The Indian American Experience Podcast
In our country, Indian Americans are a group that defies being painted in one stroke, be it in political/ideological leanings, definition of identity, or perception of their place in society. So, why not then hear directly from a diverse group of Indian-Americans, or desis, their experience, through light-hearted, casual conversations, and see if we can find common threads, maybe shed some myths, and hear some interesting stories!
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The Indian American Experience Podcast
44: Shaun Vakil/DJ Paz’s Journey of Hospitality through Music
In this interview, Shaun Vakil, also known as Paz, discusses his two-decade-long career in music as a DJ and music curator for Paz America. He shares his experiences working with top hospitality brands, Fortune 500 companies, and philanthropic foundations, as well as performing at intimate events worldwide. Shaun recounts his upbringing in central New Jersey, where he grew up in a diverse and idyllic Americana environment with supportive parents who encouraged him to find his passion. Although not musically inclined as a child, Shaun discovered his love for music during his teenage years, influenced by the explosion of 90s hip-hop in New York City. He talks about the importance of persistence and grit in his non-traditional career path and reflects on the impact of connecting with people through music. Shaun also delves into his Indian heritage, describing how it shapes his identity and influences his work. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and connection in his performances and discusses his current goal of setting a more active direction for his business. Lastly, Shaun encourages the Indian American community to be supportive toward one another and challenges every member of the community to define themselves as they choose to, unencumbered by assumed expectations.
Find Shaun on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/305bananas
More about Paz America: https://pazmerica.com/
The vogue write-up Shaun alluded to: https://www.vogue.fr/galerie/vrai-mariage-shivani-ravi-paris-indien-couple-los-angeles
00:00 Introduction to Shaun Vakil
00:57 Shaun’s Early Life and Upbringing
03:33 Discovering a Passion for Music
07:43 Challenges and Growth in the Music Industry
15:24 Impactful Events and Personal Reflections
22:46 Cultural Identity and Professional Perception
28:41 Final Thoughts and Message to the Community
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected and for more podcast episode updates:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bindia.puri.1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indianamericanexperience
To contact me directly with questions or about being a guest on my show, email me here: IndianAmericanExperience@gmail.com