Rerouting Life with Nourin and Sunil

Nourin Sunil

"Rerouting Life with Nourin & Sunil” is a thoughtful, honest podcast for people who want more clarity in life and career. We explore the questions most people avoid-feeling behind, changing paths, navigating PhDs, corporate life, money, and self-doubt. Through real conversations, personal experiences, and practical insights, we help you make sense of uncertainty and move forward with confidence. If you’re trying to build a life that actually feels right (not just looks right) this podcast is for you.

Episodes

  1. Jul 14

    Behind Cancer Research: Margherita on Immunotherapy, PhD Life & Finding Purpose

    What does it really mean to spend years researching a disease that has touched millions of lives? In this episode of Rerouting Life, we sit down with Margherita, a PhD researcher at Imperial College London, whose work focuses on engineering the immune system to fight cancer through immunotherapy. Together, we explore what cancer research actually looks like behind the scenes: from failed experiments and unexpected breakthroughs to the emotional resilience required to keep going. Margherita also shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Italy to studying at one of the world's leading universities, the realities of living away from home, and why purpose matters more than having everything figured out. This conversation is about much more than science. It's about curiosity, resilience, taking risks, and finding meaning in work that has the potential to change lives. In this episode:• What immunotherapy is and why it's changing cancer treatment• Can immunotherapy replace chemotherapy?• The untold reality of PhD life and research setbacks• The inspiring story of getting into Imperial College London• Living abroad and the feeling of having two homes• Why every scientific breakthrough begins with countless failures• Advice for aspiring researchers, students, and anyone chasing a dream If this conversation resonated with you, follow Rerouting Life on Spotify and share this episode with someone who loves stories of science, growth, and purpose. Disclaimer:The views and experiences shared in this episode are those of the hosts and guest and are intended for educational and informational purposes only. This conversation should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions regarding cancer or any other medical condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional. Discussions about research reflect the current understanding and personal experiences of the guest at the time of recording.

  2. Jun 30

    Why Saying No Is So Hard | The Psychology of People Pleasing, Boundaries & Your Brain

    Why do we feel guilty saying no? Why do so many of us say yes even when it comes at the cost of our own time, energy, and priorities? In this episode of Rerouting Life, Sunil and Nourin explore the psychology behind people pleasing and why our brains are naturally wired to seek acceptance. Drawing from neuroscience, evolutionary psychology, everyday experiences, Indian culture, and Vedic philosophy, they unpack why saying no often feels uncomfortable and how we can begin setting healthier boundaries without losing our kindness. In this episode, we discuss: • Why saying no feels emotionally painful• The neuroscience behind people pleasing• Fear of rejection and the need for social acceptance• How childhood and culture shape our decision-making• Why every unnecessary "yes" is often a "no" to your own priorities• India vs Western perspectives on boundaries• What Vedic philosophy teaches about making difficult choices• Practical ways to say no with confidence and respect• Setting healthier boundaries at work and in relationships Whether you're someone who struggles to disappoint others, overcommits, or simply wants to build more confidence in your decisions, this conversation offers practical insights to help you protect your time without sacrificing your values. If this episode resonates with you, consider following Rerouting Life and sharing it with someone who needs to hear it. Disclaimer:This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The discussions are based on personal experiences, publicly available research, and philosophical perspectives. They are not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or mental health advice. If you are experiencing mental health concerns, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

  3. Jun 16

    How I Cracked IIT JEE in 6 Months: Strategy, Mindset & Exam Day Secrets

    In Part 2 of this conversation, Sunil shares the exact strategies, habits, and mindset that helped him crack IIT JEE with just six months of preparation. From creating a unique revision system and managing exam pressure to growing up with limited financial resources and finding motivation through a mentor who believed in him, this episode explores what it really takes to pursue a difficult goal when the odds seem stacked against you. We discuss: • How Sunil revised an entire JEE syllabus in one month • The study system that helped him retain difficult concepts • Why he focused on accuracy over speed • How he achieved 100% accuracy in Physics • What to do one day before a major exam • Exam-day strategies and mindset • The importance of mentors and belief • Growing up in a below-poverty-line family • Advice for students preparing for IIT JEE and other competitive exams Whether you're preparing for IIT JEE, NEET, GATE, UPSC, CAT, university entrance exams, or simply working towards a challenging goal, this episode is packed with lessons on focus, resilience, and self-belief. 🎙️ About Rerouting Life Rerouting Life is a podcast about the unexpected turns that shape our lives. Through conversations with researchers, professionals, students, and creators, we explore career pivots, personal growth, resilience, and the moments that change our direction. Connect with us and share your own rerouting story. DISCLAIMER: The views, experiences, and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the individuals involved and are shared for informational, educational, and inspirational purposes. Study methods, preparation strategies, and outcomes vary from person to person, and listeners should adapt any advice to their own circumstances. References to institutions, examinations, organizations, or individuals are based on personal experiences and should not be interpreted as official guidance or endorsements.

  4. Jun 9

    Cracking IIT JEE in 6 Months (Part 1)

    What does it take to go from a small village to IIT Delhi? In Part 1 of this special two-part conversation, Sunil shares his personal journey of discovering IIT for the first time, growing up with limited exposure to competitive exams, failing his first JEE attempt, and eventually preparing for IIT JEE with just six months remaining. We discuss the realities of JEE preparation, the role of strong fundamentals, Kota coaching culture, hard work vs smart work, study materials, and the mindset required to pursue ambitious goals. Whether you're an IIT JEE aspirant, a student preparing for competitive exams, a parent supporting a student, or someone working towards a challenging goal, this episode offers practical insights and lessons from a real-life journey. Topics Covered: • Growing up in a village and discovering IIT • The video that inspired an IIT dream • Failing the first JEE attempt • Moving to Kota for preparation • How to approach IIT JEE preparation • Concept building vs problem solving • How many books are actually necessary? • Hard work vs smart work • The importance of consistency and fundamentals This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation. In Part 2, we'll dive deeper into preparation strategies, common mistakes students make, managing pressure, and lessons learned from the IIT experience. Disclaimer: The experiences, opinions, and preparation strategies shared in this episode are based on personal experiences and are intended for informational and motivational purposes only. Every student's learning journey is different, and preparation methods should be adapted to individual goals, strengths, circumstances, and learning styles. This episode does not constitute professional educational or career guidance. Follow Rerouting Life: Instagram: @reroutinglifepodcast YouTube: @ReroutingLifePodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation.

  5. Jun 2

    How Much Money Do You Really Need to Live in London? | Real Cost of Living, Rent & Budgeting Tips

    Moving to London or already living here and wondering where all your money disappears? In this episode of Rerouting Life, we have an honest conversation about the real cost of living in London. From rent and groceries to transport, takeaways, and unexpected expenses, we break down what life actually costs and the simple money habits that have helped us manage our finances better. We also share our personal experiences, budgeting strategies, and lessons learned while navigating life in one of the world's most expensive cities. Topics Covered: • Cost of living in London • Rent prices and accommodation options • Shared housing vs private flats • Grocery and food expenses • Public transport and cycling costs • Hidden expenses that add up quickly • Lifestyle inflation • Budgeting and saving strategies • The bucket method for managing money • Living in London as a student or young professional Whether you're planning to move to the UK, studying abroad, starting your first job, or simply interested in personal finance, this episode offers practical insights from our own journey. Disclaimer: The costs, salaries, and experiences discussed in this episode are based on our personal experiences and observations while living in London. Actual expenses may vary depending on your lifestyle, location, accommodation choices, and individual circumstances. This episode is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the podcast and share it with someone who is planning a move to London. Connect with us: Instagram: @reroutinglife_ YouTube: Rerouting Life with Nourin and Sunil #LondonLife #CostOfLiving #PersonalFinance #LivingAbroad #MoneyManagement

About

"Rerouting Life with Nourin & Sunil” is a thoughtful, honest podcast for people who want more clarity in life and career. We explore the questions most people avoid-feeling behind, changing paths, navigating PhDs, corporate life, money, and self-doubt. Through real conversations, personal experiences, and practical insights, we help you make sense of uncertainty and move forward with confidence. If you’re trying to build a life that actually feels right (not just looks right) this podcast is for you.