SAMANTHA DONG: High Heels That Don't Hurt!

What if you never had to choose between style and comfort again?In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with Samantha Dong, Founder and CEO of Ally Shoes—the brand redefining what it means to wear heels. Designed by women, for women, Ally’s pain-free heels are engineered for real life: long days, busy schedules, and moments when you need to show up with confidence.We talk about: The problem with traditional heels—and why they hurt How Ally Shoes are designed with podiatrist-approved innovation Samantha’s entrepreneurial journey building a mission-driven brand The intersection of fashion, function, and female empowerment As a mom, speaker, and someone constantly on her feet, I share why Ally has become my go-to for feeling confident and comfortable on stage.If you’ve ever kicked off your heels halfway through an event… this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special AAPI Voices episode presented by Lexus, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with yoga teacher and mother of two, Thara Natalie. Best known for her soulful approach to fitness, Thara opens up about her multicultural upbringing, her evolution from performer to wellness warrior, and how she and husband Jay Sean are raising mindful kids in today’s fast-paced world. Recorded at her wellness studio in New Jersey, this heartfelt conversation includes a sound bath session and a rapid fire where Thara shares her favorite memories in the car and the rituals that keep her grounded. Don’t miss this deep dive into identity, intention, and inner peace. MEET MY GUEST: https://www.instagram.com/tharanatalie/?hl=en SPONSORS: ⁠⁠Lexus⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I sit down with admissions expert and author, Sara Harberson, to explore how parents can prepare kids for college at any stage. We discuss key strategies from her new book, Soundbite, on assembling a full proof college checklist, her take on the Varsity Blues scandal, financial aid, and guidance for underrepresented communities. Tune in for an insightful conversation that will help you support your child’s journey navigating higher education with confidence and authenticity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when one of the most powerful voices of our generation becomes a mother? In this intimate, unfiltered conversation, Grammy-winning artist Tori Kelly joins That’s Total Mom Sense to share how motherhood has transformed her identity, creativity, and purpose. From performing at the Knicks Championship Game to navigating the quiet, sacred moments of early motherhood, Tori opens up about matrescence, marriage, and what legacy truly means now. We talk about: The emotional shift from artist to mother How motherhood is reshaping her music and upcoming album Staying connected in marriage through life’s biggest transitions The pressure—and privilege—of evolving in the public eye Plus—don’t miss the moment Tori sings and joins Kanika in a nostalgic throwback impersonation segment you’ll want to replay. This episode is a masterclass in growth, grace, and finding your voice—again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense – Home Sweet Home Series, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with Jay Feingold, owner of PremierGarage of Northern New Jersey, to explore how transforming one overlooked space—the garage—can completely change the rhythm of your home. From cluttered chaos to streamlined systems, Jay shares expert-backed strategies for creating functional, beautiful storage solutions that actually work for busy families. We dive into the emotional side of organization, how it impacts parenting, and why your garage might be the missing piece to a calmer home.Whether you're drowning in sports gear, seasonal clutter, or just need a reset—this episode is your roadmap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do recruiters actually look for—and how can you stand out in a world where AI is changing everything? In this powerful, no-BS conversation, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with elite recruiter Deepali Vyas to break down exactly how to build a personal brand that gets noticed—and hired. From helping moms re-enter the workforce, to guiding teens on building standout resumes, to showing you how to use AI as your advantage—not your competition—this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure how to position yourself… this episode is your wake-up call. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if motherhood wasn’t always beautiful—and we finally said it out loud? In this bold, honest, and darkly funny episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with actor, writer, and playwright Koel Purie Rinchet to talk about her provocative new play Mummy’s Dead, Long Live Mummy!—a satirical, unfiltered look at modern motherhood. From her global career across film, television, and theatre to creating one of the most talked-about plays about motherhood today, Koel opens up about identity, exhaustion, reinvention, and the silent sisterhood of mothers. We talk about:• The myth of the “perfect mother”• Why motherhood can feel isolating—even when universal• Turning personal truth into powerful storytelling• Her journey from actor to playwright• Taking her work to global stages like the Edinburgh Festival This is a conversation that will make you laugh, think, and feel seen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A husband-and-wife team is redefining kids’ bath time—with clean ingredients, sensory play, and serious intention. I met them at Mom 2.0, and as a fellow twin mom, this conversation hit home. This is not just “fun”—it’s smart parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for an eye-opening talk. As Summer approaches and screen time increases, it's crucial for parents to stay informed about best practices for keeping children safe online. Featuring Roo Powell, founder of SOSA (Safe from Online Sex Abuse), and Kanika Chadda-Gupta, founder of That's Total Momsense, this session will provide practical advice and tools to help you create a secure online environment for your kids. #aurapartner​ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices