Maral

A first-generation Lebanese-Armenian American born in the United States, Maral brings more than 20 years of business development experience, an MBA, and a background in behavioral health leadership. Now a mental health counseling graduate student, she brings curiosity and compassion to conversations about mental health and the wider human experience—people’s challenges, turning points, and the ways they find their way forward.

Maral’s own story includes living with ADHD, giving her a personal perspective on being neurodivergent. Her career and accomplishments reflect her belief that a diagnosis does not define a person’s potential. While recognizing the challenges, she also sees gifts in the way her mind works—strengths she values in her life, her work, and her connections with others. Through the podcast, she hopes to make room for stories that recognize both those challenges and the possibilities for success.

Maral’s passion for mental health awareness extends beyond conversations. She is also developing Mental Health Awearness, a clothing and lifestyle brand designed to spark meaningful conversations, challenge stigma, and encourage understanding through everyday expression.

Learn more about this project in the section below.

Seza

Maral’s mother, Seza, is Lebanese-Armenian and was born and raised in Lebanon. She came to the United States in her mid-twenties. She brings a mother's perspective, her cultural roots, and the personal experiences of a different generation to conversations about family, change, and the experiences we carry with us.

Having lived with and managed fibromyalgia for more than 30 years, Seza brings firsthand experience of navigating chronic pain and the ways it can shape daily life.

With warmth, humor, and an openhearted curiosity, Seza asks the questions others may be thinking but haven’t found the words to ask. Her candid reactions and fresh way of seeing things make room for anyone encountering an unfamiliar topic, bringing laughter and a sense of connection to the conversation.