Advertise on podcast: Passion Projects with Payal

Money stress is everywhere right now, and so many people are quietly carrying it alone.I sit down with Alok Deshpande, CEO of SmartPath and the creator of  @ask-frank, the first AI-native financial advisor built for Main Street. For over a decade, he’s helped tens of thousands of families move from financial chaos to real confidence.We’re talking about what financial wellness truly looks like, why this conversation matters right now, and how anyone can take the first step toward feeling more grounded and in control of their money.

She didn’t wait for a seat at the table — she built one in sports media. In this episode, we sit down with ⁠ ⁨@KellySaco⁩ ⁠, a reporter, host, and producer covering the Marlins and the Heat for ⁠ ⁨@fanduelsportsnetwork⁩ ⁠, for an honest conversation about building a career in sports media. From starting out in utility roles to earning Emmy moments, Kelly reflects on becoming the first female analyst on the ⁠ ⁨@marlins⁩ ⁠ Radio Network in 31 years and what that milestone meant personally and professionally. We also delve into how her background as an athlete at ⁠ ⁨@SyracuseU⁩ ⁠ shaped her approach to storytelling, the unseen work behind the highlight reels, the rise of women’s sports, and a rapid-fire round that reveals who she is beyond her job.

Not over the Blue Jays’ 2025 season? Me neither. I sit down with Andrew Stoeten, creator of The Bat Flip Substack and co-host of the Blue Jays Happy Hour podcast, to unpack a season that reignited fandom across Toronto even without the trophy. We talk heartbreak, perspective, and how Andrew built a career as a sports writer. Hear his full perspective on the season and the stories behind it in the episode.

Kelly’s career is what happens when talent meets guts. She went from managing a Division I basketball team to studying journalism, reshaping Columbia Law School’s entire brand, leading ESPN-supported sports communications, and driving content strategy for a major NYC nonprofit. Now she teaches at Columbia, works in sports philanthropy, and continues to build a path that no one else can copy. In this episode, she breaks down the pivots, risks, and bold moves that shaped her journey and why betting on yourself can change everything. If this sparks something in you, hit like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the push.

Think you know what recruiters are looking for? Think again.Liza, CEO and Co-Founder of MXA Talent Solutions and a global recruiting leader, breaks down what’s actually changed in hiring, the quiet mistakes candidates make without realizing it, and how AI is reshaping the job search process. She also shares the real strategies that will help you stand out in today’s tough market. Learn how recruiters make decisions, what separates strong candidates from the rest, and how to use AI and practical, proven steps to get noticed faster. If this episode brings you value, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone navigating the job search right now.

What does it really mean to be a Raptor? Eric Smith, the radio voice behind some of Toronto’s biggest basketball moments and co-author of We The Raptors, shares the stories that define thirty years of grit, growth, and heart. From Amir Johnson’s connection to the city to Jerome Williams’ snowstorm drive to Toronto, these are the players who shaped the city's basketball story. This one’s for the fans who’ve cheered through it all — the ones who know that We The North isn’t just a rally cry, it’s a way of life. 📘 Grab your copy of We The Raptors and don’t forget to subscribe, like, and drop your favorite Raptors memory in the comments.

Ainka Jess, founder of ⁠She’s4Sports⁠, is changing how women’s stories are told in sports. She is redefining Canada’s sports media landscape, creating space for women athletes, amplifying their voices, and sparking a movement built on representation and resilience. In this episode, we explore her journey, the power of visibility, and what it takes to create a lasting impact. Make sure to subscribe and follow Passion Projects for more stories that inspire change.

How does a MasterChef alum turn her love for Indian-inspired desserts into a thriving business and bestselling cookbook? Hetal Vasavada, CEO and Founder of  ⁨@milkandcardamom⁩, one of the internet’s most beloved dessert blogs, shares how she built a brand rooted in flavor, family, and fearlessness. From life after MasterChef to balancing motherhood and creativity, Hetal opens up about baking her own version of success — one recipe at a time. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review — it helps more people discover their Passion Projects.

What started as one mom’s search for toys and books that reflected her South Asian roots turned into something much bigger. Meet Akruti Babaria, the “story auntie” who transformed her passion for cultural storytelling into Kulture Khazana — a brand now proudly featured on Target shelves. This is the story of how representation, purpose, and play came together to build a movement. Follow Passion Projects wherever you listen — and if this story moved you, leave us a quick review to help more people discover their own passion.

From writing about basketball to funding over 30 sports startups, Peter Robert Casey is an investor who has seen it all. In this episode, he breaks down the journey, the lessons, and the mindset that turned a passion for the game into a career. Whether you’re a founder, a sports fan, or just curious how deals get made, you won’t want to miss this. Loved this episode? Show some love—hit follow, drop a comment, and share your thoughts.

In this episode, I sit down with Ian Peterman — visionary designer, entrepreneur, and host of the Conscious Design Podcast. Ian shares how creativity, sustainability, and responsibility can work hand-in-hand to build products and ideas that truly make a difference. We talk about his journey in design, what inspired him to merge innovation with purpose, and how conscious design can shape a better future for both businesses and communities. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how design impacts the world around us, this conversation will leave you inspired to think differently about the way you create and the legacy you want to leave behind. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

Ever wonder what it takes to bring your favorite games to life beyond the court or field? On the debut episode of Passion Projects season 3️⃣, I sit down with Parker, the creative force behind  ⁨@BehindTheBroadcast⁩ . His platform shines a spotlight on the broadcasters, producers, engineers, and camera operators who bring sports to life, giving fans a deeper appreciation for the craft behind the game. We talk about his journey, what inspired him to launch the platform, and the insights he’s gained from connecting with some of the most talented professionals in sports media. Parker also shares valuable advice for anyone curious about breaking into the broadcasting world — from building connections to carving your own path behind the scenes. Follow Passion Projects on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube so you never miss an episode and get inspired by more stories of people turning their passions into purpose.

This week on Passion Projects, I sit down with Jessica, the award-winning creator behind Jessica in the Kitchen, a beloved plant-based food blog with over 600 recipes that have inspired home cooks around the world. Jessica shares how going vegetarian—and later vegan—transformed her health, lifestyle, and career. A wife, new mom, and entrepreneur, Jessica opens up about balancing motherhood with content creation, the evolution of her personal brand, and her mission to make vegan cooking accessible, joyful, and flavorful. From simple recipes to thoughtful wellness, this episode dives deep into the power of food, storytelling, and building a purpose-driven digital community. Whether you’re a food lover, aspiring creator, or someone exploring a more plant-based lifestyle—this episode is full of heart, inspiration, and nourishing takeaways. Subscribe to Passion Projects with Payal on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

This week on Passion Projects, I sit down with ⁠Karla Cobreiro⁠, founder of ⁠Cobreiro Comms⁠—a boutique PR and communications consultancy rooted in culture, business, and storytelling. Karla shares how her Cuban roots and Miami upbringing shaped her into the powerhouse connector she is today, and why empathy, instinct, and intention guide everything she does. From coaching execs on what makes a story newsworthy to helping creatives own their narrative, Karla is flipping the script on traditional PR. Tune in as we talk about building a business with soul, redefining connection in the media landscape, and how Karla’s creating a legacy—cafecito in hand. Subscribe to Passion Projects on ⁠Spotify⁠, ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠, and ⁠YouTube⁠.

This week on Passion Projects, I sit down with Kristen Ledlow—former host of NBA Inside Stuff, sideline reporter, and now Founder & CEO of Positionless, a consciously crafted clothing brand for littles. Inspired by the birth of her son, Kristen shares how she transitioned from the high-energy world of sports broadcasting to a new season of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and deepened spirituality. We talk about identity shifts, building a purpose-led brand, and how she’s finding joy and meaning beyond the game. It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about growth, grace, and redefining success on your own terms. Subscribe to Passion Projects on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and follow along on YouTube.