What if your fear of being abandoned was never your fault? 🤍
In this heartfelt episode of The Story I'm Telling Myself Podcast with Rita Ernst, Srivastan Aravamudan (@sri) opens up about his powerful journey of overcoming deep fears of rejection, shame, and the heavy expectations placed on him.

Together, we explore how fear of abandonment can silently shape our choices, relationships, and even our sense of self-worth.
Sri’s story reminds us that hiding who we are to make others proud only deepens the pain — but there is another way. ✨

We talk about finding your own path to self-acceptance, honoring your authentic voice, and learning that you don’t have to earn love by being anything other than yourself.

If you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing, fear of rejection, or feeling ”not enough,” this conversation is for you. You are worthy. You are whole. You are not alone. 🎙️

Listen now and begin your journey back to your true self. 💛

#fearofabandonment #selfworth #selfacceptance #healingjourney #peoplepleasing #selflove #authenticself #overcomingfear #innerhealing #mentalhealthawareness #youareenough #selfcompassion #beyou

Enjoyed this episode?
Help more people find it by rating the show!
✅ Spotify: Tap the ★ under the show title
✅ Apple Podcasts: Scroll to “Ratings & Reviews” and leave stars or a comment
✅ YouTube Music: Hit Subscribe + 👍 like the episode
Every rating makes a difference — thank you for listening 💫

0:00:17 – 0:02:37 – Introducing Sri – Outrageous Authenticity, Purpose, Passion, and Superpowers

0:02:37 – 0:03:28 – Navigating Hate with Grace – A Gay Parent’s Journey to Love and Light

0:03:28 – 0:04:51 – The Root of the Root – Growing Up in a Conservative Indian Home and Hiding Identity

0:04:51 – 0:06:09 – The Conflict Within – Hiding, Bullying, Suicidal Thoughts, and Choosing Freedom

0:06:09 – 0:07:59 – Understanding Hate and Connection – Toxic Masculinity, Misprojection, and Alok’s Influence

0:07:59 – 0:09:32 – Religious Teachings vs. Identity – Inclusive Hinduism, Trans Representation, and Colonization’s Impact

0:09:32 – 0:11:24 – Shame, Pride, and Identity – Internal Conflict and the Burden of Family Expectations

0:11:24 – 0:13:34 – Coming Out in a Culture of Sacrifice – Suicide Survival and the Duty to Live Authentically

0:13:34 – 0:15:31 – Shifting Shame Narratives – Parenting, Fear of Rejection, and Letting Go of Guilt

0:15:31 – 0:17:50 – Spiritual Abuse and Childhood Trauma – Hypocrisy, Healing, and Belonging

0:17:50 – 0:21:26 – Conversion Therapy and the Power of Imperfection – Breaking Free Through Kintsugi

0:21:26 – 0:23:55 – The Trap of Perfection – Mental Freedom, Acceptance, and Embracing the Now

0:23:55 – 0:27:03 – Disappointing Others to Choose Yourself – Inner Strength and Rejecting a Rigged System

0:27:03 – 0:29:39 – Claiming Self-Worth – Letting Go of External Validation and Owning Your Story

0:29:39 – 0:32:33 – The Mirror Moment – Radical Self-Acceptance, Style, and Challenging Internal Narratives

0:32:33 – 0:35:57 – Evolving Without Changing Your Core – Personal Growth and Honoring Your Voice

0:35:57 – 0:37:35 – You Are Needed Exactly As You Are – The Message Behind Outrageously Me

0:37:35 – 0:39:51 – Closing Reflections and Next Episode Tease – Gratitude, Glitches, and Job Loss Struggles