Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Ep:484 | Capitalism in Nepal: Progress or Exploitation? | Mukti Aryal X Dr. Niraj Poudyal | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

In this thought-provoking episode, Mukti Aryal, a financial economist and investment banker with an MBA and MS in Finance from Simon Business School (University of Rochester, USA), joins Dr. Niraj Poudyal, a senior researcher and economist with a PhD from Virginia Tech University, to discuss the real-world dynamics of capitalism, market liberalization, and economic transformation in Nepal and beyond. Mukti Aryal brings decades of experience in investment banking, mutual funds, asset management, and portfolio valuation, while Dr. Poudyal offers deep insights into policy design, economic inclusion, and education system reforms based on his work with organizations like UNICEF, USAID, and Kathmandu University across Asia and Africa. Together, they unpack how capitalism functions in developing economies, the role of government and taxation, and whether Nepal’s economy can balance growth with fairness and opportunity.
GET CONNECTED WITH Dr. Niraj Poudyal:
Linkedin: https://np.linkedin.com/in/niraj-poudyal-phd-12b85b159
 

Ep:483 | Lion’s Mane Mushrooms in Nepal: Mushroom Huntres Ruksana & Soma Mushrooms | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Discover the incredible world of Lion’s Mane mushrooms in Nepal as expert mushroom huntress Ruksana and Soma Mushrooms business owner Raj unlock the secrets behind this brain-boosting fungi. Explore Nepal’s rich mushroom biodiversity, from wild edible species to the medicinal and psychedelic properties of Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps. Learn about the aftermath of cordyceps harvesting, traditional mushroom culture in Nepal, and the growing potential for commercial mushroom cultivation. This video dives deep into the positive uses of psychedelic mushrooms like psilocybin, the eco-friendly future of plastic-eating fungi, and cutting-edge mycelium research transforming Nepal’s mushroom industry. Gain insights into the commercial benefits and research surrounding Lion’s Mane and psilocybin mushrooms in Nepal, alongside a discussion on Yarsagumba, the Himalayan gold of mushrooms. Join our guests Soma and Ruksana as they share expertise on mushroom foraging, cultivation, and how Nepal can capitalize on its unique fungi biodiversity. Whether you’re interested in mental wellness, environmental solutions, or Nepal’s mushroom business prospects, this video delivers expert perspectives and trending topics for 2025. Subscribe for more on mushroom culture, research, and commercialization in Nepal's fascinating fungal world
GET CONNECTED WITH Ruksana and Soma:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mushroomsofnepal/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/somamushrooms.np/
 

Ep: 482 | What Happened After the Gen Z Protest? | Rehan Raj Dangal Reveals the Inside Talks | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

In this in-depth conversation, Rehan Raj Dangal, a law graduate, cinematographer, and Gen-Z activist, breaks down Nepal’s complex socio-political reality — from the Gen Z protest to foreign interference shaping the country’s future. He reveals what really happened behind the scenes during the Gen Z movement, exposing how Nepal’s political system, judiciary, and economy are influenced by external forces. Rehan also discusses how leaders like Sushila Karki were chosen, why youth movements matter, and how foreign powers manipulate Nepal’s decisions through policies like MCC, BRI, and global alliances. The discussion dives deep into Nepal’s treaties, governance inefficiencies, corruption in bureaucracy, and the struggles of modern democracy. From education failures to media manipulation, constitutional weaknesses, and social division, Rehan Raj Dangal’s insights offer an unfiltered look at Nepal’s identity crisis in the 21st century. This podcast is a must-watch for anyone interested in Nepal’s politics, Gen Z protests, foreign influence, and national sovereignty. #NepalPolitics #RehanRajDangal #GenZProtest #NepalGeopolitics #BRI #MCC #CorruptionInNepal #ForeignInfluence #NepalYouth #SystemChange #NepalNews #NepalPodcast
GET CONNECTED WITH Rehan Raj Dangal:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rehan.raj.dangal
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rehanrajdangal/?hl=ne
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@CODERED-codered
LinkedIn - https://np.linkedin.com/in/rehan-raj-dangal-14a892220
 

Ep: 481 | Why Nepal's Constitution Is the Root of Every Political Crisis | Swagat Nepal

Lawyer, writer, and activist Swagat Nepal joins this thought-provoking episode to dissect Nepal's political system, constitution, and corruption. From the judiciary movement and Gen Z protests to geopolitical threats involving China, India, and the USA, this conversation explores the forces shaping Nepal's fragile democracy. Swagat Nepal explains the differences between constitutional amendment, repeal, and auction, the right to recall and reject voting system, and whether Nepal's youth are against monarchy. He also discusses the citizenship crisis, including the challenges of granting citizenship through the mother's name, and shares insight into population management and foreign influence in Nepal's governance. The discussion extends to MCC, corruption in Nepal's judiciary, and the religious aspect in politics-unpacking how constitutional organs and social justice movements can rebuild national integrity. If you're interested in Nepal's constitution, governance, youth activism, and geopolitics, this episode offers deep, unfiltered analysis by Swagat Nepal, one of Nepal's most vocal voices for reform and accountability.
GET CONNECTED WITH: Swagat Nepal
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/swagatnepalofficial/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swagat.nepal/?hl=en
 

Ep:480 | Sanish Arts on Nepali Creativity, Street Art & Building a Global Voice | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Sanish Arts on Nepali Creativity, Street Art & Building a Global Voice. Sanish Arts, one of Nepal’s most unique contemporary and street artists, joins the podcast to share his creative journey and the untold story of Nepal’s underground art scene. From the story behind Face Cards to the founding of PSD (Public Space Division), Sanish talks about how art can become a voice for change, community, and culture in Nepal. In this conversation, Sanish reflects on his early inspirations, his passion for street art, and how exploring Nepal’s cities shaped his creative expression. He takes us through the rise of graffiti, murals, and the DIY movement in Dharan and Kathmandu, the roots of the punk scene, and how festivals like Hill Fest became a cultural hub for underground music and art. The discussion also dives into the international side of art — Sanish shares insights from Germany’s vibrant art scene, how contemporary artists in Nepal are finding their voice, and why collaboration with brands is both a challenge and an opportunity. From skating culture to social media promotion, he explains why artists must push themselves to showcase their work and create impact. We also explore the history and influence of global icons like Shepard Fairey (Obey) on street art culture and what the future looks like for Nepali artists navigating creativity, commercialization, and activism. This episode is a deep dive into Nepal’s street art, graffiti, punk scene, DIY culture, and visual arts, offering inspiration for artists, creators, and anyone passionate about cultural expression.
GET CONNECTED WITH Sanish Kumar Shakya:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saikush.psd?igsh=ZTMzb3p3NjY5cjQ1
Behance: https://www.behance.net/sanishshakya?fbclid=PAb21jcANIUbtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp3RkEO0ltVc9ZkDZNbgK7ru2-WWxYwi8nntq7X3ZbvGRIEBhNFre4sCRF5O__aem_yWPNrlw8pd9bw-dGxv6y4Q
 

Ep 479 | Yadav Devkota on Matriarchal Rule & Queens’ Power in Ancient Civilization | Mesopotamia Pt 2

Matriarchal Rule and The Queens' Power in Ancient Civilizations. This episode of the Mesopotamian Civilization series, featuring guest expert Yadav Devkota, explores the fascinating origins of slavery and prostitution in ancient Sumerian society, revealing how these social structures shaped early human civilization. Dive deep into Mesopotamia’s complex cultural history, including the unique Mashto and Dhami cultures of Khas and their intriguing parallels with Sumerian practices. Discover why the concept of pure DNA and isolated haplogroups is a myth, based on genetic variations from ancient populations. The episode also sheds light on the powerful matriarchal rule that once dominated Mesopotamian civilizations and how it was gradually displaced by patriarchy, changing the course of history. Learn about the role of female rulers and the tradition where the one who marries the queen becomes king, linking these ancient beliefs to cultural practices like the Ajimas of Kathmandu. This podcast dives into how beer brewing originated from the Sumerians and unpacks the early development of religion and the concept of God in human history. Perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in ancient civilizations, this detailed discussion unwraps the roots of Mesopotamian identity, culture, gender dynamics, and social systems, providing a comprehensive understanding of one of the world’s earliest civilizations.

Ep: 478 | Yadav Devkota on How Humans Shaped History | Mesopotamia Part 1 | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

How Humans Shaped History: From Migration to Civilization Collaps. In this thought-provoking podcast, historian and researcher Yadav Devkota takes us on a journey through the origins of human civilization and the milestones that shaped our shared history. The conversation begins with how humans first migrated into South Asia and the surprising story of four different human species that once lived across Asia and Europe. Yadav Devkota then unpacks the history of animal domestication, explaining how our oldest companions transformed survival and society. The discussion moves into the rise of ancient civilizations, exploring how they molded global culture, developed systems of knowledge, and laid the foundation for traditions and innovations still relevant today. Yet alongside their achievements, we also learn why these civilizations eventually collapsed, revealing critical lessons about resilience, governance, and survival. Finally, we dive into Mesopotamian brilliance—how humans first tracked time, built mathematical systems, and laid down the earliest laws that changed the course of human progress. This podcast is more than a history lesson; it’s a journey into the human story, where migration, innovation, and civilization shaped the destiny of our species. If you are curious about anthropology, ancient culture, or the origins of human society, Yadav Devkota’s insights will leave you with a deeper understanding of how the past continues to shape our present and future.

Ep: 477 | Bharat Dahal on Nepal’s Geopolitics, Gen Z Protest & Future Politics | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Bharat Dahal on Nepal’s Geopolitics, Gen Z Protest & Future Politics. Bharat Dahal, a renowned political analyst and former Maoist leader, joins this podcast to deliver powerful insights into Nepal’s current geopolitical and political situation. In this in-depth conversation, he breaks down the complexities of Nepal’s geopolitics, the Gen Z protest, foreign interference, and the country’s uncertain future. In the first half, Bharat Dahal explains how the USA, Russia, India, and China are shaping South Asia through proxy wars, economic tactics, and hidden strategies. He highlights the Bangladesh airport incident, Indian media propaganda, dollar power, and shifting global alliances that directly impact Nepal. Dahal also sheds light on the foreign intervention in Nepal’s Gen Z protest, a movement that brought youth to the streets demanding change. In the second half, the discussion turns to Nepal’s internal crisis: the call for a directly elected PM, government dissolvement, NGO and INGO involvement, and the controversial snipers during the Gen Z protest. He also speaks on Sushila Karki as a possible interim PM, the role of Tibet refugees, and his endorsement of Harka Sanpang. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in Nepal’s geopolitics, foreign influence, and the voice of Gen Z youth as the nation faces one of its most defining moments.
GET CONNECTED WITH Bharat Dahal:
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/bharatdahal
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/bharat.dahal.121/?locale=ne_NP
 

Ep: 476 | Live Witness of Nepal’s Gen Z Protest Speaks Out | Rishi Jung Thapa | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Live Witness of Nepal’s Gen Z Protest Speaks Out. In this powerful episode, Rishi Jung Thapa, a live witness of Nepal’s Gen Z Protest, shares his first-hand account of what really happened on the ground. From the moment he learned about the protest to experiencing the police crackdown, Rishi explains the shortage of ambulances, chaos in hospitals, and the struggles protesters faced. He sheds light on how protesters motivated each other despite police attacks, the allegations of ambulances being targeted, and the overall medical emergency that unfolded in Kathmandu. Rishi Jung Thapa also reflects on the post-protest atmosphere, the voices of protesters about Nepal’s current situation, and shares his own meaningful words for Nepal’s youth and future. This exclusive testimony gives an inside look at the realities of Nepal’s Gen Z protest, the failures of state response, and the resilience of young protesters demanding change. A must-watch for anyone following Nepal’s politics, youth movements, and protest history.
GET CONNECTED WITH Rishi Jung Thapa:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hrishithapa16
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risshi.jung
 

Ep: 475 | Chiran Jung Thapa: How Nepal Can Fix Its Security & Geopolitical Issues | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Chiran Jung Thapa: How Nepal Can Fix Its Security & Geopolitical Issues. In this podcast, Chiran Jung Thapa, one of Nepal’s leading security analysts and regional advisors, shares his deep insights on the state of Nepal’s security system, the role of the Army and Police, and the geopolitical challenges Nepal faces today. From analyzing the current situation of Nepal to discussing reforms needed for the Nepal Police and the future role of the Nepal Army, Thapa provides both critical analysis and practical solutions. The conversation covers police gun firing conspiracies, corruption in promotions, digital forensics, and the aftermath of Gen Z protests. Chiran Jung Thapa also highlights why Nepal’s security system struggles under pressure, the importance of infrastructure security, and where Nepal stands in terms of global security and regional geopolitics. We also explore why the Nepal Army has no interest in ruling the country, what reforms are urgently needed in the Nepal Police, and how social media plays a role in mobilization and solutions during national crises. This is a must-watch for anyone interested in Nepal’s politics, security, and future direction.
GET CONNECTED WITH Mr. Chiran Jung Thapa:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chiran-jung-thapa-3ba611/
X: https://x.com/chiranjungthapa