Best Checkpoint Chat Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 277 - Death To Free Time 1:27:06

Play Pause

6d ago1:27:06

1:27:06

We're back and the game releases have not stopped. This week on Checkpoint Chat we finally get around to checking out Ghost of Yotei and its compelling, yet familiar revenge tale. Matty has finally started losing hours to runs in Hades II after Hollow Knight: Silksong released him from its grasp, while Sandy has been enjoying a different kind of ka…

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Episode 276 - Good Shooties 1:16:06

27d ago1:16:06

1:16:06

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we're still deep in the inset-filled catacombs while making our way through Team Cherry's Silksong, taking the fight to time itself in Hades 2, and enjoying the good "shooties" that Borderlands 4 is offering with some of the series' best action.Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFa…

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Episode 275 - Silky Smooth 1:39:33

2M ago1:39:33

1:39:33

This week on Checkpoint Chat it's finally happened; we've played Silksong and it's living up to all the lofty expectations its long development cycle promised. Speaking of expectations, Borderlands 4 is here and attempting to steer the franchise's ship straight again, Prince of Persia gets another great game that is hopefully not going to be overlo…

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Episode 274 - Hissing Puppets 1:20:22

3M ago1:20:22

1:20:22

This week on Checkpoint Chat, couriering packings has never been better as Death Stranding 2 continues to delight on many fronts. Mafia The Old Country returns the series to its linear roots, for better or worse, while Battlefield 6 feels familiar and modern in all the right ways. Finally, we check in on Metavoidal, a new metroidvania where you pla…

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After 100 Episodes, This Is Where Our Journey Leads: Community Is Here For You 3:08

3M ago3:08

3:08

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! After 100+ podcast episodes featuring immigrants from over 25 countries discussing identity, belonging, language, and culture shocks, one truth consistently emerges: We thrive when we do it together. This realization has led to the creation of Accent Unmuted, a new community space where stories tr…

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Episode 273 - Lime Bike Moving 1:21:08

3M ago1:21:08

1:21:08

This week on Checkpoint Chat, Matty is loading up cargo both physically and virtually as he concludes his thoughts on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Then there's monkey business on the horizon with the latest Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, Donkey Kong Bananza, before we answer... a listener question?Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twit…

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What Happens When Birthdays Become Checkpoints? | Happy Birthday Gurasis Singh (Host) 🎂 10:37

4M ago10:37

10:37

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when birthdays transform from celebrations into anxiety-inducing checkpoints? That's the journey I explore in this deeply personal episode, recorded on my birthday, July 9th, 2025. The stark contrast between last year's emotional heaviness and this year's sense of peace reveals a prof…

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Episode 272 - I'm Carrying Cargo Here, Mate 1:25:31

4M ago1:25:31

1:25:31

On the latest episode of Checkpoint Chat, we've had out Nintendo Switch 2 consoles for over a month now and have a lot to say about its design, some pitfalls, and the value of Mario Kart World. Then it's off to Australia and its tar spider-infested forests in Death Stranding 2, all the feels we felt at the end of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and th…

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Happy Canada Day 🇨🇦 | Hear How Immigrants Define Canada 2:09

4M ago2:09

2:09

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when you ask immigrants to describe Canada in just one word? Their responses paint a nuanced portrait of the immigrant experience that goes far beyond simple stereotypes or political talking points. "Opportunity" rings out as the most common descriptor, with newcomers seeing Canada as…

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You Can Leave Home, But It Never Leaves You | Beneath The Accent with Jyoti Grewal [Season 2 Finale (Bonus Wrap-Up)] 7:14

4M ago7:14

7:14

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What would you tell your 16-year-old self? "Break some rules." And your 60-year-old future self? "It's all okay." These profound bookends of wisdom frame our fascinating "Beneath the Accent" segment, where we dive beneath surface conversations to discover the rich complexities of cultural identity…

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Whose Story Are You Living? | Beneath The Accent with Rafael Rodrigues 15:24

4M ago15:24

15:24

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Have you ever considered that the stories in your mind might not be your own? That they could be parasites competing for space in your brain? This fascinating idea comes from Rafael, a Brazilian who's been living in Canada for the past year and a half, as he sits down with us for a raw and thought…

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Kissing Cheeks and Eating Ducks: Cultural Mixups That Made Me Wiser | Beneath The Accent with Dr. Mahboub Siddiqui 8:40

4M ago8:40

8:40

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What would you tell your 18-year-old self? For Dr. Siddiqui, the answer comes without hesitation: "Believe in yourself, your intuition, and your passion." This wisdom forms just one thread of the rich tapestry woven throughout our conversation with a physician whose life journey spans three contin…

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You Wish You Knew This Before Immigrating | Beneath The Accent with Yauhan Mehta 14:00

4M ago14:00

14:00

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Moving to a new country brings opportunities for personal growth through embracing new cultures and shedding aspects of upbringing that no longer serve you. Hard skills may get you a job, but soft skills like teamwork and communication keep you employed in Canadian workplaces. • Unlearning and rel…

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He Didn’t Expect This Question | Know Your Host - Gurasis Singh [New Segment] 6:33

4M ago6:33

6:33

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when podcast roles reverse and the host becomes the subject of questions? Our newest segment "Know Your Host" creates an intimate space where guests get to ask whatever they're curious about – and the results are surprisingly profound. The first question cuts straight to emotional vul…

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Winter, Tears & Comfort Food | Beneath The Accent with Daljit Kaur 11:04

5M ago11:04

11:04

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Ever wonder what happens beneath the surface of an immigrant's journey? Our latest conversation pulls back the curtain on the unspoken realities of building a new life in Canada. Take a seat at our table as we explore those quintessential immigrant moments that shape identity from the confusion wh…

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Podcasting As Therapy, Healing, and Self-Discovery: When Two Podcasters Chat | Beneath The Accent with Hamza Islam 18:05

5M ago18:05

18:05

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Hamza joins us as the guest in this role-reversed conversation about how creative pursuits like podcasting help us reclaim lost parts of ourselves and overcome social barriers. • Host shares how the podcast helped regain the spark lost during challenging early immigrant years in Canada • Creating …

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Episode 271 - Tony Hawk's Mario Kart 1:38:54

5M ago1:38:54

1:38:54

It's a big week this week on Checkpoint Chat, with the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, a brand new Mario Kart, and the new satisfying clicks of a Joy-Con. There's also loads of other games to talk about, like Elden Ring Nightreign, Blue Prince, and a bunch of upcoming titles such as Resident Evil Requiem from Summer Game Fest. Follow Checkpoint C…

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Surviving 1984: A Daughter's Journey Through Grief and Stigma | Ft. Jyoti Grewal Ep. 071 [Season 2 Finale] 1:12:10

5M ago1:12:10

1:12:10

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Jyoti Grewal shares her powerful journey from surviving the 1984 Sikh Genocide as a five-year-old child to building a life of resilience and healing in Canada. Her story reveals how she navigated cultural expectations, patriarchal norms, and personal trauma to create a different path for herself a…

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Awkward Hellos and Meaningful Goodbyes: An Immigrant’s Transformation | Ft. Dr. Mahboub Siddiqui Ep. 070 [Part-2] 36:36

5M ago36:36

36:36

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when cultural norms collide in a new country? In this insightful episode, Dr. Mahboub Siddiqui shares his powerful immigration journey from Saudi Arabia to Canada, blending humor and wisdom. A cheek kiss gone wrong becomes a metaphor for navigating identity between cultures. Dr. Siddi…

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From Mecca to the World: A Journey of Service and Self-Discovery | Ft. Dr. Mahboub Siddiqui Ep. 070 [Part-1] 44:04

6M ago44:04

44:04

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when a shy boy from Mecca grows up to become a global healthcare leader with a passion for teaching? Dr. Mahboub Siddiqui takes us on a captivating journey through his remarkable life story – one that spans continents, cultures, and profound personal transformation. Born in Saudi Arab…

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Episode 270 - Surprise Sounds 1:23:53

6M ago1:23:53

1:23:53

This week in Checkpoint Chat, Matty and Sandy are still floored by how exceptional Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is, turns out the demons of medieval times are just as fun to slaughter in Doom: The Dark Ages, and can you guess which of the characters in Final Destination are recurring ones? We sure can! Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://t…

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The Invisible Journey: What Immigration Teaches Us About Ourselves | Beneath The Accent with Dhara Majmundar 10:22

6M ago10:22

10:22

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What does it mean to truly travel? In this heartfelt conversation, Dhara opens up about her immigration journey to Canada and how her definition of exploration has evolved in unexpected ways. The most poignant moment comes when Dhara reflects on what being an immigrant has taught her. "We understa…

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The Priory of the Orange Tree with Theys, Gays, and Bookworm Babes Part 2 40:42

6M ago40:42

40:42

The conversation continues! In this thrilling second half of our cross-podcast collaboration, The Growlery joins forces once again with The Gays and Bookworm Babes to unravel the magic, politics, queerness, and dragons of Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree. We pick up where we left off—diving deeper into the themes of power, prophecy,…

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Episode 269 - Blue Filter Magicians 1:20:06

6M ago1:20:06

1:20:06

We're back at last and filled to the brim with nonsense discussions! This week we dive into Metroid Prime Remastered, Assassin's Creed Shadows, Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Monster Hunter Wilds. There's also talk of the Nintendo Switch 2, which is just around the corner... Follow Checkpoint Chat on...…

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Soul Search Before Job Search: A Career Coach’s Blueprint for Newcomer Success | Ft. Yauhan Mehta Ep. 069 48:00

6M ago48:00

48:00

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What does it truly take for international talent to thrive in Canada? Beyond skills and qualifications, success hinges on something more fundamental - mindset, clarity, and strategic planning. Yauhan Mehta, an industrial-organizational psychologist and career coach with 15 years of experience, unr…

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The Unexpected Power of Doing Good: A Beautiful Twist of Fate | Ft. Rafael Rodrigues Ep. 068 [Part 2] 43:42

6M ago43:42

43:42

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Part 1 | Ft. Rafael: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1835261/episodes/16926932 What happens when a single decision to help others completely redirects your life's path? In this captivating continuation of my conversation with Rafael, we explore the remarkable chain of events that began with his humanit…

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From Brazil to Africa: A Radical Reimagining of Purpose | Ft. Rafael Rodrigues Ep. 068 [Part 1] 1:08:32

7M ago1:08:32

1:08:32

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when success doesn’t feel like success? In this powerful episode, we meet Rafael, a Brazilian changemaker who walked away from a traditional path to pursue humanitarian work in Africa. Raised in the harsh realities of São Paulo—where seeing violence was part of daily life—Rafael follo…

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The Hummingbird Effect: How Cultural Authenticity Creates Belonging | Beneath The Accent with Yannick Oho Bambe 17:23

7M ago17:23

17:23

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! In this Beneath the Accent spotlight, Yannick shares reflections from his journey across Cameroon, France, and Canada—revealing how cultural identity, once seen as a challenge, became his greatest strength. Through the lens of a powerful hummingbird legend, Yannick encourages newcomers to see thei…

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Beyond The Highlight Reel: Gen Z, Identity & Curry Confessions | Ft. Hamza Islam Ep. 067 1:13:42

7M ago1:13:42

1:13:42

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What’s it really like behind Gen Z’s curated online personas? In this episode, we sit down with Hamza Islam—host of Oh My Curry Goodness—a podcast dedicated to raw, unfiltered Gen Z stories. Born in the U.S. to Bangladeshi immigrant parents, Hamza brings a unique multicultural perspective to story…

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"I Never Expected Canada to Change Me Like This!" | Beneath The Accent with Rohit Dhawan 6:21

7M ago6:21

6:21

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Rohit shares his journey of identity, humour, and self-discovery—from realizing he had an accent to finding a renewed sense of purpose in Canada. We touch on the unexpected lessons that come from cultural shifts, the spirit of service sparked abroad, and lighthearted reflections on lions, teleport…

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Episode 268 - Dive-Bombing Poops 56:23

7M ago56:23

56:23

It's our last episode for a while, so pull up a seat for fresh impressions on 33 Immortals and final thoughts on Assassin's Creed Shadows! Bonus content this week includes: pigeons and their personal poop agendas, and the sun. Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChatI…

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From Grandparents' Wisdom to Dreaming Bigger | Beneath The Accent with Akshay Maharaj 16:26

7M ago16:26

16:26

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Join us as we dive into an inspiring journey of personal growth, resilience, and ambition in this episode of My Thick Accent. Our guest shares their experience from the simple joys of waking up with the sun to the art of crafting a flavourful pasta dish that reflects their passion for cooking. We …

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Friendship, Food & Firsts: A Newcomer’s Journey | Beneath The Accent with Muzhda Akbari 19:45

8M ago19:45

19:45

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when a missing taxi and a faulty internet connection lead to unexpected kindness and delicious pizza? Hear how my first day in Montreal turned from chaos to charm, thanks to the generosity of strangers like Beer Inder and Harpreet. I reflect on the warm welcome I received and the surp…

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Episode 267 - Daylight Saving Naps 1:10:54

8M ago1:10:54

1:10:54

This week on Checkpoint Chat, it's all about sneaking around (sometimes) in a gorgeous feudal Japan in Assassin's Creed Shadows! Does Ubisoft's latest additions to one of its biggest franchises have what it takes to pull them out of their recent slump, though? Follow Checkpoint Chat on...Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChatFacebook: https:…

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The Immigrant You Didn’t Expect | Ft. Yannick Oho Bambe Ep. 066 1:20:20

8M ago1:20:20

1:20:20

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Yannick and Gurasis takes us on a captivating journey across continents as we explore what it truly means to carry multiple homes within oneself. From his childhood in Cameroon where he absorbed foundational values of respect and solidarity, to an unexpected twist in France where he was perceived …

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A New World Awaits: Balancing Heritage and New Beginnings | Ft. Rohit Dhawan Ep. 065 1:22:33

8M ago1:22:33

1:22:33

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! In this episode of My Thick Accent, we explore the inspiring immigrant journey of Rohit Dhawan, a global analytics leader and data entrepreneur who transitioned from India to Canada. Rohit shares the emotional and practical challenges of starting over, from navigating grocery stores to adjusting f…

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Episode 266 - There's A Palico In My Boot 57:23

8M ago57:23

57:23

This week on Checkpoint Chat, there are monster to hunt out there and weapons to craft from their corpses, with both Matty and Sandy absolutely in love with Monster Hunter Wilds. What's new in the sequel to Capcom's most successful game of all time? Quite a bit actually! Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Fac…

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What I’d Tell My Younger Self About Immigration & Career | Beneath The Accent with Miguel Abascal 13:38

8M ago13:38

13:38

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Reflecting on the past can unlock valuable insights, and in this episode, I sit down with Miguel to dive deep into the immigrant experience, personal growth, and career development. As I revisit my own immigration journey to Canada, I share key lessons on gratitude, adaptation, and the advice I’d …

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Episode 265 - Meatballs And Mash 1:08:21

9M ago1:08:21

1:08:21

This week on Checkpoint Chat, we check out Microsoft's first big game of the year with Obsidian finally releases Avowed. Is it the finally a game to fill the Skyrim-shaped hole in your heart or has the long wait underdelivered? Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointCh…

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Accents and Acknowledgments: A Journey Across Continents | Beneath The Accent with Peta-Gaye 24:34

9M ago24:34

24:34

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Discover the power of cultural identity, resilience, and adaptation in this insightful episode of Beneath The Accent, featuring Peta-Gaye’s inspiring journey from Jamaica to Canada. We explore how food, language, and traditions shape our sense of belonging in a new country. From the comforting nos…

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Turning Words Into a Movement: One Story At A Time | Beneath The Accent with Sindhu Mahadevan 23:05

9M ago23:05

23:05

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when a simple comment on an accent becomes the catalyst for a podcast that captures the essence of the immigrant journey? Join us as we unravel this story and more in our latest episode of "My Thick Accent." Through candid conversations, we shed light on the trials and triumphs of int…

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Episode 264 - Finally 1:23:56

9M ago1:23:56

1:23:56

We're back from an extended break and ready to talk about all the latest games like...2024's sleeper hit Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, as well as 2005's own Half-Life 2 (which turned 20 a short while ago). Join us in easing into the new year just before the avalanche of games in February kicks in. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https:/…

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Curiosity and Community on the Immigrant Path | Beneath The Accent with Dilyana Mileva 13:57

9M ago13:57

13:57

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Embark on a heartfelt journey of resilience, adaptation, and self-discovery as I share my personal experience of moving to Canada as an international student in 2018. From studying media strategies and advertising to facing job search struggles during the pandemic, my path was filled with challeng…

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Career Advice, Cultural Heritage, and Mindset Shifts | Ft. Daljit Kaur Ep. 064 1:26:07

9M ago1:26:07

1:26:07

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Daljit Kaur, a remarkable career coach, shares her inspiring journey from a small village near Phagwara to thriving in Canada, bringing a wealth of experience and wisdom to our discussion. As she recounts her transition from rural life to the bustling city of Montreal, Daljit opens up about overco…

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Blending Tradition and Ambition: The Immigrant Blueprint | Ft. Dhara Majmundar Ep. 063 1:10:05

10M ago1:10:05

1:10:05

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! How do you balance personal ambition against the backdrop of familial ties and cultural roots? Join us as Dhara Majmundar, a trailblazer in talent acquisition, takes us on her inspiring journey from the vibrant arts scene in India to a successful career in recruitment in Canada. Dhara's story is o…

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From Heritage to Hustle: Embracing Roots and Rising High | Ft. Akshay Maharaj Ep.062 1:23:02

10M ago1:23:02

1:23:02

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Imagine pursuing your true aspirations despite societal and familial pressures. That's the kind of determination and courage that led Akshay Maharaj, Canada's top youth entrepreneur of 2023, to create AVIEW, a revolutionary multimedia translation company. Inspired by the mental strength of top ath…

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5 Lessons from the Rollercoaster Year of 2024: Grateful for the Ingredients | Gurasis Singh 8:44

10M ago8:44

8:44

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Reflecting on a year that was as challenging as it was rewarding, I share my transformative journey through 2024, a year marked by personal milestones and professional triumphs. Imagine rejuvenating family time in India, achieving podcast milestones, and breaking new ground with my first live radi…

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From Taliban's Grip to Empowering Afghan Voices: A Courageous Path to Change | Ft. Muzhda Akbari Ep. 061 1:26:25

10M ago1:26:25

1:26:25

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! Muzhda Akbari's journey from Afghanistan to Canada is a powerful testament to resilience and courage, as she defies societal norms and challenges imposed by the Taliban's resurgence. Her creation of Code Green Afghanistan marks a pivotal moment where digital innovation becomes a beacon of hope, em…

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From CEO in Mexico to Champion for Newcomers: A Bold Reinvention in Canada | Ft. Miguel Abascal Ep. 060 1:37:53

11M ago1:37:53

1:37:53

Click here to text me your thoughts about the show! What happens when a successful CEO from Mexico starts fresh in a new country? Meet Miguel Abascal, whose inspiring journey of resilience and reinvention offers valuable lessons for immigrants and professionals alike. In this episode of My Thick Accent, Miguel shares how he overcame cultural barrie…

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Episode 263 - Game of the Year 2024 1:20:28

11M ago1:20:28

1:20:28

It's been a hell of a year for videogames, so join us in celebrating some of the best experiences the last 12 months have offered us by looking back at some standout experiences. Follow Checkpoint Chat on... Twitter: https://twitter.com/CheckpointChat Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CheckpointChat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkpoin…