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What happens when a child is gifted and highly capable, yet also struggles with writing, organisation, exams, social interactions or regulation? In this episode of Being Gifted, we explore the world of twice-exceptional (2e) learners—children whose exceptional strengths and challenges coexist, and can sometimes mask each other. We are joined by Shija Sapru, a neuroinclusion consultant who uses neuroaffirming and strength-based approaches to support gifted and twice-exceptional individuals. Shija brings over a decade of lived experience supporting her own twice-exceptional children, along with an MS in Organizational Psychology and a Certificate in Twice-Exceptional Education. Through her work at Tree of Exceptionalities, she supports children, parents, educators, professionals and workplaces in creating environments that recognise strengths while providing the right support for challenges. She is also an alumni research assistant at the S.H.I.N.E. Lab, University of Hartford, Connecticut, and has co-hosted Season 1 of the Neurodiversity MENA Podcast. In this episode, we explore: What twice-exceptionality really meansUnderstanding the strengths and challenges of a 2e childA real-life case of a 12-year-old with remarkable interests but significant academic and social challengesHow parents, schools and the wider community can create a supportive ecosystemWhy a 2e approach must support both strengths and challengesA conversation that reminds us that a child's abilities and challenges can coexist—and both deserve to be understood. 🎧 Listen to Part 1 and stay tuned for Part 2 of this thought-provoking conversation on Being Gifted. ✨ If it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠⁠Malati Kalmadi

The Multipotential Journey: Nurturing Possibilities | Dr. Anand Godse What happens when you have many interests, many possibilities—and no single path that feels like the path? In Part 1, we explored Dr. Anand Godse's journey as a multipotential individual and how his diverse interests in psychology, yoga, arts, sports, research and Indian philosophy gradually came together to shape his work and purpose. In Part 2, we take the conversation deeper. Anand shares his perspectives on mentorship and Gurutva, and how the right people can influence our journey in ways that go beyond knowledge or expertise. We also explore the difficult choices that come with a non-linear path—passion versus money, purpose versus conventional definitions of success, and how to make choices when you have multiple possibilities in front of you. We also discuss what parents can do when their children have many interests and talents. How do we support exploration without constantly asking them to choose? And how do we help them develop the ability to make meaningful choices for themselves? Finally, Anand introduces us to the idea of a GIG mindset—a way of looking at work, learning and possibilities that can be particularly relevant for multipotential individuals. In this episode, we explore: The role of mentorship and the deeper idea of GurutvaChoosing passion and purpose while navigating financial realitiesFinding meaning in a non-linear journeyHelping multipotential children make choices without limiting their possibilitiesMoving from multiple interests to meaningful contributionThe importance of developing a GIG mindsetThis is a conversation about more than careers. It is about how we define success, discover purpose, make choices and create a life that allows our many possibilities to find expression. 🎧 Listen to Part 2 of Being Gifted and share it with a parent, educator or young person who is exploring many interests and possibilities. 🎧 Listen to Part 1 and stay tuned for Part 2 of this thought-provoking conversation on Being Gifted. ✨ If it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠⁠⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Malati Kalmadi

What happens when you don't fit into just one box? Some people have a natural curiosity that takes them across multiple disciplines, interests and experiences. But in a world that often equates success with choosing one path and specialising in it, what happens when you have multiple passions and possibilities within you? In this episode of Being Gifted, we explore the fascinating journey of Dr. Anand Godse—a health psychologist, researcher, educator, mentor and facilitator whose work brings together psychology, Suryanamaskar, yoga, arts, sports and Indian philosophy. Anand's journey is a wonderful example of multipotentiality—not simply having many interests, but discovering how different abilities and passions can evolve, intersect and eventually come together to create meaningful work. In Part 1, we explore: Anand's journey of discovering and recognising his multiple potentials.How his different interests and abilities manifested and evolved over time.The role of experiences, opportunities and people in shaping his journey.The pressure to follow conventional definitions of success.Moments of failure, uncertainty and self-doubt—and what helped him keep moving.The importance of purpose and meaningfulness in navigating a non-linear journey.Why mentorship can play an important role in helping multipotential individuals find direction.For parents, educators and anyone raising a child with many interests and talents, Anand's story offers a different way of looking at potential—not as something that needs to be narrowed down immediately, but as something that can be explored, connected and nurtured over time. And this is only Part 1. Our conversation with Dr. Anand continues in Part 2, where we explore mentorship, Gurutva, choosing passion over money, finding meaning and purpose, making choices as a multipotential individual, and developing a GIG mindset. 🎧 Listen to Part 1 and stay tuned for Part 2 of this thought-provoking conversation on Being Gifted. ✨ If it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠⁠ , ⁠⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Malati Kalmadi

When we think of gifted and highly talented children, it's easy to assume they'll naturally find their way. But behind exceptional ability often lie unique emotional, social and developmental challenges that don't simply disappear with age. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Sameena Manasawala, Head of Gifted and Talented Education at Kaveri Gifted Education & Research Centre (KGERC), Pune. A psychologist, researcher, counsellor and mentor, Dr. Sameena has spent over 15 years working closely with gifted children and their families. Her students have grown from school to university and into their professional lives, giving her a unique perspective on why gifted individuals often need guidance throughout their journey. Together, we explore the difference between mentoring and counselling, why both are essential, and how the right support system can help gifted children thrive—not just academically, but emotionally and socially. In this episode, we discuss: Why gifted and high-achieving students need mentors, even into adulthood.The difference between mentoring and counselling.Common socio-emotional challenges such as perfectionism, imposter syndrome, multipotentiality, loneliness and belonging.How parents can create a nurturing environment and recognise early signs that their child may need additional support.The role of extended family members, teachers and trusted adults as mentors.What parents should look for when choosing a mentor or counsellor for their child.How schools can build effective mentoring and counselling ecosystems to support gifted learners.Whether you are a parent, educator, school counsellor or mentor, this conversation offers practical insights into building long-term support systems that help gifted children flourish as individuals—not just as achievers. If you enjoyed this episode, do share it with someone who is raising, teaching or supporting a gifted child. And don't forget to follow Being Gifted for more conversations on nurturing exceptional potential. ✨ Listen to the full episode, and if it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠ , ⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠ and ⁠Malati Kalmadi

In this episode of Being Gifted, we speak with Dr. Rajani Panchang — an oceanography & marine geologist, researcher and academician who chose an unconventional path.From a conservative childhood to spending over 200 days at sea, Dr. Rajani shares her remarkable journey through oceanography, micropalaeontology and climate research. She opens up about the role her parents played in nurturing her interests, the challenges of pursuing a niche field, and the stereotypes she had to overcome as a woman in science. We explore: - How parents can support children with unique interests What it takes to build a meaningful career in STEM? - The power of curiosity, persistence and purpose - Life lessons for students who want to take the road less travelled Dr. Rajani is currently an Assistant Professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University and a recipient of the prestigious Fulbright-Kalam Climate Fellowship.This episode is a powerful reminder that giftedness is not just about talent — but about having the courage to stay true to your calling. ✨ Listen to the full episode, and if it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - ⁠Dr. Devasena Desai⁠ , ⁠Dr. Sameena Manaswala⁠ and ⁠Malati Kalmadi

What does it really take to raise a child with multiple strengths — without rushing them into one path?In this episode, we sit down with Ajay Potnis and his son Mihir Potnis for an honest, layered conversation on parenting choices that don’t always look conventional — but make all the difference. Ajay shares how recognising his children’s multi-potential early on led to bold decisions — stepping away from a career in the US, returning to India, and choosing presence over professional growth. The family focused deeply on the early years, building strong foundations of values, discipline, and emotional security.Mihir’s journey reflects that intent — from achievements across academics, technology, and service, to making unconventional choices like moving away from science despite excelling in it, and pursuing CA and CFA with clarity and commitment.But beyond the milestones, this episode explores what truly shapes a child’s journey — mentorship, exposure, discipline, and the space to grow at their own pace. A grounded, thoughtful conversation for parents navigating similar questions.In this episode, we explore: - Parenting children with multiple interests - Emphasis on building a strong value system in early childhood. - The role of mentors beyond parents - Building discipline through experiences like sports - Helping children make confident decisions without pressure - Why failure matters as much as success For parents who are… - Wondering how to support a child with many strengths - Struggling with career decisions and expectations - Looking to raise resilient, self-aware children. This is a powerful conversation for parents, educators, and anyone raising or supporting a child with unique potential. ✨ Listen to the full episode, and if it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - Dr. Devasena Desai , Dr. Sameena Manaswala and Malati Kalmadi

Today, in our very first episode of Season 3, we’re excited to welcome an extraordinary guest — someone who beautifully describes himself as a Geek, Gayak, and Guru — Sandeep Ranade. Sandeep Ranade Website - www.sandeepranade.com; Sandeep Ranade Youtube Channel. = www.YouTube.com/sandeepranade A disciple of the legendary Pandit Jasraj, Sandeep is an accomplished vocalist, composer, and a deeply respected educator. What makes his journey especially inspiring is how seamlessly he brings together two worlds that are rarely spoken about in the same breath — music and technology. A former software engineer at Google, with a Master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University, Sandeep went on to create Naad Sadhana — an app that uses Artistic Intelligence to create a 27-instrument live orchestra in real time. In 2021, it received the prestigious Apple Design Award for Innovation — becoming the second Indian app to receive this honour, and the first in Indian music, art, and culture. Beyond this, as an educator and founder of Endless Evolution, Sandeep works on building success habits and nurturing creative, multidisciplinary thinking. ✨ In this episode, we explore: - Building an unconventional path rooted in passion and purpose - Navigating self-doubt and external pressures - What schools and parents can do differently to nurture talent - Blending creativity with technology to create new possibilities This is a powerful conversation for parents, educators, and anyone raising or supporting a child with unique potential. ✨ Listen to the full episode, and if it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! 📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram) ✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122 Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team -  Dr Devasena Desai, Sameena Manaswala and Malati Kalmadi Hosts Himani & Kalyani

When we think of giftedness, academics often come to mind first. But what about talent in the performing arts? How do parents and educators recognize and nurture it? In this episode of Being Gifted, we are joined by Ms. Shashikala Gundlupet—an MBA, and a unique multidisciplinary Ph.D. scholar in Performing Arts, Gifted Education, and Management. She is also an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer, Carnatic vocalist, poet, writer, and researcher, whose career beautifully blends art, education, and culture. Together, we explore the intersection of giftedness and performing arts, with valuable insights for both parents and teachers. In this episode, we discuss: How to identify giftedness in performing arts, especially dance Approaches to nurturing talent using a holistic blend of Dance, Abhinaya, and Panchakosha The role of parents and schools in supporting young dancers The significance of pursuing a professional degree in performing arts while honoring the Guru-Shishya Parampara The evolving role of classical dance in modern times, and its importance in preserving Indian culture Striking a balance between encouragement and pressure—especially in the age of social media This conversation shines a light on the unique challenges and joys of raising and teaching artistically gifted children. ✨ Listen to the full episode, and if it resonates with you, please leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! 📲 Follow us: @kaverigiftededucationcentre (Facebook & Instagram)✉️ Write to us: [email protected] 📖 To order our book Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A Practical Guide for Caregivers – WhatsApp 9130077122 Being Gifted podcast is produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for KGERC, hosted and supported by the KGERC team - Malathi Kalmadi, Dr. Devasena Desai and Dr. Sameena Manaswala.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Paromita Roy – psychologist and Deputy Director at Jagadis Bose National Science Talent Search (JBNSTS), Kolkata. With over 25 years of experience, she shares deep insights into nurturing gifted children, especially those passionate about science. We talk about: Why gifted kids often struggle with social connections How parents can support their child's emotional and academic journey The role of families in planning for higher studies, finances, and timelines Why it’s important to talk openly about failure and ambition Listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected] for any queries, help and comments. Useful Links: To Order Our Book - Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A practical guide for caregivers, Whatsapp 9130077122. *Being Gifted podcast has been produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for  KGERC. Hosts Kalyani Vaidya and Himani Kanitkar Supported by KGERC Team: Mrs. Malathi Kalmadi Dr. Devasena Desai Dr. Sameena Manaswala

This episode of Being Gifted takes a meaningful turn—from understanding high ability to nurturing the right parenting mindset. Raising gifted or neurodivergent children often means breaking away from conventional methods and learning to see the world through their unique lens. We’re joined by Sowmyalaxmi, a parent of two exceptional children, who shares her personal journey of shifting her mindset to support their emotional and learning needs. Through her lived experiences, she reminds us that parenting these children is not just about supporting their strengths but also about protecting your own well-being, embracing differences, and staying flexible in your approach. In this episode, we discuss: Why unlearning traditional parenting norms is crucialHow to develop a mindset that supports both the child and parentReal-life moments that led to emotional growthThe impact of this shift on her parenting journeyIt’s an honest, relatable conversation for parents walking a less-traveled path. Listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected] for any queries, help and comments. Useful Links:To Order Our Book - Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A practical guide for caregivers, Whatsapp 9130077122. *Being Gifted podcast has been produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for  KGERC. Hosts ⁠Kalyani Vaidya⁠ and ⁠Himani Kanitkar⁠

In this episode of Being Gifted, we explore the unique challenges and strengths of parenting twice-exceptional (2E) children—those who are gifted (Buddhimaan) while also facing developmental challenges such as ADHD, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or physical and mental health conditions. To help us understand this complex journey, we are joined by a very special guest, Ms. Vidya Iyengar—a life coach and a parent of a 2E child. Vidya has successfully homeschooled her daughter, who is now 18 and pursuing a degree in Physics at Melbourne University, Australia. She shares her experiences, challenges, and insights on advocating for neurodivergent children in school, family, and community settings. Key points discussed: Understanding Twice-Exceptional Children Challenges a regular schools need to address The Need for Advocacy Guest Speaker: Vidya Iyengar – Life coach, advocate for neurodivergent children, and parent of a 2E child. Do listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected] for any queries, help and comments. Useful Links:To Order Our Book - Nurturing Buddhimaan Children: A practical guide for caregivers, Whatsapp 9130077122. *Being Gifted podcast has been produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for  KGERC. Hosts ⁠Kalyani Vaidya⁠ and ⁠Himani Kanitkar⁠ #GiftedEducation #HighAbility #PartnersInUpBringing #Parenting

Join us for a special conversation with Abhijit Jejurikar, aself-taught musician and social entrepreneur on a mission to empower the youth of Dharavi through his incredible project, Dharavi Reloaded! 🎶 In this episode, we explore Abhijit's journey from thecorporate world to creating a vibrant platform for slum kids to express their creativity through music and dance. With over 350 performances alongside stars like Amitabh Bachchan, Ed Sheeran, and Salman Khan, Abhijit is not just changing lives—he's redefining what it means to give back. 🎤 Discover: How he discovered his passion for musicThe challenges he faced on his unique pathHis experience mentoring young talents in India’s largest recycling hubThe incredible impact Dharavi Reloaded has had on the communityTune in for an inspiring story of creativity, resilience, and social change! Do listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected]. *Being Gifted podcast has been produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for  KGERC. Hosts ⁠Kalyani Vaidya⁠ and ⁠Himani Kanitkar⁠ #DharaviReloaded #AbhijitJejurikar #MusicForChange #SocialEntrepreneurship #EmpowerYouth #SlumToStage #CreativeImpact #InspiringStories #JunkPercussion #CommunityArt #YouthEmpowerment #DharaviRocks #ArtWithPurpose #MusicEducation #ChangeMakers #BeingGifted #Giftedsocialentrepreneur

In this episode we are in conversation with Junior College Students - Avani (Commerce) and Mehicka (Science), 12th-grade students at Dr. Kalmadi Shamarao Junior College, Pune, India, currently part of the gifted program. The gifted program at Dr. Kalmadi Shamarao Junior College has been running for 9 years, evolving into a key initiative under the guidance of Dr. Madhurchi Chittewan & Mrs Shobha Channal. Highlights of the episode: Experience and Learning: Sharing their journey in the gifted program, highlighting the impact on their academic and personal lives.Projects and Assignments: Discussing specific projects that challenged her and provided significant learning experiences.Mentorship: The importance of having a mentor in the gifted program and the unique relationships both students have built with their mentors.Socio-Emotional Development: How the program's focus on socio-emotional growth has contributed to their personal development and well-being.Impact of the Program: Reflection on what they would have missed if they hadn’t joined the gifted program. Do listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected]. *Being Gifted podcast has been produced by Partners in Upbringing LLP for  KGERC. Hosts ⁠Kalyani Vaidya⁠ and ⁠Himani Kanitkar⁠ #BeingGiftedPodcast #GiftedProgram #StudentVoices #YouthEmpowerment #SocioEmotionalLearning #MentorshipMatters #GiftedEducation #PersonalGrowth #CuriousMinds #PuneEducation #FutureLeaders #EmotionalIntelligence

In today's episode, we chat with Mr. Vinay Nair, an expert in Mathematics and Gifted Education for over a decade. As the co-founder of Raising A Mathematician Foundation, Maths Circle (an initiative under RAM), Vichar Vatika, Epsilon India, and others, Vinay leads programs dedicated to identifying and nurturing highly motivated and gifted students in Mathematics. Topics discussed in this episode include: Approaches to supporting mathematically gifted children Managing the unique characteristics of mathematically gifted children as parents and caregivers Ensuring overall development beyond a single subject Career opportunities for mathematically gifted individuals Finding mentors for mathematically gifted children Listen to the full episode and if you like it, leave us a 5-star rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram: @kaverigiftededucationcentre Contact us at: [email protected] #GiftedEducation #MathematicallyGifted #ParentingTips #ChildDevelopment #GiftedKids #EducationMatters #MathematicsEducation #RaisingGiftedChildren #MentorshipMatters

Today we have with us 2 senior teachers, Ms. Mithila Joshi and Ms. Palavi Iyer, who have contributed immensely to the successful running of gifted programs as a part of the core team at Dr. Kalmadi Shamarao High School, Pune, India. Key points discussed: • Finding Inspiration in Gifted Education • Designing a Curriculum for Gifted Learners • Gifted Program's Impact on Regular Class Teaching • Growth as a Gifted Educator Do listen to the entire episode and if you like it, leave us a 5 Star Rating on the platform you are listening to! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @kaverigiftededucationcentre Do write to us on [email protected]. This podcast is produced by Partners in UpBringing and hosted by Himani and Kalyani.