196 | Old Blue Eyes

Mahendra Doshi is a journalist, historian, and author who came to the U.S. from India in 1967 with just $8 and a dream. From working in Nevada casinos to launching a trailblazing Indian newspaper, he chronicled immigrant stories long before they were trending. Susan and Mahendra talk about his latest book, Surat to San Francisco, which uncovers the incredible rise of Patel hoteliers in America.

What You'll Learn in This Episode
🧑‍🌾 Why one surname dominates the U.S. hotel industry—and what it really means
💸 How a five-dollar gamble turned into a lifelong journey of storytelling
🕵️‍♀️ How oral history can unearth the truths the internet forgets
🏨 The surprising link between World War II and the rise of Indian hoteliers
🎬 How a community story made its way to the red carpet at Tribeca