🎧 About The xMonks Drive Podcast The xMonks Drive is hosted by Gaurav Arora, featuring long-form conversations with India’s most influential founders, creators, and leaders, on life, failure, ambition, mindset, and meaning. ⸻ 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations! Ankur Warikoo podcast, Ankur Warikoo failure story, Nearbuy startup, financial freedom India, Indian entrepreneurship, mindset and ambition, Gaurav Arora podcast ⸻ #AnkurWarikoo #IndianPodcast #EntrepreneurshipIndia #xMonksDrive 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    1h 10m
  3. Ira Singhal IAS: “UPSC Is Self-Torture” | UPSC Reality, IAS Power & Corruption | Hindi Podcast

    JAN 21

    Ira Singhal IAS: “UPSC Is Self-Torture” | UPSC Reality, IAS Power & Corruption | Hindi Podcast

    “UPSC is self-inflicted torture on all levels.” In this explosive Hindi conversation, Ira Singhal (IAS) — UPSC CSE Rank 1 and the first differently-abled woman to top UPSC — breaks down the real truth of UPSC, IAS power, and the system. On The xMonks Drive Podcast, Gaurav Arora speaks with Ira about everything aspirants and Indians want to know but rarely hear openly — from pressure, privilege, coaching culture, and attempts… to what it actually takes to become an IAS officer and survive inside the bureaucracy. Ira doesn’t hold back. She says it straight: ✅ “Why are you in situations that make you unhappy?” ✅ “Happiness cannot be at the cost of someone else’s unhappiness.” ✅ “If you’re scared, then don’t come. These roles are not meant for such people.” This episode covers the most talked-about topics in the UPSC world right now:  • UPSC ka sach: is it really the best measure of merit and intelligence?  • IAS ki power: real power vs politicians, status, and optics  • Coaching ka dhanda: what the coaching ecosystem doesn’t tell aspirants  • Reservation vs merit: the debate India keeps fighting  • Attempts & age limit: when should an aspirant move on?  • Mental health during UPSC preparation and public service  • Corruption: “necessary evil” or a dangerous excuse?  • What it means to serve India with real integrity Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Achievements 00:03 The Mental and Emotional Strain of UPSC Preparation 01:49 Career Shift and Motivation 03:19 Challenges and Perseverance 08:34 Disability and Inclusivity 13:00 Professional Experiences and Impact 16:38 Leadership and Systemic Change 20:01 Personal Insights and Reflections 27:06 Embracing Imperfections in Children 28:29 Cultural Richness and Acceptance 29:35 The Exodus of Wealthy Indians 31:53 Corruption in India: A Necessary Evil? 35:07 Inclusivity and Transgender Rights 37:43 Rapid Fire Questions on UPSC 39:21 Mental Health and UPSC Aspirants 42:45 The True Identity of Ira Singhal 43:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts If you’re a UPSC aspirant, a parent, a student, or simply curious about how India actually runs, this is one conversation you should not miss. 🎧 Watch till the end — Ira’s closing thoughts on fear, power, and service will stay with you. 🎙️ Guest Ira Singhal (IAS) UPSC Rank 1 | IAS Officer | Disability Rights Advocate 🎧 Host Gaurav Arora Founder, xMonks 📌 Keywords / Topics UPSC • UPSC 2025 • IAS Officer • Civil Services • UPSC Preparation • UPSC Coaching • UPSC Attempts • UPSC Motivation • Reservation • Merit • Privilege • IAS Power • Bureaucracy vs Politicians • Corruption in India • Mental Health • Disability & Inclusion • Hindi Podcast • Indian Podcast 🔔 Subscribe for more real conversations on mindset, leadership, society & India (Weekly episodes on The xMonks Drive Podcast) 🔥 Hashtags #UPSC #IraSinghal #IAS #UPSC2025 #CivilServices #UPSCPreparation #IASOfficer #UPSCMotivation #HindiPodcast #PodcastIndia #GauravArora 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    44 min
  4. Workplace Sexual Harassment Explained: Forensics, Power, Evidence, False Complaints | Vishal Bhasin

    JAN 14

    Workplace Sexual Harassment Explained: Forensics, Power, Evidence, False Complaints | Vishal Bhasin

    In this episode of The xMonks Drive Podcast, Gaurav Arora sits down with Vishal Bhasin — a Criminal Profiling & Forensic Psychology professional and one of India’s leading experts on Workplace Sexual Harassment (PoSH Act). This is a raw, high-impact conversation on how workplace harassment cases actually happen, how they are investigated, how evidence is evaluated, and why power dynamics can completely change outcomes. If you’ve ever wondered where the line is between “normal behaviour” and harassment, how cases are proven without clear proof, or what really happens inside an Internal Committee inquiry — this episode will change how you see workplaces forever. ✅ In this episode, we cover:  • What counts as Workplace Sexual Harassment in India (PoSH explained)  • How intent vs impact is judged in real workplace cases  • The role of evidence: chats, screenshots, calls, and digital trails  • Why “zero complaints” is not always a good sign  • How power & hierarchy influence workplace behaviour  • False complaints vs unproven complaints (and the real numbers)  • The “court of public opinion” vs what’s legally fair  • Modern workplace boundaries: late-night chats, work friendships & blurred lines  • What companies should do to build truly safe and respectful cultures This episode is especially relevant for: ✅ Employees ✅ Founders & managers ✅ HR professionals ✅ Internal Committee members ✅ Anyone working in corporate India or startups 🎧 Watch till the end for Vishal’s most practical advice on handling sensitive workplace situations with clarity, fairness, and accountability. ⸻ Guest: Vishal Bhasin Criminal Profiling | Forensic & Investigative Psychology | Workplace PoSH Expert Host: Gaurav Arora Founder, xMonks | The xMonks Drive Podcast ⸻ 📌 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Workplace Harassment 00:37 Meet Vishal Bhasin: India's Leading PoSH Expert 02:24 Case Study: False Allegations and Investigation 11:13 Understanding PoSH Act and Its Implications 15:58 Power Dynamics and Workplace Relationships 29:25 Case Study: Misuse of Power and PoSH Complaint 35:23 Misuse of Power and Its Consequences 37:04 AI and Its Impact on Evidence 37:59 Power Dynamics in Workplace Relationships 41:30 False Complaints and Legal Challenges 43:17 Consensual Relationships and Their Complications 50:02 Forensic Evidence in Harassment Cases 54:15 Psychological Patterns of Predators 56:14 Gender Neutral Policies and Male Victims 01:02:48 Women to Women Harassment Cases 01:05:36 Public Opinion and Organizational Policies 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    1h 9m
  5. Practical Buddhism for Work & Relationships | Stress, Pressure & Modern Life | Geetanjali Pandit

    JAN 7

    Practical Buddhism for Work & Relationships | Stress, Pressure & Modern Life | Geetanjali Pandit

    In this powerful episode of The xMonks Drive, Gaurav Arora sits down with Geetanjali Pandit — former CHRO of the India Today Group, Indian Express, and Zee Media, and bestselling author of Buddha at Work and Buddha in Love — for a deep, honest conversation on Buddhism, work stress, relationships, burnout, leadership, and modern life. This is not a feel-good spiritual talk. This is practical Buddhism for people dealing with pressure, toxic work cultures, emotional pain, broken relationships, and inner conflict. Geetanjali shares her lived experiences from the corporate world, her personal struggles, and how Buddhist wisdom helped her navigate abuse, stress, anger, trauma, leadership challenges, and emotional healing — both at work and in love. In this episode, we explore:  • How Buddhism applies to modern work life  • Why stress, burnout, and disengagement are rising globally  • What Buddhism says about anger, greed, ignorance, and suffering  • How unresolved issues create toxic workplaces and relationships  • Why leaders struggle with emotional maturity and responsibility  • How to manage work pressure, anxiety, and inner chaos  • What Buddhism really teaches about happiness, pain, and effort  • Why Buddhism matters more at work and in relationships than most people realise Timestamps 00:00 A Life-Changing Rescue 00:13 Discovering Buddhism and Inner Peace 03:46 The Power of Chanting for Happiness 05:30 Finding Happiness Before Success 06:31 The Importance of Gratitude 15:55 Buddhism's Three Poisons 17:28 Toxicity and Unresolved Issues 21:32 Navigating Office Politics 25:01 Managing Expectations in Relationships 26:13 Understanding Anger and Its Impact 27:09 Insights from 'Just Chill' Show 29:37 Values and Compatibility in Relationships 32:46 Dealing with Disappointment and Expectations 35:07 Belief in Coincidences and Personal Stories 40:54 Levels of Consciousness in Buddhism 48:56 Rapid Fire Round and Final Thoughts This conversation is especially relevant for: • Professionals dealing with work stress and burnout • Leaders and managers navigating people problems • Anyone struggling with relationships, emotional pain, or inner conflict • Viewers interested in Buddhism, mindfulness, leadership, and personal growth • Fans of long-form conversations like The Ranveer Show, Jay Shetty Podcast, Gaur Gopal Das, and BK Shi 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    51 min
  6. Gurudev Sri Anish Shares a Rare Story of Presence with the Dalai Lama & Modern Leadership

    12/24/2025

    Gurudev Sri Anish Shares a Rare Story of Presence with the Dalai Lama & Modern Leadership

    In this episode of The xMonks Drive, Gurudev Sri Anish shares a rare, deeply reflective story about meeting the Dalai Lama, and what silence, presence, and inner stillness revealed in that moment. A former CEO who walked away from the corporate world to spend a decade in deep spiritual practice in the Himalayas, Gurudev Sri Anish speaks candidly about leadership, fulfilment, and why even the most successful people often feel empty inside. Drawing from his personal journey and spiritual insights, he explores how modern ideas of success, ambition, and competition have shaped a generation and what’s missing beneath it all. This conversation goes beyond motivation and self-help. It touches on: - What silence teaches that words cannot - Why achievement without inner stillness leads to burnout - How the Dalai Lama embodies presence and awareness - The difference between action and aggression in leadership - Why fulfilment cannot be outsourced to success, money, or titles Timestamps 00:00 Meeting the Dalai Lama: A Profound Connection 02:21 Acknowledging Presence: A Deeper Understanding 13:52 The Essence of Consciousness and Spirituality 23:56 The Faulty Template of Modern Life 51:20 The Power of Non-Doing and Inner Stillness 59:05 India's Role and Global Collaboration 01:04:51 Message to the Youth: Building a Better World Hosted by Gaurav Arora, founder of xMonks, this episode is a slow, thoughtful exploration of consciousness, leadership, and the inner life — especially relevant for founders, leaders, and seekers navigating pressure, purpose, and meaning in today’s world. 🎧 Watch till the end for Gurudev Sri Anish’s message to the youth on purpose, freedom, and living consciously. Guest: Gurudev Sri Anish Spiritual Teacher | Leadership Mentor | Founder, Saadho Sangha Host: Gaurav Arora Founder, xMonks 🔔 Subscribe for more long-form conversations on leadership, consciousness, and inner growth. 💬 Share your reflections in the comments. What did this conversation stir in you? Hashtags: #DalaiLama #GurudevSriAnish #ConsciousLeadership #InnerStillness #ThexMonksDrive 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    1h 7m
  7. Inside India’s Child Protection System | What Really Happens After a Complaint

    12/17/2025

    Inside India’s Child Protection System | What Really Happens After a Complaint

    In this episode, we speak with Vaidehi Subramani, child rights activist, former Chairperson of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), and POCSO trainer, about how child abuse cases are handled in India and how the child protection system actually works. Drawing from decades of frontline experience, she explains what happens when a child reports abuse — from the first complaint to the system’s response — and why many cases never reach court. The conversation looks closely at child abuse within families, the role of POCSO law and juvenile justice, and the gaps that continue to put children at risk. The discussion covers:  • What happens in the first 24 hours after a child reports abuse  • Why most abuse cases involve people the child knows  • How Child Welfare Committees and Juvenile Justice Boards function  • Why children are often not believed when they speak up  • Digital abuse and online exploitation of children  • What parents, schools, and institutions need to understand about child safety This episode offers a clear, grounded look at child protection, law, and accountability in India, intended for parents, educators, policymakers, and anyone seeking to understand the system beyond headlines. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Child Tr*fficking in Delhi 00:50 Meet Vaidehi: The Child Rights Warrior 02:33 Challenges in Child Protection 03:51 Case Study: Afghan Children in Delhi 06:11 Understanding Juvenile Justice 11:19 Rehabilitation and Reintegration 23:28 Factors Leading to Juvenile Crimes 26:18 The Role of Family and Society 32:00 Exploring the Impact of Violent Upbringings 32:52 Digital Fasting Experiment 33:54 Impact of Digital Deprivation on Children 36:38 Parenting Styles and Challenges 39:51 Child Tr*fficking and Exploitation 52:00 Digital Abuse and Its Consequences 59:49 Emotional Reflections and Conclusion ⸻ Guest: Vaidehi Subramani Child Rights Activist | Former CWC Chairperson | POCSO Trainer Host: Gaurav Arora Founder, xMonks 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    1h 3m
  8. 2026 Remedies For Success | Powerful Astrology Solutions You Must Know | ShivaAmit Khanna

    12/10/2025

    2026 Remedies For Success | Powerful Astrology Solutions You Must Know | ShivaAmit Khanna

    2026 astrology predictions in Hindi, real Vedic astrology, money, career, rashifal, remedies and the truth about fake astrologers – sab kuch is one deep podcast. In this special episode of The xMonks Drive Podcast, host Gaurav Arora sits down with celebrity Vedic astrologer ShivaAmit Khanna to decode 2026 through real astrology, not fear-based drama. ✅ What you’ll learn in this episode: •2026 astrology predictions for all 12 zodiac signs (money, career, direction) •The difference between real Vedic astrology vs fake astrology on social media •2026 rashifal explained in simple language •Astrology remedies for 2026 success – money, work, stability, inner peace •How to know if your astrologer is lying or guessing •Why just sun-sign horoscopes are not enough & how moon sign / lagna matter If you’ve ever searched “2026 astrology predictions”, “2026 rashifal”, “real astrology vs fake”, “astrology remedies for money and career” – this conversation will help you understand astrology properly and use it in a practical way. ⭐ About ShivaAmit Khanna ShivaAmit Khanna is one of India’s most sought-after Vedic astrologers, guiding celebrities, business leaders and thousands of people worldwide with his accurate predictions and practical remedies. In this episode, he breaks down 2026 with honesty, clarity and deep spiritual insight. 🎧 About The xMonks Drive Podcast Hosted by Gaurav Arora, The xMonks Drive explores coaching, spirituality, psychology and leadership with some of the most insightful teachers, mystics and thinkers from India and around the world. 🔔 If this episode helps you: •Like the video •Comment your rāshi / zodiac sign and what hit you most •Share it with someone who keeps watching random 2026 prediction videos 🙂 •Subscribe for more real conversations on astrology, spirituality and inner growth Hashtags: #2026Astrology #Rashifal2026 #VedicAstrology #AstrologyPodcast #FakeAstrologers #RealAstrology #ShivaAmitKhanna #xMonksDrive #GauravArora #HindiPodcast 🔗 Connect with us: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334 Website: https://xmonks.com

    44 min
See All (247)

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

What if wisdom had a voice and it sounded like this Welcome to The xMonks Drive with Gaurav Arora, where soulful conversations meet real-world insight. Hosted by Master Certified Coach and founder of xMonks Gaurav Arora, this weekly podcast brings together a rare mix of CEOs, monks, psychologists, spiritual masters, doctors, and changemakers. Together, they explore what it truly means to lead with purpose, live with clarity, and grow from the inside out. From mindfulness and emotional mastery to conscious leadership, healing, entrepreneurship, and legacy, these episodes are more than interviews. They are invitations to shift your perspective and awaken your potential. If you are done with surface-level talk and crave depth, truth, and transformation, you are in the right place. New episodes drop weekly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify along with short, powerful clips to fuel your daily journey. Come curious. Leave clearer.

Information

  • Creator
    Gaurav Arora
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    247
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The xMonks Drive
  • Show Website
    The xMonks Drive