Moments with Mamta

Mamta Narula

Moments with Mamta is a gentle pause in your busy day—a space filled with heartfelt stories, simple reflections, and soulful conversations. Join Mamta as she explores life’s everyday moments, uncovering the lessons, laughter, and love hidden within them. A podcast that feels like a warm cup of chai shared with a friend. The host, Mamta Narula, is a seasoned media and communications professional. Since 1998, she has been a prominent voice on Indian radio in the U.S., serving as a radio host, TV personality, and cultural ambassador. She is also the founder of Ultimate Media, a U.S.-based marketing and public relations agency specializing in real estate, brand building, and cross-cultural campaigns for international projects, including India, Dubai & US. For more details, Ultimatemedia.us.

Episodes

  1. From Finance to Fine Dining: The Culinary Evolution of Chef Nandini

    3D AGO

    From Finance to Fine Dining: The Culinary Evolution of Chef Nandini

    In this inspiring episode of Moments with Mamta, Mamta Narula sits down with Chef Nandini, the creative force behind Masala Clan, for a deep dive into the courage it takes to pivot toward one's true passion. From her humble beginnings in Patna, Bihar, to the high-pressure kitchens of Michelin-starred restaurants, Nandini’s journey is a masterclass in persistence and professional reinvention. Born into a family where success was traditionally measured by financial stability, Nandini initially followed a conventional path, earning a Master’s in Financial Risk Management and building a career in finance. However, a move to the United States and the unwavering support of her husband provided the catalyst for her to finally pursue her lifelong love for food. She reflects candidly on the "Indian thing" of viewing culinary arts as a secondary career and the pride she felt the first day she finally donned a professional chef’s coat. The conversation explores the grueling reality of the culinary industry, including the transition from home cooking to the precision of a professional kitchen. Nandini shares her experiences working under world-renowned names like David Burke and her transformative time at 11 Madison Park, where she honed the discipline and luxury etiquette that she now brings to her own brand. She speaks openly about the sacrifices made, including the radical hours that often meant waking up at 3:30 a.m. to balance motherhood with her culinary ambitions. Today, through Masala Clan, Nandini focuses on "speakeasy" style curated catering, moving away from fixed menus to create bespoke experiences that honor her clients' unique visions. As she looks toward the future of the wedding industry, her message remains grounded in the belief that hard work, experimentation, and a clear vision are the essential ingredients for any success story. A flavorful and motivating conversation that reminds us that it is never too late to trade a stable career for a soulful calling. Connect with Mamta Narula:  http://voiceofmamta.com/   https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula   https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/   https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/  Connect with Chef Nandini:  https://www.themasalaclan.com/ https://www.facebook.com/chefsinghnandini/  https://www.instagram.com/chefnandinisingh/  Enjoyed the Episode?  ✔ Subscribe to the podcast  ✔ Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration  ✔ Follow for more meaningful conversations each week

    30 min
  2. Dreams, Discipline, and Designing a Life You Love: The Journey of Rajeev Rajpal

    12/30/2025

    Dreams, Discipline, and Designing a Life You Love: The Journey of Rajeev Rajpal

    In this inspiring episode of Moments with Mamta, Rajeev Rajpal joins Mamta for an honest and uplifting conversation about dreams, resilience, reinvention, and the power of designing life with intention. A warm, charismatic personality and a lifelong dreamer, Raj’s story reflects decades of hard work, adaptability, and self-belief. Growing up in a modest family in India, Raj was surrounded by ambition and driven by a desire to do better each day. While still in college, he unexpectedly entered the world of modeling and advertising, building a full-fledged agency that worked with some of India’s largest exporters. Balancing studies, family expectations, and entrepreneurship, his early years laid the foundation for a career defined by courage and calculated risk-taking. After moving to the United States, Raj reinvented himself once again this time in the mortgage and finance industry. Entering a highly competitive and unfamiliar market, he relied on trust, integrity, and a simple philosophy: under-promise and over-deliver. Over a 35-year career, this mindset helped him rise to the top, earning national recognition and placing him among the top performers in the industry across the United States. Raj also reflects on the life changes brought on by COVID, which prompted him to step back from full-time work and shift his focus toward music, teaching, philanthropy, and nonprofit leadership. From using music as a source of healing and stress relief to supporting large-scale humanitarian initiatives in India and beyond, his journey today is guided by service, balance, and gratitude. A thoughtful and motivating conversation about success, failure, friendships, time management, and what it truly means to live a fulfilled life. Connect with Mamta Narula: http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/ https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/ Connect with Rajeev Rajpal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajrajpal/  Enjoyed the Episode? ✔ Subscribe to the podcast ✔ Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration ✔ Follow for more meaningful conversations each week

    32 min
  3. Preserving Culture Through Food: The Journeys of Chef Roshni Gurnani and Chef Hemant Mathur

    12/23/2025

    Preserving Culture Through Food: The Journeys of Chef Roshni Gurnani and Chef Hemant Mathur

    In this special episode of Moments with Mamta, Mamta welcomes not one, but two extraordinary guests, Chef Roshni Gurnani and Chef Hemant Mathur, whose lives and careers are a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of food as cultural storytelling. Together, they represent generations of dedication to Indian cuisine while redefining its place on the global stage. Chef Roshni Gurnani shares her journey as a classically trained chef who chose to step away from cooking for others to focus on her own culinary voice. Rooted in Sindhi heritage, her work is deeply personal, driven by a desire to preserve a culture and cuisine that is slowly disappearing. Through thoughtful ingredients, traditional techniques, and bold authenticity, she brings lesser-known Sindhi flavors to life, introducing diners to a side of Indian food many have never experienced. Chef Hemant Mathur adds his own powerful perspective, shaped by decades of experience, discipline, and mastery in the kitchen. Together, they reflect on the challenges of working in a demanding, male-dominated industry, the sacrifices required to pursue culinary excellence, and the courage it takes to follow passion over convention. The conversation explores identity, cultural preservation, creativity, and what it truly means to honor one’s roots while evolving with the times. From childhood influences and family expectations to international recognition and leadership, this episode celebrates food not just as nourishment, but also as a memory, a heritage, and a legacy. A rich and inspiring conversation for anyone who believes food has the power to tell stories, connect generations, and keep cultures alive. Connect with Mamta Narula: http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/ https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/ Connect with Chef Roshni Gurnani: https://www.instagram.com/chef_rosh/?hl=en Connect with Chef Hemant Mathur : https://www.Hemant Mathur mathurcatering.com/hmc

    57 min
  4. Living a Life of Purpose, Service, and Gratitude: The Journey of Menka Soni

    12/16/2025

    Living a Life of Purpose, Service, and Gratitude: The Journey of Menka Soni

    In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode of Moments with Mamta, Menka Soni joins Mamta for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, resilience, spirituality, and service. A corporate leader, community builder, nonprofit founder, healer, and newly elected Redmond City Council member, Menka’s life is a reflection of impact-driven leadership. Born and raised in Lucknow, India, Menka shares her journey of growing up in a conservative household, moving to the United States, and building a multifaceted life rooted in compassion and action. From a 30-year corporate career with organizations like Microsoft, Starbucks, and T-Mobile to founding a nonprofit that feeds thousands of homeless individuals weekly, her story is one of dedication and selfless service. Menka opens up about navigating multiple roles through what she beautifully describes as a “piano analogy,” balancing life’s highs and lows with intention and grace. She speaks candidly about her spiritual practices, her path as a trained magnified healer, and a life-altering heart attack in 2019 that reshaped her outlook and deepened her commitment to healing herself and others. The conversation also explores leadership, handling criticism, women empowerment, and the transformative work she has led through community initiatives, youth mentorship, pageants focused on inner strength, and civic engagement. Throughout the episode, Menka’s message remains clear: life is a gift, and true fulfillment comes from touching lives, serving with empathy, and living without regret. A moving and enlightening conversation that encourages listeners to live with gratitude, purpose, and courage. Connect with Mamta Narula: http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/ https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/ Connect with Menka Soni: https://www.instagram.com/menka_soni_  https://www.linkedin.com/in/menka-soni-pmp-12598b4/ Enjoyed the Episode?  ✔ Subscribe to the podcast  ✔ Share this episode with someone who needs inspiration  ✔ Follow for more meaningful conversations each week

    32 min
  5. From Hyderabad to America: The Culinary Journey of Chef Prasad Chirnomula

    12/09/2025

    From Hyderabad to America: The Culinary Journey of Chef Prasad Chirnomula

    In this inspiring episode of Moments with Mamta, Chef Prasad Chirnomula joins Mamta to share the remarkable journey that led him to become one of Connecticut’s most celebrated culinary figures and a pioneer of elevated Indian cuisine in the United States. Born into a family of doctors in Hyderabad, Chef Prasad chose a completely different path one driven by passion, curiosity, and an unwavering love for food. From his early training in India to arriving in America with almost nothing, working as a busboy, and slowly rising through every position in the kitchen, his story is filled with resilience, humility, and grit. He reflects on the challenges of introducing Indian flavors to American diners in the 1980s and 90s, the craft of building successful restaurants, the recognition he earned from The New York Times and the James Beard House, and the deep pride he carries in representing Indian cuisine on a global stage. Chef Prasad also talks about his acclaimed monthly “Chef Collaborations,” where he brings renowned chefs together to create unforgettable culinary experiences celebrating community, creativity, and shared passion. A motivating and heartwarming conversation for anyone who loves food, culture, and stories of hard-earned success. Connect with Mamta Narula: http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/  https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/ Connect with Chef Prasad Chirnomula https://www.chefprasad.com/ https://www.facebook.com/prasad.chirnomula/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/prasad-chirnomula-a51b73a7/ Enjoyed the Episode? ✔ Subscribe to the podcast ✔ Share this episode with someone who loves culinary stories ✔ Follow for more inspiring conversations each week

    38 min
  6. From Kerala to New York: The Culinary Journey of Chef Regi Mathew

    11/25/2025

    From Kerala to New York: The Culinary Journey of Chef Regi Mathew

    In this flavorful episode of Moments with Mamta, host Mamta Narula sits down with acclaimed chef and restaurateur Chef Regi Mathew, the visionary behind Kappa Chakka Kandhari and the man responsible for bringing the true spirit of Kerala’s cuisine to New York City. The name Chatti refers to the traditional clay pot central to Kerala’s toddy shops and homes. This emblem of Kerala’s culinary heritage sets the stage for a dining experience that brings the bold flavors and rustic charm of toddy shop food – a micro-cuisine with a cult following- to the heart of New York City. Chef Regi shares how childhood memories, village life, and his mother’s cooking shaped his culinary identity. He opens up about the three-year journey of researching Kerala’s traditional recipes, visiting 300 homes, learning from mothers and grandmothers, and discovering the cultural soul behind every dish. He also discusses the challenges of entering the New York food scene, the philosophy behind “touchings,” and why regional Indian food is becoming the next global movement. This episode is packed with culture, nostalgia, authenticity, and beautiful insights into food, community, and staying true to your roots. 🔗 Connect with Mamta Narula: http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/  https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/ 🔗 Connect with Chef Regi Mathew:  https://www.chattinewyork.com/ https://www.instagram.com/chatti.newyork/ ⭐ Enjoyed the Episode? ✔ Subscribe to the podcast for weekly inspiring conversations ✔ Share this episode with a food lover or friend ✔ Follow us for more stories that celebrate culture, passion, and purpose

    23 min
  7. Choosing Happiness Over Success: A Heartfelt Conversation with Tariq Khan

    11/18/2025

    Choosing Happiness Over Success: A Heartfelt Conversation with Tariq Khan

    Description In this inspiring opening episode of Moments with Mamta, host Mamta Narula sits down with Tariq Khan, a marketing leader, professor, author, and global traveler, to explore the meaningful moments that shaped his journey from corporate success to a life driven by purpose and fulfillment. Khan is a Clinical Associate Professor of Integrated Marketing and Communications at NYU, holding a BBA from Baruch College and an MBA from the University of St. John's, and is a recognized business leader, published author, and keynote speaker.  His expertise spans thought leadership, innovative marketing strategy, and cultural transformation, built upon a distinguished twenty-year corporate career in senior leadership roles at global Fortune companies like MetLife and ING, where he served as Senior Vice President and Head of Market Development; in 2010, he founded Global Diversity Marketing (GDM), a leading management consulting firm in New York. Tariq opens up about choosing happiness over external validation, the powerful influence of the women in his life, and how travel, teaching, and leadership shaped his worldview. He also shares emotional reflections on loss, growth, and the values he wants the younger generation to carry forward, especially in a world led by AI and constant change. Packed with wisdom, humor, and heartfelt insights, this episode encourages listeners to redefine success and embrace what truly matters. 🔗 Connect with Mamta http://voiceofmamta.com/ https://www.facebook.com/mamta.narula https://www.instagram.com/voice_of_mamta/  https://www.instagram.com/mamta1g/  🔗 Connect with Tariq https://www.linkedin.com/in/diversity https://shorturl.at/eJTMM  Enjoyed the Episode? ✔ Subscribe to the podcast ✔ Follow for weekly inspiring conversations ✔ Share this episode with someone who needs a dose of motivation Your support helps the show grow and reach more listeners!

    27 min

About

Moments with Mamta is a gentle pause in your busy day—a space filled with heartfelt stories, simple reflections, and soulful conversations. Join Mamta as she explores life’s everyday moments, uncovering the lessons, laughter, and love hidden within them. A podcast that feels like a warm cup of chai shared with a friend. The host, Mamta Narula, is a seasoned media and communications professional. Since 1998, she has been a prominent voice on Indian radio in the U.S., serving as a radio host, TV personality, and cultural ambassador. She is also the founder of Ultimate Media, a U.S.-based marketing and public relations agency specializing in real estate, brand building, and cross-cultural campaigns for international projects, including India, Dubai & US. For more details, Ultimatemedia.us.