United Way of Chennai&#39;s conversations with great minds, role models, on-ground players and action heroes about their work, issues, challenges, solutions and understand the world through their lenses.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/23/8/e589a9e8-e772-43bc-93ab-fee580345079_reating_memories_the_story_behindscene_booking.mp3

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey behind Sense Booking — a platform that goes beyond simple transactions to create meaningful and memorable experiences.Join us as we speak with the founder of Sense Booking about the vision, challenges, and purpose that shaped the platform. From identifying a gap in how people engage with experiences to building a solution that connects emotions, memories, and moments, this conversation uncovers the heart behind the brand.We explore how entrepreneurship can move beyond profit and become a powerful tool to enhance inner well-being, human connection, and purposeful living.✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:• The story behind Sense Booking and how it started• Turning ideas into impact-driven ventures• The role of experiences in shaping memories and well-being• Challenges and lessons from the founder’s journey• Building a purpose-driven startup in today’s worldIf you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a storyteller, or someone who believes in creating meaningful impact, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey behind Sense Booking — a platform that goes beyond simple transactions to create meaningful and memorable experiences.

Join us as we speak with the founder of Sense Booking about the vision, challenges, and purpose that shaped the platform. From identifying a gap in how people engage with experiences to building a solution that connects emotions, memories, and moments, this conversation uncovers the heart behind the brand.

We explore how entrepreneurship can move beyond profit and become a powerful tool to enhance inner well-being, human connection, and purposeful living.

✨ What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The story behind Sense Booking and how it started

• Turning ideas into impact-driven ventures

• The role of experiences in shaping memories and well-being

• Challenges and lessons from the founder’s journey

• Building a purpose-driven startup in today’s world

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a storyteller, or someone who believes in creating meaningful impact, this episode is for you.

From Booking Experiences to Creating Memories: The Story Behind Scene Booking

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/23/7/da1a9eac-dcf7-48a3-a954-4adf8befaae1_ence_on_tb_knowledge__care____community_action.mp3

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health challenge, yet misinformation, stigma, and silence often prevent people from seeking timely care.In this episode, we break the silence on TB with insights from an expert, addressing the facts, common myths, symptoms, prevention, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also highlights how awareness and community action play a crucial role in eliminating TB and supporting those affected.Tune in to gain accurate information, practical knowledge, and a deeper understanding of why talking openly about TB matters—for individuals, families, and communities.

Tuberculosis (TB) continues to be a major public health challenge, yet misinformation, stigma, and silence often prevent people from seeking timely care.

In this episode, we break the silence on TB with insights from an expert, addressing the facts, common myths, symptoms, prevention, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also highlights how awareness and community action play a crucial role in eliminating TB and supporting those affected.

Tune in to gain accurate information, practical knowledge, and a deeper understanding of why talking openly about TB matters—for individuals, families, and communities.

Breaking the Silence on TB Knowledge, Care, & Community Action

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/23/7/7ad90672-08d0-4ba4-992d-3f53894916ac_ent___community_-_the_future_we_build_together.mp3

New Podcast Episode Out Now!We are excited to launch our latest podcast episode featuring Arun Krishnamurthy, renowned environmentalist and founder of Environmentalist Foundation of IndiaIn this inspiring conversation, Arun shares his journey of driving community-led conservation, restoring lakes and water bodies, and building a culture of responsibility towards our planet.Tune in to hear his powerful insights on how every small step can make a big impact.

New Podcast Episode Out Now!
We are excited to launch our latest podcast episode featuring Arun Krishnamurthy, renowned environmentalist and founder of Environmentalist Foundation of India
In this inspiring conversation, Arun shares his journey of driving community-led conservation, restoring lakes and water bodies, and building a culture of responsibility towards our planet.
Tune in to hear his powerful insights on how every small step can make a big impact.

Environment & Community The Future We Build Together

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In this powerful podcast episode, we speak with Neeraja Malik – a two-time cancer survivor, motivational speaker, and author – who shares her remarkable journey of resilience, hope, and purpose. From battling cancer to becoming a beacon of support for others, Neeraja opens up about how her life transformed through adversity and how she found strength in helping others heal. Her story is not just about survival, but about choosing joy, spreading compassion, and inspiring lives every day. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that even in our toughest moments, we have the power to rise, rebuild, and make a difference.

In this powerful podcast episode, we speak with Neeraja Malik – a two-time cancer survivor, motivational speaker, and author – who shares her remarkable journey of resilience, hope, and purpose. From battling cancer to becoming a beacon of support for others, Neeraja opens up about how her life transformed through adversity and how she found strength in helping others heal. Her story is not just about survival, but about choosing joy, spreading compassion, and inspiring lives every day. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that even in our toughest moments, we have the power to rise, rebuild, and make a difference.

Another Chapter of redefining cancer - Stories of Hope and Healing

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/23/7/62f6c21f-8366-4c49-9ee0-26fc638bb534_lue_the_future_of_sustainable_waste_management.mp3

This episode of the Out of the Box podcast explores transformative ideas and actions of changemakers in education, health, income stability, and community development. The special guest, Akash Gupta, Head of Sustainability and Supply Chain Management, shares his expertise in waste management and circular economy. With a master&#39;s degree in Environmental Studies from TERI University, Akash has dedicated his career to converting waste into value. His passion for sustainability is both a professional and personal mission. Before his current role, he played a key part in various organizations focusing on plastic credits and waste material trading, setting new industry benchmarks in recycling and compliance. The host, Abhinaya Ravi Shankar from United Way of Chennai, engages Akash in a conversation about his journey. Akash shares how his interest in sustainability began during his undergraduate studies in Ecology and Environmental Science, later leading him to TERI University. Initially pursuing zoology, he realized his true passion lay in environmental sustainability. He explains how his journey into waste management started with his role at Ambuja Cements, where he worked on co-processing waste in cement production. This experience shaped his approach to sustainable business models, demonstrating how waste from one industry can be a resource for another. Akash highlights the challenges in waste management and the importance of guiding industries on proper recycling and processing methods. Through consulting and innovative waste management solutions, Akash has contributed to building sustainable businesses and reducing environmental impact, emphasizing the significance of circular economy practices.

This episode of the Out of the Box podcast explores transformative ideas and actions of changemakers in education, health, income stability, and community development. The special guest, Akash Gupta, Head of Sustainability and Supply Chain Management, shares his expertise in waste management and circular economy. With a master&#39;s degree in Environmental Studies from TERI University, Akash has dedicated his career to converting waste into value.



His passion for sustainability is both a professional and personal mission. Before his current role, he played a key part in various organizations focusing on plastic credits and waste material trading, setting new industry benchmarks in recycling and compliance.



The host, Abhinaya Ravi Shankar from United Way of Chennai, engages Akash in a conversation about his journey. Akash shares how his interest in sustainability began during his undergraduate studies in Ecology and Environmental Science, later leading him to TERI University. Initially pursuing zoology, he realized his true passion lay in environmental sustainability.



He explains how his journey into waste management started with his role at Ambuja Cements, where he worked on co-processing waste in cement production. This experience shaped his approach to sustainable business models, demonstrating how waste from one industry can be a resource for another. Akash highlights the challenges in waste management and the importance of guiding industries on proper recycling and processing methods.



Through consulting and innovative waste management solutions, Akash has contributed to building sustainable businesses and reducing environmental impact, emphasizing the significance of circular economy practices.


Transforming Waste into Value The Future of Sustainable Waste Management

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/23/6/643d368f-7543-4abc-8437-ce3a20a516f4_t_assessments_insights_fromdevelopment_experts.mp3

Join us for an insightful conversation with Ms. Sharon Weir, co-founder of the 4th Wheel Social Impact. She is a well renowned expert in the field with the experience of overseeing the design and execution of over 100 research, evaluation, and communication projects for a diverse clientele, including government departments, NGOs, corporates, and impact investing firms. Watch as Listen to her as she delves in the field of impact assessment, emphasising the importance of monitoring and evaluation (M&amp;E) for NGOs, CSR initiatives, and development projects.Key Topics Covered:Evolution of impact assessmentCollaborative projects with NGOs, CSR, and government bodiesRole and importance of M&amp;EEffective frameworks: LFA and TOCBest practices for data accuracyEthical principles in impact assessmentMeasuring long-term sustainabilityListen and Stay updated with the latest in development, M&amp;E, and social impact. Subscribe for more such exploratory discussions.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Ms. Sharon Weir, co-founder of the 4th Wheel Social Impact. She is a well renowned expert in the field with the experience of overseeing the design and execution of over 100 research, evaluation, and communication projects for a diverse clientele, including government departments, NGOs, corporates, and impact investing firms. Watch as Listen to her as she delves in the field of impact assessment, emphasising the importance of monitoring and evaluation (M&amp;E) for NGOs, CSR initiatives, and development projects.

Key Topics Covered:

Evolution of impact assessment

Collaborative projects with NGOs, CSR, and government bodies

Role and importance of M&amp;E

Effective frameworks: LFA and TOC

Best practices for data accuracy

Ethical principles in impact assessment

Measuring long-term sustainability

Listen and Stay updated with the latest in development, M&amp;E, and social impact. Subscribe for more such exploratory discussions.

Mastering Impact Assessments Insights from Development Experts

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/11/30/9/2cd45f49-a466-49fc-8263-61e2292ba5cc_priti_david_multitrack_mixdown_final.mp3

Join us for a captivating conversation on rural India with Priti David, Executive Editor of PARI. Explore the untold stories, debunked myths, and cultural richness often overlooked. From the challenges of rural-to-urban migration to preserving disappearing traditions, Priti provides unique insights. Discover the impact of PARI&#39;s initiatives and stand in solidarity with marginalized communities.Delve into the extensive archive at <a href="https://ruralindiaonline.org/" rel="nofollow">ruralindiaonline.org</a> where folklore comes to life, showcasing the diverse narratives of rural India. Priti directs us to thought-provoking reads like <a href="https://ruralindiaonline.org/en/stories/categories/folklore/" rel="nofollow">Folklore (Mosaic)</a>, and takes us on a journey through the rich content available at <a href="https://ruralindiaonline.org/en/search/?language=en&q=kuno&type=staticpage" rel="nofollow">Kuno</a>.A brief yet powerful exploration of rural realities awaits. Tune in!Don&#39;t forget to follow &#34;Out of the Box Talks&#34; on your favorite podcasting platform for more engaging conversations that challenge the status quo and inspire positive change.

Rural Realities Unveiled: A Conversation with Priti David from PARI

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In this thought-provoking episode, we had the privilege of delving into a captivating conversation with Osama Manzar, the visionary founder of the Digital Empowerment Foundation (DEF). We explored his inspiring journey from transforming India&#39;s media houses to becoming a social entrepreneur dedicated to bridging the digital divide in rural areas.Mr. Manzar shared his deep-rooted passion for empowering communities through digital literacy and access to information. He shed light on DEF&#39;s innovative initiatives, such as the Community Information Resource Centres (CIRC), which have brought transformative change to remote areas without internet service. We learned how DEF utilizes partnerships with the government to impart digital literacy and provide connectivity to villages with a predominant minority population, ensuring equality and opening doors of opportunity.We invite you to visit DEF&#39;s website at www.defindia.org to learn more about their incredible work and explore ways to support their initiatives. And don&#39;t forget to follow &#34;Out of the Box Talks&#34; on your favorite podcasting platform for more engaging conversations that challenge the status quo and inspire positive change.DEF&#39;s film on The Salt Agariya community from Little Rann of Kutch - https://youtu.be/fq27X8CJLTM

Bridging the Digital Divide: Empowering Rural Communities | Osama Manzar in conversation with Meenakshi Ramesh

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/5/29/7/9e2d10ef-4bd3-4427-abed-e20afa63c3d9_aarti_madhusudhanan_mixdown.mp3

Welcome to &#34;Out of the Box Talks,&#34; the podcast where we dive deep into conversations that challenge the norms and explore new perspectives. In this episode, Aarti Madhusudhan, the Founder of Governance Counts, engages in an intriguing conversation with Jagan on the topics of Women Leadership, Board Engagement, and Volunteering.Join Aarti and Jagan as they share insights and experiences, shedding light on the significance of women&#39;s leadership in today&#39;s world. They discuss the strategies needed to empower and encourage more women in development sector to take on such positions.The conversation also delves into the importance of board engagement and the role it plays in driving organizational success. Aarti and Jagan explore the challenges faced by boards and the ways in which they can effectively contribute to the growth and development of organizations.Furthermore, they discuss the power of volunteering and its transformative impact on individuals and communities. Aarti shares personal anecdotes and discusses how volunteering can be a catalyst for positive change, both on an individual level and within society as a whole.Don&#39;t forget to tune in to &#34;Out of the Box Talks&#34; on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, JioSaavn, and Gaana Podcast to catch this one-of-a-kind conversation. To learn more about the impactful work of United Way of Chennai, check out our social media platforms under the name &#34;United Way of Chennai.&#34; Discover how we strive to create positive change in our community. If you&#39;re interested in collaborating with us, feel free to reach out to partnerships@unitedwaychennai.org.Get ready to broaden your horizons and embark on a thought-provoking journey. Sit back, relax, and enjoy &#34;Out of the Box Talks&#34; with Aarti Madhusudhanan and Jagan.

A Conversation on Women Leadership, Board Engagement, and Volunteering with Aarti Madhusudhan, Founder, Governance Counts

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/4/17/9/218fbc6d-2a7d-4054-8759-8afde7d6a8c0_ag_obt_part_2_final.mp3

In the second part, Ms. Meenakshi engages in an interesting conversation with Mr. Anshu on climate change and the future of India.Subscribe to Out of the Box Talks in your favourite Podcasting app.To know more about Anshu &amp; his works, visit <a href="https://www.goonj.org/" rel="nofollow">www.goonj.org</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.anshugupta.org/" rel="nofollow">www.anshugupta.org</a>To know more about United Way of Chennai&#39;s work, visit <a href="http://www.unitedwaychennai.org/" rel="nofollow">www.unitedwaychennai.org</a><a href="https://facebook.com/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://facebook.com/uwchennai</a><a href="https://twitter.com/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://twitter.com/uwchennai</a><a href="https://instagram.com/uw.chennai" rel="nofollow">https://instagram.com/uw.chennai</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/company/uwchennai</a> To share your comments and feedback on the podcast, write to us at <a href="mailto:communications@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">communications@unitedwaychennai.org</a> To partner with us, write to <a href="mailto:partnerships@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">partnerships@unitedwaychennai.org</a> &amp; <a href="mailto:volunteers@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">volunteers@unitedwaychennai.org</a> #OutoftheBoxTalks #BetterTogether #LIVEUNITED

Climate Change & The Future of India | Anshu Gupta in Conversation with Meenakshi Ramesh | Part 2

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/4/17/9/a7ba26aa-9d2c-40d2-8dd1-ea126578d8f8_ag_obt_part_1.mp3

We had the pleasure of having Mr. Anshu Gupta, Founder &amp; Director of Goonj in our second episode of ‘Out of the Box Talks’ hosted by Ms. Meenakshi Ramesh, Executive Director, United Way of Chennai. Hear the interesting, interactive, and inspiring conversation of Mr. Anshu Gupta on the journey of Goonj focusing on the aspect of changing the lenses and bringing light on the non-issues around the value systems. With this, we conclude the 1st part of our conversation with Mr. Anshu Gupta. Stay tuned to hear deeper conversations with Mr. Anshu in our second part. To know more about Anshu &amp; his works, visit <a href="https://www.goonj.org/" rel="nofollow">www.goonj.org</a> &amp; <a href="http://www.anshugupta.org" rel="nofollow">www.anshugupta.org</a>To know more about United Way of Chennai&#39;s work, visit <a href="http://www.unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">www.unitedwaychennai.org</a><a href="https://facebook.com/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://facebook.com/uwchennai</a><a href="https://twitter.com/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://twitter.com/uwchennai</a><a href="https://instagram.com/uw.chennai" rel="nofollow">https://instagram.com/uw.chennai</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/uwchennai" rel="nofollow">https://www.linkedin.com/company/uwchennai</a> To share your comments and feedback on the podcast, write to us at <a href="mailto:communications@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">communications@unitedwaychennai.org</a> To partner with us, write to <a href="mailto:partnerships@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">partnerships@unitedwaychennai.org</a> &amp; <a href="mailto:volunteers@unitedwaychennai.org" rel="nofollow">volunteers@unitedwaychennai.org</a> #OutoftheBoxTalks #BetterTogether #LIVEUNITED

Changing the Lens, Non-Issues & Gram Swabhimaan | Anshu Gupta in conversation with Meenakshi Ramesh | Part 1

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2022/11/21/12/fd097bde-6ba9-420a-bf26-0ad9eed10d13__united_way_of_chennai_-_revathi_vanavil_trust.mp3

We sat with Revathi to understand the issues around the life of ostracized nomadic communities around the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. The conversation brings out the interesting insights about the community and how can we get involved to work for their bettermentTo know more about Vanavil, visit www.vanavil.orgTo know more about United Way of Chennai&#39;s work, www.unitedwaychennai.orghttps://facebook.com/uwchennaihttps://twitter.com/uwchennaihttps://instagram.com/uw.chennaihttps://www.linkedin.com/company/uwchennai To contact us, partnerships@unitedwychennai.org &amp; volunteers@unitedwaychennai.org #LiveUnited #BetterTogether

Understanding Nomadic Communities in Tamil Nadu ft. Revathi, Vanavil Trust

United Way of Chennai's conversations with great minds, role models, on-ground players and action heroes about their work, issues, challenges, solutions and understand the world through their lenses.