ROOH (Rising Over Obstacles and Healing)

Jyoti and Monica
  • 5.0 (22)
  • DOCUMENTARY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

ROOH (Rising Over Obstacles & Healing) is a safe haven for South Asian women to share their extraordinary journeys of resilience. Through storytelling (some anonymous, some not), we delve into the depths of human experience, uncovering stories of triumph, heartbreak, and growth. Whether it’s overcoming immense challenges, finding strength in vulnerability, or discovering invaluable life lessons, our guests share their experiences with raw honesty and courage. By creating a platform for open dialogue, ROOH aims to inspire, uplift, and empower listeners to rise above obstacles and embark on their own healing journeys. Join us as we celebrate the indomitable spirit of South Asian women.

  1. Marriage: Kabhi Arranged...Kabhi Love...Kabhi Both!

    2D AGO

    Marriage: Kabhi Arranged...Kabhi Love...Kabhi Both!

    In our community, we’re often told that love happens after marriage—like it’s a switch you just flip once the gold jewelry comes off. But for today’s guest, that switch took work, intention, patience, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you call it arranged or love, Alka is here to tell us how she built a romance on her own terms. After hearing her story, some of you may give arranged marriages a chance, so tune in!

    53 min
  2. 10,000 Swipes, 0 Vibes (Guys Edition)

    FEB 12

    10,000 Swipes, 0 Vibes (Guys Edition)

    We vented about the ghosting and the '0 vibes' on our end last week—but what are the guys actually thinking? This week, we sat down with two single South Asian men to get the unfiltered truth about their side of the apps. We’re talking about the pressure to provide, the expectations, and why it feels like we’re all just swiping in circles. Just real talk and some much-needed perspective. Grab your cha or coffee and let's get into it!

    52 min
  3. 10,000 Swipes, 0 Vibes

    FEB 5

    10,000 Swipes, 0 Vibes

    Today on ROOH, we’re talking to two South Asian women in their 30s who are navigating dating in this digital jungle. We’re discussing why the pool feels larger, but the water feels shallower—and why, at the end of the day, your 'rich life' doesn't depend on a swipe. Grab your cha, tea, or coffee—it’s time for 10,000 Swipes, 0 Vibes!

    51 min
  4. Don't Just Post It, Power It!

    JAN 29

    Don't Just Post It, Power It!

    As South Asian women, we’re often conditioned to keep our heads down and mind our own affairs. But with everything happening in the US right now—like the shooting of Alex Peretti—it’s time we finally speak up. Posting stories on IG to create awareness is a great start, but in this episode, Monica and I talk about what should come next. We’re diving into how we can move past the screen and collectively bring about real change. Tune in! Episode Resource List: Action Beyond the Screen 1. Identify & Contact Your Representatives Don’t just speak to your followers; speak to those who hold the pen. Find Your Reps: Use CommonCause.org or USA.gov to find your local, state, and federal officials.The Script: "I am a constituent in [Your Zip Code], and I am calling to demand an independent investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti. I urge you to support a DHS appropriations bill that restricts ICE funding and reallocates tax dollars toward community health and VA resources instead of federal enforcement."2. South Asian Advocacy Groups Connect with organizations that understand our specific cultural nuances and fight for policy change. SAALT (South Asian Americans Leading Together): Focuses on policy change and fighting racial profiling. saalt.orgSAAPRI (South Asian American Policy & Research Institute): Uses data and research to advocate for the South Asian community in the US. saapri.orgDRUM (Desis Rising Up & Moving): Organizing low-income South Asian and Indo-Caribbean immigrants for social justice. drumnyc.org3. Tangible Change: Reallocating Tax Dollars Advocate for your money to stay in your community. Demand a "Clean" Budget: Contact your Senators to oppose any funding increases for ICE and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).Support Local Mutual Aid: Instead of federal over-policing, donate to local Minneapolis groups like Unidos MN or the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota who are providing direct support to those affected.4. Know Your Rights (KYR) Part of breaking cultural trauma is knowing you have the right to exist safely. ACLU KYR Guide: Download or print "Know Your Rights" cards to keep in your car or wallet. aclu.org/know-your-rightsRecording Federal Agents: Remember, you have a First Amendment right to film federal agents in public spaces as long as you do not interfere with their operations.

    24 min
  5. Gucci...Prada...or Nada?

    JAN 22

    Gucci...Prada...or Nada?

    Does a designer label actually change how you feel about yourself, or are we just buying into a standard that wasn't built for us? This week, Monica and I explore the high-stakes world of luxury consumerism and the pressure to "keep up." We’re looking past the price tags to discuss why material highs are so fleeting—and how to reclaim a sense of worth that social media can’t touch. You'll want to tune in to this one!

    29 min
  6. New Year, New Worth: The Fiber of Our Being

    JAN 15

    New Year, New Worth: The Fiber of Our Being

    This week, Jyoti and Monica celebrate Lohri and discuss why the secret to a better year isn't just a resolution—it’s recognizing our worth, setting firm boundaries, and maybe adding a little more fiber to the mix. Come for the light-hearted sisterhood; stay for the big ideas that will empower your healing journey in the new year!

    32 min
  7. The Heck with LKK: Owning Your Happiness in 2026

    JAN 7

    The Heck with LKK: Owning Your Happiness in 2026

    Have you ever made a choice—about your career, your relationship, or even your outfit—not because you wanted to, but because you were afraid of what "they" would say? In this episode of ROOH, Jyoti and Monica take a deep look back at the past year and the invisible shadow that follows so many South Asian women: the "Log Kya Kahenge" (LKK) Syndrome. We’re peeling back the layers on why we prioritize communal reputation over our own wellbeing. Tune in for tangible steps you can take to OWN your happiness!

    28 min
  8. Desi Weddings, Then and Now: It's All About Connection

    12/18/2025

    Desi Weddings, Then and Now: It's All About Connection

    Desi weddings have evolved so much over the years. This week, Monica and I take a trip down memory lane to talk about the simplicity of weddings back in the day and what truly mattered then versus now. Despite all the changes and the pressure for extravagance, we discuss why it’s so important to not lose sight of what actually counts: connection, honoring your vows, and the union of two people. We also share a few personal stories from our own big days—including one moment for me where things didn't go exactly as planned, but I chose to pivot anyway. There are plenty of laughs along the way, all with the message that you need to value your happiness and peace of mind above all else. Reclaim your day.

    36 min
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5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

ROOH (Rising Over Obstacles & Healing) is a safe haven for South Asian women to share their extraordinary journeys of resilience. Through storytelling (some anonymous, some not), we delve into the depths of human experience, uncovering stories of triumph, heartbreak, and growth. Whether it’s overcoming immense challenges, finding strength in vulnerability, or discovering invaluable life lessons, our guests share their experiences with raw honesty and courage. By creating a platform for open dialogue, ROOH aims to inspire, uplift, and empower listeners to rise above obstacles and embark on their own healing journeys. Join us as we celebrate the indomitable spirit of South Asian women.

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