Trigger Warning: The following episode contains discussion of sexual abuse. For 20 years, Chilean filmmaker Francisca Alegría carried a secret that shaped every relationship, every creative choice, and every moment of self-doubt. The sexual abuse she experienced at age six became a "dark well" that she thought would define her forever. Today, she's an internationally recognized filmmaker, soon-to-be-married, and finally free from the shame that once consumed her. This is her story of breaking the silence and reclaiming her narrative. 📚 Essential Insights: - Why staying silent often feels safer than speaking up - How childhood trauma manifests in adult relationships - The unexpected connection between pain and creativity - Practical steps for healing from sexual abuse - How to support survivors in your life 🎬 About Our Guest: Francisca Alegría is a Chilean filmmaker whose work has been recognized at Sundance Labs. Her journey from trauma survivor to acclaimed storyteller proves that our wounds don't have to define our worth. Connect with Francisca! instagram.com/franciscalegria/

Sometimes the hardest job becomes your greatest teacher. Sumbul Siddiqui never expected that becoming Cambridge's first Muslim mayor would force her to confront the bullied child she once was - or that leading through COVID would become the ultimate confidence-building experience. In this raw conversation, she reveals how public service became an unexpected form of therapy, teaching her to trust herself even when the world seemed to be watching and waiting for her to fail. 📚 Essential Insights: - How childhood bullying shapes adult leadership styles - The connection between public service and personal healing - Why representation matters for both communities and individuals - Practical tools for building confidence in high-pressure situations - The role of therapy in maintaining perspective during public attacks 🎓 About Our Guest: Sumbul Siddiqui served as mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and continues to advocate for inclusive leadership and mental health awareness in public service. Connect with Sumbul! instagram.com/councillorsiddiqui/

Discover Hetal’s powerful journey of self-discovery, identity, and resilience in this episode of "Sense of Self." Growing up in a large immigrant family in Bloomfield, New Jersey, Hetal navigated the complexities of cultural differences, love languages expressed through food, and the challenges of forming friendships in a predominantly white environment. Join hosts Gowri and Hetal as they delve into: The impact of family dynamics and community on shaping identity The humor and heartache of integrating cultures Hetal’s experiences with ADHD and academic pressure Her transition from college to the food industry and the world of food blogging The importance of self-advocacy, independence, and emotional well-being Lessons learned from parenting and building a career in social media From childhood memories to finding her voice in the culinary arts, Hetal’s story is a testament to the power of children of immigrants and the impact of embracing one’s authentic self. Subscribe and join the conversation about community, identity, and personal growth—especially for women of color seeking their own sense of self

In this conversation, Dr. Kayla Shabre, a clinical psychologist, professional choreographer, and former cheerleader for the San Francisco 49ers, shares her journey of self-discovery, Kayla shares her journey from heightened body awareness in her teenage years to becoming a competitive cheerleader for the 49ers while pursuing her psychology studies. She discusses the impact of her athlete mindset, the transition to dance, and the spiritual growth she experienced along the way. The conversation also delves into the challenges of body image, the pressures of performance, and her struggles with eating disorders, ultimately leading to a reflection on personal growth and healing. In this conversation, Kayla shares her journey through body image issues and eating disorders, detailing her experiences as a professional athlete and the impact of being cut from the Niners. She discusses her path to self-discovery, empowerment through dance, and the importance of rebuilding relationships and support systems. Kayla emphasizes the significance of intentionality and authenticity in her life, culminating in her new role as a therapist and choreographer, where she aims to inspire confidence in others. Join us for the next episode of Sense of Self as we explore more stories of self-discovery and personal growth. Thank you for listening. A note on ethics, process, and safety: • The individuals in this podcast have graciously shared their stories and it's important to note that while these discussions are enriching and enlightening, they are not a substitute for therapy or mental healthcare. • Please note that each guest has given their consent to participate, had full control over what aspects of their journey were shared, and either currently engages in therapy or has done so in the past.

Dr. Seyi Akintorin is a dedicated physician at UCSF, where she combines her extensive medical expertise with a deep commitment to public health. A graduate of Tufts Medical School with a Master's in Public Health focused on Health Policy from Harvard, she is currently advancing her skills in mental health by pursuing a Master's in Counseling at Palo Alto University. When not engrossed in her medical and academic pursuits, Seyi finds joy in the company of her two beloved dogs, Adou and Lewa, and her wonderful husband, David. An avid lover of live music, Seyi also nurtures a passion for both indoor and outdoor gardening, painting, and floral arrangement, bringing creativity and care to everything she does.

Ria Tobaccowala grew up in a vibrant neighborhood on the south side of Chicago, surrounded by a multicultural community that fostered her love for storytelling. Her name, meaning "waterfalls," inspired her to seek a sense of flow and trust in life, like cascading waters. The conversation delved into Ria's experiences of feeling like an outsider for the first time in high school when a photography assignment led to a misunderstanding with law enforcement and event that pushed her to reevaluate her relationship with creative expression.

Cierra "Shooter" Glaude's is a filmmaker and TV director, and in this episode, she shares her upbringing in Mobile, Alabama, her entry into the film industry, and the impact of her brother's passing on her life. Shooter discusses her role as a caretaker in her family, setting boundaries with her mother, and the challenges of being the outspoken eldest daughter. Despite facing tinnitus and complicated family dynamics, Shooter maintains a sense of humor and resilience, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and making the most of life's experiences. Through her story, Shooter exemplifies the strength and growth that come from navigating personal struggles and embracing one's true self.

Dr. Joy Melody Woods Bennett, Ph.D. shares her path of self-discovery, from growing up with externally imposed high expectations to receiving her doctorate and some life-altering diagnoses that shed light and clarity on past struggles. Joy sought help, began questioning societal norms around Blackness, religion, education, and personal capability, in pursuit of a life of resilience and purpose.

Akemi Look, a rhythmic gymnast turned actor, shares her journey of trauma, abuse, and healing, including a life-changing accident that forced her to confront her past and reclaim her voice. Through therapy, medication, and support from friends and family, Akemi navigates her path to self-discovery, finding strength and resilience as she prepares to embark on the journey of motherhood.

Welcome to the pilot season of Sense of Self, a podcast about identity, mental health, and rewriting self-narratives. Every Wednesday in May we will release a new episode in which our host, Dr. Gowri Aragam, a psychiatrist, has a conversation with a woman of color about her self-narrative, its origin, impact, and when it stopped working.