Are you living your life, or the version your culture decided for you? When was the last time you made a decision without trying to prove something?

In this episode of Roots to Routes, I sit down with Patricia for a deeply reflective conversation about what happens when we pause to question the forces shaping our lives - from culture, to crisis, to technology.

Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/7dI87QHbieU

We explore:

• The historical identity of Malaysia and its cultural complexity
• How family and society subtly influence the path we think we’re supposed to take - The hidden psychological shifts COVID created in a whole generation
• In a world run by AI, are we outsourcing the one thing we shouldn’t: how we think?
• And whether our chase for success, status and certainty is pulling us away from meaning and happiness.

If you’ve ever questioned whether the life you’re living is truly your own, or just what you were told to want, this episode is for you. This isn’t about rebellion or rejection, it's bout consciously choosing what to carry forward, and what to leave behind. It’s for anyone navigating cultural pressure, unlearning inherited expectations, or trying to redefine success on their own terms.

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I’m honoured to share the incredible journey of Ramnik Karia. Born in East Africa, Ramnik’s life has taken him across borders, cultures, and challenges - from hitchhiking his way to the UK to taking risks that would be extraordinary even today.

We explore powerful lessons about resilience, hospitality, courage, and the benefits for going after what you truly want to do. Along the way, you’ll hear unforgettable stories - from bringing whisky and spices from England to India, to the world’s shortest war in Zanzibar, to how Jimmy Hendrix left an unexpected mark on his life.

This is a conversation filled with wisdom, humour, and advice that future generations can truly benefit from.

💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, share, or leave a comment; and help us preserve these incredible stories for generations to come.

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Ever felt like you're living two lives? One shaped by the culture you were born into, and the other by the world you're trying to thrive in?

I sit down with John Wang, speaker, entrepreneur and the creator of Big Asian Energy, to explore the silent tension of bicultural identity, especially for Asian and Asian-American communities.

We discuss:

- The heavy burden of growing up in a traditional household of high expectations - The unspoken cost of politeness - The 7 cultural habits holding many Asians back in their careers - What it takes to redefine success on your own terms - and some real-life shocking stories of how far some Asian Americans have gone to uphold the expectations of their family and community

If you've ever felt caught between 2 worlds, struggled to speak up or felt like you don't quite belong in the workplace or society you're living in - this convo is going to speak directly to you.

Follow on socials (@ananddattanipodcast). Find the links here: https://campsite.bio/tjo