Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Ep: 520 | From Government School to Princeton University | Rakshit Poudel | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Rakshit Poudel’s journey from a government school to Princeton University is a powerful study abroad success story that inspires students worldwide. In this podcast, Rakshit Poudel, a passionate student of physics, mathematics, classics, and philosophy, shares how he secured admission to Princeton University despite limited resources and coming from a government school background. He explains the Princeton University application process, why he chose Princeton over other options, and how he communicated his Ivy League dream to his parents. The conversation dives deep into belief in manifestation, curiosity-driven learning, and how interest in physics shaped his academic path. Rakshit also discusses the flaws and realities of the education system, the role of pop science, social media, and AI content in learning, and why trusting data and cryptography matters in today’s world. He opens up about student life, mindset, running projects, and how curiosity can outperform rote learning. This student podcast is packed with practical tips for students planning to study abroad, aiming for Ivy League universities, or seeking motivation beyond traditional education paths. Whether you’re curious about Princeton University admission, government school success stories, or the future of AI and education, this episode offers clarity, inspiration, and actionable advice.
GET CONNECTED WITH Rakshit Poudel:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rakshit_poudel/
 

Ep: 519 | Nepal on the World Boxing Map | Lal Prasad, Chandra Thapa & Jet Boxing | Sushant Pradhan

Nepal on the World Boxing Map. Nepali boxing is entering a historic era, and this powerful podcast brings together three of the biggest names driving that change — Lal Prasad Upreti, Chandra Bahadur Thapa, and Sujit Kumar Pun Magar (Jet Boxing). Lal Prasad Upreti gained international recognition at the IBA Men’s Elite World Boxing Championships, while Chandra Bahadur Thapa made history as the first Nepali to win a medal at the World Boxing Championships. Guiding this rise is Jet Boxing, an IBA and USA Boxing-certified coach and founder of H2O Athletics, who has shaped Nepal’s elite fighters. In this episode, they discuss what it truly takes to compete at the world level in boxing, sharing insights on international tournament experience, Asian amateur boxing standards, and the intense fight camps in Rangasala. The conversation dives into strict training routines, no-holiday policies, mental pressure before fights, and how fighters are selected for global tournaments. They also open up about their personal boxing journeys, family reactions, sacrifices, and what boxing means to them beyond medals. With Mission 2026 in focus, this episode captures the grit, discipline, and vision behind the rapid growth of Nepali boxing on the world stage. A must-watch for boxing fans, athletes, and anyone inspired by Nepal’s sporting evolution.
GET CONNECTED WITH {guest name}:
Lal Prasad Upreti: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pradipkazi__/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pradip.upreti.102
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@lalprasadupreti
Chandra Bahadur Thapa:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/boxer_chandra/?g=5
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/chandra.thapa.magar.116183
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chandrathapa426
Sujit Kumar Pun Magar (Jet Boxing):
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/p/DSePIuIk27O/?img_index=1
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Jetslick/
Threads - https://www.threads.com/@jetboxing
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jetboxing
 

Ep: 518 | Amphibians & Reptiles of Nepal | Snakes, Frogs & Crocodiles | Bishal Prasad Neupane | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Nepal is home to a rich and diverse range of amphibians and reptiles, yet much of this wildlife remains misunderstood. In this podcast episode, we sit down with Bishal Prasad Neupane, a leading Nepali herpetologist and conservationist, to explore the hidden world of snakes of Nepal, frogs, crocodiles, turtles, tortoises, and lizards. Bishal shares how he became interested in reptiles and amphibians, explains the different types of crocodiles in Nepal, and why crocodiles survived even after the extinction of dinosaurs. The conversation dives deep into frog species in Nepal, frog hunting practices, frog dissection in colleges, and ethical concerns around amphibian conservation. We also cover turtles and tortoises in Nepal, the legal aspects of keeping turtles as pets, and the key differences between turtle vs tortoise. A major highlight of this episode is snakes—covering poisonous snakes in Nepal, snake behavior, whether snakes are aggressive, what snakes eat, what anaconda is, and how snake rescue works in Nepal. Most importantly, Bishal explains what to do if a snake bites, how anti venom in Nepal is made, and common myths surrounding snake bites. This episode is essential for anyone interested in wildlife conservation in Nepal, reptile research, snake bite awareness, and understanding Nepal’s herpetofauna.
GET CONNECTED WITH Bishal Prasad Neupane:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bishalneupane0/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@nepalisapien7821/videos
 

Ep: 517 | Inside EKLO-I: Pradeep Khadka & Director Pradeep Shahi Speak | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Pradeep Khadka and Pradeep Shahi join Sushant’s Podcast for a powerful conversation on modern Nepali cinema, stardom, and the realities behind filmmaking. Pradeep Khadka, one of the biggest stars in Nepali cinema known for Prem Geet, opens up about his acting preparation, dealing with massive fame, crazy fan interactions, handling hate, and the impact of social media and phone addiction on life. British-Nepalese filmmaker Pradeep Shahi, director of EKLO-I and founder of Shy Productions Ltd, shares his unique directing approach, insights into blocking in acting, and how he brings Nepali stories to an international audience. Together, they discuss cinema culture in Nepal, whether it’s dying or evolving, and the struggles that shape both artists and individuals. The podcast dives deep into life cycles, personal growth, creative connection with movies, and behind-the-scenes details of EKLO-I, including its concept, shooting timeline, and trailer reaction. This Nepali cinema podcast is a must-watch for aspiring actors, filmmakers, and anyone curious about the real journey behind success in the film industry.
GET CONNECTED WITH
Pradeep Khadka:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pradeepkhadkaofficial/?hl=en
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pradeepkhadkaofficial/
Pradeep Shahi
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/pradeepshahiofficial/?hl=en
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MB1237/
Website - https://pradeepshahi.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pradeep-shahi-535b2348/?originalSubdomain=uk
 

Ep: 516 | Air Pollution in Nepal | Why Kathmandu’s Air Is So Toxic | Trailokaya Raj Bajgain | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Air Pollution in Nepal. Why Kathmandu’s Air Is So Toxic. Air pollution has become one of Nepal’s biggest public health and environmental challenges, and in this episode, Environmental Engineer & Researcher Trailokaya Raj Bajgain breaks it all down with clarity and data. From understanding Kathmandu air pollution to explaining PM2.5, AQI in Nepal, and how pollution levels can feel equivalent to smoking 20 cigarettes a day, this conversation dives deep into the science behind polluted air. We discuss whether Kathmandu is the most polluted city, the role of vehicle pollution, dust particles, and cross-border pollution from India and China. Trailokaya also explains how air quality sensors, funding, and air pollution data in Nepal work, and why accurate data is critical for effective pollution control strategies. The episode explores the health effects of air pollution, the World Bank air pollution report, and whether wearing a mask is truly effective against PM2.5. We also touch on the future of clean air through AI and technology, personal protection methods, and how youth activism and research can drive change. If you want a clear, science-based explanation of Nepal’s air crisis and practical insights on what can be done, this episode is a must-watch.
GET CONNECTED WITH Trailokaya Raj Bajgain:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trailokaya
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/StoryOfAnOrdinaryHumanBeing/?locale=hi_IN
Website - https://trailokaya.com.np/
Email - trailokayaraj@gmail.com | trailokaya.bajgain@duke.edu
 

Ep: 515 | Is Nepal in Serious Danger? | Hemanta Malla Thakuri x Santosh Kumar Dhakal x Jason Vaidya | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Is Nepal in Serious Danger?. Nepal’s national security is facing increasing challenges amid rising geopolitical pressure, internal instability, and regional refugee movements. In this in-depth podcast, Hemanta Malla Thakuri, former DIG of Nepal Police and national security expert, Santosh Kumar Dhakal, retired Major General of the Nepal Army, and Jason Vaidya, renowned geopolitical analyst, come together to discuss some of the most critical security threats facing Nepal today. The conversation begins with the Rohingya refugee issue and the possibility of Rohingya refugees entering Nepal. The experts explain what the Rohingya crisis is, whether Nepal is being strategically used, and how refugee movements can impact Nepal’s internal security and national security policy. They analyze whether these developments are coincidental or part of broader South Asian geopolitics. The discussion then expands into Nepal’s national security challenges, including border security, political aggression, diplomatic tensions involving China and the United States, and concerns surrounding voting rights based on residence. The guests also examine Nepal’s social issues, internal unrest, and how governance decisions—such as selling government factories—can affect long-term security. This episode provides rare insights from former top military and police leadership combined with geopolitical analysis, making it essential viewing for anyone interested in Nepal geopolitics, security threats, refugee policy, and political stability.
GET CONNECTED WITH
Hemanta Malla:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/hemant-malla-25976920/?originalSubdomain=np
Santosh Kumar Dhakal:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/santosh-dhakal-a6962311/?originalSubdomain=np
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/santosh.k.dhakal?
Jason Vaidya:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jason.baidya.5/
Twitter - https://x.com/JasonDBaidya
 

Ep: 514 | What Is Subaltern Studies? Explained with Chepang & Dalit Context | Dr. Tara Lal Shrestha | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

What Is Subaltern Studies? Explained with Chepang & Dalit Context. Dr. Tara Lal Shrestha, a renowned Nepali scholar, author, and academic, joins this insightful podcast to explore subaltern studies in Nepal, focusing on the lived realities of Chepang, Dalit, and indigenous communities. Known for his contributions to culture, environmental activism, and marginalized studies, Dr. Shrestha explains the true meaning of subaltern and what inspired his long-term research on excluded communities. The conversation dives deep into the history of the Chepang community, their traditional lifestyle, migration, cave dwelling, religious beliefs, and evolving identity. Dr. Shrestha shares firsthand documentation experiences and discusses why the voices of the Chepang remain unheard, despite their rich cultural narratives. The podcast also examines Dalit aesthetics, caste as a structural problem, and the role of indigenous aestheticism in redefining Nepali society. From understanding the Nepal caste system to exploring why some Chepang communities are turning toward Christianity, this episode highlights the complex intersections of faith, culture, identity, and survival. The discussion sheds light on subaltern voices, unity and division within the country, and why marginalized communities must be represented through their own narratives. This episode is essential for anyone interested in subaltern theory, indigenous studies, Dalit identity, and Nepal’s social issues.
GET CONNECTED WITH Dr. Tara Lal Shrestha:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Tara-Lal-Shrestha-100063579727015/
 

Ep:513 | Inside Nepali Journalism: Censorship, Funding & Politics | Jibram Bhandari | Sushant Pradhan

Inside Nepali Journalism: Censorship, Funding & Politics. Jibram Bhandari is one of Nepal’s most respected journalists and news executives, known for his fearless reporting and deep understanding of Nepal’s political and media landscape. In this powerful podcast conversation, Jibram Bhandari shares his journalism journey, starting from the 1990 media environment to reporting during the Nepalese Civil War and navigating censorship, misinformation, and political pressure in modern Nepal. The discussion explores the current media crisis in Nepal, including media funding, the role of NGOs and INGOs, and how journalism can be misused by the government. Jibram Bhandari critically examines secularism in Nepal, the Raja Badi movement, the debate between belief in monarchy versus political parties like the Rastriya Prajatantra Party, and whether Nepal’s system can truly be reformed. This episode also dives into Gen Z protests, misinformation verification, misuse of police power, and controversial incidents like the Tinkune protest. Jibram shares insights on key political figures, including Kul Man Ghising, Harka Sampang, Rabi Lamichhane, and Durga Parsai, while discussing the possibility of new political parties and the future direction of Nepal. If you’re interested in Nepali journalism, Nepali politics, media ethics, and real conversations about power, truth, and responsibility, this podcast with Jibram Bhandari is a must-watch.
GET CONNECTED WITH Jibram Bhandari:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jibram.bhandari.3/
Twitter - https://x.com/jibrambhandari
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@jibram.talks?lang=en
 

Ep: 512 | Why Students Are Leaving Nepal for Education | Surendra Subedi | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Why Students Are Leaving Nepal for Education. Join us in an insightful conversation with Surendra Subedi, a prominent Nepali educator and academic leader, currently serving as Campus Chief of Kathmandu Model College (KMC) and Chairman of Model Institute of Technology (MIT). In this podcast, Surendra shares his journey from initially pursuing law to becoming one of the leading voices in Nepali education reform. He discusses his early days as a program coordinator, balancing his personal life with his professional life, and his enduring passion for education. Discover his thoughts on going abroad for higher education, the challenges students face in the study/work cycle, and the government's perspective on studying abroad. Surendra also explores the shift from the yearly system to a semester system, why the semester system in Nepal is superior, and how American standard education is applied at MIT. He candidly discusses assignment systems, online learning, and strategies for retaining knowledge while studying. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in higher education in Nepal, student life balance, and education leadership. Gain insights on education reform leaders, practical advice for students, and a closer look at the Nepali university system. Don’t miss Surendra Subedi’s unique perspective on transforming Nepal’s academic landscape.
GET CONNECTED WITH Surendra Subedi:
LinkedIn - https://np.linkedin.com/in/surendrasubedi
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/surendra.subedi.75/
 

Ep: 511 | The Untold History of Doti Explained by Ratan Bhandari | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

The Untold History of Doti Explained by Ratan Bhandari. In this insightful podcast episode, renowned Nepalese author and border expert Ratan Bhandari uncovers the untold history of the Doti Kingdom, one of Nepal’s most misunderstood and forgotten ancient kingdoms. Known for his deep research on Nepal’s border issues and historical maps, Ratan Bhandari explains why Doti played a crucial role in shaping Nepal’s political and territorial history. The discussion explores why Doti is important in Nepal’s past, how it differed from what we commonly believe, and whether the multiple regions referred to as Doti were historically connected. The episode also sheds light on who ruled Doti, its governance system, and how power shifted during the era of Baise Rajya and Chaubise Rajya. Listeners gain clarity on the clashes involving Doti and how these events influenced Nepal’s borders. Ratan Bhandari also explains the significance of map correction in Nepal’s currency, offering valuable context on Nepal’s territorial representation. The conversation delves further into Doti's religion, culture, and traditions, revealing how cultural identity shaped the kingdom’s legacy. This episode is essential for anyone interested in Nepal's history, ancient kingdoms, border disputes, and the real stories behind Nepal’s formation.
GET CONNECTED WITH Ratan Bhandari:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ratanbhandariji
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnr3vDYv4dHSqq4oXVk54Cw