Software People Stories

Host: Chitra Gurjar 4 decades and counting, always energized to do something, work is my DNAFrom post and telegraph to giving tuitions to creating her own agency to studyAn advocate for herself, nurturing her desire to serveTurning away “assured” job offers to join Defence Labs as a Scientist at CABSMoved onto a “lesser assurance” to join HPPeople and culture at the heart of her 3+decade stay at HPChallenging status quo, try and fail, Innovation has to be a part of one’s daily lifeStay focused on problems that you are solving and layer tools and technology to solve your problemFocus on incremental delivery of valueHolding a people vision through the course of her workStrong belief that “AI will improve the quality of jobs”Learning is a constant - continue to build Apply training and learning programs intentionallyWorking on a market analysis - next gen quoterStrong belief on impact of AI on Healthcare and EducationBelieving that coaching is something everyone should learn, enable people as answers lie within each oneWorking with a non-profit Daksham skills and Dreams Designs Arundathi has been working in technology and leadership related roles for the last 40+ years. She started her career as a Scientist at Defence R&D Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, India. While at DRDO, she was involved in development of Radar transmitter and controller systems. Arundathi joined Hewlett Packard in 1996 and during her 27+ year career in HP and HPE, she has worked in multiple roles across various business units. Under her leadership, HP rolled out multiple market leading internet services related products on HPUX. She was on one of the key leader responsible for setting up Global IT teams offshore centre in India in 2004. She has managed a team of 3000+ technologists delivering for IT, across multiple technologies and multiple business areas enabling HP(E)’s business. She has successfully lead and delivered multiple IT transformation projects. She has also lead the people transformation to move towards digital technologies in alignment with the market trends and business needs. She has had a short stint of 2 years at EY as the Engineering leader for India, in Client Technology, building on Product engineering and delivery capability. In the recent past she was the Global Program Manager for HPE’s industry leading Next Generation IT transformation program. She leads the Global Delivery Services organisation, which is the internal the delivery engine for GIT. She is also the India leader for HPE’s Global IT. Arundathi has led several initiatives in people transformation towards digital transformation, customer centricity and employee engagement. She is passionate about building teams and leaders who are future proof and future safe. She has a strong passion towards building women leaders in technology and mentored and coached many women through focussed initiatives. She has also had a stint as the chairperson at HP for Prevention of Sexual Harassment at workplace. Arundathi has as Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical and Electronics from Government College of Technology, Coimbatore and Master of Technology from Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM). She is a certified coach. During her free time, Arundathi loves to teach, coach, travel and read.

Host: Chitra Gurjar 4 decades and counting, always energized to do something, work is my DNAFrom post and telegraph to giving tuitions to creating her own agency to studyAn advocate for herself, nurturing her desire to serveTurning away “assured” job offers to join Defence Labs as a Scientist at CABSMoved onto a “lesser assurance” to join HPPeople and culture at the heart of her 3+decade stay at HPChallenging status quo, try and fail, Innovation has to be a part of one’s daily lifeStay focused on problems that you are solving and layer tools and technology to solve your problemFocus on incremental delivery of valueHolding a people vision through the course of her workStrong belief that “AI will improve the quality of jobs”Learning is a constant - continue to build Apply training and learning programs intentionallyWorking on a market analysis - next gen quoterStrong belief on impact of AI on Healthcare and EducationBelieving that coaching is something everyone should learn, enable people as answers lie within each oneWorking with a non-profit Daksham skills and Dreams Designs Arundathi has been working in technology and leadership related roles for the last 40+ years. She started her career as a Scientist at Defence R&D Organisation (DRDO), Ministry of Defence, India. While at DRDO, she was involved in development of Radar transmitter and controller systems. Arundathi joined Hewlett Packard in 1996 and during her 27+ year career in HP and HPE, she has worked in multiple roles across various business units. Under her leadership, HP rolled out multiple market leading internet services related products on HPUX. She was on one of the key leader responsible for setting up Global IT teams offshore centre in India in 2004. She has managed a team of 3000+ technologists delivering for IT, across multiple technologies and multiple business areas enabling HP(E)’s business. She has successfully lead and delivered multiple IT transformation projects. She has also lead the people transformation to move towards digital technologies in alignment with the market trends and business needs. She has had a short stint of 2 years at EY as the Engineering leader for India, in Client Technology, building on Product engineering and delivery capability. In the recent past she was the Global Program Manager for HPE’s industry leading Next Generation IT transformation program. She leads the Global Delivery Services organisation, which is the internal the delivery engine for GIT. She is also the India leader for HPE’s Global IT. Arundathi has led several initiatives in people transformation towards digital transformation, customer centricity and employee engagement. She is passionate about building teams and leaders who are future proof and future safe. She has a strong passion towards building women leaders in technology and mentored and coached many women through focussed initiatives. She has also had a stint as the chairperson at HP for Prevention of Sexual Harassment at workplace. Arundathi has as Bachelor of Engineering degree in Electrical and Electronics from Government College of Technology, Coimbatore and Master of Technology from Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM). She is a certified coach. During her free time, Arundathi loves to teach, coach, travel and read.

In this episode of Software People Stories, Gayatri speaks with Muthusamy Vetrivel, Manager – Business Analytics at Saudi National Bank (formerly Saudi French Bank), about a career that spans over four decades of technological disruption. Vetrivel’s journey is anything but conventional. He began in the granite export business — negotiating documents and standing nervously at bank counters. That experience sparked curiosity: “What happens behind the counter?” That curiosity led him into banking. In the mid-1980s, when computers first entered Indian banks, he was among a select group trained in programming through Aptech — at a time when unions resisted “computers” and they were rebranded as Advanced Ledger Posting Machines (ALPM). From: Assembly language and MS-DOS20 MB storage limits286 machines and floppy disksWriting modules for savings and current accountsTo: Oracle databasesLAN networksCore banking migrationsAnd today — analyzing 5 million customer records in secondsVetrivel has lived through every wave of banking transformation. Now in Riyadh, he leads Business Analytics — studying customer behavior, spending patterns, and helping the bank design better financial products while staying compliant with regulations governed by the Saudi Central Bank. Beyond banking, he serves as a community leader with the Riyadh Tamil Sangam — supporting migrant workers, coordinating repatriation flights during COVID, promoting Tamil literacy, and building recognized Tamil-speaking Toastmasters clubs globally. His philosophy is simple: Be sincere. Be honest. Contribute a little more than expected. A rare combination of technical depth, regulatory understanding, business acumen, and grassroots community service — this episode is a masterclass in longevity, relevance, and purpose. Muthusamy Vetrivel is a seasoned Banking and Data Analytics Specialist with over three decades of combined experience in both information technology and banking operations. He currently serves as Manager – Business Analytics at Saudi National Bank (formerly Banque Saudi Fransi), where he leads analytics initiatives that harness customer insights, large-scale data, and business intelligence to drive product design, customer understanding, and strategic decision-making. Vetrivel’s career uniquely spans core banking systems, software project management, and data analysis, rooted in deep experience with legacy banking platforms and modern analytics environments. Over the years, he has witnessed firsthand the evolution of banking technology — from early MIS and core banking implementations to advanced analytics workflows processing millions of records. Beyond his professional domain, Muthusamy is also known for community leadership, particularly through his involvement with expatriate cultural and support initiatives, mentoring, and building networks that bridge technical expertise with service and social impact. Vetrivel can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvetrivel/

In this special Women’s Day episode of Software People Stories, Gayatri sits down with Manisha Deshpande, VP – Digital Platform Engineering at NuReLM, for a deeply reflective conversation on career evolution, motherhood, leadership, and thriving in the AI era. Manisha’s journey begins in the early 2000s — renting desktops with friends, coding in C++, and working at startups before “startups” were cool. A pivotal on-site experience early in her career changed how she viewed engineering — from writing code to understanding customer impact. Across 25 years in technology — from digital asset management to identity & access management, from services to product engineering, from engineering leadership to heading UX Centers of Excellence — Manisha shares the inflection points that shaped her: Choosing to intentionally slow down during certain seasons of lifeMoving from domain specialist to product mindset thinkerBridging design and engineeringLeading horizontally across business unitsPreparing teams for AI not just technically — but mentallyShe speaks candidly about: Why “letting go” without regret is powerfulThe importance of showing up every dayBuilding a support system beyond workThe shift from executor to thinker in the AI ageWhy curiosity is the only non-negotiable skillFrom rental 386 desktops to AI agents and workflow automation — this episode is about evolution, resilience, and staying human in a rapidly changing industry. If you’re a software professional navigating change, motherhood, leadership, or the AI disruption — this conversation is both grounding and energizing. Quotable Quotes Here are powerful pull-quotes you can use for LinkedIn, audiograms, or graphics: “Technology is shrinking in shelf life — but curiosity never expires.”“You cannot have it all at the same time. But you can choose your season — without regret.”“If you remain an executor, you will be automated. If you become a thinker, you will thrive.”“Letting go is not failure. It is prioritization.”“Show up every day. Even when you’re slowing down, you’re still moving forward.”“AI can accelerate execution — but intent and context still belong to humans.”“Full stack today is not just technical depth — it is empathy, collaboration, and business awareness.”“Build foundations — health, support systems, hobbies. They are your resilience engine.”“Learning is not optional anymore. But evolution is a choice.”“Be curious, not fearful.” With over 25 years of experience in the IT industry, Manisha Deshpande is a highly skilled and visionary leader in digital platform engineering. She is deeply committed to design-led, human-centric product development, ensuring that engineering teams align with cutting-edge design principles to deliver impactful, scalable products. Manisha’s expertise spans the entire product engineering lifecycle, from UX design to cloud infrastructure. She combines a product mindset with AI-powered development to accelerate delivery and drive smarter engineering decisions, creating innovative solutions that address both current and future challenges. An advocate for diversity and inclusion, she mentors college-bound female students, providing valuable guidance to help them succeed in their careers. Earlier in her career, Manisha held leadership roles at Persistent Systems, where she led teams in identity and access management, API management, business process management, and security solutions. She is known for her ability to build high-performing teams, collaborate for growth, and drive product excellence. Outside of work, Manisha’s passions for painting, traveling, and hiking fuel her creativity and provide inspiration for her leadership approach. Manisha can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/manisha-deshpande-0881b36/

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Software People Stories, Gayatri speaks with Dr. Vaijayanthi Srinivasaraghavan (Viji) — a seasoned technology leader, Senior Director at UPS, and a resilient voice for women navigating complex careers and life transitions. From learning C++ through shared manuals in the early 90s to leading global logistics technology at massive scale, Viji shares a journey shaped by grit, reinvention, and purpose. The conversation explores her early career struggles, health challenges, and defining leadership moments — including navigating motherhood, rebuilding her career, and evolving across roles at IBM before helping build UPS’s Global Capability Center in Chennai. Viji reflects on how technology, AI, and analytics are transforming supply chain ecosystems while emphasizing that leadership today requires curiosity, empathy, and continuous learning. More than a career story, this episode becomes a powerful reflection on resilience — rewriting oneself after setbacks, embracing change without guilt, and building ecosystems that help women thrive. Recorded as part of the Women’s Day special series, this conversation blends technology, humanity, and lived experience — reminding listeners that growth is rarely linear, but always meaningful. Key Highlights from the Conversation Early career beginnings as an electrical engineer learning software development in the 90s.Overcoming autoimmune health challenges and redefining career paths.Transformational leadership lessons from early mentors and global work experiences.Career evolution through startups, IBM’s long tenure, and transition to UPS.Building and scaling a Global Capability Center with a startup mindset.The role of AI, analytics, and logistics technology in moving millions of packages daily.Continuous learning culture — embracing AI as a hands-on skill across generations.Personal reflections on resilience, single motherhood, cancer survival, and reinvention.Women’s Day message centered on self-worth, removing guilt, and prioritizing wellbeing. Quotable Quotes “Belong — don’t blur. You are here because you deserve to be here.”“AI is here to stay. Don’t stand on the fence — start embracing it.”“Do not feel guilty for choosing yourself. Put the oxygen mask on first.”“Rewrite yourself. Life will throw curveballs — and that’s okay.”“Leadership is not just about technology; it’s about listening and empathy.”“Only if you are okay, the people around you will be okay.” Dr. Vaijayanthi Srinivasaraghavan (Viji) is a seasoned technology leader and Senior Director at UPS India Technology Centre, bringing over three decades of experience across software engineering, supply chain technology, analytics, and global delivery leadership. Her career spans early R&D engineering roles, semiconductor innovation, a long tenure at IBM, and now building next-generation logistics technology at UPS. An alumna of the University of Madras and a strong advocate of continuous learning, Dr. Viji is also a published author. She co-authored the book Shape It: A Perfect Gift for Budding Engineers to Become Industry Ready, a self-development guide that shares real student stories and practical skills to help young engineers navigate evolving workplaces. () Known for her philosophy of “belong, don’t blur,” she blends deep technical expertise with empathetic leadership — mentoring the next generation of technologists while championing resilience, lifelong learning, and inclusive growth in the technology ecosystem. Viji can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaijayanthisr/

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of Software People Stories, Gayatri speaks with Dr. Vaijayanthi Srinivasaraghavan (Viji) — a seasoned technology leader, Senior Director at UPS, and a resilient voice for women navigating complex careers and life transitions. From learning C++ through shared manuals in the early 90s to leading global logistics technology at massive scale, Viji shares a journey shaped by grit, reinvention, and purpose. The conversation explores her early career struggles, health challenges, and defining leadership moments — including navigating motherhood, rebuilding her career, and evolving across roles at IBM before helping build UPS’s Global Capability Center in Chennai. Viji reflects on how technology, AI, and analytics are transforming supply chain ecosystems while emphasizing that leadership today requires curiosity, empathy, and continuous learning. More than a career story, this episode becomes a powerful reflection on resilience — rewriting oneself after setbacks, embracing change without guilt, and building ecosystems that help women thrive. Recorded as part of the Women’s Day special series, this conversation blends technology, humanity, and lived experience — reminding listeners that growth is rarely linear, but always meaningful. Key Highlights from the Conversation Early career beginnings as an electrical engineer learning software development in the 90s.Overcoming autoimmune health challenges and redefining career paths.Transformational leadership lessons from early mentors and global work experiences.Career evolution through startups, IBM’s long tenure, and transition to UPS.Building and scaling a Global Capability Center with a startup mindset.The role of AI, analytics, and logistics technology in moving millions of packages daily.Continuous learning culture — embracing AI as a hands-on skill across generations.Personal reflections on resilience, single motherhood, cancer survival, and reinvention.Women’s Day message centered on self-worth, removing guilt, and prioritizing wellbeing. Quotable Quotes “Belong — don’t blur. You are here because you deserve to be here.”“AI is here to stay. Don’t stand on the fence — start embracing it.”“Do not feel guilty for choosing yourself. Put the oxygen mask on first.”“Rewrite yourself. Life will throw curveballs — and that’s okay.”“Leadership is not just about technology; it’s about listening and empathy.”“Only if you are okay, the people around you will be okay.” Dr. Vaijayanthi Srinivasaraghavan (Viji) is a seasoned technology leader and Senior Director at UPS India Technology Centre, bringing over three decades of experience across software engineering, supply chain technology, analytics, and global delivery leadership. Her career spans early R&D engineering roles, semiconductor innovation, a long tenure at IBM, and now building next-generation logistics technology at UPS. An alumna of the University of Madras and a strong advocate of continuous learning, Dr. Viji is also a published author. She co-authored the book Shape It: A Perfect Gift for Budding Engineers to Become Industry Ready, a self-development guide that shares real student stories and practical skills to help young engineers navigate evolving workplaces. () Known for her philosophy of “belong, don’t blur,” she blends deep technical expertise with empathetic leadership — mentoring the next generation of technologists while championing resilience, lifelong learning, and inclusive growth in the technology ecosystem. Viji can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaijayanthisr/

In this episode of Software People Stories, Gayatri sits down with Hiran Vedam, Co-founder of Ashwatha Earth, to explore how climate innovation is evolving beyond buzzwords into real systems change. From her beginnings in chemical engineering to building a venture studio focused on translating breakthrough science into scalable climate companies, Hiran shares a grounded perspective on what it truly takes to build a sustainable future. Hiran Vedam shares her journey from chemical engineering to climate tech commercialization.Ashwatha Earth focuses on building climate companies by translating science into scalable ventures.Conversation framed around women leaders in climate and deep tech.️ Climate Tech Evolution Shift from clean tech to climate tech, but the mission remains sustainability.Circularity and responsible material use are central themes.Need to rethink systems that nature cannot naturally recycle.Climate innovation goes beyond solar and wind.Key areas: thermal storage, alternative fuels, advanced materials, and fusion.Industrial heat and heavy transport remain major decarbonization challenges. Startup & Solution Examples Ashwatha Earth building PVC upcycling solutions.Emerging climate startups in emissions tracking, digital twins, hydrogen storage, carbon capture, and biochar.Strong in deployment, financial models, and application-layer innovation.Gaps in deep-tech ownership, patents, and long-term risk capital.Opportunity to move from adoption to innovation leadership. Software & AI in Climate AI accelerates optimization, modeling, and material discovery.Data availability is still a major limitation.AI complements science rather than replacing it.Institutional co-founder approach to take tech from lab to market for making Venture Studio ModelHigher success probability compared to traditional VC power-law models.Focus on zero-to-one building and de-risking innovation.Local solutions can scale globally when economics and distribution are solved. Quotable Quotes from the Episode “It doesn’t matter whether we call it clean tech or climate tech — the goal is a sustainable future for all.”“Electrons alone won’t solve the energy problem. Heat, materials, and chemistry matter just as much.”“Circularity isn’t a trend — it’s learning to live within the limits of the planet.”“The Global South is great at deploying solutions, but deep-tech ownership is where we need to grow.”“AI can optimize what exists — but the fundamental breakthrough still has to come from science.” Hiranmayee Vedam is a climate tech entrepreneur, chemical engineer, and Co-founder of Ashwatha Earth, a venture studio focused on translating breakthrough science into scalable sustainability ventures. An alumna of IIT Madras, she brings over 17 years of experience spanning process engineering, advanced materials, and climate technology commercialization. Over the years, she has contributed to research-led innovation and knowledge sharing across materials, energy systems, and sustainability, with work that bridges academic insight and industrial application. Known for her systems-thinking approach to circularity, deep-tech entrepreneurship, and production-scale climate solutions, Hiranmayee is actively shaping pathways for Global South innovations to move from research pilots to real-world impact. Hiran can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/hiranvedam/

Sujatha Ramani brings together corporate precision and grassroots purpose. With leadership experience at global companies like HP and Wipro, and two entrepreneurial ventures of her own, she made a deliberate shift into the social sector to build opportunity where it matters most. Since 2019, as CEO of Pollinate Group, she has led with clarity and conviction advancing women’s entrepreneurship, sustainability, and ethical growth across underserved communities in India and Nepal. She balances sharp execution with long-term vision, always anchored in dignity and agency. An MBA and computer science graduate, Sujatha also finds joy in soulful singing, nurturing her garden, and passionately following Cricket, Tennis, and Football. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sujatha-ramani-226a665?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

This is part of the specials we have every year focusing on women in IT. In this conversation, Srini Sundararajan shares his experiences and perspectives on empowering women in the workplace, particularly in IT. Srini's key messages include: - His upbringing which emphasized the importance of education and non-discrimination between genders. - His early professional experiences, including managing and interacting with women colleagues for the first time. - The importance of treating women as equals in the workforce and his approach to avoiding gender discrimination. - His story of hiring and supporting a woman who was returning to the workforce after a seven-year break. - Insights into managing women in his team and the different challenges they face, such as work-life balance and societal expectations. - Instances from his career that highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing unique challenges faced by women, such as menstrual cycles and maternity breaks. - Advice on inclusive policies like paternity leave to support working families. - Emphasizing the role men can play in ensuring a comfortable and empowering work environment for women. Through real-life stories and learned lessons, Srini Sundararajan illustrates the importance of empathy, fairness, and structural support in empowering women in the IT industry.

In this episode of Software People Stories, VR Govindarajan, aka Govi, the co-founder and executive chairman of Perfios Software, shares his comprehensive journey from the early days of his career to building successful startups. Govi dives deep into his academic background, industry experience, and the various startups he co-founded, including Aztec Soft and Perfios. He emphasizes the importance of technology-focused innovation, building a product company out of India, and navigating the challenges of operating in a regulated industry. Govi also shares his insights on the value of teamwork, culture, and maintaining a larger purpose beyond just making money. Throughout the conversation, he provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs on raising funds, managing teams, and scaling businesses globally. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:35 Govi's Background and Career Journey 01:43 Early Startups and Challenges 02:48 Building Aztec Soft and Going Public 03:10 Transition to Perfios and Product Focus 06:18 Navigating the Dot-Com Bust 08:18 Acquisitions and Selling to MindTree 13:41 Importance of Team Effort 17:34 Choosing the BFSI Sector 20:39 Challenges in a Regulated Industry 22:29 Managing B2B Sales and Integration 24:26 Focusing on Product Development 24:46 Creating a New Market Category 25:06 Challenges of Evangelizing a New Product 26:21 Leveraging Global Trends 28:07 Expanding to International Markets 34:25 Managing Code and Customizations 36:54 Importance of Local Customer Support 38:11 Leveraging AI and Data 41:22 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 44:51 The Importance of Culture and Values 48:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The timestamps are approximate and do not include the time for the intro. Add about 90 seconds to locate the section As the Co-founder & Executive Chairman, Govi has been the driving force behind building Perfios into the Operating system for the BFSI in India and across the globe. Perfios is an acknowledged technology driven SaaS Pioneer that works across almost all financial institutions (Banking and Insurance Sector) both in India and across 18 countries in South East Asia, Middle East and North Africa. Perfios is a Unicorn and is backed by some of the best Global Investors. As a fintech Pioneer, Govi has been part of many committees in industry forums such as FICCI, CII and ASSOCHAM. He has been an active speaker at many BFSI related conferences and public institutions. He brings over 35 years of rich experience in the IT industry across the US and India. Before co-founding Perfios, Govi was the Co-founder, CTO, and Board Member at Aztecsoft, a pioneering force in the offshore product development space. From being a startup, Aztecsoft got listed in the Indian markets and was run as a public company before being sold to another Public company. Prior to starting Aztecsoft, he played a key role in advancing database technologies at global technology leaders such as Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) and IBM. Govi holds an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Massachusetts and a B.E. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. He may be reached at: govi@perfios.com

In this episode of Software People Stories, Jordan Richards, a Digital Transformation and Knowledge Management technologist, and Founder of Tacitous (www.tacitous.com) a Knowledge Management blueprint and platform designed to help organisations capture, retain, and share critical knowledge at scale shares his extensive experience with technology and knowledge management. From his early days with the ZX 80 computer to his consulting work with oil companies, Jordan emphasizes the importance of solving real-world problems through technology. He advocates for a 'people first, process second, technology third' approach, and shares insights on how to ensure successful adoption of IT solutions by understanding user stories and daily workflows. Jordan discusses the critical importance of managing both knowledge and collaboration within organizations, especially with regard to retirees, and touches on the implications of AI and digital twins in modern business environments. He also shares personal practices that help him stay grounded and continuously updated with the latest trends in technology. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:45 Guest's Origin Story in Technology 01:43 Solving Problems with Technology 02:15 User-Centric Approach to IT Solutions 05:02 Challenges in IT Deployment 05:41 Building Effective IT Strategies 06:40 Understanding Organizational Knowledge Flows 11:14 Importance of Personas in IT Solutions 18:56 Knowledge Management and AI 27:56 Engaging Retirees: Challenges and Solutions 29:38 Building a National Repository of Expertise 32:04 Encouraging Knowledge Sharing and Consumption 34:41 The Role of AI in Knowledge Management 39:21 The Importance of Human Oversight in Technology 43:07 Staying Updated and Lifelong Learning 49:00 Personal Principles for Staying Grounded The timestamps are approximate and do not include the time for the intro. Add about 90 seconds to locate the section Jordan Richards is a Digital Transformation and Knowledge Management technologist, and Founder of Tacitous (www.tacitous.com) a Knowledge Management blueprint and platform designed to help organisations capture, retain, and share critical knowledge at scale. With 20+ years of international experience across high-risk and complex environments (including Oil & Gas and large-scale operations), Jordan specialises in institutional memory, lessons learned, communities of practice, and AI-enabled knowledge retention. He works with government entities, NGOs, and industry leaders to build practical, technology-enabled KM ecosystems that strengthen workforce continuity and organisational resilience. Website: www.tacitous.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanrichards/ Email: collaboration@tacitous.com

In this podcast episode, Sudipta Lahiri, Head Of Engineering and Products at Nimblework, Inc shares his compelling journey from growing up in a cosmopolitan township and studying metallurgical engineering to becoming a leader in the tech industry. He discusses his early career experiences, including a pivotal moment that led him to quit his job at SAIL and pursue further education at IIT Madras. Sudipta delves into his transition from engineering to account management and later into sales. He emphasizes the importance of attention to detail, the challenges and benefits of using AI in software development, and his personal practices that help him stay organized and effective in a fast-evolving industry. Key takeaways include the necessity of understanding the end goal, leveraging change agents for successful tool adoption, and the indispensable role of cognitive behavioral skills in leadership. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:37 Early Life and Education 03:20 First Job and Career Pivot 05:12 Graduate Studies and Entry into IT 07:59 Joining Wipro and Early Projects 12:17 Transition to Sales and Account Management 14:39 Challenges and Success in Sales 15:42 Return to India and Joining i2 Technologies 17:18 Joining Digité and Embracing Agile 19:26 Reflections on Career and Mentorship 28:21 Challenges in Developing Platforms for Developers and Managers 29:24 Focusing on Efficiency for Developers 30:34 Evolving Processes to Minimize Data Entry 33:25 Addressing Tool Adoption Challenges 34:11 Identifying and Leveraging Change Agents 40:06 Balancing Process and Flexibility 46:25 Impact of AI on Software Development 54:19 Personal Practices for Staying Grounded The timestamps are approximate and do not include the time for the intro. Add about 90 seconds to locate the section https://www.linkedin.com/in/sudiptalahiri/ Head Of Engineering and Products at Nimblework, Inc. (Distinguished Fellow, Kanban University, SPC4, AKT, KCP, DAD/CDA) ● Three decades of international leadership experience across diverse industry verticals ● Multi-cultural exposure ranging from a $4 billion company to running a technology start-up ● A Lean/Agile coach and practitioner passionate about helping multiple organizations and teams gain agility and enhanced productivity ● Demonstrated success in developing new products for Lean Software Development ● Entrepreneurial style with an exemplary record in strategic planning, business development, solid execution, and developing high performing teams

In this podcast episode, Shiv is in conversation with Bhargav Bhikkaji, a tech leader, entrepreneur, and founder-CTO of MajorDomo Inc with deep expertise in cloud and Gen-AI driven enterprise software. In this episode of Software People Stories, Bhargav shares his inspiring journey from his early interest in physics and mathematics to becoming a DevOps pioneer. Initially focused on engineering and computer networking, Bhargav's career path led him through various roles at HCL Cisco and Dell before transitioning to an entrepreneurial venture. He describes the challenges of moving back to India, starting a consulting business, and eventually founding a company that focuses on DevOps and AI deployment solutions. Bhargav emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs, continuous learning, and staying grounded through personal practices like long-distance running. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:31 Early Interests and Education 03:13 First Steps in Networking 04:21 Career Growth and Innovations 05:13 Transition to DevOps and Kubernetes 07:23 Starting a Consulting Business 10:27 Challenges and Strategies in Networking 18:08 Patents and Open Source Debate 26:36 Navigating the Transition from Technical Expert to Entrepreneur 27:42 Understanding Customer Needs in Product Development 29:45 Balancing Immediate Customer Demands with Long-Term Solutions 32:10 Managing Multiple Roles in a Startup 33:49 The Importance of Customer Conversations and Product Market Fit 34:36 Challenges in Developing Developer Tools 37:42 Articulating the Value Proposition of Major Domo 40:41 Handling Rollbacks and Ensuring Transaction Integrity 46:52 Keeping Pace with Rapid Technological Changes 49:00 Staying Grounded Amidst the Chaos 50:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The timestamps are approximate and do not include the time for the intro. Add about 90 seconds to locate the section. Bhargav Bhikkaji is a tech leader, entrepreneur, and founder-CTO of MajorDomo Inc with deep expertise in cloud and Gen-AI driven enterprise software. As the Founder, Bhargav leads the development of platform solutions that simplify and automate complex cloud-native and Gen-AI operations. He is passionate about bridging the gap between cutting-edge technologies and real-world outcomes, sharing insights on GenAI, RAG, LLMOps, enterprise AI, and governance through talks, articles, and video series. Bhargav’s work blends engineering excellence with strategic thinking, helping teams adopt scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud and AI solutions. Outside work, Bhargav enjoys endurance running and often reflects on resilience and growth—bringing the same mindset to tech and leadership that he applies in life’s challenges One can reach out to Bhargav Bhikkaji at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhargav-bhikkaji and http://x.com/bbhikkaji

In this podcast episode, Shiv is in conversation with Anees Haidary, Global Head, Operational Excellence, Data Privacy, and Global Workforce Management at Sasken Technologies. In this engaging episode, Anees shares his remarkable journey in the IT industry, starting from his humble beginnings in a lower-middle-class family in India to becoming a prominent figure in various leadership roles. Anees discusses his educational background in engineering, his early struggles with job interviews, and the pivotal break that led him to a successful career. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief, continuous learning, and the role of mentors in professional growth. Anees also delves into his experiences with various organizations, including IBM, and his current role, where he oversees multiple portfolios including operational excellence and data privacy. Additionally, Anees highlights his involvement in Toastmasters and the BSPIN network, advocating for networking and professional development at any stage of one’s career. He also shares his personal methods for managing time and staying grounded. The episode is filled with practical tips and inspiring anecdotes, making it a valuable listen for anyone in the software industry. Anees is a Storyteller, Problem Solver, Inventor, Game changer, and Data Privacy and ESG expert. Being an industry veteran for 25+ years in IT Industry, his role in Leadership at Sasken has helped define a strategy, roadmap & governance mechanism to address business critical problems, Established and sustained the Demand Supply Framework sustaining the core of business, Integrating various cultures post-acquisition, establishing data privacy and information security practice at Sasken among few large initiatives. Being a strong project management enthusiast, and successfully delivered large initiatives jointly with PMI in South Asia, he has been able to deeply influence and integrate world class project management initiatives at Sasken, and various product and services organization in his role as a PMISA champion. Apart from MBA in HRM, Anees has completed Strategy Thinking Course from IIM Kolkata. Certified in PMP, ITILv3, CSM, ISO 9K, 14K, 27K, 27701 Lead Implementer, ISO 26262 Process Expert, ASPICE v3.1 SME, he has been able to contribute greatly to his organization’s vision and mission 60x4x3. He is also an active public speaker, and chartered Toastmasters Club in his organization, and completed a decade long relationship with Toastmasters International. He is a Certified Public Speaker from Dale Carnegie Institute USA. He heads Project Management Academy, Quality, Customer Experience Management, Data Privacy Office, Audits and Certifications, Special Strategic Initiatives, Delivery Excellence, and Global Workforce Management at Sasken Technologies Limited. Currently he is the Champion at PMI South Asia and Project Management Mentor at Sasken. He co-authored the PM Competency Development Framework (PMCDF) initiative of Project Management Institute (PMI) and integrated into HR competency management systems at Sasken, and mentored various organizations like CISCO, Cushman and Wakefield, Robert Bosch India, Nokia India on leveraging PMCDF for advancing the noble profession of Project management through continuous assessment of PM competency. Anees is the Core member of Risk Management Committee (RMC) at Sasken reporting into the Risk committee of Sasken Board. His white papers are published in International and National Journals and Magazines, websites & newsletters of different forums. He received many awards and honors from different organizations in advancing the field of Project Management. He may be reached at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haidary/

In this podcast episode, Gayatri Kalyanaraman is in conversation with Kumaran Anandan, CTO of TinyMagiq and Enterprise Architect —shares a refreshingly honest journey across hardware, industrial automation, embedded systems, startups, consulting, and Microsoft. From writing programs on a programmable calculator (and storing them in audio cassettes!) to building deep learning habits through daily compounding, Kumaran explains why modern technologists must fall in love with failure, understand fundamentals, and stop building software without users who will pay. A thought-provoking conversation on architecture, human psychology, AI hallucinations, and what it really means to create value. 00:00 – 01:00 — Kumaran’s self-introduction: experimenting constantly and looking forward to failures. 01:00 – 02:25 — Earliest career memory: building a DBase 3+ application for a school and earning a watch as his first “payment.” 02:26 – 03:29 — Not getting campus placed, being an average student, and the early struggle of finding a job. 03:29 – 05:20 — First software experience in 10th holidays: programmable Casio calculator, BASIC programming, and saving programs using an audio cassette tape. 05:20 – 07:56 — Early career direction: interest in hardware, industrial automation, 8085 assembly programming, and learning through real-world constraints. 07:56 – 10:12 — Moving up the stack: C/C++, antivirus software, Wipro’s hardware + software work, and “mobile apps” before mobile became mainstream. 10:12 – 11:34 — Entrepreneurship journey: starting a company during the internet boom, shutting it down after the bubble burst, then transitioning to Microsoft. 11:36 – 12:29 — Kumaran’s definition of good technology: anything that protects evenings and weekends from work. 12:31 – 13:48 — A conscious career decision: taking a salary cut to work on hardware because learning mattered more than comfort. 13:48 – 15:39 — Microsoft Consulting Services: being called only for complex “fires,” shorter engagements, and high learning intensity. 15:39 – 17:23 — The daily learning habit: “Kumaran of yesterday won’t be Kumaran today,” and how small learning compounds over time. 17:24 – 19:28 — Curiosity beyond the surface: learning “under the hood,” connecting ideas across psychology, neuroscience, and technology. 19:42 – 23:16 — Microsoft culture: self-learning, asking better questions, getting pointers instead of hand-holding, and building independent thinking. 23:39 – 26:10 — Fundamentals matter: software is predictable (input–process–output), hardware is ambiguous, and AI changes predictability in software. 26:36 – 29:21 — TinyMagiq and mentoring: serendipity, a clear timeline to quit corporate life, and why enterprise software rarely creates joy. 30:39 – 33:35 — A common founder mistake: building for 14–18 months with no paying users and confusing “features built” with “value delivered.” 33:35 – 36:46 — Pricing reality check: if nobody pays even ₹100, the problem isn’t the market—it’s unclear value and weak conviction. 36:46 – 38:35 — “I don’t like code”: code as debt, and why architecture must fight unnecessary complexity. 38:35 – 41:19 — Loving failure: video games as a metaphor, why software needs failure-tolerance, and a warning to those who want “safe IT careers.” 41:56 – 44:01 — Entrepreneurship mindset: de-addiction to monthly salary, India’s services legacy, and why playing safe kills learning. 44:01 – 46:40 — “Unlearning” is reframing: the hardest failure is success because it reinforces old patterns and makes change difficult. 48:11 – 51:27 — AI hallucinations and “Maya”: why we’re already trained to handle uncertainty, and how that applies to building AI systems. 51:27 – 52:08 — Architecture simplified: an architect ensures user happiness through people, process, and technology. 52:44 – 53:06 — Closing advice: be curious about how you can enjoy failure. Quotable Quotes “A person who keeps experimenting… and looks forward...

In this podcast episode, Gayatri Kalyanaraman is in conversation with Shubhangi M Josiam, Digital Head APAC of Alstom about her 18+ year journey across GE and Alstom, moving from core IT and infrastructure roles to customer-facing digital transformation leadership across APAC. Shubangi shares candid stories about career pivots, leadership programs, Lean Six Sigma, building IT from scratch post-acquisition, and navigating cross-cultural teams—ending with powerful advice for women professionals to be bold and go for roles before feeling “fully ready”. 00:00 – 01:50 — Introduction to Shubangi’s APAC digital leadership role and IT’s shift from backend to customer-facing solutions. 01:52 – 04:41 — Early inspiration for engineering, switching from electronics to information science driven by a love for programming. 04:42 – 07:56 — Entering GE through walk-ins, starting in captive IT, and learning end-to-end infrastructure fundamentals. 08:20 – 11:49 — Discovering GE’s leadership culture and choosing Lean Six Sigma for outcome-driven career growth. 12:06 – 14:28 — Leading a consumer experience transformation project and early exposure to Agile and product thinking. 14:29 – 16:08 — Managing ERP operations and learning real-world supply chain complexity during system transitions. 16:08 – 18:09 — Navigating acquisitions, making tough career exits, and prioritising personal sustainability. 18:46 – 23:51 — Joining Alstom during post-acquisition chaos and helping build IT systems from the ground up. 23:51 – 25:50 — Building digital and analytics platforms, hiring data scientists, and scaling analytics maturity. 25:51 – 27:47 — Transitioning into regional IT leadership and driving large-scale digital change during COVID. 27:48 – 29:37 — Moving into customer-facing digital rail solutions across APAC and continuous learning from the market. 30:00 – 32:19 — Managing APAC time zones through clusters while maintaining work–life balance. 32:20 – 36:45 — Leading across cultures by balancing company values with local working styles. 46:46 – 48:36 — Building trust through direct feedback, transparency, and authentic leadership. 48:38 – 50:43 — Final advice: be bold, apply even if you’re not “ready,” and trust yourself to figure it out. Quotable Quotes “If you want to do something, go for it. Help will come—and you will figure it out.” “Men apply saying, ‘I’ll figure it out.’ Women apply saying, ‘I meet only five out of ten requirements.’ That’s what stops us.” “I didn’t tick all the boxes, but I figured it out.” “Worst case, you fail. Big deal. You learn. It’s not the end of the world.” “IT is no longer a backend engine—it’s delivering real digital solutions to customers.” Shubangi can be reached at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shubhangi-mj/

As we step into 2026, a heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for your time, trust, and continued support. Your engagement, feedback, and encouragement mean a lot to us and inspire us to keep creating meaningful conversations and content. Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year 2026—may it bring good health, fresh opportunities, and continued learning. Looking forward to growing and learning together in the year ahead! Here is the link to the AI story mentioned in the podcast https://youtu.be/wjgbCiZmbEE Hope you enjoy!!

In this episode, Hasan Siddiqui, a veteran in the IT industry, recounts his extensive and diverse career in the software and technology industry, offering valuable insights and advice along the way. He starts with his academic beginnings, influenced by the late Professor V Rajaraman, and traces his journey through various pivotal roles at companies like Burroughs, Unisys, and TCS. He discusses his work on significant international projects, his tenure at CBS, his experiences with matrix organizations, corporate politics, and his eventual transition into academic roles and consulting. Hasan also emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, maintaining professional relationships, and staying optimistic and adaptable in the ever-evolving tech landscape. 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introductions 00:52 Early Career and Influential Mentors 02:43 First Major Projects and Overseas Assignments 05:32 Learning and Adapting in France 08:43 Transition to Account Management and Return to India 12:03 Building a Career in Bangalore and Pune 18:31 Navigating Corporate Politics and Final Career Moves 32:03 Introduction to Can Bay and HSBC 32:37 Challenges and Responsibilities at GDC 35:27 Transition to Academia 37:55 Return to Industry and Career Lessons 40:40 Retirement and New Ventures 41:55 Continuous Learning and Technology Trends 45:45 Managing Large Teams and Client Relations 51:51 Networking and Building Relationships 54:09 Retirement Philosophy and Personal Practices 01:00:40 Final Thoughts and Advice The timestamps are approximate and do not include the time for the intro. Add about 90 seconds to locate the section. Hasan Siddiqui is an alumnus of IIT Kanpur and an accomplished technology and business education leader in the international IT industry spanning corporate strategy, business development, GDC/ODC set up and operations, talent management and academics. He has played senior management roles at Cap Gemini, Tata Consultancy Services, Tech Mahindra, Covansys and Symbiosis university. He may be reached at: it.career.lighthouse@gmail.com

My guest today is Ravikiran Pothukuchi, the leader of Dassault Systèmes’ Enterprise Portfolio business in India. In this conversation, Ravi shares his journey from his humble beginnings in a small village in India to becoming a key player in Dassault Systems' business landscape. Ravi dives deep into his upbringing, education, and multiple career transitions that shaped his professional life. Key highlights include his transition from an R&D role to a customer-facing role, the importance of building human connections, the value of curiosity, and how he integrated traditional knowledge with modern business strategies. Notable quotes and insights punctuate the narrative, offering valuable lessons on adaptability, resilience, and the power of networking. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:36 Early Life and Education 03:26 Higher Education and Career Beginnings 13:24 Transition to Business Development 19:14 Leadership and Team Management 26:39 Transitioning to Customer-Facing Roles 27:33 The Challenges of Business Development 31:30 The Importance of Networking 35:21 Building Genuine Connections 40:05 Navigating Career Transitions 46:22 Personal Practices for Staying Grounded 47:02 The Five Cs Framework for Success 49:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The timestamps are approximate, and after the intro that is about 90 seconds. For more closer timestamps, add 90 seconds to the labels above Ravikiran Pothukuchi is the leader of Dassault Systèmes’ Enterprise Portfolio business in India. In this role, he is responsible for defining the business strategy to expand the company’s Portfolio presence in India’s rapidly growing economic sectors. Ravikiran began his career with Dassault Systèmes in 2004, initially working in various roles within the Research and Development (R&D) organization before transitioning to business development in 2011. In 2017, he assumed responsibility for increasing market share across the company’s core industry vertical, achieving a year-over-year double-digit growth for five consecutive years. He is now entrusted with the responsibility of tapping the growth potential of Dassault Systèmes’ Enterprise portfolio while diversifying into new industries and segments. Ravikiran holds degrees from prestigious institutions, IIT-Madras and IIM-Bangalore. He is also a DAAD scholar and a member of several industry organizations, including SAE and IFCCI. Ravi may be reached at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ravikiran-pothukuchi-47750312/?originalSubdomain=in

In this episode of the Software People Stories, my guest Ben Wilcox is the Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at ProArch. Ben shares his fascinating journey from building a web hosting business as a teenager to his current role as CTO and CISO at ProArch. Ben discusses the evolution of his career, his involvement in various projects, and the ever-changing landscape of security, especially with the advent of AI. He also provides valuable insights into how enterprises should approach security, the complexities of data localization, and the importance of a continuous security model. The conversation also delves into career advice for aspiring IT and security professionals. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:42 Early Career and Web Hosting Business 02:49 Transition to Software Development 03:51 Joining Advisor Group and Pro 05:06 Challenges of Running a Business as a Teenager 07:55 Learning and Growth in a Larger Company 09:14 Becoming a CISO and Security Focus 12:21 Evolving Security Landscape and AI 15:01 Data Security and Insider Risk Management 20:51 Zero Trust Environments and Legacy Systems 23:58 Sleepless Nights and Security Concerns 25:50 Balancing Innovation and Security 26:11 Finding Joy in Leadership 26:54 Navigating the CTO and CISO Roles 28:55 Keeping Up with Technology Trends 31:27 Hyper-Personalization and Security Risks 36:02 The Role of Open Source in Security 41:03 Career Advice for Aspiring Security Professionals 45:35 The Impact of AI on Security Jobs 49:11 Conclusion and Contact Information The timestamps are approximate, and after the intro that is about 90 seconds. For more closer timestamps, add 90 seconds to the labels above Ben Wilcox is the Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Security Officer at ProArch, where he leads the company’s cloud, security, and AI enablement strategy. With more than 20 years of experience spanning software engineering, cybersecurity, and enterprise architecture, Ben helps organizations modernize their technology foundations while navigating the evolving threat landscape. Ben’s career began in hands-on development and infrastructure work, giving him a deep technical grounding that informs his leadership today. He has built and led high-performing engineering teams, guided complex cloud migrations, and designed modern security programs that balance innovation with risk management. At ProArch, he works closely with clients to architect AI-ready, scalable systems that drive business transformation. Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-wilcox