On this episode, Kanika interviews fellow podcaster on the Evergreen Network, Haven Weits. Her show Haven! is a safe space for curiosity and conversation especially when it comes to relationships. Together they dive into various dynamics, particularly those between mothers and daughters. Haven shares how she cultivated a strong bond with her mom, Lisa Whelchel, 80s sensation on the hit show “Facts of Life.” If you’re looking to reminisce and recreate simpler times for your children, this episode will surely resonate.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a mother and artist dares to reimagine the entire canon of Western art through a new lens—one that centers Black womanhood, power, and divinity? In this inspiring episode, host Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with Harmonia Rosales, the Afro-Cuban American artist redefining beauty and rewriting history with every brushstroke. From her reimagined Renaissance masterpieces to her breathtaking debut book Chronicles of Ori, Harmonia shares how motherhood, myth, and heritage shape her creative vision. Tune in for a soul-stirring conversation on reclaiming representation, teaching our children the true breadth of beauty, and trusting your intuition as both an artist and a parent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling with bedtime battles? Sleep consultant Courtney Zentz, founder of Tiny Transitions, shares proven tips to help babies, toddlers, and parents finally rest easy. Sponsored by Naturepedic, the leading organic mattress brand for families. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are the cleaning products in your home helping or harming your family? On this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with Kristi Lord and Lindsay Droz, co-founders of L’Avant Collective, a luxury plant-based cleaning brand that’s changing the way we clean. We dive into the toxic chemicals in everyday products, why parents need to pay attention, and their journey of building a wellness-driven brand rooted in style, sustainability, and science. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sheila Lirio Marcelo, the founder of Care.com and visionary behind Ohai.ai, joins Kanika to discuss how technology can ease the mental load of modern-day caregiving. Sheila opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of creating accessible family care solutions, and how her latest venture uses AI to streamline household management. Whether you’re a parent juggling it all or someone interested in innovation in family care, Sheila’s insights are a must-listen! Meet My Guest: WEBSITE: ⁠https://www.care.com/⁠ WEBSITE: ⁠https://www.ohai.ai/⁠ INSTAGRAM: ⁠@sheilaliriomarcelo⁠ FACEBOOK: ⁠Sheila Lirio Marcelo⁠ LINKEDIN: ⁠Sheila Lirio Marcelo⁠ PRESS: MOUNT HOLYOKE: ⁠Sheila Lirio Marcelo⁠ HARVARD BUSINESS SCHOOL: ⁠Sheila Lirio Marcelo⁠ STARTUPS.COM: ⁠Timing isn’t everything Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when you mix a stargazer’s heart with a scientist’s mind? Meet Dr. Emma Louden — astrophysicist, President of Slooh, and author of Mia and the Martians. In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, host Kanika Chadda-Gupta sits down with Emma to talk about her journey into space science, why girls belong in STEM, and how we can encourage curiosity and wonder in our children. From decoding the obliquity of planets to simplifying the night sky for classrooms, Emma is a force of nature who's bringing the stars within reach — one telescope and story at a time.In this special episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, Kanika Chadda-Gupta interviews Dr. Emma Louden, a real-life rocket woman and President of Slooh. With a Yale Ph.D. in Astronomy and a passion for mentoring the next generation of scientists, Emma shares her story — from a curious kid to an internationally recognized astrophysicist. She opens up about challenges in a male-dominated field, writing her children’s book Mia and the Martians, and why access to the universe should be a birthright, not a privilege. Get ready to be inspired by Emma’s brilliance, warmth, and message of “practical hope.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it truly mean to be happy—and how do we make time for it amidst the chaos of daily life? On this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with one of the most influential observers of human nature, Gretchen Rubin. She’s a five-time New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Project, Better Than Before, and The Four Tendencies and host of the beloved Happier podcast. We explore her childhood, family influences, and how she turned her curiosity into a career that's transforming how millions approach habits, relationships, and self-understanding. From practical happiness hacks to the surprising psychology behind everyday choices, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and ready to reclaim your joy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cutting the apron strings is never easy — but it’s exactly what Ellen Marie Bennett did to grow a $300 idea into a multimillion-dollar apron & kitchen essentials company, Hedley & Bennett. In this episode, we talk about her Mexican and English heritage, taking imperfect first steps, scaling without outside funding, staying scrappy, and balancing the roles of founder, chef, TV personality, and mom of two. You’ll also hear her top chef hacks for busy parents and how motherhood shaped her leadership. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this second installment of Kanika’s interview with Anuradha Nehru, we hear from the team behind Kalanidhi Dance - Executive Director & Artistic Director Daniel Singh, Managing Director Lavanya Thamire, and Assistant Artistic Director Pragnya Thamire. They share how they’re keeping the ancient art form alive with younger generations on why they have devoted their lives to dance. WEBSITE: ⁠Kalanidhi.org⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, host Kanika Chadda-Gupta—herself a trained Kuchipudi dancer—sits down with her revered teacher, Anuradha Nehru, founder and artistic director of Kuchipudi Kalanidhi along with the team. Together, they explore the sacred art of Kuchipudi, the journey of preserving ancient Indian traditions in the modern world, and how the discipline of dance intertwines with motherhood, mentorship, and legacy. Anuradha shares stories of her star students, how she recognizes potential in young dancers, and the profound responsibility of passing on culture to the next generation. Whether you're a parent, an artist, or someone reconnecting with your roots, this conversation will move you—body, mind, and soul. Anuradha Nehru is internationally recognized for her artistry and vision, leading Kalanidhi Dance to become one of the finest Kuchipudi ensembles in the country. Trained in the Vempati style, she has elevated the form with grace and innovation while keeping its classical essence intact. Under her guidance, Kalanidhi has performed across the U.S. and around the world, and regularly collaborates with leading artists and organizations to expand the reach and appreciation of Indian arts and culture. This year, Kalanidhi Dance is proud to announce the Kalanidhi Dance Legacy Gala—an evening dedicated to celebrating Anuradha’s extraordinary impact as founder and artistic director. Taking place on Saturday, September 13th at 6 PM, the gala will feature delicious bites, drinks, and a special performance by the Kalanidhi Company Dancers. On this occasion, the Kalanidhi Board of Directors will also launch the Anuradha Nehru Legacy Fund, ensuring her artistic vision continues to inspire and uplift generations of dancers to come. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening to honor Anuradha—fondly known as Anu aunty or Anu akka—and support the future of the arts. Meet Our Guest: WEBSITE: Kalanidhi.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this very special live recording of That’s Total Mom Sense, host Kanika Chadda Gupta brings together community, culture, and conversation at OASES House in NYC. Joined by Sonam Sangmo (Partner and Creative Director of OASES) and Radhika Batra Shah (Founder of Radhika’s Fine Teas & Whatnots), the panel explores what it means to be authentically South Asian living abroad, while honoring the origins of ancient traditions like yoga, ayurveda, and tea. From creating mindful spaces in a bustling city to preserving the heritage of tea as a ritual for wellness and connection, Sonam and Radhika share their journeys as entrepreneurs, women, and leaders rooted in purpose. Together, they discuss: The inspiration behind OASES and its role as a sanctuary for body, mind, and soul How tea can be more than a beverage — a daily practice of pause and presence Balancing entrepreneurship, identity, and motherhood Rituals, mantras, and lessons that keep them grounded Recorded in front of a live audience, this episode blends intention, tradition, and community — followed by a mindful tea tasting led by Radhika. Meet Our Sponsor: WEBSITE: ⁠Get1stWater.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do we eat healthy when we’re constantly on the go — juggling kids, work, and travel? In this Food for Thought episode, registered dietitian and media personality Brigitte Zeitlin shares realistic, no-BS nutrition strategies for women who want to feel good in their bodies without restriction. Brought to you by 1st Water by Akvile, this conversation is your roadmap to guilt-free, on-the-go wellness. Brigitte Zeitlin is a celebrated women’s nutrition coach, registered dietitian, and media personality. She has worked with hundreds of women and has become the “go-to” nutrition coach for women who want to feel great in their bodies without dieting or restriction. Women flock to Brigitte for her renowned guidance in creating personalized, bullshit-free, real-life wellness plans that get results. She holds a Master’s in Public Health Nutrition and worked at Mount Sinai Medical Center, before opening her private practice, BZ Nutrition. Brigitte’s expertise has been featured in over 20+ national press outlets, including Vogue, Women’s Health, and Glamour, to name a few. And she has consulted on wellness in the workplace for Tiffany’s, Ferragamo, and Well+Good. MEET MY GUEST: WEBSITE: https://bznutritionny.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Women's health is often overlooked — but nature offers powerful tools to support it. Kanchan Koya, molecular biologist and founder of Spicewell, shares how everyday spices can balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and fuel families. Plus, practical tips for cooking with kids and building a healing kitchen. MEET MY GUEST: WEBSITE: https://www.spicespicebaby.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Childhood obesity and eating disorders are on the rise — but there’s a better way forward. Dr. Erika Siegel shares her holistic wellness philosophy, gut-healing food tips, and what every family should know. Plus: the Clean 15, Dirty Dozen, and her favorite remedies from her herbal medicinary. MEET MY GUEST: WEBSITE: https://www.nourishme.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

EMBED AUDIO HERE Danielle spent over a decade crafting brands behind the scenes. What came next? Saying yes to her own vision—and learning how to juggle businesses, babies, and boundaries in the realest way possible. Danielle is a designer, creative director, strategist, educator, brand mentor and founder of award winning, California-based branding and packaging studio, Designsake. She started her career in publishing as a photographer, then transitioned to be a visual designer at Benefit Cosmetics where she created brand and product strategy, custom packaging, and global advertising campaigns for six years. In 2014, she launched Designsake and since then has partnered with numerous start ups and legacy brands in the beauty, health and wellness, food and beverage, lifestyle, cannabis, and B2B categories. Then in 2022, her and business partner Lauren Meeker, launched SARDINE, a bold yet wearable eyewear brand that is rich in flavor, high in wearability, and seasoned with style. Since launching, the brand has grown its presence nationwide to 100+ boutiques between US and Canada, has collaborated with coveted brands like Freda Salvador, and even popped up for the summer at the Soul Cycle’s Barn in the Hamptons. Meet My Guest WEBSITE: Sardine.net WEBSITE: DesignSakeStudio.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to lead a global restaurant empire — and raise two daughters with intention and grace? In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, Kanika sits down with powerhouse attorney and CEO of Tony Roma’s, Mohaimina “Mina” Haque, who shares her remarkable journey from the White House and DOJ to scaling a global franchise in the UAE and Malaysia. Mina opens up about how AI is transforming the restaurant industry, the realities of being a South Asian woman in the C-suite, and how she navigates her family life. This is a deeply personal and professional conversation about leadership, legacy, and what it truly means to serve — at home and on the world stage. WEBSITE: AttorneyMina.com MEET MY GUEST:  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a child of immigrants, do you feel conflicted about your cultural values and your modern day beliefs? Are you navigating what you want to pass on to your kids and what you want to end with you? Today I’m joined by Sahaj Kaur Kohli, my family friend and a celebrated author, therapist, #WashingtonPost columnist, and founder of @browngirltherapy, the first and largest mental health and wellness community organization for children of immigrants. We dive into the principles and strategies discussed in her book, "But What Will People Say?" with Penguin Life to uncover how to take the best from our immigrant experience and let go of the rest. Meet My Guest: Website: ⁠sahajkaurkohli.com⁠ Instagram:⁠@sahajkohli⁠ X: ⁠@SahajKohli Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of That's Total Mom Sense, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with Sunaina Sinha Haldea, a trailblazing leader in private equity, to discuss her journey from a cosmopolitan childhood to becoming a mindfulness advocate and a devoted mother. Sunaina shares life-changing lessons in emotional resilience, the importance of meditation, and how to trust your intuition in both business and parenting. Tune in for insights into leadership, personal growth, and the power of meditation in shaping a purposeful life! MEET MY GUEST: SUNAINA SINHA HALDEA Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to lead a company—and your family—with clarity and conviction? In this episode, I sit down with powerhouse executive and mom Garima Shah, who shares her inspiring journey in fintech leadership, lessons from the startup grind, and how she redefines success at work and at home. From handling imposter syndrome to building strong company culture while raising kids, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating career ambition and modern motherhood. MEET MY GUEST: BILLER GENIE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Deb Looney left her high-powered career in advertising, she wasn’t running away — she was coming home to herself. As the founder of Loopwell, a women's wellness community in Montclair, NJ, Deb is reimagining what it means to gather, reflect, and heal in a chaotic world. In this fireside chat recorded live at our women’s retreat, Deb shares her journey from burnout to bold reinvention — and how she’s helping others do the same. We talk about the power of ritual, what it takes to pivot with purpose, and why rest is a radical act for women today. If you’ve been craving a reset, this conversation is your permission slip. Learn more at loopwithus.com. MEET MY GUEST: LOOPWELL Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices