The CultureHug Podcast

The CultureHug Podcast

CultureHug is a podcast that brings people closer through the power of real talk, raw stories, and radical empathy. Created by a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a deep passion for cross-cultural connection, CultureHug explores what makes us different—and what brings us beautifully together. Each episode dives into a wide range of interesting topics—from decoding cultural norms, challenging bias, to exploring the role of food, traditions, and historical trauma. With the help of Ai under the guidance of an psychotherapist, we’ll ask the bold questions you’ve been too afraid to voice, and share practical skills to help you connect across cultures with authenticity and respect. Whether you’re curious, confused, or simply craving deeper connection in a divided world, CultureHug is your space to learn, unlearn, and grow. One hug (and one episode) at a time.

Episodes

December 5, 2025 29 mins
In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we explore Afghanistan through a culturally informed lens—looking beyond headlines to understand the values, traditions, and lived experiences that shape Afghan life. We unpack elements of its complex cultural identity, from communication and business norms to dining etiquette and everyday social expectations. We examine the traditional honor code Pashtunwali (“the way of the Pashtun”) and...
Mark as Played
In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we explore the deeply personal and often unspoken journey of parents who grew up with trauma and are now working to raise their children differently.

Drawing on real experiences and compassionate insight, the episode breaks down how childhood wounds can shape adult behavior, emotional responses, and parenting instincts. Listeners will learn how trauma shows up in the body, why certain momen...
Mark as Played
In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we take a calm and compassionate look at Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) and narcissistic traits—without adding more anger or blame. Together, we’ll explore what these terms really mean, how they impact relationships, and why it’s important to protect your own emotional well-being when dealing with someone who shows these traits.

We’ll also talk about what a therapy roadmap might lo...
  • Mark as Played
    In this episode of The Culture Hug Podcast, we dive into the fascinating world of Korea—both North and South. From centuries of history to the modern-day Korean Wave sweeping across the globe, we explore what makes this peninsula so unique. You’ll learn about the deep-rooted cultural values shaped by Confucianism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Juche ideology, and how these beliefs influence everyday life. We’ll talk about customs, et...
    Mark as Played
    Ever felt someone standing just a little too close—or maybe a bit too far away? In this episode of The Culture Hug Podcast, we explore the fascinating world of personal space and how it changes from one culture to another. From the wide personal bubbles of the U.S. to Japan’s quiet respect for physical distance, from the warm, close-contact norms of Southern Europe and South America to the bustling, shared-space realities of India ...
    Mark as Played
    With five generations now sharing space in the modern workplace, how do we move past stereotypes and start building real connection?

    In this episode of CultureHug, we dive into what makes each generation—Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha—tick, and how to communicate with more empathy and less labeling.We’ll break down common generational misunderstandings, from Boomers feeling sidelined to Gen Z being misunderst...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of The Culture Hug Podcast we dive into Obesity. Obesity is often misunderstood—and far too often judged. In this episode, we peel back the layers behind weight, exploring how trauma, genetics, epigenetics, and systemic bias all shape the conversation around body size. It's not just about willpower or “calories in, calories out.” We dive into the science of why weight loss isn’t always as simple as hitting the gym o...
    Mark as Played
    In this surprising and deeply human episode of The Culture Hug Podcast, we take a nose-first dive into the world of body odor—and discover it’s about so much more than hygiene. Through personal stories and science-backed insights, we explore how poverty, metabolism, and even genetics shape the way we smell—and how we’re judged for it. From the misunderstood science of "old people smell" to cultural taboos around scent, we unpack ho...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we explore how to support loved ones experiencing psychosis or other serious mental health challenges with empathy and respect. Learn how to use person-centered language, communicate with care, reduce stigma, and stay grounded in compassion—even when things feel uncertain. We’ll also talk about the importance of caregiver well-being, validating without reinforcing delusions, and why connec...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we break down key cultural practices in India—from the meaning behind the head wobble to dining etiquette, business customs, greetings like “Namaste,” and more. With insights from Indian voices, we answer the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask—so you can build trust, show respect, and connect across cultures with confidence.


    Sources:

    Commisceo Global. (n.d.). Why do Indians Nod their He...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we take a heartfelt journey through the complexities of Iranian identity, peeling back layers of culture, cuisine, and global perception.

    Imagine walking through modern-day Iran: the aromas of saffron and grilled kebab, the beauty of Persian rugs, the celebration of Nowruz (Persian New Year), and the role of tradition in daily life—without alcohol, but rich in hospitality.

    We also confront t...
    Mark as Played

    In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we explore Israel. From its dramatic history and diverse culture to its modern tech scene and ongoing conflicts, we explore what makes this small Middle Eastern country so unique. Drawing on real-world intel (with a little help from the CIA World Factbook), we’ll talk borders, food, startups, social dynamics, and everything in between.

    Tune in for a balanced, light-hearted crash course that...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of CultureHug, we dive into the hidden realities of men’s mental health—where stigma, silence, and societal expectations collide. From domestic violence and depression to toxic masculinity and emotional suppression, we explore why many men struggle in silence and touch on the intersectionalities of queer, trans, straight and BIPOC men related to mental health. 

    We break down the science, the cultural roots, and the l...
    Mark as Played
    In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we unpack the difference between stress and trauma, dive into the ACE Study’s insights and limitations, SAMHSA's Concepts, and explore how trauma affects individuals and communities. 

    Learn what it means to be trauma-informed—and why, safety, trust, and cultural awareness are key to real healing. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or just craving deeper connection, this is your invitatio...
    Mark as Played

    Popular Podcasts

      Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.

      Crime Junkie

      Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by Audiochuck Media Company.

      The Brothers Ortiz

      The Brothers Ortiz is the story of two brothers–both successful, but in very different ways. Gabe Ortiz becomes a third-highest ranking officer in all of Texas while his younger brother Larry climbs the ranks in Puro Tango Blast, a notorious Texas Prison gang. Gabe doesn’t know all the details of his brother’s nefarious dealings, and he’s made a point not to ask, to protect their relationship. But when Larry is murdered during a home invasion in a rented beach house, Gabe has no choice but to look into what happened that night. To solve Larry’s murder, Gabe, and the whole Ortiz family, must ask each other tough questions.

      Dateline NBC

      Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

      The Breakfast Club

      The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

    Advertise With Us
    Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

    Connect

    © 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.