S2 E2: Second life (feat. Suhail Shersad)

Episode 18,   Aug 01, 11:32 PM

Episode image

Timestamps

<1 min : Ashwin Intro - First min
1' : Suhai intro (early childhood to now + influences along the way)
7' : Basketball obsession
7.50' - Accident
12.50' - How many days were you unconscious for -
13.45' - How did you try to see light at the end of the tunnel?
17' - Half marathon promise in 2025
19' - recovery is not linear
20' - Support system
24' -2nd life
30' - fav book - Lotus in a sea of fire (Vietnamese philosopher - 1967 - political and social underpinnings of Vietnam during Vietnam/US war)
12. 33' - Quote : "All that matters in this world is who gets to eat and who gets eaten?"

The episode is titled 'second life' because that is how lucky and grateful Suhail felt after he gained consciousness from having suffered a gruesome New York subway accident that left his left leg amputated. On the show, we discuss Suhail's early childhood, his obsession with reading and ball along with his love for public policy. A large part of the episode dives into his mental and physical response to the accident and how he is recovering from it, one day at a time. He discusses the support system and mindset that have been crucial to his recovery. Suhail is kind, light hearted, funny and extremely inspiring while responding to my questions. Listen for a dose and a half of inspiration and optimism. The episode ends with him mentioning a book he would gift, 'Lotus in a Sea of Fire'  and a quote that he would write on a wall for the world to see. 

Suhail now works in risk management at Citibank in New York after having graduated with an Economics and International Affairs degree from the Fletcher School prior to a 4 year stint with the World bank.