In this episode of Decoding Quirks, Aditi Chandanani sits down with Sahil Sajan — young entrepreneur, director at Danube Group, and a fresh voice from Dubai’s next-gen business scene — for a raw, honest, and wide-ranging conversation that pulls no punches.From the silent struggles men face around therapy and emotional expression, to decoding friendship red flags, people-pleasing, and self-sabotage — this episode dives deep into the patterns that define our mental health today. Aditi and Sahil explore whether “mental health days” are valid or overused, how upbringing in Mumbai vs. Dubai shapes mindset, and what it really means to move on after obsession, heartbreak, or fake friendships.They also open up about life in Dubai — from dating culture, late-night drives, and fake feminism to the rising vaping scene and what it's like growing up in a world of privilege and pressure. Whether you're a young adult navigating identity, career, or connection, this episode will hit home. Unfiltered, thought-provoking, and deeply relatable — this one’s not just a conversation, it’s a reality check.

In today’s episode, Aditi is joined by Mahreen—an inspiring Pakistani-Canadian storyteller, creator-economy enthusiast, and the host & founder of Karak with Mahreen, a semi-weekly podcast that delves into identity, culture, and leadership. As a prominent voice in youth empowerment across the UAE, Mahreen brings her deep curiosity and inclusive insights to each conversation.Mahreen and Aditi navigate a rich tapestry of topics—from alcohol in desi culture and the fine line between feminism and pseudo-feminism, to why arranged marriages are evolving, whether love marriages now hold more sway, and the lingering myths around rebellious “good girl syndrome.” They also confront the pressures of hustle culture, the nuanced dynamics around gold-digger labels even for ambitious women, and how men and women both face new emotional landscapes—from insecurity and divorce trends in South Asian families, to complex relationships, live-in arrangements, and the privileges tied to family understanding or life in Dubai.In this eye-opening discussion, they weave together real-world experiences and cultural critiques—touching on domestic abuse normalization, the emotional labor expected of women, the challenges of being raised to conform, and the empowerment that comes from questioning old norms. It’s a powerful dialogue that champions reclaiming one’s identity, clarifying intentions beyond superficial labels, and navigating life with both insight and intention.

In this compelling episode of Decoding Quirks, Aditi is joined by Smriti Kiran—independent creator, media consultant, and former Artistic Director of the Mumbai Film Festival. With her rich experience in the film industry and a strong voice in feminist discourse, Smriti offers sharp insights into identity, power, and societal expectations. They begin with a candid discussion on feminism and patriarchy, and how these forces shape women's lives both publicly and privately. Smriti then opens up about dating after divorce, reflecting on the emotional and social complexities of starting over after a long marriage.

The conversation moves to the workplace and film industry, unpacking toxic cultures, power imbalances, and how traditional structures often exclude women. Smriti shares the isolation female leaders face and the urgent need for inclusive leadership. They also explore gender dynamics in friendships, media portrayals of women, sexual harassment, and the legacy of the MeToo movement. Emphasizing the power of boundaries, this episode is a raw, personal, and provocative look at what it means to be a woman today—a call to rethink, resist, and reclaim.

In this episode, Aditi sits down with Parikshit Balochi—radio presenter, travel blogger, and one of UAE’s most recognizable voices—to dive into a wide range of personal and thought-provoking topics. From discussing how childhood experiences shaped their love for travel and eventually their careers, to unpacking gender roles and the privilege men often carry when it comes to traveling, the conversation is both insightful and grounded. They explore whether women are given equal opportunities, the reality of toxic Desi work culture, and ask the uncomfortable but necessary question: is traveling truly safe for women? Parikshit opens up about the challenges women face globally, with a special focus on India, and compares it with his experiences in countries like Dubai, which he considers significantly safer.The episode also touches upon the topic of mental health—asking if therapy really works, examining different therapeutic approaches, and encouraging the importance of naming and understanding one’s emotions. One especially vulnerable moment arises when Parikshit admits he sometimes doesn’t know what he’s feeling, prompting a meaningful discussion about emotional awareness. Aditi and Parikshit also dissect the growing trend of people using anxiety as an excuse—acknowledging the importance of mental health while critiquing how some might misuse the label to avoid responsibility. With humor, honesty, and depth, this episode offers a fresh perspective on feminism, emotional intelligence, and the freedom (or lack thereof) to move through the world as oneself.

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we explore the complexities of human emotions, societal pressures, and the effects of modern technology on our lives. We dive deep into topics like anxiety and stress, examining why many people find themselves stuck in a cycle of stress and anxiety, often feeling comfortable in this state despite the toll it takes on their mental and physical health. We also look into the often-overlooked issue of why men have more heart attacks than women, influenced by societal expectations, the pressure of being the breadwinner from the moment they are born, and the emotional burden of not expressing vulnerability. The podcast reflects on how men and women approach criticism and validation differently, with women tending to give more validation and men offering more critical criticism, which impacts both their emotional health and relationships.We also touch on the existential question of life’s purpose and the growing role of AI in the creative world. While AI is a tool that brings innovation and convenience, it’s taking away the art and purpose from artists, leaving them with mixed emotions about its impact. Drawing from neurologist perspectives, we discuss the human brain’s remarkable potential to adapt and use tools like AI to enrich our experiences rather than diminish them. Breathing exercises and technology are explored as tools to de-stress, offering practical advice for emotional well-being in a rapidly changing world.We wrap up by questioning the very concept of free will. Is it a true freedom, or just a notion society has conditioned us to believe in? By referencing the latent controversy surrounding Samay Raina, we show how societal influences shape our choices, often leading us to question how much control we actually have over our own lives. This episode is a rich discussion on societal norms, mental health, technology, and human behavior that will leave you reflecting on your own life’s journey and the world around you.

In this powerful episode of Decoding Quirks, Aditi is joined by content creator and Knockout Media founder, Nikhil, for an eye-opening conversation about the real Dubai behind the filters. They dive into common misconceptions—like people confusing Dubai with Saudi—and challenge outdated beliefs like "women can’t drive" in the UAE. The episode explores how women feel safer in Dubai, how content creation shapes public opinion, and the role of social media in redefining freedom, fame, and identity.

Together, they unpack the complexities of modern relationships—discussing topics like princess treatment, love bombing, emotional baggage, and why so many relationships don't last in today's digital world. Nikhil and Aditi talk about narcissism, validation, commitment issues, and the toxic patterns people carry from childhood trauma. With raw honesty, they touch on psychological self-awareness, healing, and what it really takes to maintain a healthy marriage or safe relationship in a hyper-curated world driven by clout, charm, and content.

In this episode, host Aditi is joined by Shreya, a well-known life coach in Dubai, as they dive deep into the fast-paced and ever-evolving Dubai lifestyle. They unpack the emotional realities behind the city’s glitz—touching on topics like dating, situationships, open relationships, and the struggle to find genuine connection. From cheating, FOMO, and filling the void, to redefining what a good friendship looks like in a city that never stops, they explore the complicated dynamics of modern relationships, commitment, and loyalty in Dubai.The episode also explores the identity crisis faced by many young professionals and creatives navigating freelancing, startups, and the competitive job market. With a focus on loneliness, emotional baggage, and the pressure to constantly show up in both personal and professional spheres, Aditi and Shreya discuss everything from validation, investing in relationships, and long-distance marriages, to money, career-building, and building community in a city full of strangers.

Bhairavi Prakash is more than just a voice on the radio—she’s a storyteller, a trailblazer, and a powerhouse in the UAE’s media industry. From starting her journey as a cricketer to becoming a celebrated radio jockey, TV presenter, and content creator, Bhairavi has redefined success on her own terms. The discussion also explores the dynamics of journalism and news media, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of these fields.Beyond their professional experiences, Aditi and Bhairavi address critical subjects such as therapy, anxiety, depression, and the pursuit of one's dream job. They examine the complexities of relationships, touching on themes like trust issues, friendships, and modern dating phenomena including Tinder and friends with benefits. ..

The conversation further extends to societal topics like empowering women in Dubai, financial independence, multitasking, and the balance within dual-income families. Their shared passion for animals underscores discussions on unconditional love, empathy, and advocacy against animal abuse. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of loyalty, considering it one of the most precious qualities in human relationships.