Doha Heat

The ladies talk about their move to an independent podcast come April, which fits well with today's topic: stepping into leadership positions and getting past our fears. Being in a position of authority can be scary initially, but as Jeanine and Marie emphasize, it is an opportunity to share our ideas and energies to help others.

Back to the grind we go, but no need to fret - there are lots of great events happening this week! This week's show seems to be especially British and Irish heavy with St. Patrick's Day celebrations, a performance of "Macbeth," and debates at Georgetown University-School of Foreign Services​. We also get into the upcoming International Fashion and Ecuadorian Food Festivals. Shout-outs to Empower World, the Sheraton, and the Doha Golf Club on your events this week!

Miles is back with a preview of the latest Qatar Construction News magazine, which features experts speaking about the effect of low oil prices on GCC development and the forthcoming mall at Katara. If you are into mobile apps, specifically those related to building things, QCN provides an overview of the latest and greatest.

Dr. Rafif Tayara of Cedars Dental Center joins us today to chat about growing up in a multicultural family in Montreal, Canada and discovering her life passion for pediatric dentistry. Not only is she very involved with the development of the profession in the region and globally, Rafif also shares about getting involved with expat networking organization, InterNations, which made the transition to her new home easier.

Being new to any place can be a difficult transition, but relocating to Qatar can be especially hard for women used to full-time employment and vibrant social lives elsewhere. Carole Astin, who opens up about her first 15 months being here and the new-found struggles she faced, also offers hope and inspiration for newly arrived ex-pat ladies. The Qatar Expat Women's Positive Support Group has become a community that provides its participants with opportunities to build connections with others in similar situations through social events, service, and outings.

Most days we're busy trying to complete tasks that we never check-in with ourselves and forgo the opportunity to listen to our bodies. The Empower World ladies delve into why doing so is important for adjusting our behavior, moods, and mental state - all it takes is a little concerted effort and time. Take some time to listen in and reap the benefits.

Kev returns after a week away in Spain, and we get into bringing you the best events happening this week in Qatar. You may also notice some improved audio thanks to our new audio producer, Scott, joining us from the UK.

A little late in introducing our intern and soon-to-be co-host, Ifath Sayed, who stopped by for a recording. She tells us about her experiences living as an Indian ex-pat in the GCC, pushing to become a journalist, and balancing university and life commitments. Definitely expect to hear more from Ifath in the coming months.

With a name like "4 Walls, 3 Kids, and My Coffee" for a Facebook page, Nicole and I were super excited for this episode with Charle Punt, who runs it. We get insight into Charle's health struggles that eventually became a catalyst for not only transforming herself, but also the way she integrated healthier living into her family. We also got spoiled with a nice little sampling of her tasty nut butter.

Listeners might notice something a little different this episode of Empower World as Jeanine and Marie get set to debut their own podcast next month. The duo explore the topic of change being a choice, specifically the radical act of striving for a fulfilled life. Easier said than done, sure, but the pay-off is beautiful!

The Edge joins us to share about their upcoming March edition, which comes packed with thought-provoking business stories from around Qatar and the world. This episode Miles reviews the recent IGN Conference from the weekend, ictQatar's annual report on the growth of mobile tech in Qatar, and many more engaging stories. Special shoutouts to ictQatar and Kahramaa - make sure to check-out their awesome initiatives.

Fitness in Qatar owner, Nadia Al-Haroon, stopped by the studio for a chat about her journey from an International Relations major to an aspiring business person in Qatar. We get insight into her experiences growing-up in Bahrain, moving to Australia for university, and returning to Qatar in order to provide this great resource. The site, which features fitness class schedules, health products, and more, contributes to the pursuit of a healthier nation - definitely check it out!

We wrap up the second part of our special on the goodness that is coffee with the R&R Coffee guys. This episode covers a bit more of the nitty-gritty, talking about the process of preparation from roasting to drinking, as well as the nutritional aspects of its consumption. Bob and Dan also impart with us a vast knowledge of the best equipment you can use.

There seems to be a misconception that reflection entails a big process and isolating oneself from the world, but it does not have to! It is about taking time during our days to pause and take-in our surroundings, whether through some deep breaths, meditation, or thoughtful conversation. How do you choose to reflect?

We are back again this week to tell about the best events happening around Qatar, and there are some really big ones! If you are into tennis, Qatar is hosting this week the Qatar Total Open, which brings some of the world's top female players. Also, the IGN Convention is running for two days this week - may be there myself. Lots more so listen in and get out there!

Miles and I are joined this morning by Volante Regional Managing Editor James McCarthy to hear about the automotive magazine's launch at the recent Qatar Motor Show and the car market in Qatar. James also addresses rumors pertaining to Formula-1 racing coming to the country - you do not want to miss this episode if you are a car enthusiast!

Maha Al-Sulaiti and Moza Al-Naemi from Qatar Scientists Community and Social Network joined me in the studio to tell listeners about this new initiative. The aim of this group is to create regular casual meet up for scientists in Qatar, to give them an opportunity to discuss their work and advances in their fields in a friendly atmosphere. Really happy to see such ambitious individuals in my new home!

Coffee: a topic near and dear to my heart and morning routines. We're joined by Dan and Bob from Doha's very own roasters, R&R Coffee. The two Canadian expats give us an in-depth look at what makes for an excellent cup of heaven on earth...ok, maybe for some of us. The first part of this two-part special discusses the origins of coffee and some of the best practices in brewing it.

Ever struggled to build a connection with another person? If you have, hopefully today's episode with the ladies from Empower World will provide useful tips on developing rapport, or a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other's feelings or ideas and communicate well. A simple, yet effective approach: hush up and listen.

You will probably notice a slight difference today since Kev is currently in Kuwait for a speaking engagement, but alas that would not stop us from bringing you our weekly events update! As you will see, it is going to be a busy week with lots happening around Qatar, especially among the American expat community. Let us know how these events go if you attend!