How can storytelling become an act of resistance?

Sonora Jha is a professor of journalism at Seattle University and an acclaimed author whose work boldly explores themes of gender, race, and resistance. From her early life in India navigating both privilege and adversity, to her groundbreaking career in journalism and her shift into academia and literary fiction, Sonora shares how her lived experiences shape her writing and worldview.

In this conversation, she discusses the creative process behind her best-selling novel The Laughter, the role of satire in exploring multiple (and sometimes opposing) perspectives, and the impact of authenticity in storytelling. Literary critic Rafael Frumkin joins us to unpack the book’s unique approach to the campus novel genre and sharp critique of complicity and power in academia.

In this episode, Sonora shares her perspectives on:

• (02:22) Growing up in India
• (05:08) Her career in journalism
• (10:18) Transitioning to academia and the U.S.
• (15:40) The Laughter and writing from the perspective of a white man
• (18:14) Expert discussion with critic Rafael Frumkin on the impact of Sonora’s work
• (23:00) Pushback on The Laughter
• (28:03) Advice to young writers

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here or email us at DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

Additional Resources:

• Sonora Jha
• Intemperance (forthcoming)
• The Laughter
• Rafael Frumkin
• Frumpkin's New York Times Book Review of The Laughter

What does it mean to lead with both purpose and identity in today’s political landscape?

Shasti Conrad, the first woman of color to chair the Washington State Democratic Party, shares her powerful story of identity, activism, and political leadership. Adopted from India and raised in a small, predominantly white town in Oregon, Shasti's journey defies expectations. Her path took her from a transformative education at Seattle University to a seat in the Obama White House and into the top ranks of political organizing. Shasti opens up about the importance of inclusivity, representation, and finding your place in spaces that weren’t built for you.

In this episode, Shasti shares her invaluable insights on:

• (02:03) Growing up as a transracial adoptee in rural Oregon
• (09:40) Discovering purpose at Seattle University
• (14:11) Getting her start in national politics
• (20:05) Working in the Obama White House
• (27:05) Expert segment with Angela Tucker on transracial adoption
• (31:49) Becoming chair of the WA State Democrats
• (34:20) Advice for future leaders

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center, delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans. Exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

Stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here or email us at DesiRoutesPod@gmail.com and let us know what stories you’d love to hear next. Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

Additional Resources:

• Washington State Democrats
• Angela Tucker

What does it take to create a space where the arts can transcend barriers and bring people together?

Krishna Thiagarajan, CEO of the Seattle Symphony, shares his incredible journey from performer to leader in one of the most prestigious arts organizations in the United States. Born to an Indian father and German-American mother, Krishna’s multicultural upbringing shaped his passion for music and his vision for the arts. His career has evolved from performing as a professional musician to becoming a dynamic leader, dedicated to fostering connection and innovation in the world of classical music.

In this episode, Krishna shares his invaluable insights on;

• (01:34) How his multicultural background shaped his identity
• (09:12) How experience informs his approach to arts administration
• (12:21) Push back when challenging the status quo
• (16:58) Krishna’s inclusive vision for classical music
• (19:33) Segment with Professor Stephen Slawek on cross pollination in classical music
• (22:59) How to balance tradition and innovation
• (26:09) Krishna’s community
• (30:21) Advice for young professionals

Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

Additional Resources:

• Seattle Symphony
• Benaroya Hall
• Professor Stephen Slawek