The Indianness Podcast | Insights from Indian Business Leaders, Indian Founders & High-Performing Indian Americans

Every story begins with roots that nurture towering ambitions. In this episode, I’m joined by Sita Sonty, CEO of Space Tango and a guest lecturer at MIT. From the artful stages of Bharatanatyam to the technological helm of Space Tango, Sita Sonty is an example of how blending cultural heritage with modern innovation propels leadership in aerospace technology. 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 Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Ravi Pendse, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at the University of Michigan. He joins us to discuss how appreciation has guided his personal and professional journey, deeply rooted in his rich cultural heritage. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

Every groundbreaking leap forward in technology begins with a simple step taken by someone who dares to think differently. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Ravi Pendekanti, Senior Vice President of Product Management and Marketing at Western Digital. We explore his journey from a small Indian village to the heights of global tech leadership, and how this embodies the principle of innovative thinking and strategic foresight. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I'm joined by Ramesh Razdan, Global CIO of Bain & Company. His journey from a remote village in Kashmir to the helm of a global consulting giant is not just inspiring but a testament to an indomitable spirit of determination and resilience. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Raju Rajan, Chief Technologist for US East Globals at Hewlett Packard Enterprises and the pioneering force behind ReWild Long Island. His journey from the educational lanes of Chennai to the corridors of global tech leadership and environmental advocacy exemplifies a narrative rich with determination, innovation and a deep-rooted connection to heritage. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I welcome Praveen Akkiraju, Managing Director of Insight Partners. Praveen shares insights gained on his journey from the lush landscapes of Andhra Pradesh into a leading role in the global tech and investment world. His story is a clear example of how embracing our cultural roots — coupled with adaptability and visionary leadership — can lead to unparalleled success. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Kalyan Peri, Chief Information Officer of Commercial Business at Conduent. His life story is not just about the ascent to technological leadership but also about the values and experiences that shape a visionary over the course of a lifetime. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Aarti Holla-Maini, the Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). Her story weaves together the richness of Indian heritage with her impactful global career, offering insights into the challenges and triumphs of balancing diverse worlds. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In this episode, I’m joined by Shailesh Upreti, a visionary melding his Indian heritage with cutting-edge scientific innovation. Now the Founder and Director of iM3NY and Founder and CEO of C4V, Shailesh’s journey from a small village in Uttarakhand to the forefront of sustainable energy is as inspiring as it is enlightening. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button, and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In this episode, Ashwin Rangan, Chief Information Officer of ICANN, shares his remarkable story about shifting from Bangalore to becoming a pivotal figure in global internet governance. Ashwin reveals details of his story that demonstrate how to leverage challenges into opportunities, the essence of mentorship and the transformative power of technology. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In the heart of innovation lies a story of tradition, a narrative that blends the past with future possibilities. On this episode, I am joined by Nikhil Deshpande, Chief Digital and AI Officer for the Georgia Technology Authority. He embodies this blend, weaving his rich cultural heritage with a vision for digital transformation. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

From the colorful landscapes of Chennai to the corridors of Silicon Valley, Bask Iyer’s remarkable journey is a fusion of innovation, leadership, and the rich tapestry of Indian heritage. Today, I’m thrilled to welcome the visionary CEO of BaskMind.com and former CIO of VMware and Dell, onto our platform. Join us as Bask shares the milestones and wisdom that catapulted him to the forefront of technological leadership, embodying the essence of global success through authenticity and insight. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I am joined by Professor Rama Ramakrishnan, a seasoned academic and advisor with a history in the corporate and academic worlds. He shares his unique journey and insights. Currently serving as a Professor of Practice at the Sloan School of Management, MIT, Rama also has experience from his tenure at Salesforce and various startups. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Sanjay Rishi, CEO of Work Dynamics at JLL. With a rich background in global leadership across major firms like PricewaterhouseCoopers, Johnson Controls and IBM, Dr. Rishi shares insights into the evolving role of technology in our work and living spaces. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In the ever-evolving field of technology and entrepreneurship, blending cultural roots with innovation creates a powerful formula for success. On this episode, I sit down with Arjun Dev Arora, Managing Partner of FormatOne, to explore how his journey demonstrates this blend, carving a unique niche in the tech world. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

The most unexpected paths in life often lead to the most rewarding destinations. This fact rings true for Maneesh Goyal, COO of the Mayo Clinic Platform, whose journey from a small town in India to the forefront of healthcare innovation is nothing short of remarkable. 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/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In this episode, I am joined by Prith Banerjee, the Chief Technology Officer of ANSYS, Inc. From a nomadic childhood to leading technological innovations, Prith’s story is a testament to the power of adaptability and vision. We uncover insights from his journey across continents and industries. Key Takeaways: (03:14) How his adaptability was ingrained from a childhood of frequent relocations. (03:52) The prioritization of education over material wealth in Indian culture. (04:46) The role of prestigious schooling in professional success. (07:49) The invaluable impact of family support and mentorship. (10:35) Navigating academic pressures and expectations at IIT. (13:16) Upholding a moral compass throughout personal and professional challenges. (21:02) Learning independence and self-reliance while studying abroad. (37:04) The transformative experience of venturing into entrepreneurship. (47:14) Weighing risks and making bold career decisions in the tech industry. (1:00:25) Driving innovation in various industries as CTO of ANSYS, Inc. (1:04:30) The evolution of technology and its impact on future industries. (1:10:15) Vision for the future of engineering and technology education. Resources Mentioned: Prith Banerjee - https://www.linkedin.com/in/prith-banerjee/ ANSYS, Inc | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ansys-inc/ Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur - https://www.iitkgp.ac.in/ ANSYS, Inc. | Website - https://www.ansys.com/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan, the Director of the U.S. National Science Foundation. His journey from a passionate student in Chennai to leading one of the most significant science and technology institutions in the United States is nothing short of inspiring. Key Takeaways: (02:10) The early influence of Dr. Panchanathan’s parents and their emphasis on strong values. (08:12) Lessons learned from his grandfather about selflessness and giving. (14:20) His passion for cricket and its impact on his life. (18:05) Academic passion carries more importance than grades. (26:16) Leaving one’s comfort zone enhances learning and growth. (30:41) Adapting to life and studies in a new country. (41:34) An inspiring encounter with generosity and the essence of true inspiration. (46:21) Dr. Panchanathan’s vision for the future in science and technology. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drpanch/ U.S. National Science - https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-science-foundation/ U.S. National Science Foundation - https://www.nsf.gov/ Twitter/X NSF: @NSF https://twitter.com/NSF NSF Director’s Twitter: @NSFDrPanch https://twitter.com/NSFDrPanch?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor LinkedIn/Facebook: @National Science Foundation (NSF) https://www.facebook.com/US.NSF/ Instagram: @nsfgov https://www.instagram.com/nsfgov/?hl=en Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

In the world of tech and innovation, understanding the journey behind success can be as inspiring as the achievements themselves. On this episode, I’m joined by Rama Akkiraju, Vice President AI/ ML for IT at NVIDIA. Rama shares her remarkable journey from Hyderabad, India, to becoming a leader in one of the most dynamic fields today. Key Takeaways: (00:48) Rama's role and her journey in the AI industry. (02:21) The impact of Rama's family background on her career. (09:04) The pivotal role of Rama's brother in shaping her goals. (13:19) Rama's early interests and education in Carnatic classical music. (17:23) Challenges faced during the transition to English-medium education. (21:50) Rama's experience and focus during her engineering studies. (27:28) Cultural and academic adjustments in the US. (32:53) Landing a career-defining role at IBM Research. (39:04) The vital role mentors play in personal and professional growth. (44:26) How continuous learning enhances career growth. (52:50) The pace and impact of the AI revolution on Rama's career. Resources Mentioned: Rama Akkiraju - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramaakkiraju NVIDIA - https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

Leadership in the digital age demands more than expertise. It requires a daring spirit and a willingness to learn continuously. Today, I’m thrilled to be joined by Amit Singh, chief business officer of Palo Alto Networks and former Google Cloud President. Amit’s remarkable journey from sales to senior leadership highlights the essence of adaptive leadership in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. Key Takeaways: (02:48) The role of adaptability and flexibility in character development. (09:39) Amit's high achievement in math and physics, inspired by his family. (14:52) Experiences with ragging and building connections in boarding school. (20:53) Focus on social activities and sports during college over academics. (23:18) Amit's ambition to move to the U.S., spurred by American culture. (30:19) Experiences with job applications after graduation. (37:19) Contributions to Google, especially the Google Cloud project. (44:52) Creating a course for young professionals at Palo Alto Networks. (45:49) Involvement in triathlons, mentorship, and spirituality. Resources Mentioned: Amit Singh - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amitksingh77/ Palo Alto Networks - https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ Google Cloud - https://cloud.google.com/ Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show. #Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness