Desperate Times Podcast

Desperate Times Podcast
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Welcome to Desperate Times Podcast – where two hospitality grads turned marketers try to make sense of life, careers, and everything in between. From switching industries to navigating adulthood (and making some questionable choices along the way), we’re here to talk about it all!

  1. #28 - How to Switch from Hospitality to Marketing in Germany | Shaunakk Pilanker on Career Reinvention

    12/11/2025

    #28 - How to Switch from Hospitality to Marketing in Germany | Shaunakk Pilanker on Career Reinvention

    In this episode of Desperate Times, hosts Sakshi and Varun engage in a deep conversation with Shaunakk about his remarkable journey from the hospitality industry in India to a marketing career in Germany. They explore the challenges of reinventing oneself in a new country, the impact of personal loss on career choices, and the cultural shocks faced while adapting to life in Germany. Shaunakk shares insights on the importance of language, the realities of the hospitality industry, and the lessons learned through his experiences. This episode is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion in one's career. In this conversation, Shaunakk shares his journey from a small town to a bigger city in Germany, discussing the cultural shock and challenges he faced in his early career. He reflects on the inspiration he drew from advertising legends like Piyush Pandey and the impact of creativity in marketing. The discussion shifts to the difficulties of navigating the job market in Germany, the mental health challenges associated with job hunting, and the importance of personal growth during desperate times. Shaunakk emphasizes the need to adapt to changing circumstances and the value of dreaming big, while also acknowledging the struggles faced by many immigrants in their pursuit of success. Takeaways Shaunakk transitioned from hospitality to marketing in Germany.Personal loss can be a catalyst for major life changes.Working in hospitality provides invaluable life lessons.Language proficiency is crucial for career advancement in a new country.Cultural shocks can significantly impact the adaptation process.The importance of networking and mentorship in career development.Marketing requires creativity and adaptability.Work-life balance varies greatly between cultures.Experiencing different industries can broaden one's perspective.Resilience is key to navigating career transitions. Cultural transitions can be challenging but rewarding.Gratitude for opportunities can shape one's career path.Inspiration from industry legends can ignite passion.Creativity in advertising is essential for impactful messaging.Job hunting can be mentally exhausting and requires resilience.Personal growth often comes from navigating difficult times.The job market can be influenced by global events.Maintaining mental health is crucial during job searches.Adapting to change is necessary for success.Dreaming big can lead to unexpected opportunities. Sound bites "Marketing is not rocket science." "Job hunting is a full-time job." "Desperate times shape you." Chapters (00:00) Reinventing Yourself: A Journey of Change (16:32) Navigating the Learning Curve: From Hospitality to Marketing (20:16) The Evolution of Marketing Education (21:16) Navigating Life in a New Country (26:44) Coping with Culture Shock (30:43) The Impact of Influential Figures in Marketing (34:06) The Struggle for Creativity in Advertising (41:34) Adapting to Change in Marketing (43:02) Job Hunting Challenges in Germany (45:29) The Struggles of Job Applications (48:02) Finding Balance in Desperate Times (52:09) Cultural Insights and Travel Opportunities (55:20) Personal Stories of Desperation and Growth

    52 min
  2. #27 - From 5-Star Hotels to Marketing: Shouvik Dasgupta's Bold Career Pivot in Canada

    10/16/2025

    #27 - From 5-Star Hotels to Marketing: Shouvik Dasgupta's Bold Career Pivot in Canada

    What happens when you spend years behind a hotel front desk, handling some of the wildest guests and late-night stories… and then decide to pivot your entire career? In this episode of the Desperate Times Podcast, we sit down with Shouvik — someone who made a bold shift from hospitality to marketing and moved from India to Canada in the process. He shares what it’s really like to start over in a new country, why transferable skills matter more than you think, and the unforgettable experiences that only the hotel industry can offer. 🎙️ Whether you’re dreaming of a career pivot, moving abroad, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this one’s for you. Music Credits:♪ Marshmallow (Prod. by Lukrembo)Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7KYdqVND4o&ab_channel=LuKremBo

    43 min
  3. #26 - I Want to Go Home: The Desperate Feeling of Homesickness

    10/09/2025

    #26 - I Want to Go Home: The Desperate Feeling of Homesickness

    That sinking feeling when a major festival like Diwali or a birthday passes, and you’re oceans away. We know the feeling. Homesickness isn't just missing home; it's a deep, desperate emotional impact that peaks during cultural celebrations. Join us as we get vulnerable about the pressure of cultural expectations from afar and how to find connection and community when you're navigating a new world. (Warning: Contains honest talk about emotional breakdowns and comfort food disasters.) In this candid episode of Desperate Times, we explore why big festivals and milestones intensify the ache of being away. We discuss the intense guilt and pressure that comes with missing important traditions, and why it's crucial to acknowledge the feeling—remember, "It's okay to feel homesick." We share our most desperate coping mechanisms—the good, the bad, and the slightly pathetic—and what it takes to form a supportive community in a new land. This conversation is about accepting change as an inevitable part of life and realizing that embracing it is the only way to build new, meaningful traditions right where you are. Takeaways Cultural expectations can create pressure during festivals.Homesickness can intensify during significant cultural events.Emotional breakdowns are a natural response to feeling out of place.Finding connection in new environments is crucial for well-being.Coping mechanisms can help manage feelings of loneliness.Community support plays a vital role in emotional healing.Embracing change can lead to the formation of new traditions.It's important to acknowledge and express feelings of homesickness.Navigating cultural differences requires patience and understanding.Change is an inevitable part of life that can bring growth. Chapters: (00:00) Navigating Homesickness During Festivals (The Post-Durga Puja/Pre-Diwali Pressure) (06:39) When the Holidays Hit: Coping with Birthdays and Cultural Expectations (12:08) Celebrating Diwali and Thanksgiving in a New Land (Embracing Change and New Traditions) (19:06) Outro and Final Thoughts: Why "I just had a massive breakdown" is sometimes the first step to healing. If you are counting the days and time zones until you can go home, you are not alone. Hit the like button and leave a comment below sharing your best (or worst!) homesickness coping mechanism. Subscribe to Desperate Times for more real talk on the messy parts of life. #Homesickness #DiwaliAbroad #CulturalShock #ExpatLife #CopingMechanisms #DesperateTimes #EmotionalImpact #CommunitySupport #NewTraditions

    19 min
  4. #25 - Financial Desperation: Surviving Until the First Paycheck

    10/02/2025

    #25 - Financial Desperation: Surviving Until the First Paycheck

    In this episode, we dive into the all-too-familiar feeling of financial desperation — when you’re waiting for that paycheck to hit and every dollar counts. We talk about the stress of living paycheck to paycheck, the mental load of money struggles, and practical ways to manage your finances when times feel tight. From budgeting tips to breaking the cycle of constant money stress, this conversation is real, raw, and something so many of us can relate to.Whether you’re trying to stretch your last $20 or looking for smarter ways to plan ahead, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not alone in the grind. Music Credits:♪ Marshmallow (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7KYdqVND4o&ab_channel=LuKremBo 00:00 Introduction to Financial Struggles 01:50 Navigating Student Life and Finances 04:48 The Transition to International Student Life 07:42 Managing Expenses as a Student 10:27 Utilizing College Resources for Financial Relief 13:13 The Importance of Budgeting and Financial Planning 16:42 Navigating Public Transport Costs 19:03 Transitioning into Adulthood 21:42 Understanding Wants vs. Needs 24:21 The Thrifting Trend 28:57 Tracking Finances Effectively

    33 min
  5. #24 - Is the H1B Dream Dead? The Untold Reality of Life in America with Mannan

    09/25/2025

    #24 - Is the H1B Dream Dead? The Untold Reality of Life in America with Mannan

    In this week's episode of "Desperate Times," hosts Sakshi Jalan and Varun Raheja sit down with Mannan, who shares his journey from Mumbai to San Jose. With the latest news on H1B visa policy changes, Mannan's candid story couldn't be more timely. He shares the raw truth about the journey to America, from the initial cultural shock and the unexpected challenges of university life to the harsh realities of discrimination and the struggle to build a community. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone considering a move abroad, or for those who want to understand the modern immigrant experience. We delve into how the AI economy is impacting careers, the importance of resilience, and the difference between the 'American Dream' as an ideal versus its lived reality. Tune in to hear Mannan’s invaluable advice for new immigrants and his take on why facing challenges head-on is the only way to thrive. Takeaways Cultural shock is a significant part of moving countries.Adjusting to a slower pace of life in the US can be challenging.Making friends in a new country can be difficult due to different priorities.The American dream may not align with reality for many immigrants.AI is currently inflating the economy, but its sustainability is uncertain.Experiencing discrimination can be a harsh reality for immigrants.Finding community is crucial for emotional support in a new country.Driving in California offers unique opportunities for exploration.It's important to take challenges head-on when moving abroad.Resilience is key to thriving in a new environment. Sound bites "What was the biggest shock?" "You never feel at home." "Take everything head on." Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Desperate Times Podcast (00:51) Cultural Shock: Moving from Mumbai to LA (03:24) Adjusting to Life in San Jose (06:19) Navigating University Life in a New Country (09:02) The Challenges of Independence and Daily Life (10:37) Weather Woes and Seasonal Affects (12:27) The Reality of Moving Abroad (13:38) The American Dream: Expectations vs. Reality (18:18) Cultural Differences and Social Connections (19:39) Facing Discrimination and Prejudice (24:02) Economic Contributions of Immigrants (28:08) Driving and Lifestyle Adjustments (28:27) Exploring California's Geographic Diversity (32:20) Cultural Differences in Work Ethic (36:42) The Challenges of Adulting Abroad (38:25) Advice for First-Time Movers 39:34 Navigating Early Challenges in a New Country (43:34) Outro.mp4

    44 min
  6. #23 - Chef to Product Developer: Saahil Shah’s Food Innovation Journey

    09/18/2025

    #23 - Chef to Product Developer: Saahil Shah’s Food Innovation Journey

    Ever wondered how to go from being a chef to building a career in product development and food innovation? 🍴✨ In this episode of Desperate Times, we talk to Saahil Shah, who transformed his culinary skills into a thriving career in R&D and the food industry.Saahil opens up about his culinary journey, the reality of culinary education, and the skills that helped him transition from the kitchen to product development. We also discuss career pivots, entrepreneurship lessons, life in a new country, and what it takes to navigate career setbacks while chasing opportunities in the Canadian food industry.Whether you're a chef exploring career growth, someone interested in food innovation, or just curious about career pivots and personal development, this episode has plenty of insights for you.📌 Chapters:(00:00) Introduction to Career Pivots(01:28) Sahil's Culinary Journey(04:14) The Reality of Culinary Education(07:17) Transitioning to R&D in Food(09:42) Defining Moments in Career Changes(12:19) Entrepreneurship and Its Lessons(15:12) Skills from Kitchen to Product Development(16:53) Imposter Syndrome and High Expectations(18:12) Navigating Expectations and Setbacks(19:31) Experiencing Life in a New Country(21:54) The Canadian Dream: Reality vs. Expectation(24:01) Desperate Times: Job Search Struggles(29:28) Hobbies and Work-Life Balance in Canada(31:17) Innovation in R&D: Personal Achievements and Insights(33:59) Outro🎧 Listen for insights on:Chef to product developer career transitionsCareer pivots in the food industryCulinary skills for product development & R&DLife and work experiences in CanadaFood innovation and personal growth lessonsMusic Credits:♪ Marshmallow (Prod. by Lukrembo)Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7KYdqVND4o&ab_channel=LuKremBo

    34 min
  7. #22 - Too Qualified, Not Enough Canadian Experience: Sakshi’s Job Hunt Struggles

    09/11/2025

    #22 - Too Qualified, Not Enough Canadian Experience: Sakshi’s Job Hunt Struggles

    In this episode of the Desperate Times Podcast, hosts Varun and Sakshi delve into the challenges of job hunting, particularly for international students. Sakshi shares her personal experiences navigating the job market, including the difficulties of transitioning to entry-level roles despite prior experience, the prevalence of job scams, and the frustrations of ghosting during the application process. The conversation also highlights the importance of networking and offers practical tips for effective outreach. Ultimately, the episode provides valuable insights for anyone facing the daunting task of job searching in today's competitive landscape. Takeaways Job hunting can be particularly challenging for international students.Many applicants find themselves starting from entry-level positions despite prior experience.Job scams are prevalent, often disguising sales roles as marketing positions.Interviews should not require unpaid work or extensive preparation without compensation.Ghosting by employers is a common frustration in the job application process.Networking is crucial; building relationships can lead to job opportunities.Active engagement on platforms like LinkedIn can enhance networking success.Personalizing outreach messages increases the likelihood of responses.Expectations should be managed; not every outreach will yield results.Desperation can lead to unexpected job offers, even after multiple rejections. Sound bites "I had to start from ground zero." "It was door to door sales." "I had already rejected him." Chapters (00:00) Navigating Job Hunts as an International Student (02:50) The Reality of Job Interviews and Expectations (05:29) Identifying Job Scams and Misleading Interviews (08:14) The Challenge of Ghosting in Job Applications (11:08) Networking: Building Connections in a Competitive Market (13:54) Desperate Times: Personal Stories of Job Searching Challenges (23:58) Outro.mp4

    24 min
  8. #21 - Finding Success Through Passion, Networking, and Self-Belief w/ Clerisa Varghese

    09/04/2025

    #21 - Finding Success Through Passion, Networking, and Self-Belief w/ Clerisa Varghese

    In this episode of Desperate Times, host Sakshi engages in a heartfelt conversation with  @theclerisavarghese , who shares her journey from India to Canada, her experiences in human resources, and her transition into public speaking coaching. They discuss the importance of networking, the cultural differences in work environments, and the challenges faced by immigrants. Clerisa emphasizes the need for self-belief, the value of mentorship, and the significance of taking bold steps in life. The conversation also touches on personal growth, confidence building, and the impact of cultural conditioning on decision-making. Where you can find Clerisa Varghese:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clerisavargheseNewsletter: https://www.topleaderlab.com/freeresource/newsletterYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@theclerisavarghese⁩  Takeaways Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.Believing in yourself is crucial for success.Confidence requires internal work and visualization.Cultural differences can significantly impact work-life balance.Public speaking is a valuable skill for professionals.Investing in mentors can accelerate personal growth.Sharing your visions prematurely can hinder progress.Immigrants often have a unique perspective on bold choices.Personal growth often comes from overcoming desperate times.Taking action is essential for manifesting dreams. Sound bites "You have to create opportunities." "Confidence is a lot of internal work." "You have to dream big and take action." Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Networking Journey (03:12) Clerisa's Background and Move to Canada (05:56) Career Transition and Opportunities in Canada (08:02) Cultural Differences in Work Environment (10:31) Public Speaking Journey and Influences (13:11) Challenges and Building Confidence in Communication (15:44) Entrepreneurial Mindset and Overcoming Doubts (17:26) The Journey of Learning and Mentorship/ (18:07) Influences of Family on Public Speaking (20:56) Tailored Communication Coaching (22:45) Building Confidence from Within (26:26) The Power of Manifestation and Action (27:38) Cultural Conditioning and Bold Choices (30:01) Navigating Desperate Times with Faith and Action (35:13) Outro.mp4 Music Credits:♪ Marshmallow (Prod. by Lukrembo) Link : https://www.youtube.com/watchv=y7KYdqVND4o&ab_channel=LuKremBo

    35 min
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Welcome to Desperate Times Podcast – where two hospitality grads turned marketers try to make sense of life, careers, and everything in between. From switching industries to navigating adulthood (and making some questionable choices along the way), we’re here to talk about it all!

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    Desperate Times Podcast
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  • Episodes
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