They explore his early bets on AI, lessons from working with Sundar Pichai, navigating the rise of ChatGPT, and why communication remains the most underrated career advantage.

In this episode, Bhaskar Chakravorti shares insights on policy, “Small AI,” and why real change goes beyond logic into human context.

A sharp, thoughtful take on the future of technology, economies, and decision-making.

From Bell Labs and McKinsey & Company to building the Digital Evolution Index at The Fletcher School at Tufts University, he reflects on technology, leadership, and global change.

Chakravorti also shares why digital inclusion and “Small AI” could shape the future of emerging economies like India.

A conversation on mentorship, contextual intelligence, and bridging ideas with real-world impact.

Born in India and raised in a family of garment manufacturers, Ram’s journey is anything but conventional. After immigrating to the United States, he washed dishes for $2 an hour, was expelled from seven schools, survived a cardiac arrest at 45, and went on to build the last standing American fashion CAD-CAM technology company.

This is not just a business story—it’s a raw, honest conversation about resilience, reinvention, values, leadership, and purpose. Ram opens up about failure, humility, respect, and his belief that true success lies in learning, earning, and returning.

In this episode, we explore:

~ How being labelled “too disruptive” became Ram’s greatest strength

~ Surviving a near-death experience and redefining leadership

~ Why respect and equality are non-negotiable values in business

~ The role of education in shaping global Indian success

~ What it truly means to disrupt an industry with purpose

This conversation is a masterclass in life, leadership, and legacy—especially for entrepreneurs, immigrants, creatives, and anyone building something meaningful against the odds.

👉 If this episode resonates with you, like, share, and subscribe to the Indianness Podcast.

💬 Tell us your biggest takeaway in the comments.

Resources Mentioned:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tukatech/

Born in India and raised in a family of garment manufacturers, Ram’s journey is anything but conventional. After immigrating to the United States, he washed dishes for $2 an hour, was expelled from seven schools, survived a cardiac arrest at 45, and went on to build the last standing American fashion CAD-CAM technology company. 

This is not just a business story—it’s a raw, honest conversation about resilience, reinvention, values, leadership, and purpose. Ram opens up about failure, humility, respect, and his belief that true success lies in learning, earning, and returning. 

In this episode, we explore: 

• How being labeled “too disruptive” became Ram’s greatest strength 
• Surviving a near-death experience and redefining leadership 
• Why respect and equality are non-negotiable values in business 
• The role of education in shaping global Indian success 
• What it truly means to disrupt an industry with purpose 

This conversation is a masterclass in life, leadership, and legacy—especially for entrepreneurs, immigrants, creatives, and anyone building something meaningful against the odds. 

👉 If this episode resonates with you, like, share, and subscribe to the Indianness Podcast. 

💬 Tell us your biggest takeaway in the comments. 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tukatech/ 

5 Key Takeaways 

• 🌍 How Dr. Dutta’s work on the Global Innovation Index became a global benchmark for over 100 countries. 
• 🧠 Insights into the intersection of AI, policy, and culture — and why “sovereign AI” matters for the Global South. 
• 🎓 Lessons from leading global institutions like Oxford and Cornell, and the mindset behind transformative academic leadership. 
• 🤝 Why collaboration between policymakers, technologists, and educators is key to ensuring responsible AI adoption. 
• 💡 Dr. Dutta’s reflections on Indianness — how values, resilience, and curiosity shape the Indian global identity. 

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, share, and subscribe to The Indianness Podcast for more inspiring conversations with global changemakers. 🌏✨ 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/soumitra-dutta/ 

• Early struggles & immigrant family life in Cleveland. 
• The importance of parental influence on spirituality, culture, and education. 
• How she turned setbacks—like being underestimated academically—into opportunities for growth. 
• Why embracing networking and adaptability transformed her career path. 
• Her perspective on imposter syndrome, failures, and trusting instincts as a leader. 

💡 This is a must-watch for aspiring professionals, leaders balancing cultural identities, and anyone chasing meaningful growth. 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/parindagandhi/ 

In this powerful episode: 

• Learn how Priyamvada mapped the first dark matter models and studied black hole formation 
• Discover her journey from a curious child in Coimbatore to Chair of Astronomy at Yale 
• Understand the deeper meaning behind scientific mastery and personal growth 
• Explore her powerful reflections on humility, cultural context, and mentorship 
• Named to TIME100 in 2024, hear why she believes luck + preparation = magic 

🛰️ A must-watch for science lovers, aspiring change-makers, and anyone fascinated by the universe. 

👉 Subscribe and hit the bell icon for more stories of global Indian excellence. 

📺 Watch Now and get inspired. 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/priya-natarajan-66b0215/ 

• A life of 17-hour workdays, massive mergers, and global finance 
• Deep personal reflections on mortality, regret, and missed phone calls 
• How a cadaver at age 10 turned him away from medicine forever 
• Lessons in failure—from cricket to startups—and how they shaped his resilience 
• The moment he realized his son thought he was cool again 

📘 This is not just a career story—it's an emotional reckoning. 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aloksama? 

⏱️ Timestamps: 

00:00 - Introduction and Setup 

04:30 - Welcome to the Podcast 

06:30 - Childhood and Family Background 

11:50 - The Influence of His Father 

15:00 - The Cadaver Incident 

18:30 - Luck, Serendipity & Career 

21:00 - Schooling and Rejection 

24:50 - Cricket, Sports and Resilience 

29:00 - Friendships and Long-term Bonds 

31:30 - Decision to Study Abroad 

36:50 - Cultural Shock in America 

40:00 - Wharton and Academics 

42:40 - Career at Morgan Stanley 

45:00 - Mentorship and Role Models 

48:00 - Joining SoftBank 

51:00 - Staying After Nikesh Left 

52:30 - Pivot to Writing 

56:20 - The Money Trap Book 

58:00 - New Writing Focus 

1:02:00 - Life After Loss 

1:05:40 - Redefining Success 

1:10:20 - Most Influential Person 

💡 What you’ll learn: 

• How Sonia’s parents shaped her values through resilience and empathy 
• Her pivot from finance to HR, integrating AI and human-centric leadership 
• The power of intrinsic motivation and how to unlock it in yourself and others 
• Stories of cultural duality, name changes, and identity 

🔔 Subscribe for more stories of Indian origin change makers 📺 Watch now and be inspired. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniavora/ 

🎧 How does integrity and a strong foundation shape career success? In this engaging episode of the Indianness Podcast, Sanjay Puri interviews Harini Gopalakrishnan, CTO for Life Sciences at Snowflake. Harini reflects on her career journey, from her early days in Chennai to becoming a leader in healthcare technology. 

📌 Topics Covered: 

• The impact of growing up in a joint family 
• How her grandmother’s lessons on integrity shaped her career 
• The value of foundational knowledge in professional success 
• Why saying "no" can build more trust than saying "yes" 
• How continuous learning and adaptability are key to career longevity 

🚀 Watch now to learn how Harini’s approach to integrity and learning drives her success! 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/harinigopalakrishnan/ 

⏱️ Timestamps: 

0:00 - Podcast Episode Highlights   

1:05 - Harini’s early life: Born in Kerala, raised in Chennai, bilingual roots, and joint family upbringing.   

2:05 - Emphasis on education and gender equality in her family.   

3:03 - Memories of grandparents and their influence (moral values, music lessons).   

4:03 - Learning veena and lifelong lessons from foundational skills.   

5:15 - Career advice: Importance of foundational knowledge and adaptability.   

7:34 - Balancing passion vs. practicality in career choices.   

10:14 - Transition to college: Networking, curiosity, and cultural adaptability.   

13:05 - Discussing integrity and saying "no" in professional settings.   

17:38 - Choosing computer science: Pragmatism and societal expectations.   

20:07 - Undergrad experience: Fun vs. academic rigor, soft skills.   

24:27 - First job at Cognizant: Corporate challenges and self-discovery.   

30:01 - Pursuing a master’s in bioinformatics: Risk-taking and career pivots.   

34:06 - Career inflection points: Moving to tech, international exposure.   

39:56 - Working in Europe and cultural adaptability lessons.   

46:04 - Leadership style influenced by Indian values (integrity, customer focus).   

50:10 - Failures and resilience: Returning to India post-master’s.   

53:44 - Role of mentors: Grandmother, professors, and customer guidance.   

55:34 - Lightning round: Coffee lover, remote work preference, intuition over data.

💡 Key Takeaways: 

✔ How to drive large-scale digital transformation across diverse industries. 

✔ The future of AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making. 

✔ Lessons from leading Fortune 500 companies through technological shifts. 

✔ The importance of mentorship and diverse leadership in tech. 

🚀 This episode is a must-watch for aspiring leaders, tech professionals, and innovators! 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anjanaharve/ 

⏱️ Timestamps: 

00:00 - Episode Highlights 

01:05 - Early Life & Roots in India 

03:46 - Father’s Influence: Integrity & Perception 

08:11 - Leadership Lessons from a Judge 

13:23 - Mother’s Role: Curiosity & Self-Improvement 

17:00 - Adapting to Change & Building Connections 

20:14 - Work-Life Balance & Family Feedback 

25:39 - Career Journey: From India to the U.S. 

30:27 - Defining Indianness in Leadership 

36:09 - Mentorship & Inflection Points 

44:47 - Lightning Round Q&A 

52:55 - Final Takeaways 

Resources Mentioned: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pradeepkhosla/ 

https://chancellor.ucsd.edu/about/about-the-chancellor/index.html 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pradeep_Khosla 

Dr. Sinha shares how his upbringing, his father and his sisters’ resilience inspired and motivated him. He discusses his views on India’s educational system, the skills educational leaders should possess and how even introverts can learn them.

Key Takeaways:

(02:18) Dr. Sinha’s upbringing in Patna and his father’s influence.

(03:54) Leadership lessons that shaped Dr. Sinha’s career.

(10:22) How mentorship impacted his career and life. 

(20:16) Dr. Sinha’s sister’s challenges and resilience. 

(39:02) On the straitjacketed Indian education system.

(54:17) On creating a plan for Malaysia’s economic growth.

(57:28) Learning from the best universities and applying it to the Indian context. 

(58:06) The importance of giving students a choice.

(01:00:29) Developing tribe and leadership skills online.

(1:03:06) The importance of solving the right problems in entrepreneurship.

(1:07:19) Introverts can develop people skills and be effective leaders.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pramathsinha/

Ashoka University | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/school/ashoka-university/

Ashoka University | Website -

https://www.ashoka.edu.in

upGrad LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ueducation/

upGrad | Website -

https://www.upgrad.com

Indian School of Business (ISB) -

https://www.isb.edu

Harappa Education -

https://harappa.education

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Key Takeaways:



(03:01) Dr. Jha’s childhood memories in Bihar.

(08:51) The great unknown of moving to Canada.

(17:11) The move to New Jersey and the harsh reality of facing racism.

(19:25) Facing a high school teacher who told him to change his name.

(25:47) Learning to embrace both his Indian and American identities.

(38:59) The President’s invitation to join the White House as COVID-19 Response Coordinator.

(40:00) The privilege of working in the West Wing as an Indian immigrant.

(41:25) The value of building and maintaining meaningful relationships.

(42:34) Why service is one of the most enriching experiences in life.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Ashish Jha -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashish-jha-b9aab41/

Columbia University -

https://www.columbia.edu

Brown University School of Public Health -

https://graduateprograms.brown.edu/graduate-program/public-health-mph?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=MPH&utm_content=traffic&creative=613468509292&keyword=brown%20university%20masters%20in%20public%20health&matchtype=b&network=g&device=c&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwreW2BhBhEiwAavLwfLqUIDqHZqKhWapyYPIskdsJHEW872WYuwCVEI0U4PObifvPrFTEdxoCRUIQAvD_BwE

Harvard Medical School -

https://hms.harvard.edu

University of Toronto -

https://www.utoronto.ca

World Health Organization (WHO) -

https://www.who.int

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On this episode, I’m joined by Mamta Patel Nagaraja, Associate Chief Scientist for Exploration and Applied Research at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, to explore her unconventional journey from a small town in Texas to a prominent role at NASA.

Key Takeaways:

(00:16) The value of making decisions based on available information.

(06:06) Overcoming academic and social challenges in school.

(12:21) The drive for academic excellence and early leadership roles.

(27:33) Critical decisions and sacrifices made in pursuit of becoming an astronaut.

(30:25) The importance of following rules and the impact of small decisions.

(33:28) Dealing with rejection and finding new dreams after setbacks.

(41:08) Visualization and storytelling as techniques for dreaming new dreams.

(50:59) The importance of empathy, listening, and making thoughtful decisions.

(57:16) The impact of 9/11 on personal safety and awareness.

Resources Mentioned:

Mamta Patel Nagaraja -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamtapatelnagaraja/

NASA | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/nasa/

NASA | Website -

https://www.nasa.gov

Mamta Patel Nagaraja -

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mamta_Patel_Nagaraja

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Key Takeaways:

(00:11) Contributing new knowledge rather than just absorbing information is crucial.

(01:22) Early life experiences in a university campus environment.

(04:18) The significance of a safe and stimulating childhood in shaping future leaders.

(16:35) A love for mathematics and logical problem-solving shaped Dr. Puri’s academic and professional trajectory.

(33:02) Dr. Puri’s passion for electronics and building things from an early age guided his career choices.

(49:21) The importance of having mentors and role models in shaping one’s career and personal growth.

(53:32) Success is defined by contributing to a body of knowledge and having a respected, credible standing in one’s field.

(01:02:45) Focus on the work itself rather than the results to achieve excellence.

(01:04:10) The role of mentors, including family members and colleagues, is indispensable in achieving success.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Ruchir Puri -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchir-puri-b117021a/

IBM Research -

https://research.ibm.com

NIT Kurukshetra -

https://nitkkr.ac.in

IIT Kanpur -

https://www.iitk.ac.in

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In this episode, I’m joined by Raju Narisetti, Leader, Global Publishing at McKinsey & Company. Raju’s 33-year career spans media and publishing across continents, from launching Mint in India to The Wall Street Journal. His unconventional journey from Hyderabad to leading global media is a testament to resilience and lifelong learning.

Key Takeaways: 

(01:35) The influence of a diverse cultural background on Raju's career.

(03:29) The value of education and its transformative power.

(06:42) Overcoming challenges during his schooling years.

(09:32) How early career experiences shaped Raju’s professional path.

(16:49) The value of rural management education in building resilience.

(20:10) The significance of education in overcoming life's challenges.

(34:15) The critical role of mentors in personal and professional development.

(40:09) The importance of embracing new opportunities and continuous learning.

(51:56) Managing setbacks and turning them into learning experiences.

Resources Mentioned:

Raju Narisetti -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajunarisetti/

McKinsey & Company -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckinsey/

”Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande -

https://atulgawande.com/book/being-mortal/

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In this episode, I’m joined by Sonalee Parekh, Chief Financial Officer of RingCentral, a large software company. Sonalee has held leadership roles at Hewlett Packard, served on several boards and has over a 20-year career on Wall Street.

Key Takeaways:

(02:29) Growing up in a mixed-race household.

(05:32) Visiting India for the first time was a culture shock.

(12:30) The influence of her resilient grandmother.

(17:17) How her father’s forward-thinking nature shaped her.

(35:25) Achieving early success in her career.

(37:22) The impact moving to London had on her career.

(45:47) The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone.

(46:10) The value of pushing oneself to be uncomfortable.

(47:32) The strategic selection of mentors.

(50:59) Feeling at home in the Silicon Valley community.

Resources Mentioned:

Sonalee Parekh -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonaleeparekh/

RingCentral | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ringcentral/

Hewlett Packard Enterprise -

https://www.hpe.com/us/en/home.html

RingCentral | Website -

https://www.ringcentral.com

Goldman Sachs -

https://www.goldmansachs.com

Barclays Capital -

https://home.barclays

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On this episode, I’m joined by Prem Natarajan, Chief Scientist, EVP, and Head of Enterprise Data and AI at Capital One, to explore his journey from Chennai to leading AI initiatives at a major financial services company.

Key Takeaways:

(00:11) The value of continual security testing.

(00:18) The importance of prioritizing your security issues.

(19:47) How early life influences and role models shape career ambitions.

(21:30) The critical role of mentors and asymmetrical mentorship relationships.

(29:00) Learning life lessons through sports and teamwork.

(36:22) Early technical projects shaping an engineering career.

(41:00) Balancing foundational understanding with pragmatic goals in engineering.

(50:23) The importance of curiosity and admitting when you don't know.

(56:25) Transitioning from academia to industry and the AI revolution.

(01:07:11) Family influence and persistence as a mantra.

(01:08:51) Nurturing relationships and leveraging education.

(01:09:13) Advice on leveraging education and imagination for young professionals.

Resources Mentioned:

Prem Natarajan -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/natarajan/

Capital One -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/capital-one/

BBN Technologies -

https://www.bbn.com/

University of Southern California -

https://www.usc.edu/

Amazon Alexa -

https://developer.amazon.com/en-US/alexa

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Key Takeaways:

(00:02) Career progression at IBM to the CEO chairman’s office.

(00:37) Finding a home and belonging in San Francisco.

(00:53) The impact of Bombay’s unsafe environment on her desire to leave.

(12:00) Shruti’s family’s immigration journey from India to the US.

(23:39) Reverse engineering venture-backed companies.

(31:29) Passion for venture capital and setting an example.

(34:41) Guiding principle: “My life is my message.”

(37:00) Finding alternative outlets to thrive.

Resources Mentioned:

Shruti Gandhi -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shrutigandhi/

Array Ventures -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/array-ventures/

IBM -

https://www.ibm.com/

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#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

Key Takeaways:

(00:11) The impact of childhood experiences on career paths.

(00:26) The influence of family and community on personal and professional growth.

(00:50) The transition from traditional computing to neuromorphic AI.

(01:28) How biologically-inspired AI can address real-world problems.

(02:19) The importance of a holistic approach to AI development.

(05:17) The role of education in shaping future innovators.

(08:06) Challenges and opportunities in leading AI research.

(13:27) The potential of AI to revolutionize energy efficiency.

(22:19) Insights on mentorship and its impact on career development.

(53:11) Reflections on the evolving landscape of AI and future directions.

Resources Mentioned:

Dhireesha Kudithipudi -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhireesha/

MATRIX AI Consortium at UTSA -

https://ai.utsa.edu/

University of Texas at San Antonio Neuromorphic AI Lab -

https://www.nuailab.com/

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On this episode, I’m joined by Sowmya Gottipati, Head of Global Supply Chain Technology of Estée Lauder Companies, for an inspiring discussion on her journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

Key Takeaways:

(00:53) The importance of taking risks and avoiding life on autopilot. 

(05:10) The need to constantly seek growth and learning. 

(07:27) The challenges of adapting to new environments during childhood. 

(12:45) The significance of pursuing higher education abroad. 

(21:30) The role of supportive parents in career development. 

(25:30) The desire to break traditional molds and seek freedom. 

(30:10) Embracing new opportunities at Estée Lauder. 

(35:20) The impact of creating a culture of joy in the workplace. 

(42:00) The complexities of holding both an Indian and American identity. 

(47:55) Encouraging more women in technology and leadership roles. 

(51:45) Avoiding career plateaus and seeking continual growth. 

(54:30) Blending Indian and American cultures for future generations.

Resources Mentioned:

Sowmya Gottipati -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sowmyagottipati/

Estée Lauder Companies -

https://www.elcompanies.com/

Columbia Business School -

https://business.columbia.edu/about-us

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Key Takeaways:

(01:02) The importance of looking for disproportionate impact.

(04:33) Redefining success: it’s about the journey.

(13:00) The influence of an entrepreneurial family background.

(20:26) Transitioning from software engineering to project management.

(30:28) How financial challenges shaped Kedar’s career decisions.

(40:47) Improving strategies for financial assistance.

(50:19) Inspiration from Tony Hsieh’s book "Delivering Happiness."

(51:31) The significance of company culture at Zappos.

(56:09) Questioning fundamentals to understand core issues.

(58:56) Taking opportunities in different sectors without a background.

(01:02:53) Finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.

(01:06:09) Defining Indianness as hospitality and authenticity.

Resources Mentioned:

Kedar Deshpande -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kedard/

Zappos -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/zappos.com/

Groupon -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/groupon/

“Delivering Happiness” by Tony Hsieh -

https://www.amazon.com/Delivering-Happiness-Profits-Passion-Purpose/dp/0446576220

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Key Takeaways:

(00:30) Seeking mentors who genuinely invest in your growth.

(08:20) Kaschit’s early life in India influenced his values and career trajectory.

(15:45) Balancing personal identity with professional roles in a diverse cultural setting.

(22:10) Genuine mentorship impacts career advancement and personal development.

(30:25) Navigating the shift from private sector dynamism to public sector impact.

(38:55) Building resilience through personal and professional challenges.

(45:10) Strong family bonds play an important role in shaping our personal and professional life.

(52:30) How embracing diversity enriches professional experiences and outcomes.

(57:15) The significance of authenticity in leadership and professional relationships.

(1:03:50) Reflections on the ongoing journey of learning and growth in a leadership role.

Resources Mentioned:

Kaschit Pandya -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaschitp/

Internal Revenue Service -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/irs/

“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown -

https://www.amazon.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms/dp/1592408419

“Think Again” by Adam Grant -

https://www.amazon.com/Think-Again-Power-Knowing-What/dp/1984878107

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Key Takeaways:

(00:05) Embracing cultural roots to enhance leadership in technology.

(08:14) Family decisions significantly impact personal and professional paths.

(15:48) Benefits of early cultural exposure in shaping global perspectives.

(20:37) Challenges and rewards of growing up in a multicultural environment.

(25:31) Confronting and dismantling gender and cultural stereotypes in STEM.

(30:15) Strategies for overcoming cultural barriers to succeed professionally.

(35:50) The importance of empathy in leading technologically diverse teams.

(40:05) Leveraging diversity as a strategic advantage in innovation.

(45:29) Developing resilience through overcoming personal adversities.

(50:18) Utilizing storytelling to bridge cultural divides and enhance team dynamics.

(55:30) Harnessing personal heritage to inform and inspire leadership qualities.

Resources Mentioned:

Sita Sonty -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/s-sita-sonty-9a423741/

MIT -

https://www.mit.edu/

Space Tango -

https://www.spacetango.com/

Herding Rockets: Improving Space Traffic Management -

https://spacenews.com/op-ed-herding-rockets-improved-space-traffic-management-will-accelerate-industry-growth/

Space and SPACs: A COVID Romance -

https://spacenews.com/op-ed-space-and-spacs-a-covid-romance/

Automation: Key to the Future Space Economy -

https://spacenews.com/op-ed-automation-a-key-enabler-of-the-future-space-economy/

Latest Updates from Space Tango -

https://spacetango.com/latest/

Watch: Innovations in Space Technology -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRnNHM-OvfQ

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Key Takeaways: 

(02:20) Early influences of family and education on Ravi’s values.

(07:40) The profound impact of small acts of gratitude.

(12:30) Nature photography as a reflection of life’s opportunities.

(18:10) How humility and gratitude influence both personal and professional realms.

(24:50) The unique cultural respect for elders and teachers in India.

(30:35) Transmitting cultural values across generations.

(36:15) Learning from life’s myriad decisions.

(42:00) The deep impact of appreciating one’s parents.

(47:25) Kindness as a cornerstone of community involvement.

(52:55) Ravi’s enduring commitment to education and mentoring.

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Ravi Pendse -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/umichcio/

University of Michigan | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-michigan/

University of Michigan | Website -

https://umich.edu/

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Key Takeaways:

(03:06) Embracing early roots and values from Andhra Pradesh.

(12:47) Learning adaptability through frequent relocations during childhood.

(18:02) The formative influence of homeschooling on personal development.

(24:15) Cultural adaptability gained from transitioning to formal schooling.

(31:30) Building lifelong friendships and resilience at boarding school.

(38:45) Developing leadership through team sports in school.

(45:22) Balancing life and work through outdoor activities.

(52:09) Insights on teamwork and humility from playing competitive hockey.

(59:34) The role of academic excellence in shaping a technology leader.

(1:05:20) Strategic decision-making in career transitions within the tech industry.

Resources Mentioned:

Ravi Pendekanti -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravi-pendekanti-14b916/

Western Digital | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/western-digital/

Western Digital | Website -

https://www.westerndigital.com/

Hyderabad Public School -

http://www.hpsbegumpet.org.in/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:51) Ramesh's journey begins in Kashmir, shaping his identity and drive.

(04:19) His father's Padma Shri award inspires a legacy of excellence.

(07:13) Choosing engineering as a catalyst for change.

(14:33) The transformative power of mentorship.

(22:37) Transitioning to the US opens new career vistas.

(34:11) Leadership demands curiosity, resilience and adaptability.

(48:48) Success evolves from personal achievements to broader societal impacts.

(53:39) Gratitude as a cornerstone of a fulfilling life.

(57:52) Authenticity in personal and professional realms.

Resources Mentioned:

Ramesh Razdan -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rameshrazdan/

Bain & Company -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bain-and-company/

Savitribai Phule Pune University -

https://www.unipune.ac.in/

Padma Shri Award -

https://padmaawards.gov.in/

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Key Takeaways:

(01:33) From Chennai to global tech leader: Raju’s transformative journey.

(06:20) Education as a cornerstone for generational success.

(12:15) The impact of India’s rural-to-urban migration on achievement.

(19:45) Overcoming the immigrant’s challenge in the tech landscape.

(26:30) Balancing tech innovation with environmental responsibility.

(33:52) The enriching influence of diverse cultural experiences.

(41:07) Mentorship’s role in tech career navigation.

(48:59) Envisioning technology’s sustainable future.

(53:24) The importance of community in fostering environmental and technological progress.

Resources Mentioned:

Raju Rajan -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajurajan/

Hewlett Packard Enterprises -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/hewlett-packard-enterprise/

ReWild Long Island -

http://rewildlongisland.org/

Hewlett Packard US East Global -

https://www.hp.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:07) Education’s role in shaping futures is critical.

(01:38) Praveen’s early life in Andhra Pradesh influenced his global perspective.

(02:23) The transformative decision to further education in the US.

(04:06) Shifting career focus to internet technologies at the digital era’s dawn.

(07:15) Leadership through the tech industry’s evolutions and challenges.

(09:00) Mentorship and team cohesion can act as success drivers.

(13:27) Insights into the US and Indian startup ecosystems’ maturation.

(15:49) Commit to nurturing the next generation of talent.

(44:00) Curiosity and lifelong learning are personal growth engines.

(47:22) Navigating global market shifts with agility.

(52:36) Ethical considerations in technology and investment’s future.

(56:03) The balance between technological innovation and societal impact.

(59:15) “Indianness” as a foundation for resilience in the global scene.

Resources Mentioned:

Praveen Akkiraju -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/praveenakkiraju/

Insight Partners | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/insight--partners/

Insight Partners | Website -

https://www.insightpartners.com/

Cisco Systems -

https://www.cisco.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:50) Village upbringing had a profound and lasting impact on Kalyan.

(01:08) Grandparents share their wisdom on character development and future aspirations.

(01:16) Experiences at elite institutions proved to be life-changing. 

(03:25) Transitioning from a tranquil village to the dynamic world of technology.

(09:06) Kalyan journeyed from a small village to being a beacon of innovation.

(15:53) Identify what drives you to make progress in life.

(21:10) Balance the scales of personal well-being with professional success.

(26:06) The right friends will help you reach your goals. 

(37:42) Technology can be a lever for societal benefit, with a spotlight on healthcare.

(45:01) Looking ahead with a vision to leverage technology for the common good.

(46:34) Emphasizing the importance of health, education and continuous personal growth.

Resources Mentioned:

Kalyan Peri -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalyanperi/

Conduent -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/conduent/

Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) -

https://www.iitsystem.ac.in/

Infosys -

https://www.infosys.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:09) - Navigating personal attacks in professional scenarios.

(01:58) - The influence of a diverse family heritage on personal development.

(04:37) - Choosing a path less traveled — from traditional roles to a global career.

(10:04) - The impact of cultural identity in shaping life and work.

(18:04) - The life-changing decision to study Law with German at King’s College.

(30:46) - Experiences in ambassadorial roles in varied professional settings.

(37:16) - Meditation as a tool for overcoming challenges and personal growth.

(46:34) - Learning and adapting to life across different countries.

(52:37) - The importance of introspection and self-realization in personal journeys.

Resources Mentioned:

Aarti Holla-Maini -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aarti-holla-maini-a6093a9/

United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-nations-office-for-outer-space-affairs/

United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs | Website -

https://www.unoosa.org/

King’s College London -

https://www.kcl.ac.uk/

Sehaj Marg -

https://www.sahajmarg.org/

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Key Takeaways:

(01:50) Shailesh’s upbringing in Uttarakhand was deeply rooted in educational values.

(11:01) Adapting to new schools shaped his resilience.

(14:01) Shailesh opens up about the crucial support from his brother.

(23:13) Folk music and nature spark his creativity.

(25:20) Transitioning from science to an MBA in International Business Management.

(34:51) The journey of founding C4V and iM3NY, focusing on battery technology and sustainable energy.

(37:04) A vision of making sustainable energy accessible in emerging markets.

(46:10) Balancing business growth with social and environmental responsibility.

Resources Mentioned:

Shailesh Upreti -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shailupreti/

iM3NY -

https://im3ny.com/

C4V -

https://c4v.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(03:26) Growing up in a close-knit, extended family environment in Bangalore fostered a sense of community and belonging.

(05:31) Ashwin’s grandfather, the first in his family to attend university, profoundly impacted his values of education and resilience.

(11:56) The competitive spirit and camaraderie among siblings set a foundation for Ashwin’s personal and professional development.

(18:57) Ashwin’s mother was a pivotal mentor in his life, providing early lessons in resourcefulness and the importance of knowledge.

(29:38) Ashwin learned adaptability from early experiences in multicultural environments, enhancing his communication and relational skills.

(40:53) Ashwin’s career trajectory was shaped by his selection into the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai, amidst fierce competition.

(57:27) Ashwin’s role at ICANN was a point of pride, emphasizing the honor and privilege of significantly contributing to the global internet community’s expansion.

Resources Mentioned:

Ashwin Rangan -

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theinsightfulcio/

ICANN | LinkedIn -

https://www.linkedin.com/company/icann/

ICANN’s | Website -

 https://www.icann.org/

Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai -

https://www.iimb.ac.in/

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Key Takeaways:

(01:36) Nikhil’s journey from Mumbai’s vibrant culture to tech innovation.

(07:25) From Sir J.J. School of Art and IIT Bombay to tech leadership in Georgia.

(12:50) Meeting his life partner in college and the impact it had on him.

(24:49) Driving digital innovation in Georgia’s public services.

(35:07) Overcoming challenges in moving to and adapting to the US.

(41:19) Blending AI, music and arts for future projects.

(48:53) Encouraging the pursuit of passion and the importance of mentors.

(54:21) The significant impact mentorship had on his career.

(59:26) Influential figures and heroes in Nikhil’s life.

Resources Mentioned:

Nikhil Deshpande - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikofthehill/

Georgia Technology Authority - https://gta.georgia.gov/

Savannah College of Art and Design - https://www.scad.edu/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:00) Bask Iyer's journey from Chennai to Silicon Valley.

(05:45) The formative role of education and early tech exposure in Bask's career.

(10:30) Leadership insights from VMware and Dell, highlighting adaptability and innovation.

(15:50) Emphasizing mentorship and fostering innovation for team success.

(20:35) The impact of Indian values on Bask's global leadership approach.

(25:40) Balancing technology with humanity; personal work-life harmony.

(30:55) Future tech trends, including AI and digital transformation perspectives.

(35:50) Leveraging tech success for philanthropy and societal benefit.

(40:45) Encouraging innovation in India, aiming for global tech entrepreneurship.

(45:30) The essence of 'Indianness' in global success and cultural identity.

(55:00) Bask's vision for mentoring and nurturing Indian tech companies.

(01:10:02) Admiration for transformative leadership and the importance of positive organizational culture.



Resources mentioned:

Bask Iyer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/baskiyer/

BaskMind.com website - https://www.baskmind.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(02:09) The influence of Rama’s early life in Tamil Nadu, family background and upbringing.

(04:07) The pivotal role of education in his family. 

(07:22) The importance reading played in shaping his intellectual curiosity.

(12:51) Shifting from the traditional joint family setup to urban education in Chennai.

(16:47) The decision-making process behind pursuing engineering. 

(18:06) His journey to the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras.

(19:43) Exploring the realms of operations research. 

(21:26) The realization of his passion for mathematical thinking and communication.

(29:45) Transitioning from academia to the business world. 

(33:21) His tenure at McKinsey and the drive toward entrepreneurship.

(40:00) Reflections on professional growth and the value of diverse experiences. 

(45:46) Finding satisfaction in pursuing new avenues of learning. 

(51:29) The role luck plays in success. 

(57:47) Finding inspiration in the experiences of other professionals. 

Resources Mentioned:

Professor Rama Ramakrishnan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramar/

Sloan School of Management, MIT - https://mitsloan.mit.edu/

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras - https://www.iitm.ac.in/

McKinsey & Company - https://www.mckinsey.com/

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Key Takeaways:

(01:58) Dr. Rishi’s journey from a small town in India to leading global roles.

(02:29) The impact a nurturing childhood has on personal and professional growth.

(07:03) The importance of empathetic leadership learned from his father.

(11:11) The value of stepping out of comfort zones, illustrated by his transition to boarding school.

(19:00) Building foundational friendships and the significance of community in personal development.

(24:02) Transitioning from academia in India to professional success in the US.

(27:40) His career evolution from engineering to global leadership roles in consulting and technology.

(30:37) His current role at JLL and the integration of technology in workplace management.

(38:37) The pivotal role played by taking risks and the continuous pursuit of learning.

(41:18) Dr. Rishi’s journey into the future.  

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Sanjay Rishi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjayrishi/

JLL Website - https://www.jll.com

Berlin Institute of Technology - https://www.tu.berlin/en/

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Key Takeaways:

(00:22) Arjun’s early life in Minnesota and tech upbringing in California.

(02:03) His pivotal experience at UC Berkeley and Spark for Startups.

(06:29) The importance of fast, effective learning in his career.

(17:05) His transition to Yahoo Real Estate ignited a web tech passion.

(21:10) Launching ReTargeter, his first digital marketing venture.

(23:15) Balancing startup mentorship and family life.

(31:09) Traits that make Indian entrepreneurs successful.

(34:18) Work-life balance is a key to entrepreneurial success.

(38:41) The impact of mentorship, including guidance from Naval Ravikant.

(40:05) Arjun’s aspirations for future creative-tech projects.

Resources Mentioned:

Arjun Dev Arora - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjundevarora/

FormatOne - https://www.formatone.com/

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#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I have the pleasure of discussing with Maneesh details about his transition from electrical engineering to healthcare, his roots in Ajmer, Rajasthan, and how these experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and innovation in the medical field.

Key Takeaways:

(00:37) Maneesh’s shift from engineering to healthcare leadership.

(01:17) The influence his upbringing in Ajmer had on his career.

(03:01) The impact migrating to the US had on Maneesh’s personal and professional growth.

(11:10) Overcoming cultural and educational challenges in the US.

(19:28) The role continuous learning played in Maneesh’s career development.

(34:56) Development of the Mayo Clinic Platform and its focus on innovation.

(41:07) Introduction of ‘Hospital at Home’ and its impact on patient care.

(43:03) Maneesh’s vision for integrating technology in healthcare.

(45:34) His insights on ‘Indianness’ in the professional context.

Resources Mentioned:

Maneesh Goyal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/goyalmaneesh/

Mayo Clinic Platform - https://www.mayoclinicplatform.org/

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#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness