WELCOME TO THE CHANGING PLATFORMS PODCAST

With over 80 Changing Platforms episodes released and heard in 49 countries, in this closing episode, Alka Bromiley thanks everyone who made season 5 such a success. Check out this gratitude episode, with Alka's words of wisdom and an inspirational song, as well as hearing about the launch of the all-new ⁠Changing Platforms website. It's a great way to end the season.

Mozambique’s first professional surfer, competes in the World Surfing League. Due to xenophobia, Mini fled South Africa and moved with his family to Mozambique. There, at the age of 14, he discovered surfing. He is now the director of Mozambique’s division of Surfers Not Street Children. Find out how Mini uses surfing as a distraction from the social challenges that young people face to coach, mentor, and teach them life lessons. A terrific episode with Peter McDonald-Smith as my guest host.

When I came across the talented musician and architect Chris Koehn, I discovered we had something in common, we had both experienced the pain of losing our brothers. Chris started writing songs to ease the agony of his loss. He soon saw that his songs and words were effective therapeutic aids for others. Chris's goal in life is to uplift and heal people with his music by encouraging them to pursue happiness, cherish the present, and live in the moment. Tune in  to hear Chris's story.

Dr. Carrie Murphy caught my attention with her website WTFopause. I just had to get her on Changing Platforms and talk more about all things related to health, well-being, especially menopause. As well as sharing insights into her specialty, integrative internal Chinese medicine, Carrie shares so much wisdom on how to live a happier and healthier life. As Carrie says the topic of menopause is relatable to not only women but people of all genders; there is something for everyone to learn.

A Nigerian-American chess prodigy gained international recognition for his incredible talent. Age 8, Tani won the New York State Chess Championship in his age category, an impressive feat that drew attention to his exceptional abilities and determination. A story of resilience and perseverance, fleeing Nigeria settling in a homeless shelter in New York City. I get to speak to Tani and find out more about his passion for chess and how his family created a foundation to give back to those in need.

2016, Gareth dove into a swimming pool leaving him wheelchair bound with a spinal cord injury. Gareth refuses to let his disability limit his potential. Gareth secured a full-time job as an Engineer; he is a Paralympian for the New Zealand Wheel Blacks; and he never lets accessibility limit his ability to travel the world and accomplish his goals. Shae is Gareth’s partner; throughout this journey she has been his strength and support. Celebrating Global Accessibility Awareness Day.

Families are the cornerstone of our society and play a crucial role in shaping our communities, livelihoods, and overall well-being. However, with the ongoing changes in our world, families are also facing significant challenges and transitions that are impacting dynamics and structures. For United Nations International Day of Families, nephew Alex Jones, niece Joslyn Clark and Uncle Frank Hundley return to Changing Platforms to reflect on this year’s theme ‘Families and Demographic Change.’ 

Ready to be inspired? Award-winning children's book author and illustrator Nadine Kaadan is here to share her story on Changing Platforms! From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to jasmine, orange blossom and other beauties of Syria to the challenges of war, Nadine's journey has led her to champion inclusive representation in kids' books. Plus, in honor of Children's Book Week, she'll give us a sneak peek of her upcoming collaboration on a new collection of stories, The Power of Welcome. 

Charlie Ogilvie is back on Changing Platforms! In her first episode, she bravely shared her journey with bipolar disorder. In this sequel, she reflects on the impact of sharing her story and how it led her to step outside her comfort zone and encourage others to do the same. Plus, she shares a touching excerpt from her own writing for #NationalShareAStoryMonth. Tune in now!
#MentalHealth #Storytelling #podcast

Our guest this week is Anshika Singh. This is the first time Anshika has shared her experiences on a podcast and, I feel humbled that she felt safe to do that on Changing Platforms. In India, historically the struggles for transgender people are long and complex. Despite some progress in recent years, transgender people in India continue to face significant challenges in their daily lives. Violence to violation, the challenge is discrimination. From homeless to hopeful, take a listen to Anshika’

The author of ‘The Sex Lives of African Women’, Publishers Weekly described as “an astonishing report on the quest for sexual liberation”. Listed by The Economist as the best book of the year. Nana is also co-founder of ‘Adventures from the Bedrooms of African Women’, a website, podcast and festival that publishes and creates content that tells stories of African women’s experiences around sex, sexualities, and pleasure.  Guest host: Dr, Bat Sheva Marcus.

Philosophy student, writer, feminist activist, Sandy is a defender of sexual & reproductive rights in Honduras. She has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights of women and marginalized communities. A voice for those who are often ignored or silenced in her country, where gender inequality and discrimination are prevalent. She has worked tirelessly to promote access to reproductive healthcare, education, and resources for women.
With Guest-host Spanish speaking translator Marti Wensel, 

Somaya, 23, a young woman still living in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban's takeover in August 2021, the ban on education for women and girls in the country has created widespread condemnation from the international community and is viewed as a severe violation of human rights. 
This episode, Somaya, using an alias name for her safety, talks about the impact this ban has had on women and girls in Afghanistan and what she is doing to keep educating and empowering whilst establishing a sisterhood.

It’s almost one year since Pat Chance’s inspirational Changing Platforms episode aired and my how a year can change things! Beyond competing in Fitness Shows, Pat of https://www.patchancefitness.com, is now involved in pageantry. She holds titles for being Mrs. Transcontinental Florida, Mrs. Prime Southeastern Ambassador and most recently Mrs. Universe Florida. Most importantly, pageantry has led Pat to a mission close to her heart, to support women and children who are victims of abuse. 

Danielle Powell, Doula and owner of www.chesapeakebirthandbaby.com, has supported families welcoming new babies for eight years. She is a certified Labor and Postpartum Doula, Childbirth Educator, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, and Lactation Consultant. Passionate about creating a positive experience for her clients; through compassionate listening and education. Danielle helps her clients feel empowered to have autonomy over their choices for themselves and their new baby.
In this episode

From saving lives for over 18 years, Peter McDonald-Smith moves into the podcasting arena as Alka’s guest this week on Changing Platforms. They turn the tables as Peter interviews Alka on their first co-hosting experience together.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains content topics including domestic violence and abuse.

Happy International Women’s Day! There is no better day than today to launch Season 5 of Changing Platforms!
After hosting four seasons of Changing Platforms with my co-host and niece Krisha Kay Gandhi, I am embarking on this stage of the journey solo but, with a little help from my friends. Tune in to this teaser episode to find out more.