Skip to main content
Growing Forward Together

Growing Forward Together

By Kinita Seema Schripsema

Feel like you have hit a wall in your journey? We are here to encourage, empower and equip individuals to grow forward in their stories and help them live into their best selves while they embrace their cultural bent or internal cultural home.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Overcast Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Understanding Caste: The Friendship of a Brahmin and a Dalit

Growing Forward TogetherSep 16, 2020

00:00
39:40
Achieving Your Dreams

Achieving Your Dreams

Many professions need a degree, that is a fact! However, in some cases the individual hasn’t been able to get a degree (for one reason or another) but still wants to be fiscally responsible and effective in his or her community. Join us to hear what Jonaed Iqbal from NoDegree.com has to say about it!!

Oct 29, 202229:06
Story of a Birth Mother: Her Journey Through Adoption

Story of a Birth Mother: Her Journey Through Adoption

Are you a birth mother or an adoptive parent? Either way, there is a journey to travel through. Sue Hinojosa chose adoption for her child when she herself was a teenager. This is about her journey from fear and denial to joy and acceptance.

Aug 29, 202233:16
Behind the Scenes: A Special interview by Jerry Hughes

Behind the Scenes: A Special interview by Jerry Hughes

When I wrote my second book, "I Am Third: Redeeming the Pain" (our journey through parenting and adoption), I never expected to make a friend like Jerry Hughes, Founder of the Hughes Foundation, let-alone be interviewed by him for my podcast.  Jerry is a new friend I made after relocating to India in June 2021, and a reader who was deeply touched by the words I penned. In all honesty, he was not "the kind of person" I was imagining when I thought about who would be in my audience of readers.  In the interview, our personalities (and friendship) allowed us to be raw, honest and comical.  I hope that you will be encouraged to #LiveYourStory and maybe even pick up a copy of my book as a tool to help you grow forward.    

Apr 19, 202227:34
Understanding Culture: Faith & Culture with Jasneet Kaur

Understanding Culture: Faith & Culture with Jasneet Kaur

Since faith is important to me and that includes respecting people who follow other religions!  Join us for a dialogue about the intersectionality of the Hindu & Sikh religions and the Indian culture. Let's learn and grow forward together!!

Apr 19, 202141:18
Understanding Culture Series: "Expectations & Culture" with Sanchiyta K

Understanding Culture Series: "Expectations & Culture" with Sanchiyta K

When we take into consideration the expectations in a culture, we redirect forced assimilation and not only experience better dialogue with those different than us, but we become companions for those struggling to fit and belong.

Apr 13, 202126:41
Understanding Culture Series: "Race & Culture" with Grace (Thuo) Kelley

Understanding Culture Series: "Race & Culture" with Grace (Thuo) Kelley

The RACE conversation is often at the heart of many debates while CULTURAL understanding is ignored and often misunderstood.  I believe we need to do a better job of understanding the culture of a person or people group so we can grow forward together, while remembering and learning about systemic ways people are oppressed. 

Apr 06, 202148:04
Women In History: A Look Back in Time with Eugenia, Linette and Stephanie

Women In History: A Look Back in Time with Eugenia, Linette and Stephanie

A look back in time with classmates from junior high who are all daughters of immigrants.  Sharing about the impact our parents had on us and some lessons we learned along the way.

Mar 31, 202139:44
Women In History: "Running The Race" with Kym Dantuma Matthews

Women In History: "Running The Race" with Kym Dantuma Matthews

Remember that our stories don’t take place in a vacuum although they are uniquely ours. We need to learn to "Run the Race Set Before Us", while we appreciate the women who were "in it" with us. 

Mar 22, 202132:57
Women In History: A Dialogue with Rowena Phillips

Women In History: A Dialogue with Rowena Phillips

March is “Women in History” month and I decided that instead of talking about famous women who are in textbooks and articles all over the world, I would encourage my guests to talk about the women in their history!!  I believe that ALL our narratives matter and it is important for us to take opportunities to let them shine!! 

Today we discuss the impact culture has had on growing up in India.  

Mar 16, 202126:30
Women In History: A Dialogue with Emily Smith

Women In History: A Dialogue with Emily Smith

Today we reflect on how we handle challenges as women in the work force?

Since March is “Women in History” month, I decided to put a twist on it by not talking about famous women who are in textbooks and articles all over the world, and instead encourage my guests to talk about the women in their history!!  I believe that ALL our narratives matter and it is important for us to take opportunities to let them shine!! 

Mar 08, 202137:16
Women In History: A Dialogue with Dinorah Hiler

Women In History: A Dialogue with Dinorah Hiler

March is “Women in History” month, so I decided to put a twist on it and instead of talking about famous women who are in textbooks and articles all over the world, I decided to encourage my guests to talk about the women in THEIR history!!  I believe that ALL our narratives matter and it is important for us to take opportunities to let them shine!!  

Let's hear what my Cuban-American friend has to say about "Living the American Dream".

Mar 02, 202129:02
Live Into Your Strengths: A Dialogue with Katy Kloosterman

Live Into Your Strengths: A Dialogue with Katy Kloosterman

According to The Clifton Strengths Assessment, there are thirty-four strengths and themes that deeply affect our personal and professional lives. When we encourage each other to “live into your strengths” it is imperative to know what they are and how to manage them. A dialogue to help you on your journey!!

Feb 22, 202130:30
Adoption & Inclusion: A Growth Story with Crystal Egli

Adoption & Inclusion: A Growth Story with Crystal Egli

Adoption isn't for everyone, but when it is, there is much to learn and implement.  Practicing inclusion is a way to deepen that relationship in ways that might surprise you. 

Feb 15, 202154:12
Living Misunderstood: Life as an Enneagram 8 (with Beth Fisher & Cindy DeBoer)

Living Misunderstood: Life as an Enneagram 8 (with Beth Fisher & Cindy DeBoer)

The Enneagram is a great personality assessment tool to help us understand our personality and how we interact with others.  This is a 3-way dialogue with Enneagram 8's and how we thrive while often being misunderstood. 

Feb 10, 202146:45
Managing Finances During a Transition: A Dialogue with William Wiarda

Managing Finances During a Transition: A Dialogue with William Wiarda

Financial stress is one of the major stressors in our world today and during expected and unexpected transitions, it can be even more difficult.  Even though there were record lows of unemployment (in the USA) even before the pandemic, this pandemic has certainly impacted the financial health of many people across the globe.

Feb 03, 202140:23
Models of Sustainability: A Global Approach with Dr. Renita Reed Thomson (Part 4 of 4)

Models of Sustainability: A Global Approach with Dr. Renita Reed Thomson (Part 4 of 4)

In this final episode, we will explore a GLOBAL approach that impacts all of us around the world.

Jan 25, 202136:17
Models of Sustainability Series: An International Approach With Vaibhav Moon (Part 3 of 4)

Models of Sustainability Series: An International Approach With Vaibhav Moon (Part 3 of 4)

This is Part 3 in a four-part series on Models of Sustainability.  In this dialogue we will be talking about an international approach to providing sustainability to marginalized communities in Nagpur, India.

Jan 18, 202139:53
Models of Sustainability Series: A National Approach with Bryce Fluellen (Part 2 of 4)

Models of Sustainability Series: A National Approach with Bryce Fluellen (Part 2 of 4)

Food insecurity was lower in 2019 than in 2018.   Perhaps we are growing in the right direction but, in my opinion, there should not be any food insecurity in a country that has so many resources.  Today’s guest will help us understand why those food resources are not as accessible as they should be, what they are doing about and how you can join in the cause.

Jan 11, 202101:00:60
Models of Sustainability Series: A Local Approach with Nate Beene (Part 1 of 4)

Models of Sustainability Series: A Local Approach with Nate Beene (Part 1 of 4)

This is the first in a four-part series on Models of Sustainability.  Since models are impacted by the location they are in, I decided to embark on a four-part series on the subject.  These episodes will cover and address best practices in Local, National (USA), International and Global contexts.  So be sure to join us for the future posts that will explore those areas and reveal some common elements among them all.

Jan 05, 202137:21
Farewell 2020

Farewell 2020

A personal reflection as 2020 is coming to a end.   

Dec 31, 202009:02
You have the Right to Write: A Dialogue with Jaishree Chhabrani

You have the Right to Write: A Dialogue with Jaishree Chhabrani

Do you like to write, personally or professionally?  Maybe you just like to journal your thoughts and questions that you face in your life.  I journaled casually over the years and then eventually became a published author.  Writing has a way of teaching individuals structure, impact their identity, and celebrate their uniqueness.

Dec 14, 202028:53
Inclusive Entrepreneurship: SPARKing a dialogue with Anindita (Anne) Partington

Inclusive Entrepreneurship: SPARKing a dialogue with Anindita (Anne) Partington

Inclusive leadership is best lived out as a lifestyle and not just remain a good idea!! Many people talk about it and very few actually live it out. Check out this interview with a colleague and friend in the industry of DE&I.

Dec 08, 202044:18
Coaches Collaborate: A Dialogue With Mr. Kelly Blackmon

Coaches Collaborate: A Dialogue With Mr. Kelly Blackmon

Collaboration over competition is always a successful approach! Join me in this conversation with a fellow coach and the host of "How to Win at Everything" on how we encourage, equip and empower others to live into their best selves!!

Nov 23, 202045:13
We The People: A Dialogue with Deborah Davenport

We The People: A Dialogue with Deborah Davenport

In honour of Native American heritage month, I have the opportunity (and so do you) to celebrate a great Sovereign Nation here in the USA.  Listen in and see how you too might be inspired for inclusion and action!!

Nov 16, 202036:29
For Such a Time as This: An Interview with Divan Gamaliel

For Such a Time as This: An Interview with Divan Gamaliel

How to make a dream come true? Take one step at a time.  A conversation with an entrepreneur who continues to produce great things as he stays the course and overcomes obstacles of racial bias, microaggressions and job-seeking stress along the way.  

Nov 02, 202041:15
Being an Overcomer

Being an Overcomer

I was interviewed on "How to Win at Everything".  All of us can “win” at what we do but the question is, “are we willing to address the challenges along the way with healthy approaches?” (aka. being an overcomer). 2In this interview you will hear what I learned through some extremely difficult situations in my life.  I share what worked, what didn’t work and how I choose to live my story in hopes to encourage you in yours.

Oct 21, 202058:58
Write Your Story: A Dialogue with a Blogging Evangelist

Write Your Story: A Dialogue with a Blogging Evangelist

Ever wondered if you should become a blogger? Maybe for personal or business reasons? Well then, you will love this conversation with a "Blogging Evangelist"! Rana's got great tips and tools to help you on your journey!!

Oct 13, 202031:03
Indian and Single: The Struggle is Real!

Indian and Single: The Struggle is Real!

The Indian culture is one of beauty, diversity, depth, and struggle. One of the many struggles amidst the beauty and depth is “singleness”. Listen in on a dialogue between two Indian women who experienced it differently!!

Oct 02, 202001:04:04
Coming To America: A Dialogue with a Fellow Immigrant

Coming To America: A Dialogue with a Fellow Immigrant

How does assimilation impact your story? Coming to America has been a process for many along with recognizing that assimilation impacts each one of us differently. In this interview, you will here a candid conversation about two such immigrants.

Sep 23, 202044:45
Understanding Caste: The Friendship of a Brahmin and a Dalit

Understanding Caste: The Friendship of a Brahmin and a Dalit

Passionate about Inclusion? Then you won't want to miss this interview between two friends who are from different Caste groups and yet share a deep love for reconciliation.

Sep 16, 202039:40
Imposter Syndrome: Who Am I Really?

Imposter Syndrome: Who Am I Really?

What does living authentically mean to you?  Who are you REALLY?  Why is it so easy to build a fake identity rather than live into our true selves?  These and other questions answered along with some tips so you too can #LiveYourStory.  

Sep 09, 202015:41
Gender Equality: A Dialogue with David Rowell

Gender Equality: A Dialogue with David Rowell

Gender equity and equality...why does it matter? Because YOU matter!! Join me as I dialogue with David Rowell on the subject. Learn to be an ally in the work of gender equity.

Aug 31, 202027:52
The Culture of Disability: A Dialogue with Paul Artale

The Culture of Disability: A Dialogue with Paul Artale

As I continue to meet amazing people in my line of work, I asked a fellow author and speaker, Paul Artale, to shed light on his journey as someone who has learned to use his physical disability as a strength.  Listen in and you might learn how to "keep the dialogue" going!

Aug 12, 202044:33
Moments to Memories

Moments to Memories

Do you struggle with being in the moment?  You are not alone!! Learn to make your moments count as they become memories that might feel out of your sight and reach!!

Aug 03, 202012:35
Is It Time for A Realignment?

Is It Time for A Realignment?

Realignment…what does that mean in your story?  How do you feel when things are out-of-sync or out of alignment?  What do you do? Feeling alone in this journey? Let's connect...I've got your back!!

Jul 27, 202022:28
Do Unto Others...or not?

Do Unto Others...or not?

Do unto others...or not?  An opportunity for you to consider how you can promote inclusion by the rules you follow.  

Jul 07, 202014:23
Do you see me?

Do you see me?

An interview of Tabitha Pope, Director of Disability from Nazarene University in Oklahoma City, OK.  Tabitha brings a unique perspective to the topic of intersectionality and agency as it relates to disability in our society.  She dives into the need for acceptance rather than tolerance!!

Jun 25, 202028:60
I am not black

I am not black

As a woman of colour, I choose to stand and kneel in solidarity with my black brothers and sisters.  Are you ready to step into action against racism (and other isms), inequality and inequity in your community and for the sake of others? Practical steps also found in my blog at www.seemaglobalconsulting.com

Jun 11, 202011:55
For Such a Time as This: Interview with Okey K. Enyia

For Such a Time as This: Interview with Okey K. Enyia

As a concious black male in America, Okey shares humbly and graciously the plight of black males along with tools that will help them not only survive but also thrive.  His story started in the Southeast side of Chicago, IL, USA and he now currently works on Capitol Hill, in the Washington, D.C., area for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Resources.

Jun 03, 202052:14
Be Still: It's a Jungle out There

Be Still: It's a Jungle out There

Discovering what being still might look like in your story and how you can achieve a deep calm and peace in your soul.

May 28, 202046:56
Broken Bodies (revised)

Broken Bodies (revised)

This pandemic has caused us to be relegated to our homes and not allowed us to commune physically with our faith communities. Encouragement and challenge to stay connected.
May 18, 202039:51
Setting the Table

Setting the Table

Feeling challenged to transition during this season?  Join me as I share how you can learn to make a difference in your story and someone else's!!

To connect, go to www.seemaglobalconsulting.com.

May 05, 202016:12
Lead Leader!!

Lead Leader!!

Empowering the leader in you!!
Apr 28, 202008:39
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Team building in marriage
Apr 24, 202012:37
Row, Row, Row YOUR Boat

Row, Row, Row YOUR Boat

Deepening your marriage relationship.
Apr 17, 202015:07
9 Ways to Stay Focused & Hopeful (in this Pandemic)

9 Ways to Stay Focused & Hopeful (in this Pandemic)

9 ways to stay focused & hopeful during this pandemic with action points to apply.
Apr 06, 202018:07
The Easy Button

The Easy Button

Learning to work smarter not harder.

Apr 03, 202008:47
Living Authentically

Living Authentically

Be the best you, you can be!!

Apr 03, 202011:18
Failure is an option

Failure is an option

How do you handle success?

Apr 03, 202010:09
Feeling Squeezed

Feeling Squeezed

How do you handle stress?

Apr 03, 202008:19