Podcast
The Story Bar
Hosted by Garima Gayatri · EN
Helping people tell their story and share their power with the world!
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Mark Bennington: Hollywood to Bollywood & Everything In Between
May 15, 202500:43:21Tap to summarizeIn this raw and candid conversation with Garima, Mark takes us through some of the most meaningful chapters of his life — starting from his early days and family influences, to the unexpected path that led him into theatre, film, and photography. He talks about what he really wanted to be when he was younger, the films that first sparked his passion, and the art forms that continue to inspire him today. We also get into his experiences working in both the US and Indian entertainment industries, what he loves most about India, and the roles that have left a lasting impression on him. About Mark Bennington: Mark Bennington is an American actor, photographer, and author who has made a notable mark in Indian cinema and OTT. His screen credits include Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, Rocket Boys, Kesari – Chapter 2, Angrezi Medium, RRR, Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo, Heeramandi, and many more, as well as popular TV series like Star Trek: Voyager, Titans, and NYPD Blue, in Hollywood. He has also directed and performed in productions such as The Mumbai Terror Attacks and Devika Rani: Goddess of the Silver Screen. Known for his versatility, Mark has earned recognition across both Indian and international platforms. He is also recognized for his photography, particularly his work on the project "America 2.0" about Muslim youth in NYC and the book "Living the Dream: The Life of the 'Bollywood' Actor". Mark's work has been published in The Atlantic, The Huffington Post, UpWorthy, CNN, PDN, GQ India, Varity, Forbes, The Los Angeles Times, The Wall Street Journal, Times of India, Boston Globe, and many more.
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The Legacy of Davangere Benne Dosa with Viren Dharwar
Mar 27, 202500:46:36Tap to summarizeA deep love for food and a dream to serve the best Benne Dosas – that's how Viren's journey began with Davangere Benne Dosa in Bengaluru! Join Viren as he shares his incredible journey into the food industry. In this conversation with Garima, he opens up about the challenges he faced, the inspiration behind his passion for authentic food, and the dedication it took to keep the essence of this legendary dish intact. Watch the story unfold and get a closer look at the man behind the iconic Benne Dosa's journey. Discover what sets his outlet apart from the rest — whether it's the rich flavors, the dedication to quality, or the exceptional customer experience that keeps people coming back for more. Viren shares the pillars of his success and why his passion for authentic Benne Dosas continues to drive him forward, creating an unforgettable dining experience for all who visit. Watch the interview on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lYULtsYPROQ&t=851s
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The Journey Before, Beyond & From Laapataa Ladies to Dupahiya with Bhaskar Jha
Mar 16, 202501:13:18Tap to summarizeIn this insightful interview on The Story Bar, actor Bhaskar Jha reflects on his transformative journey from a small-town upbringing to stepping into the magical world of Indian cinema. He walks us through his childhood, detailing how early experiences and challenges shaped his resilience and passion for storytelling. Bhaskar credits his theater days as the foundation of his acting, highlighting how theatre deepened his understanding of what it really means to get into the skin of a character, and what role formal training plays in the evolution of an actor. We discuss his role in 'Laapataa Ladies,' a film that garnered critical acclaim and was India's official entry to the Oscars. He reflects on the film's exploration of patriarchy and gender roles, and how portraying Pradeep allowed him to delve into complex emotional terrains. Bhaskar mentions works that blend compelling narratives with profound social commentary, aligning with his belief in the power of good storytelling and writing. He attributes his motivation to the desire to bring authentic stories to the forefront, aiming to challenge societal norms and provoke thought. Looking ahead, Bhaskar expresses excitement about exploring diverse roles and collaborating with visionary directors. Join us in this episode as Bhaskar Jha offers a candid glimpse into his life, shedding light on the experiences that have shaped his career and the aspirations that continue to drive him forward. And don't miss his heartwarming performance in Dupahiya on Amazon Prime. Subscribe to The Story Bar podcast on YouTube, Apple, Spotify!
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The Heart & Hustle Behind Better Batter
Feb 25, 202500:45:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Story Bar, Garima sits down with Nidhi Kalani, the passionate baker behind Better Batter, a homegrown bakery that started as a lockdown experiment and has since won hearts with its handcrafted treats. But this story isn’t just about baking—it’s about resilience, family, and the power of customer love. Nidhi shares how her mother— the true chef and hero of Better Batter — brought the vision to life while she considers herself just an employee. We dive into the challenges of scaling up, maintaining consistency in customer experience, and why a personal bond, not just transactions, drives true loyalty. From navigating safety concerns while running a street-side stall late at night to handling negative experiences and language barriers, Nidhi opens up about the realities of being a young entrepreneur. We also explore the magic of customization, the fundamentals of a timeless brand, and why baking is more than just making cakes—it’s about crafting memories. Plus, if you’ve ever wondered how a 10-year-old could start a bakery, Nidhi has some words of wisdom! Tune in for an inspiring conversation about balancing passion with a full-time job, the role of family and friends in entrepreneurship, and why ownership is key to building something bigger than yourself. Listen now—because every story matters.
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A True Human-AI Collaboration in Marketing with Gillian Utesch
Feb 8, 202500:41:28Tap to summarizeAI is changing the way we market — but can it tell a great story? In this episode, we sit down with Gillian Utesch, Founder and SheEO of Broken Glass Ceiling Marketing, to explore how AI and human creativity can work together to craft powerful, authentic marketing narratives. Gillian’s journey will resonate with many entrepreneurs – starting with relentless energy, chasing growth, and pushing for more, only to realize that burnout is real. Reflecting on her father’s advice — “Don’t fight the ocean; learn to move with it” — she embraced a smarter way to market. Today, she helps brands find better, cooler, and more efficient ways to do old things — without losing their voice. Join us as we discuss: 1. The evolving role of storytelling in an AI-driven marketing world 2. How AI can enhance, not replace, human intuition and creativity 3. The “lazy marketing” approach—leveraging AI to do less but achieve more 4. Real-world examples of brands using AI to scale storytelling without losing authenticity Great marketing isn’t just about automation—it’s about connection. Whether you’re an AI enthusiast or a skeptic, this episode will reshape the way you think about the future of storytelling in marketing. Hit play and let’s dive in! Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for more insights and inspiration. Check out Broken Glass Ceiling Marketing here: https://brokenglassceilingmarketing.com/ Connect with Gillian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gumoney/
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Mining, Multiculturalism & Mindset with Sujit Surendran
Jan 6, 202501:35:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Sujit Surendran shares his incredible journey of growing up as a Malayali in Gujarat, where he experienced the challenges of being from the South, including stereotypes and regional biases. He also talks about witnessing the 2002 Gujarat riots and how these early experiences shaped his perspective on life. Sujit’s career path is just as fascinating — from working as a mining engineer in Bhutan to living in Bangalore. Now an energy consultant, he opens up about adapting to different cultures, handling tough situations, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We talk about everything from his career shifts to his thoughts on work-life balance and staying mentally strong. It’s an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation about navigating life’s challenges and making the most of every opportunity. Tune in for a story that’s honest, relatable, and full of valuable insights.
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Udit Arora on His Journey as an Actor & His Passion for the Craft
Nov 29, 202401:13:56Tap to summarizeAn actor’s craft — it’s so much more than what meets the eye. From delving deep into emotions to perfecting the process, navigating anxiety, enduring the grind, and embracing both the applause and the metaphorical death of an actor — we unpack it all in this candid conversation. In this episode, we sit down with the versatile and talented actor Udit Arora, who has brought to life unforgettable characters like Saurav in Jamtara, Binny Bhaiya in Crash Course, and Dhiman in Saas, Bahu, aur Flamingo. Each role exists in its own distinct universe, and yet, Udit makes every performance feel authentic, raw, and natural. How does he seamlessly switch between such contrasting characters? What goes into staying true to each role, while building depth and complexity? We explore these questions and dive into the larger world of acting and theatre — the emotions behind the craft, the discipline it demands, and the personal and creative journey it takes an actor on. Whether you’re a fan of Udit’s work or curious about what it takes to create magic on-screen, this episode is packed with insights, reflections, and a whole lot of inspiration. Tune into this conversation that takes you behind the scenes of acting and storytelling!
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Making Marketing Matter with Pavithra Pasupathi
Sep 6, 202401:07:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Story Bar podcast, Garima delves into the exciting world of marketing with Pavithra, a seasoned branding expert. Pavithra talks about her journey from interior design to becoming a force in the industry, highlighting the pivotal moments that fueled her passion for creating compelling brand identities. She offers insights into the importance of understanding a brand's core essence and how her early experiences shaped her approach to brand storytelling. Pavithra discusses what it means to build a brand in today's complex market. She emphasizes the significance of brand reputation and how it parallels personal identity. Through relatable metaphors, she explains how brand loyalty is cultivated by consistently resonating with the audience's needs and values, turning a brand from a mere product into a trusted companion in the consumer's life. Garima and Pavithra also explore the challenges of reaching diverse audiences in India, particularly bridging the gap between urban and rural markets. Pavithra shares her strategies for effective communication, stressing the need to first understand the audience's unique context before choosing the right channels. Listen to the full episode for more amazing ideas and insights on the art of brand storytelling and the power of connecting authentically with diverse consumer bases. This conversation is a real treat! You can connect with Pavithra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pavithra-pasupathi-205319132/ Follow The Story Bar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thestorybar/?viewAsMember=true
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Bridging The Learning Gap with Mukesh George
May 24, 202200:29:16Tap to summarizeToday, we have a very inspiring story for you that might help you reflect on some questions that trouble us, keep us awake at night, and shake our soul Who gets to decide - who is “ordinary” and who is “special”? Do we really understand the harsh realities of the remote villages in India? Why is money so important for receiving a quality education? Why do people bring up a child in this world when they can’t take care of them? What does it mean to truly connect with another soul and be present for that person? "The subject of education is very close to my heart. There is a production mentality, lacking basic human elements. What really finds a place on the report card is devoid of emotions. If you are not happy, how can you perform or learn? What’s happening in school takes up most of your time. We need to take care of a person overall - in the class, field, corridor during breaks, the real person outside the school. It's important to get to know the students and then work with them for education to happen in the real sense - to bring the best a person can bring to the table - not just academically - a human being is so much more than that!" Mukesh George is a development professional with over 10 years of experience, a fearless and gifted human being sharing his power with the world. We hope you take some thoughts home from this conversation today. AND most importantly, we are very thankful for your love and support for The Story Bar.
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Beyond UPSC with Kumar Vivek, Deputy Commissioner, Ministry of Finance, GOI
Aug 31, 202100:47:55Tap to summarizeCivil services - one of the most prestigious career paths in India. Lakhs of people appear every year in the UPSC examinations to build their dreams. But only a few make it to the top. Well, this episode is not about how good or tough the Indian Civil Services is but what is beyond the exam and the service - the will to make a real impact, the dream to bring out real change. And for making a difference in society, is joining the civil services the only way? These are some questions we explore in our conversation with Kumar Vivek, an IRS officer, presently serving as Deputy Commissioner at the Ministry of Finance. We also look at some of the most common perceptions and stereotypes attached to the job. From his initial inspiration to challenges on the job, his roots and family, Kumar Vivek talks about it all. What's even more extraordinary is his belief that to make a difference in this wide world, you do not need to get into civil services. Everyone here is leading the way in their own little unique ways and that's magical. This humble, kind, and determined officer has given us so many thoughts to reflect upon and we are truly grateful. Before we begin, we thank you all for the overwhelming support to our Rooting For You Campaign. And If you really like our content, please do drop us reviews and ratings on Apple Podcasts or you can follow the podcast on Podbean, Spotify, and Google. Do check out our website for more: www.thestorybar.online
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