More Than Survival: Motherhood, Cancer, and Community with Shruti Babu

In this heartfelt episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Shruti Babu — a mom of two, breast cancer survivor, and founder of SAMOSA, a collective created to bring South Asian creators together through connection, community, and storytelling.Shruti opens up about her journey through breast cancer — from the diagnosis to the emotional and societal challenges she faced — and how she turned that pain into a mission to empower others. We talk about what it really means to find strength in vulnerability, to redefine beauty and identity after illness, and to build a life rooted in gratitude and purpose.This conversation is raw, real, and deeply inspiring — a reminder that survival isn’t just about making it through, but about rediscovering yourself along the way.In this episode, we dive into:Navigating breast cancer as a South Asian woman and motherThe mental, emotional, and physical healing processHandling societal stigma and unsolicited opinionsCreating SAMOSA and the importance of representationRedefining confidence, femininity, and community after hardshipConnect with Shruti:Instagram: www.instagram.com/pajamamama512Stay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

WELCOME TO SEASON 8 OF UNSCRIPTED!!!! Let’s get real for a minute. In this solo episode, I’m sitting down to share more about me. The story behind how I started, the moments that shaped me, and what I’ve learned along the way. From building my brand to navigating my 30s, self-growth, and finding balance, this one’s all heart and honesty.If you’ve ever wondered who I am beyond the content, this is your episode. Grab a coffee, get cozy, and let’s chat!Stay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this week’s episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by my friend and fellow creator, Alexis Julia—a small-town girl who packed up, moved to Austin, and built a life she loves.We get real about what it’s like to start over in a brand-new city, finding confidence when everything around you feels unfamiliar, and the unfiltered reality of being a content creator in today’s world. From hometown roots to Austin hustle, Alexis shares her journey, her lessons, and the moments that shaped her along the way.We also get into:How moving away changes your perspective on life & relationshipsThe behind-the-scenes of balancing authenticity with “the algorithm”Why confidence is something you build, not something you’re just born withThe unexpected perks (and challenges) of being your own bossOur rapid-fire round that’ll make you laugh out loudWhether you’re thinking about making a big move, building your own brand, or just need a reminder that you can start fresh anytime—you’ll love this conversation.🎧 Listen now and join us for some real talk, a few laughs, and a whole lot of inspiration.Connect with Alexis:Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexisjuliaaaaTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@alexisjuliaaStay Connected with Me!Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kp.fitstyleYouTube: www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8www.youtube.com/@kp.fitstyleGot thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Eleanor Lee; multidisciplinary creative, entrepreneur, and the heart behind @atxwitheleanor, Meraki Narrative, and Hot Girl Golf. Eleanor opens up about what it means to live and create with intention, how she navigates identity in the digital space, and why storytelling is at the core of everything she does.We explore her journey from California to Austin, the values behind her brands, and the quiet strength it takes to build something soulful in a world that rewards speed and performance. From redefining modern womanhood to creating spaces for connection and confidence, Eleanor’s presence is both grounding and visionary.In this episode:– How place and identity shape creative purpose– The meaning behind Meraki Narrative and building with heart– Vulnerability vs. curation in digital storytelling– The boldness behind Hot Girl Golf and reclaiming space– Mental wellness, boundaries, and staying rooted as a creator– What it means to grow while staying alignedThis one is full of depth, clarity, and conscious conversation—tune in and get inspired to show up more fully, wherever you are in your own journey.Connect with Eleanor:Instagram: www.instagram.com/atxwitheleanorTikTok: www.tiktok.com/@atxwitheleanorCheck out Hot Girl Golf Club & Meraki Narrative:Instagram: www.instagram.com/hotgirlgolfInstagram: www.instagram.com/merakinarrativeStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Arnold Ruelas, creator of Pulse ATX and a true community connector in every sense. From building intentional spaces to curating culture and championing creatives, Arnold is all about bringing people together in the most authentic way possible.We talk about how Pulse started, the heart behind the gatherings, and what it means to create community that's not just cool but meaningful. Arnold shares his journey, his “why,” and the lessons he’s learned about leadership, vulnerability, and showing up with purpose.Whether you’ve been to a Pulse event or are just curious about what it takes to build something real in the city you love, this one’s all about energy, alignment, and the power of people.In this episode:The origin story of Pulse ATXHow he found his love for pilatesWhat it means to lead with heart (not ego)How to cultivate community that actually feels like communityThe balance between creative freedom and structureWhy Austin’s creative scene is thriving and how to keep it that wayTune in, feel the pulse, and get inspired.Connect with Arnold: Instagram: www.instagram.com/arnoldaruelasTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arnoldaruelasCheck out Pulse:https://www.instagram.com/pulse_atx?igsh=cXB3Z3dvY3JjN3ZsStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I’m joined by the magnetic and multi-talented DJ Cassandra Shankman: a sound curator, community builder, and Austin’s Best DJ (yes, she won the title!). Cassandra is a creative force in the city’s music scene, and in this convo, we dive into her journey, what it really means to create a vibe, and how music has always been a bridge between her identity, community, and purpose.She shares how she found her voice through sound, what inspires her sets, and why creating inclusive, intentional spaces through music matters now more than ever. From live events to personal growth, this conversation is about honoring your roots, trusting your rhythm, and showing up with realness, on and off the stage.In this episode:How Cassandra got started as a DJ and found her signature soundWhat it meant to be named Austin’s Best DJThe emotional power of music and its role in storytellingCreating inclusive spaces through intention and energyNavigating identity, creativity, and authenticity in male-dominated spacesWhat connection through sound really looks like and why it mattersWhether you’re into music, energy, or stories that move you. This one will leave you feeling inspired to turn the volume up on your own path.Connect with CassandraInstagram: www.instagram.com/djcassandra_Stay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Saral Sethi—the voice behind The Steak & Eggs—to unpack the unspoken thoughts he shares (and sometimes doesn’t) on relationships, masculinity, marriage, and modern-day self-awareness.Saral opens up about why he started the page, what inspired him to finally say the things most people don’t, and how marriage has shifted his perspective on life, love, and growth. We talk about vulnerability, gender roles, the power of pausing before reacting, and the humor that keeps it all grounded.Whether you’ve read one of his posts and said “Wait… SAME,” or you’re just curious about what really goes on in a guy’s mind—this episode brings the honest, hilarious, and unexpectedly insightful energy you didn’t know you needed.In this episode:The origin story of The Steak & EggsWhat men really talk about (and don’t)Marriage lessons, the hard convos, and finding balanceHow writing became Saral’s way of processingHumor, honesty, and calling yourself out—in a good wayConnect with Saral:Instagram: www.instagram.com/thesteakandeggsStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with the vibrant and fearless Shreya Kolluri—realtor, content creator, and unapologetically herself. We dive into her journey of coming out as a queer South Asian woman, navigating relationships, family dynamics, and how she’s building a career in real estate while living life on her own terms.This conversation is real, raw, and full of warmth. Shreya opens up about what it was like coming out to her parents, finding acceptance within herself, and creating a life where authenticity leads the way. We also talk about what it means to break cultural expectations, build community, and show up boldly—both personally and professionally.In this episode:Shreya’s coming out journey and redefining “normal”Navigating identity in the South Asian and LGBTQ+ communitiesReal talk on love, relationships, and living with a partnerWhat it’s really like working in real estate as a queer woman of colorOwning your truth—and turning it into your powerWhether you’re on your own journey of self-discovery or just love hearing inspiring stories, this one’s for you.Connect with Shreya:Instagram: www.instagram.com/shreyakolluriTikTok: www.tiktok.com/shreyakolluriStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions around mental health, including topics of suicide. Please take care while listening, and prioritize your well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available.In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with Dr. Natasha Gambhir—known online as Dr. Psych & Styles—to talk all things mental health, identity, and personal style. Natasha is a licensed clinical psychologist who's rewriting the rules of what a therapist “should” look like. We dive into how fashion became her form of self-expression, why therapy is anything but boring, and how she’s helping others heal while staying true to herself.We also chat about confidence, culture, and navigating the world as a South Asian woman balancing science and creativity. Whether you're in therapy, thinking about it, or just here for the fashion inspo—this one’s for you.In this episode:How Natasha chose psychology as her careerBreaking the stigma around therapy in our communitiesFinding confidence through authenticityWhat it's really like being a therapist on social mediaStyle tips and the power of dressing for yourselfHit play and get ready for a real, raw, and stylish convo.Connect with Natasha:Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr.psychandstylesStay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleKeep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show

Episode Description:In this episode of Unscripted with Karishma Patel, I sit down with the incredibly confident, warm, and inspiring Dhanvi Sandesara, founder of Ilume Artistry Co. What started as a love for beauty has evolved into a luxury bridal makeup brand that empowers women to show up fully — inside and out.We talk about the creation of Ilume, what it means to build a brand rooted in confidence, and how Dhanvi balances motherhood, entrepreneurship, and showing up authentically online. She opens up about her journey from working at MAC and NARS to becoming a full-time business owner, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the mindset that keeps her grounded and glowing.This episode is for anyone building something meaningful, redefining beauty on their own terms, or simply learning how to believe in themselves a little more.In this episode, we cover:The inspiration behind Ilume Artistry Co and what it stands forWhat luxury beauty means beyond just the lookHow confidence became a key part of her brand and personal storyNavigating business ownership, motherhood, and identityBuilding boundaries, finding balance, and staying true to your visionThe power of representation and showing up unapologeticallyAdvice for creatives, entrepreneurs, and aspiring makeup artistsConnect with Dhanvi:Instagram: www.instagram.com/ilumeartistrycoTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ilumeartistryco?_t=ZT-8vhx4Dzk57a&_r=1Website: https://www.ilumeartistryco.com/Stay Connected with Me!Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kp.fitstyleWebsite: www.thrivewithkp.com Keep up with the podcast: www.instagram.com/unscriptedwithkp https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unscripted-with-karishma-patel/id1664622384https://open.spotify.com/show/4CtZ2LPYJU5yew6Janwj9v?si=0d818475a9824ca8Got thoughts on the episode? DM me or leave a review.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—it helps more people find the show and grow our community.See you next time on Unscripted with Karishma Patel.Support the show