Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

Rachna Singh former Principal Commissioner Income Tax is a multifaceted professional whose expertise spans across literature, finance, and writing. She authored notable books on economic matters, including 'Penny Panache: Piecing the Economic Puzzle' (2016), 'Financial Felicity: Making Sense of Money Matters' (2017), and 'Myriad Musings' (2016), a compilation of her published articles and travelogues. Her recent publication, 'The Bitcoin Saga: A Mixed Montage,' was released by Bloomsbury.

In the academic sphere, Rachna excelled in English Literature at Punjab University, earning gold medals for academic excellence. Her outstanding achievements led to the Nehru Centenary scholarship for a doctorate at the University of Cambridge.

Transitioning from academia to the Indian Revenue Service, Rachna ventured into finance, taxation, economics, and law. Despite this shift, her passion for writing remained steadfast. Completing her Doctorate in English Literature in 2003, Rachna showcased her literary prowess through several books, including 'Myriad Musings,' 'Penny Panache,' and 'The Bitcoin Saga.'

In September 2021, Rachna transitioned into full-time writing, establishing 'The Wise Owl,' an online literary & Art magazine. Her latest creation, 'Phoenix in Flames,' celebrates the extraordinary resilience of ordinary women, portraying fortitude and grit, unveiling the remarkable strength inherent in the ordinary.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Confronting challenges.
• The impact of mentorship.
• Self-doubt is natural to everyone.
• Taking inspiration from her daughter. 
• Life skills learned because of Proximity to nature.
• Importance of financial independence for women. 
• The mind can make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell.
• Overcoming adversity and emerging stronger on the other side.
• Qualities of tenacity and passion that contributed to Rachna's success.
• From a utopian view of the world to a practical understanding of reality.
• Confronting Fears and Personal Growth, doing things outside your comfort zone.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dusica H. Lukac is Partner and Managing Director of DL Capital Partners. She crossed from Money Street to Tech Street after decades in investment banking and millions under management and M&A deals.

Dusica has worked with multiple PE/VC funds and other institutional investors, technology companies in growth stage, founded her own companies, invested as an angel; as well as Non Executive Director or Advisor in multiple boards. 

Her core expertise is Financial services and Fintechs. 

Apart from emerging technologies she has keen interest in financial innovations. She also provides focused Transaction advisory and her team fondly calls her Transaction Diva. 

In 2018 Dusica was awarded as best Fintech Consultant in CEE, and in 2019 she took part in a blockchain panel at Cannes Film Festival.

Apart from working and living in 5 countries and speaking 5 languages, Dusica loves traveling. …and chanced upon an app which made her realize the current count is 78. 

Some insights from this episode: 

• If things are not going your way, recognize and accept it and while you're waiting, gain some new skill because one day you will get out of the challenge and have an extra skill. 
• The biggest illusion is that life is just going in one direction, which is  up. Life is like pockets of enormous happiness and all in between.
• Success comes in waves; resilience, persistence and how you use your energy and what you do in downtime as well as uptime, matters.
• One of the important things when you come to negotiations is that you do not bring your own luggage to the room, else you will never be able to see the reality. 
• IQ is the supporting function of emotions because actually we make choices based on our emotional reactions and that is the key for our decision making. If you can combine analytical risk management skills which are going very fast with a high awareness of where the emotional reaction is coming from, you actually combine the best of both worlds. 
• Sometimes people don't like us because they just don't like us and sometimes they do. Whether they do or don't, just focus on your job and what you can achieve. It's not your  job to change the world by arguing with the world. Change the world by doing what you are doing. 

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Bhavani Vadlamudi, a visionary in the field of Information Technology, is known for her expertise in ERP transformations and her innovative approach to business challenges. 

Originally from the small town of Guntoor in India, Bhavani began her professional journey as a computer teacher at Aptech Computers. Driven by her passion for technology and a desire to make a broader impact, she pivoted into the field of Information Technology. With a degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Bhavani quickly established herself as an exceptional Systems Engineer, Network Administrator, and ERP database administrator.

Bhavani's career took a significant turn when she joined General Electric (GE), where she made a profound impact on the organization's ERP deployments. Her strong leadership and unwavering advocacy for process standardization before digitization earned her the title "ERP Queen" from business leaders across multiple GE businesses. Currently serving as the Vice-President of MRO Digital at GE Aerospace in Cincinnati, USA, Bhavani continues to inspire and drive change in the IT industry. 

Bhavani has played a pivotal role in establishing Center of Excellence teams that consistently deliver quality results and implement visionary IT strategies and solutions. Leveraging her deep understanding of diverse cultural aspects, Bhavani crafted robust change management strategies for each deployment, solidifying her reputation as a transformative leader.

Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Bhavani is deeply committed to empowering and supporting women's growth. Through her dedication to coaching and mentoring, she has positively influenced the careers of over 200 women.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Imposter syndrome.
• Navigating new cultures.
• Finding purpose in leadership .
• From Individual contributor to leader.
• Courage is essential for women to succeed .
• Education empowers women, and the role of her mother.
• Women should demand respect, equal opportunities, and recognition.
• Embrace change and understand resistance and fear toward change.
• Different roles parents play, Mothers emphasize societal conformity, fathers focus on being bold.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli’s website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Runsi Sen is the Founder, President, and CEO of Ovarcome, a leading global advocacy organization dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and providing financial, psycho-social, and informational assistance to empower women and their families in “Ovarcoming” ovarian cancer.

Runsi lost her beloved mother to ovarian cancer, and in her memory—and with her inspiration—she founded Ovarcome. With a vision rooted in empathy, equity, empowerment, and impact, she has led the organization’s expansion into a globally recognized platform that bridges clinical care, advocacy, and community outreach. Under her leadership, Ovarcome has reached millions through awareness campaigns, support initiatives, and direct services—all provided to patients at no cost.

She holds an MBA in Strategy and Marketing from Rice University and a Master’s degree in Economics. Her academic background, global experience, and personal journey as a caregiver bring a unique, deeply human perspective to her work in nonprofit leadership and patient advocacy.

Runsi is a two-time TEDx speaker and, most recently, she led the publication of Ovarcoming: Stories of Hope & Healing, and has been recognized with awards such as the Global Impact Award from the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition and the Global Advocacy Award from the International Gynecologic Cancer Society. She also serves on the Rice Business Alumni Board, advises MD Anderson Cancer Center, and was named one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women in 2025.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Take your time to choose, but once you do, commit fully and own your path. 
• Using the “deathbed perspective”—making choices your future self will not regret. 
• Embracing diverse perspectives, how different minds can come together to achieve a shared vision. 
• It’s not just about the work—it’s about how we come together as humans to build, celebrate, and grow as a team. 
• A strong 'why' keeps you going—even when the work is tough. 
• Choosing to transform personal grief into purpose.
• Not every 'no' is because of you—sometimes it's just about timing, priorities, or limited resources. 
• Listening to what’s uncomfortable is often where growth starts. 
• Challenges often carry the seeds of possibility—we just have to stay open to finding them.
• The word ‘Survivor’ gives power to the disease—‘Overcomer’ gives it back to the person.
• BEACH—a symptom awareness tool to bridge the gap in ovarian cancer detection. 
• In mission-driven work, alignment of talent is as critical as ability. 
• Entrepreneurship isn’t just strategy—it’s intuition, courage, and heart. 
• When you’re walking the path meant for you, even exhaustion feels like joy. 
• Being emotionally aware isn’t a weakness—it’s a leadership edge. 
• It’s time to normalize flexibility and humanity—life happens, and people shouldn’t have to apologize for it. 
• Corporate spaces are still built for extroverts, but true inclusion means valuing all ways of thinking and expressing. 
• You can’t lead with impact if you’re hiding who you really are. 
• Compassion is the driving force behind, um, everything in life. 

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Roshena is the Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, a commercial barrister, and a mother to four young children. She was elected as a Melbourne City Councillor in 2020 and elected as Deputy Lord Mayor in 2024. She has portfolio responsibilities for planning, tourism, and events. She is particularly passionate about making Melbourne a magnet for global headquarters and small businesses, and the easiest city to do business in. She loves listening to residents and businesses in Melbourne and fighting for the issues that matter to them. She was also the candidate for the Federal parliamentary seat of Aston.

As a Barrister, she has appeared for and advised some of Australia’s largest companies and the government. She has also acted in a number of Royal Commissions. 

She is the daughter of Indian migrants, and her most important job is being a mother to four young children. 

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Being your own cheerleader.
• Education is a great equalizer.
• More women and mothers to lead.
• Build systems that support caregivers 
• Designing cities that people want to live in
• The quiet responsibility children of migrants carry.
• Choosing law as a way to serve, legal representation shouldn't be reserved for the privileged.
• Harnessing imposter syndrome as fuel, turning doubt into preparation, clarity, and better outcomes.
• Calling out subtle power plays, staying steady when more experienced voices try to shake your confidence.
• Campaigns are deeply personal and uniquely challenging.
• Dealing with public criticism and personal attacks and staying focused on purpose, not noise.
• Redefining balance, choosing joy over perfection, presence over pressure.
• Focusing fully on the task at hand, whether in court, council, or at home.
• Letting go of the myth of perfection—and choosing storytime or bath time over spotless kitchens.
• Why politics is just another battleground, focusing on issues, not personal attacks.
• Leadership doesn’t require permission—just conviction and courage.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

 Adirupa (Adi) is Group Chief Executive of Common Purpose. She has been with the organization since 2001 and has held a variety of roles over the years, including CEO of Common Purpose Asia-Pacific, during which time she started a global hub out of Singapore and grew it to be a major player in the leadership field in Asia-Pacific.

 Adi has a passion for developing talent and connecting people from different backgrounds. She has extensive knowledge and experience working across different countries, cities, and cultures to help leaders learn to cross boundaries in order to tackle complex problems. Her TEDx talk speaks to her passion for cross-boundary leadership - Adirupa Sengupta: Cultural Collisions: do we fight or flex? | TED Talk

 Over the years, Adi has driven some key partnerships for Common Purpose including the American Express Foundation, BNP Paribas, GE, DBS, FWD, the UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, the ASEAN Foundation, and RMIT University to deliver leadership programmes for different generations across the world - these include the SG100 Young Leaders Programme (with the National Youth Council of Singapore), CSCLeaders (with The HRH Duke of Edinburgh Commonwealth Study Conferences (UK Fund)) and the ASEAN Leaders programme (with the ASEAN Foundation).

 Adi is based in the UK but travels and works all over the world. She grew up in India, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree before reading for an MPhil in International Relations at St. John’s College, Cambridge.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Stepping onto the TEDx stage.
• Taking a leap of faith, trusting the promise of an idea.
• Leadership demands data, but often moves with instinct.
• Leadership also means knowing when to let others rise.
• Acknowledging someone else's truth helps build trust.
• Engaging with difference is not a liability; it’s a strength.
• A feisty grandmother who refused to let her settle for less.
• Giving up on people’s potential inevitably leads to suboptimal outcomes.
• Our greatest strengths can also turn into blind spots if left unchecked.
• Real leadership is knowing when to persevere and when to walk away.
• Sometimes, hope can cloud judgment, and stepping back is the wiser choice.
• You don’t have to give up on people, but sometimes, you do need to step off the journey with them.
• Avoiding difficult conversations, however well-intentioned, blurs lines of accountability.
• Complacency creeps in when we stop questioning; leadership calls for curiosity over comfort.
• Navigating the familiar and the unfamiliar is a core leadership skill.
• Lessons from the startup world: people don’t just buy ideas—they buy people.
• When you are unsuccessful, all sorts of weak thoughts come to your mind.
• Leadership is about becoming the version of yourself you know you need to be. It's about letting go.
• When cultures collide, it’s not a breakdown, it’s a breakthrough waiting to happen.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Nishtha Mehta is the founder of CollabCentral, a platform built to move people from working in silos to co-creating meaningful outcomes—because collaboration, when done well, is a force for real change. She is an Innovative Leadership Coach and Change Facilitator with over 22 years of experience across China, India, Europe, and the U.S.

Based in Shanghai, Nishtha works with global organizations and mission-driven founders to enable collaborative leadership and innovation across borders. She helps leaders move from stuck to unstuck, from resistance to collaboration, and from managing to truly leading—bringing clarity, commitment, and growth to every stage of their journey.

She has built a life and career in China with courage, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• You give trust to receive trust. 
• Taking Responsibility for mistakes.
• Giving Children Choices Builds Responsibility.
• Starting with How, Not ‘Not Possible’.
• Working with the Best Was Never Optional.
• Giving Advice Is Easy. Listening Takes Effort.
• In China, But Playing on a Global Field.
• Seeing Career as a portfolio of choices .
• Redefining Growth, Choosing learning over labels.
• Building Capabilities for What’s Next, Staying Relevant.
• Collaboration as a Value Proposition: The Power of the Ecosystem.
• The Bigger the Risk, the Stronger the Drive.
• Navigating Complexity While Doing Business in China.
• China offered more than opportunity; it offered a space that felt safe.
• Food Wasn’t Just a Meal, It Was a Cultural Bridge.
• China Wasn’t Accidental, It Was Intentional, Stepping Into the Unknown, Taking Chances.
• Choosing to Rebuild, Not Retreat, Leading with Strength, Living the Values.
• It’s okay when a challenge comes, you cry, you accept it, and keep going. You’re here for a reason.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

General Masiello retired as a three-star general of the U. S. Air Force in 2017. 

She was the Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency, where she led a team of nearly 12,000 civilians and military personnel and oversaw worldwide contracts totaling more than $2 trillion. A former assistant professor at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Gen. Masiello held a variety of systems acquisition roles during her 36-year tenure with the US Air Force, including principal contracting officer for surveillance and reconnaissance systems, weapon systems, and test ranges. 

Prior to her retirement, she served as Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency and Deputy Assistant Secretary (Contracting), Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition.  She is currently President of Wendy Mas Consulting LLC and serves as a director on a variety of boards to include KBR, Inc., StandardAero, EURPAC Services, Tlingit Haida Tribal Business Corporation, and MRIGlobal.  Her non-profit work includes director on the Procurement Round Table, director on the ReBuilding Together National board, and member of the Air Force Studies Board.

Key Themes Emerging from Our Conversation:

• The quiet power of women.
• It's okay to ask for something.
• The business side of service in the Air Force.
• People feed off a leader’s energy, stepping up matters.
• From teaching to buying satellites and leading aircraft teams.
• Leadership comes with moments of self-doubt and loneliness.
• As an introvert, stepping into the spotlight is a stretch.
• Leaders opened doors, often seeing potential before she did.
• It was not about being a woman; it was about being different.
• Stayed for the people, their passion, integrity, and shared sense of purpose.
• Childhood air shows and military life quietly shaped a sense of service.
• Seeking mentors vs being noticed, trusted, and given opportunities.
• One unexpected comment sparked a 36-year journey of purpose, service, and discovery.
• Facing the oath of office, the reality of what it could demand hit hard, but the instinct to protect gave conviction. 
• Finding the voice others listened to and using that partnership to drive solutions.
• A learned behavior: observing what worked, adapting, and repeating until people listened.
• Leadership isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s quietly connecting with the one standing alone.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Sabeena Narula Singh is the first woman to serve as Chief Architect of the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD). Born in the small township of Talwara, Punjab, Sabeena’s early life was shaped by simplicity, focus, and quiet ambition. After ranking second in the Punjab board exams, she was selected on merit to study at Chandigarh College of Architecture—one of the most prestigious architecture schools in India.

Before moving to Lucknow, she spent her formative professional years learning in reputed design practices. In 1992, Guru and she co-founded Guru Sabeena & Associates with a shared vision of redefining architecture in the city. They were even featured as the “Upcoming Architect Couple of the City” in local media.

Over three decades, Sabeena has led the design of transformative public projects across Uttar Pradesh—from multi-specialty hospitals and jail complexes to cybercrime units and court buildings. One of her most defining contributions is the redesign of correctional facilities for up to 5,000 inmates, where she prioritized humane, functional environments in response to the conditions she witnessed on site.

Her journey is one of grit, love, and an unshakeable belief that even in the darkest of times, we can choose to build—be it a building, a family, or a life.

In 2025, her lifetime of contributions was recognized with the Fraternity of Architects’ Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lucknow Architecture Festival 2.0.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Self-care wasn’t a priority until it had to be.
• Finding her voice in a patriarchal city, letting the work speak.
• Breaking ground as UP’s first woman Chief Architect at PWD.
• With faith as her anchor, she met every challenge with quiet courage.
• A project of pride—reshaping UP’s jails with empathy and intent.
• Her sons, her calm, her strength, her greatest support system.
• There’s more strength inside you than you realize. Keep showing up. 
• Father’s last question became her quiet vow: keep going, no matter what.
• Rooted in a small township and shaped by a culture of simplicity and encouragement, learning through everyday experiences.
• Found incredible strength in her mother-in-law—her closest companion and loudest supporter.
• Making tough choices between passion and career in a protective culture where questioning wasn’t the norm.
• From a small-town girl to a self-assured architecture student, the transition was steep but full of learning, laughter, and lasting bonds.
• A mentor’s influence. Small details matter more than big roles. The design begins with care.
• Showing up without excuses, earning trust one project at a time.
• Quietly took on the roles they once shared while her partner remained present but unable to walk alongside. Asking why, she surrendered to Grace and transformed chemo rooms into picnic spots and healing circles.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Diane Goyette is a Child Development Specialist, Master Registered Level Trainer, Child Care Health Consultant, and keynote speaker with over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. She has taught in public schools, university labs, faith-based programs, and childcare centers, and has trained countless educators through her work as a professor, trainer, and founder of Early Childhood Specialties.

Diane’s work blends professional expertise with deeply personal insight. As parent of Corinne, an artist, author, and advocate with mental health special needs. Diane’s parenting journey reshaped her understanding of emotional development and classroom behavior. What began as quiet struggles at home became the foundation for a mission grounded in empathy, regulation, and real-life partnership.

What Diane never imagined and now treasures is the joy of partnering with Corinne in the very field she has long served. Together, they co-lead conferences and workshops, offering both a parent’s perspective and a lived experience that resonates deeply with educators. For Diane, this collaboration has become a purpose she never saw coming.

Diane has now developed the 4 C’s Framework for Emotional Support, a practical, research-backed model that helps educators and caregivers respond to children with empathy, clarity, and compassion. 

Diane has also embraced philanthropy as an extension of her mission, supporting early childhood education through both immediate and legacy gifts ensuring that her commitment to uplifting the field continues to grow and give back for years to come.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Resenting the Struggles, Not Her Daughter.
• The Steadiness of a Supportive Partner.
• Discovering and Nurturing her daughter’s unique strengths.
• Sensory sensitivities shaped her daughter’s daily life.
• Language of the Diagnosis, Brain Disorders over Disabilities.
• Reconciling Knowledge with Reality, accepting that lived experience.
• An Unexpected Collaboration, Finding joy in working alongside her daughter.
• From Struggles to Compassion, from Early Parenting Challenges to Deeper Empathy.
• The Breakthrough of Acceptance, letting go of the need to change.
• Realizing that focusing on the struggles kept her from seeing her daughter’s strengths.
• Bringing Together Passion and Experience, merging professional knowledge with personal lessons.
• The 4 C’s Framework – A research-backed, experience-driven model shifting focus from correction to connection.
• Owning Her Differences, Corinne’s hardest but most healing steps.
• On a Mission to Champion Early Childhood Educators.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Rachna Singh, former Indian Revenue Service officer and acclaimed author of Phoenix and Flames, Penny Panache, and Raghu Rai: Waiting for the Divine, shares her journey of reinvention. She discusses the leap from government service to literature, the emotional toll of grief, and how writing became both refuge and rebellion.

As the founder of The Wise Owl literary magazine, Rachna has interviewed luminaries like Raghu Rai and Daisy Rockwell—conversations that continue to shape her creative path. Her story offers powerful insight into resilience, authorship, and making space for women’s voices in every sphere.

With humor, candor, and deep emotional clarity, she reflects on grief, identity, gender bias, and creative rebirth. Her experiences navigating bureaucracy, parenting through adversity, and redefining ambition challenge societal expectations and quietly dismantle inherited systems. This conversation is a study in courage, craft, and personal evolution.

🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli:

Website: www.enmapopli.com

Email: enmapopli@gmail.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/enmapopli

Instagram: instagram.com/enmapopli

Facebook: facebook.com/enma.popli

Twitter: twitter.com/enmapopli

Dr. Jennifer Shepard is a globally recognized HR strategist and organizational psychologist with over two decades of experience across the U.S., the Middle East, and Europe. With a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, she spent over eight years at Saudi Aramco, leading enterprise-wide performance and talent initiatives and advising senior leadership on aligning people strategy with business goals.

She’s a sought-after speaker and facilitator, having delivered keynote talks at the Kuwait Diversity Summit and LEWAS Symposium and served as a guest lecturer at the University of Sydney Business School. As a neurodiverse leader, Jennifer brings a rare combination of analytical depth and empathetic insight to every engagement.

Now based in Rome, she is the Founder and CEO of Igniting Inclusion Consulting, where she helps organizations build inclusive, future-ready HR and leadership ecosystems.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Growing up feeling different.
• Safe spaces that made growth possible.
• Navigating childhood bullying, social disconnection, and the pressure to fit in.
• Discovering the impact of a unique way of thinking.
• Receiving an ADHD diagnosis brought clarity to why the world felt so different.

• From self-doubt to self-acceptance, uniqueness isn’t a flaw but a source of strength.

• The emotional toll of masking is often at the cost of authenticity and exhaustion.

• Learning to navigate without judgment, embracing the nuance of culture.
• Adapting across cultures, honouring differences, staying connected to a sense of self.

• Navigating ADHD and a learning disability, pursuing a PhD and high-performance roles.

• Finding the right fit, how non-traditional learning paths created space for growth.

• Challenging the “superpower” myth – an honest look at the brilliance, chaos, and quiet cost of navigating the world with an ADHD mind.

• Push and pull of emotional regulation in ADHD: complexity, misconceptions, and quiet strength behind thinking differently.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dr. Barbara Wallace is a Princeton graduate and licensed clinical psychologist who made history as the first African American woman to earn tenure at Teachers College, Columbia University—later rising to Full Professor of Health Education. She is the Founding Director of the Research Group on Disparities in Health and has mentored over 145 diverse doctoral scholars while pioneering online education and dissertation bootcamps.

A Fellow of the American Psychological Association in both Addictive Behaviors and Ethnic Minority Issues, Dr. Wallace has authored seven books and over 80 publications. Her widely cited book Toward Equity in Health is used in graduate curricula, and her HIV/AIDS Peer Education Training Manual has been adopted by community health organizations.

For the past 25 years, she has also served as Queen Mother in Ghana—channeling her scholarship into purpose-driven work, advancing education and health equity, and building a legacy of service that continues to uplift communities across continents.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Leadership Through Service, showing up for others.
• Using inquiry, to spark reflection and shift norms.
• Uplifting others to extend impact across generations.
• True Legacy lies in what others are empowered to do next.
• Building Community, making space when none is given.
• Letting Go of Ego, being open to new ways of learning.
• Conferences, spaces where magical connections can happen.
• Courage with Care, speaking up when you can, protecting those who can’t.
• Reframing Recognition, seeing honors as a responsibility, not a reward.
• Strong Role Models, shaped by values of perseverance, dignity, and service.
• Spiritual Journey, the quiet force behind clarity, courage, and groundedness.
• Installment as Queen Mother, a deeply spiritual process accepted with humility.
• Only One in the Room, carrying weight of representation to open doors for others.
• Creating Belonging, cultivating spaces of support, connection, and shared purpose.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Baljeet Kaur, an accomplished mountaineer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has etched her name in history with remarkable achievements. As the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Pumori Peak (7161m) and Mount Dhaulagiri Peak (8167m) in Nepal, Baljeet set a precedent. In 2022, she accomplished an unprecedented feat by becoming the first Indian to summit seven peaks above 8000m, achieving five of them within a remarkable 30 days.

Beyond her mountaineering skills, Baljeet excels in a variety of sports, demonstrating her skill in marathons, rock climbing, skiing, theatre, kabaddi, volleyball, and hockey. Her commitment to fitness is highlighted by a notable World Record — completing the longest relay marathon run against depression in 2022, covering an astounding 9490 km.

Baljeet's mountaineering expertise is further underscored by the successful ascents of iconic peaks like Mount Everest and Mount Trishul. Her unwavering determination shines through in impressive world records, including scaling three peaks above 8000m in just seven days and achieving the unprecedented feat of ascending Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse in a remarkable 25 hours and 20 minutes.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Baljeet was honored with the Gold Medal by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation in 2023. 

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Daring to Dream Big .
• Mental resilience in challenges.
• Being one's own advocate and supporter.
• Self-awareness and listening to one's body.
• Preparedness and being ready for opportunities.
• Mountaineering was a calling; mountains chose her.
• Advocated for paving the way for others in mountaineering.
• Defying impossibility, embracing audacious goals amidst
• naysayers.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

UN SDG Changemaker Srishti Bakshi walked 3,800 kilometers across India to spotlight gender inequality, women’s safety, and the cultural codes that shape them. What began as a personal reckoning with privilege became a movement powered by storytelling, community, and action. Her journey is captured in the award-winning documentary Women of My Billion (WOMB), produced by Priyanka Chopra Jonas and directed by Ajitesh Sharma, featured at global film festivals and UN events.

🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli:

Website: www.enmapopli.com

Email: enmapopli@gmail.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/enmapopli

Instagram: instagram.com/enmapopli

Facebook: facebook.com/enma.popli

Twitter: twitter.com/enmapopli

Kim Kirkconnell, Vice President and Head of Global Digital Supply Chain and Finance at Kimberly-Clark—a Fortune 500 company and the parent of iconic brands like Kleenex®, Huggies®, Scott®, Kotex®, WypAll®, KleenGard®, and Kimtech®—shares a compelling journey shaped by bold decisions, career pivots, and leadership resilience. From her early days in academia to pioneering expert systems in manufacturing, Kim reflects on the impact of mentorship, motherhood, and mindset. Her insights offer aspiring women leaders a playbook on how to lead authentically, speak up with conviction, and transform vulnerability into strength. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating leadership while staying true to self.

🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli:

Website: www.enmapopli.com

Email: enmapopli@gmail.com

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Dr Monalisa Sur is a  Professor in the department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine and an associate member of Department of Oncology, Juravinski Cancer Centre and Hospital in Ontario, Canada.

 She is a Practising Diagnostic Anatomical Pathologist with expertise in Gynaecological Oncologic Pathology and Malignant Hematopathology and is the Chair of the Mentorship Committee in McMaster University and the Anatomical Pathology Specialty Chair and Exam Board Member at Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. 

 In her role as Country Advisor and Co-Chair of Policy, Advocacy and Communications for the International Committee of the Royal College of Pathologists of U.K (R.C. Path), Monalisa collaborated with leaders in informatics to bring Pathology within the reach of many training programs in third world countries. She has over 120 publications in National and International medical journals.

 Among many laurels, Monalisa has been honoured with the leadership in Education Award from the Canadian Association of Pathologists in 2016, the Clinical Teaching Award nominated by the resident trainees in the Anatomical Pathology Program from the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University and the Distinguished Service Award in Pathology for her contributions to the field of Diagnostic Pathology in 2022.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Loving what you do.
• Having your own identity .
• Not losing the big picture while parenting .
• Adapting to your surroundings and welcoming change.
• Realizing your strengths and weaknesses and capitalizing on them.
• Can't do everything to perfection, learning from your imperfections .
• The importance of an equal partnership.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli’s website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Instead of slowing down at 60, Dona Kay Rule charged ahead into professional rodeo, proving that audacity and a growth mindset are key ingredients for achieving greatness at any age. 

Dona Kay Rule is a cowgirl, wife, mother and grandmother and now she is among the top barrel racers in the world and has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) four times. 

Dona Kay travels with her horse Valor and Rosie. It’s hard to say who is more famous, Valor, Dona Kay, or Rodeo Rosie, a miniature Australian Shepherd.

The year gone by has been Dona’s best rodeo season so far, even though it hasn’t been the easiest. At the 2021 NFR she was struggling with hip pain and soon after setting a new arena record at 13.96 seconds she made the decision to have surgery. Within 7 weeks of a total hip replacement, Dona loaded up her great horse, High Valor, and headed to Canada, won the 2nd at the Calgary stampede and proceeded to lock in the No. 2 position in the WPRA World Standings. 

This trio has put smiles on the faces of rodeo fans across North America since she qualified for her first Wrangler NFR in 2019.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Leadership lessons from horsemanship
• Building trust and team loyalty 
• Vulnerability and understanding what’s important
• Being deliberate and visualizing
• Recognize your calling
• Success doesn't necessarily have to do with you.
• Doing it right when nobody's looking

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Archana Chandra is Board Member & CEO of Jai Vakeel Foundation & Research Centre, one of the oldest & largest NGOs serving those impacted by intellectual disabilities. She is a Trustee of SRCC, which operates the largest super speciality paediatric hospital in the country in partnership with Narayana Hrudayalaya. 

She is also a member of the Advisory Board of Annamrita, one of the largest NGOs in the country serving mid-day meals, and of Antarang Foundation, which provides skilling and employment opportunities to less privileged youth. 

Archana serves on the Board of A.T.E.Chandra Foundation, which focuses on Rural Development and Capacity Building of the Social Sector.  She & her husband Amit were named by Forbes on “Asia’s Heroes of Philanthropy” List in 2016.  She was also awarded the Corporate Citizens of the Year Award by All India Management Association with him in 2017. 

Prior to moving full time to the social sector, Archana worked in the corporate sector for Informix (a division of IBM) and Bennett & Coleman.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Understanding the why.
• Finding happiness within yourself.
• Defining excellence, what will you do and what you will not do .
• Seeing the lightness in situations.
• One person is not moving any needle alone.
• Allowing yourself to fail, asking for help.
• Empathy, seeing different perspectives and disagreeing  respectfully.
• Importance of coaches and mentors.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

Visit Enma Popli’s website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Lisa Robinson’s journey has been anything but conventional. She started as a musician, deeply inspired by the art of conducting and legends like Leonard Bernstein. While her path eventually led her away from music, the skills she honed—bringing people together, setting the pace, and orchestrating success—became the foundation of her leadership approach.

Today, as CEO of OnBoard, Lisa has expanded the organization’s influence, shaping boardrooms and strengthening leadership pipelines. With experience across startups, nonprofits, and Fortune 100 companies, she has an exceptional ability to build high-performing teams and forge game-changing partnerships with industry giants like Delta and Coca-Cola.

Beyond OnBoard, Lisa is a Partner at Bell Oaks Executive Search, advising on C-suite hiring and compensation, and a Board Advisor to Cadence Bank. Her lifelong passion for community-building and philanthropy has positioned her on numerous nonprofit boards as well as a national government board. She also served a seven-year tenure at St. Vincent de Paul Georgia, including a term as Governance Chair.

An avid golfer and water enthusiast, Lisa values the connections and conversations that extend beyond the boardroom—just as she champions more women stepping into them.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Recognizing when a path isn’t the right fit is as important as finding the right one.
• Music demands long hours of solitary practice, making it well-suited for introverts.
• We need men in our corner—we are not going to do it on our own.
• Thinking creatively can turn limitations into new opportunities.
• Unkind criticism is remembered long after the words are spoken.
• The unpredictability of startups teaches resilience and agility.
• Seeking consent before offering feedback helps build trust and mutual respect.
• Growth comes from embracing both the lessons and the opportunities that follow.
• Career planning is not always intentional, but having a clear vision can make a difference.
• Humility and adaptability are powerful leadership traits shaped by experiences in creative fields.
• Letting go of perfectionism allows for progress, especially when self-doubt holds us back.
• Early leadership roles come with missteps, but growth comes from learning along the way.
• Evolution as a leader comes from being transparent and continuously recognizing and refining communication habits.
• Letting go of ego in leadership, recognizing that information is a tool for collective success.
• Not making everything about yourself, accepting that mistakes happen to everyone.
• Nonprofit leaders navigate multiple decision-makers, making leadership more complex.
• Balancing mission-driven passion with business acumen leads to more effective nonprofit leadership.
• Golf creates a setting where friendships, business, and professional networks naturally grow.
• Golf isn’t just about the game—it showcases a person’s character, honesty, and approach to challenges.
• Networking is about building meaningful relationships that continue to create opportunities over time.
• Diverse experiences open doors, but building credibility through commitment is just as crucial.
• The real measure of success is knowing you did good work, not waiting for others to confirm it.
• Constant comparison can be damaging, especially when it’s self-imposed.
• Representation matters, but collective voices create real impact in boardrooms—the power of three.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Hasleen Kaur is an actor, former Miss India 2011, and a successful entrepreneur with a career spanning fashion, film, and advertising. She has been featured on major platforms like Netflix and Sony, walked for India’s top designers, and appeared on the covers of Femina, GQ, and Harper’s Bazaar Bride. As a model, she has represented global brands such as L’Oréal, Perfectil, and Vaseline.

Beyond the spotlight, Hasleen is deeply committed to social impact, working with NGOs to support women’s empowerment, vocational training, and environmental sustainability. She actively participated in a plantation drive with the Indian Army and worked with Navjyoti India Foundation, founded by Dr. Kiran Bedi, to uplift underprivileged communities.

As an entrepreneur and creative director in advertising, Hasleen has helped build campaigns for brands like Mercedes-Benz and Keventers, crafting narratives that blend creativity with purpose.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Not everyone has your best interest at heart.
• Stepping into the film industry without a safety net.
• Navigating setbacks in creative careers, Having plan B.
• Viewing the film industry as a profession, not just a passion.
• Family—the steady anchor through setbacks and adversity.
• True friendships from the most competitive environments.
• Restarting isn’t a setback—it’s a strategy to stay in the game.
• Breaking into acting after a long modeling career is challenging.
• Stay committed to your craft, and the right people will take notice.
• Enamored by the modeling world, endured every painstaking challenge.
• Being told "you can't" fuels an even stronger drive to prove otherwise.
• The pressure to outshine others in a high-stakes competition is overwhelming.
• Redefining industry norms requires challenging outdated societal codes.
• Women in the film industry are very guarded, they're still solo travelers.
• No one succeeds alone—having the right support makes all the difference.
• Acting is a continuous journey of observation, deep emotional connection, and refining the craft over time.
• Preparing for the acting world, embracing wins and setbacks with resilience and persistence.
• Having cheerleaders —someone who believes in us pushes us toward our true potential.
• The pageant world reveals the stark divide between privilege and the struggles of the girl child India.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

In this episode of Atalanta Diaries, Enma explores three interrelated themes—Taking Chances, Challenging the Status Quo, and Pushing Comfort Zones—each contributing to a larger success factor that has helped her Atalantas succeed. Through the stories of five remarkable Atalantas, she uncovers the courage it took for them to step into the unknown, embrace uncertainty, and forge new paths.

These trailblazers have demonstrated that growth begins where comfort ends. If you've ever hesitated to take a risk, challenge norms, or embrace change, this episode might provide the inspiration you need.

• Swati Shetty (Episode 5) – Producer, Founder & Director of Samosa StoriesLeft behind a successful career in India to take a leap of faith in Hollywood and build a new path.
• Baljeet Kaur (Episode 58) – Mountaineer, First Indian Woman to Summit Seven Peaks Above 8,000mShattered barriers by climbing some of the world’s toughest peaks, redefining resilience and bold decision-making.
• Priyanka Rana (Episode 60) – Sculptor & Former Corporate ProfessionalDiscovered her true calling in sculpture after transitioning from corporate and event management roles.
• Claudia Adler (Episode 71) – Lecturer, Deputy Programme Lead at the University of York & Humanitarian Affairs ExpertA refugee from Colombia, Claudia defied the odds to pursue an academic career, eventually shaping global conversations on humanitarian affairs.
• Marija Zivanovic-Smith (Episode 94) – Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at IEX Group.An immigrant from Serbia, Marija built her career from the ground up, navigating cultural shifts and language barriers. Her willingness to take on challenges others avoided shaped her remarkable ascent in corporate America.

If you know someone who might benefit from this episode, please share it with them. Stay tuned for the next musing, where Enma will explore Finding Purpose and Passion—another critical success factor—and uncover how it shapes personal and professional fulfillment.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Manisha Girotra is Chief Executive Officer of Moelis & Company in India. She was previously Chairperson and Country Head for UBS in India, with a career spanning 30 years with UBS in Hong Kong, Mumbai, Delhi and London and with Moelis in India. She was the youngest CEO of a global investment bank in India at the age of 32. 

Manisha has advised over US$ 500 Bn of mergers and acquisitions and equity and debt fundraisings through her career. Some of the landmark transactions include Vodafone US$ 12 Bn acquisition of Hutch’s telecom business, and US$ 65 Bn merger of HDFC-HDFC Bank. 

Manisha is on the Global Board of Naspers and Prosus, a US$ 200 Bn market cap technology investor. She is also on the Boards of Ashok Leyland and Mindspace Business Parks REIT. 

Manisha graduated in Economics from St Stephen's College, Delhi and was awarded the Dr. Manmohan Singh Gold Medal for academic excellence for her Masters Degree from the Delhi School of Economics. 

Manisha is passionate about encouraging the younger generation of women to move forward in the corporate world and is a strong proponent of female education and mental wellness. She supports education of the girl child through Not for profit,  ‘Nanhi Kali’ and two Balwadis (small primary schools) in Uttar Pradesh. 

Among many laurels, Manisha was honored as a Young Global Leader in 2010 by the World Economic Forum. She has been named one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Business in India by Business Today for the past six years. 

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Bringing your authentic self to work 
• Falling in love with work
• Inclusive leadership 
• Boys club vs sisterhood
• Approach to failure and setbacks 
• Growth mindset 

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Amrita Bahl is the Chief Education Officer at the GD Goenka Group, where she leads innovation in pedagogy, curriculum development, and academic strategy. An alumna of Columbia University and a certified Climate Reality Leader trained by Vice President Al Gore, Amrita has spent over two decades driving transformative education and social reform.

In 2020, she joined the Education Research Center at the Druk Gyalpo’s Institute in Paro, Bhutan, where she contributed to developing the Bhutan Baccalaureate—a visionary education system inspired by His Majesty the King of Bhutan’s vision for a just and harmonious society. 

During her doctoral studies, Amrita played a pivotal role in conceptualizing and developing the Global Health Education Leadership Program (GlobalHELP), fostering participatory health promotion and disease prevention initiatives in regions including the Caribbean, Ghana, Togo, USA, and India. As the first Virginia Palmer Fellow, she established a prospective evaluation process for VGIF, enabling impactful social impact tracking.

Amrita’s career is further marked by her work as a certified Regional Master Trainer for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, focusing on the prevention of HIV among incarcerated substance users. She has collaborated with Kiran Bedi to pioneer peer-led health education programs in Tihar and Amritsar prisons and has also developed and edited impactful documentary films such as It’s Always Possible and Wings of Freedom: The SEHAT Story on prison reforms and Manthan: The Journey on HIV/AIDS peer health education in India.

Her collaborations with organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization highlight her unwavering commitment to fostering equity and driving meaningful change through education and grassroots engagement.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Trust, the cornerstone of culture
• Women need to stop othering women.
• A product of strong female mentors.
• Role of grandmother in shaping values.
• Growing up in a very cocooned environment.
• Working in the prison, was a transformative experience.
• I love challenges and doing something unconventional.
• Appreciating solitude, rather than seeing it as loneliness.
• Owning the consequences of choices, rejecting victimhood.
• Including men in the conversation to drive meaningful change.
• Decisions are guided by courage, innovation, and lifelong learning.
• Emotional regulation is key to maintaining adherence to the law.
• Resilience and self-belief are the greatest tools for overcoming challenges.
• Leadership, standing by a team and supporting them in their toughest moments.
• Mentor’s mantra "calm, centered, and balanced," is a guiding principle in work and life.
• Growth isn’t always about pace and speed; it can be about depth and sustainability.
• The concept of Genku: thinking about the community as a whole and understanding one’s role within it.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Denise Mannix is a pioneering leader in DEI, renowned for her expertise in leadership, talent, and transformation, with a deep commitment to advancing gender equity and inclusion.

Her passionate interest in difference and gender equity has seen her find Equity in Leadership purposed to achieve executive and board equity for women and to be President of Lean In Network Energy a global, nonprofit dedicated to challenging, changing, and collaborating elevating women and advancing gender equity in the energy sector and beyond.

Underpinning the knowledge and research she brings to her agency, advocacy, and influence is her soon-to-be-completed PhD by Research focusing on gender equity in executive leadership.  

Denise is a speaker, conference chair, and moderator at global conferences and most recently led the Lean In Network Energy team in their segment on Bloomberg TV’s Advancements with Ted Danson. 

Denise is an original and inspired thinker, defined by her tireless energy and commitment to making real change by creating a legacy of advancing gender equity. She is frequently described as a ‘straight-talker’ and ‘inspirational’.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

This is a unique episode of Atalanta Diaries, where Enma’s musings take an insightful turn as she delves into another powerful success factor—self-awareness—through her conversation with Ellaeenah Niloufer.

In her previous musings, Enma promised to explore self-awareness as a critical ingredient for success. Today, she delivers on that promise through a candid and thoughtful dialogue that bridges personal reflection with Ellaeenah’s deep wisdom.

For over 30 years, Ellaeenah has dedicated her life to helping others transcend patterns of unconscious living that lead to stress and conflict. A spiritual mentor, teacher of meditation, and practitioner of Bach Flower Remedies, she focuses on fostering self-motivated transformation and empowerment.

Ellaeenah’s journey is rooted in intuitive explorations of Esoteric Healing, Psychology, and Astrology, guided by her cosmic master, JadeFire. Her contributions include channeled writings like And Jade Fire Said, divination cards, and co-authored works on Bach Flower Remedies.

In this conversation, Enma and Ellaeenah unpack the profound power of self-awareness—how it shapes our paths, builds inner strength, and brings clarity even in the most challenging moments.

Key themes emerging out of the conversation:

• Internalizing External Labels: Shapes behavior and fuels manifestation.
• Embracing Self-Acceptance: Loving and honoring oneself, flaws and all, with unwavering confidence.
• Owning the Power to Accept or Reject Oneself: Breaking free from years of self-doubt.
• Transforming Inner Shadows: Turning self-awareness and personal healing into a service for others.
• Unlocking Self-Awareness: Confronting self-judgment, low self-esteem, and self-sabotage to embrace personal growth.
• Growth Through Compassion: Releasing guilt and embracing personal growth as a survival-driven journey.
• Evolving Connections: How personal growth naturally shifts friendships and energetic alignments.
• Ask and You Shall Receive: This is not a cliché.
• Overcoming Barriers: Releasing guilt and shame to clear the path for personal growth.
• The Roots of Self-Sabotage: Fear of success and fear of failure as core drivers.
• The Power of Deserving: Embracing the belief in one’s right to success and fulfillment.
• Embracing Progress: Recognizing advancement and change as essential for growth.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

DR LORETTA CHEN is a multi-hyphenate: creative producer, theatre director, professor , entrepreneur and author. She is also Co-founder & CEO of Smobler Studios, a metaverse architecture firm and established the first Sandbox Academy in Singapore. Loretta’s personal tagline is People, Purpose, Possibilities. She is on a mission to use her 24 years of hard-won, diverse experience to educate and accelerate the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers.

She is based in Hawaii and is doting mom to 18 fur babies .

Some insights from this episode: 

• Let nobody make you feel inferior without your consent.
• Having loving parents is a privilege many don't have. Many don’t even have one parent or a role model.
• With wealth compare with people who have less than you, with wisdom compare with people who have more than you.
• Being a leader means making an impact, having a  ripple around you. Bringing diverse people with diverse opinions, sometimes very opinionated people, to the table and having them see eye to eye even if they may not agree with each other 100%.
• Women need to see each other not as competition, but be each other's allies.
• Cultural understanding means a willingness to listen and willingness to learn.
• Life is not a challenge or a competition but it should be challenging enough to make you wanna do better, to find some joy, to find some curiosity.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Anna-Kaisa Heikkinen has over two decades of experience in diplomacy and international relations. As Director General of the Department for Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America, she is responsible for advancing Finland’s strategic interests and fostering partnerships across these regions. Her career includes ambassadorships in Mozambique and Palestine, as well as serving as Special Adviser to the Prime Minister on International Affairs.

She holds a Master’s degree in international relations from Tampere University, with additional studies at MGIMO and Freie Universität Berlin. Fluent in nine languages, Anna brings expertise in global policy, economic relations, and cultural diplomacy to her role.

Beyond her professional achievements, Anna-Kaisa is an active member of the Nordic Women Mediators Finland network, a published author, and an advocate for cultural and linguistic education. Her interests in sports, music, and languages reflect her multifaceted personality and dedication to lifelong learning. Born in Kuusamo, Finland, she continues to inspire through her commitment to fostering global cooperation and understanding.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Languages are really the mirrors of cultures.
• Sports offer a meditative escape and mental clarity.
• Finding hope in the inherent goodness of people worldwide
• Setting boundaries to protect personal time and space.
• Stress often stems from compromising on what truly matters.
• Leadership is about taking responsibility and enabling others to succeed.
• Receiving feedback from colleagues is a rewarding aspect of leadership. 
• Trusting intuition and following one’s heart as a guiding principle for life’s major decisions.
• Building and maintaining friendships while leading a transient life fosters stronger bonds and a deeper appreciation for relationships.
• Multilingualism in Finland is integral to education and essential for engaging with a globalized world.
• The importance of not just listening but truly hearing is that one must seek to understand the meaning behind what is being said.
• The dedication, patience, and commitment to learning multiple languages are fueled by passion and persistence.
• Navigating cultural differences with respect and humility, focusing on authentic human connection, and acknowledging imperfections.
• Diplomacy is a unique profession intertwined with lifestyle, marked by constant movement, adaptation, and lifelong learning.
• Living near closed borders during the Cold War fostered a deep curiosity about the wider world and unseen horizons.
• Growing up in a family with a deep curiosity for the world and a strong engagement with current affairs.
• The egalitarian culture in Finland emphasizes equity and equality, particularly in terms of creating opportunities.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Marija Zivanovic-Smith is a seasoned technology executive with extensive experience across both Fortune 500 companies and startups. Her expertise spans international market access, digital transformation, and growth marketing strategies. Throughout her career, Marija has been instrumental in driving business growth by modernizing brands and increasing market influence. As a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), she led the re-imagination of NCR's brand, driving a 91% positive engagement in employee communications and generating significant revenue through digital marketing initiatives.

Marija also served as the first Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for IEX Group, Inc., where her leadership increased site traffic by 85% and drove a 327% increase in qualified leads from marketing activities. Her strategic oversight has significantly shaped brand perception and corporate growth.

In addition to her executive roles, Marija has contributed to various boards, including Browne Academy and Onboard Inc., and has been recognized with numerous awards for her leadership and impact, such as the Stevie Award for Female Executive of the Year and the Serbian Medal of Honor. Fluent in English and Serbian, Marija holds a degree in International Politics from Georgetown University.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Not everything is your problem to solve.
• Seeing possibilities when others believe they don't exist.
• Hire the best people possible, those who are even better than you.
• Doors open when you make an effort to understand another language. 
• When you're 100% "on" all the time, you are thinking, but you're not reflecting.
• Recognizing that we are not alone when facing dilemmas and figuring out the "how."
• Learning to tell your story is essential in defining your unique value proposition as a human.
• Being self-aware, imagining yourself as your own replacement—what would you do differently? 
• When considering board service, think deeply about what you want to gain from the experience.
• Leadership is about making mistakes. Great leadership is about learning from them and not repeating them.
• Leadership involves integrating phenomenal individual perspectives into a great collective that produces outstanding results—and has a lot of fun along the way.
• Leadership is about listening more, asking questions, and offering solutions only when necessary.
• Reflecting on the war of the former Yugoslavia in the '90s shows how circumstances like war lead to cultural deterioration and the erosion of trust in human relations.
• Sometimes, it's okay to let certain things fail. It's okay to face skeptics, develop a thick skin, and, most importantly, have fun.
• When you spot something toxic on your team, act quickly—not for yourself but for the wellbeing of your team.
• Work-life balance is about ruthless prioritization—not everything gets done, and not everything is a priority.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Merlia Shaukath, Founder and CEO of Madhi Foundation, is a passionate advocate for equity in education and is committed to eliminating the foundational learning crisis in India. She believes that access to quality early childhood education is the greatest leveler against social inequity. 

Merlia holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from Stella Maris (Chennai, India), an MSc in Area Development Studies from Oxford University and an MSc in Governance and Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Her work towards quality foundational learning for children through Madhi Foundation has been recognised by the London School of Economics and Political Science. 

In 2022, Merlia was selected to join the prestigious cohort of the Acumen India Fellowship, Rainer Arnhold Fellowship by the Mulago Foundation, Ashoka Fellowship, and the Nudge Accelerator program for the pioneering work done by the Madhi Foundation. She has also been selected as a Global Finalist for the UK Alumni Award by the British Council, UK.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• The mission at Madhi is a marathon, not a sprint.
• Leadership is also about listening.
• What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.
• To whom much is given, much is expected.
• Culture fit matters more than skill; it can’t be coached.
• Team members must take ownership of their mental health.
• Privilege and luxury were present, yet money was never to be taken for granted.
• Parents need to be allies in uplifting education for all children.
• Prevent the damage from happening rather than trying to reverse it later.
• Being a startup with limited funds doesn’t mean delivering substandard quality.
• Powerful leaders often lead with kindness: empathy is a key element in leadership.
• A need for the brightest minds and biggest hearts in the social sector.
• Feedback is often equated with criticism; it can be life-changing.
• Social media has blurred the lines on mental health for young people.
• The key to creating change lies in building consensus to shift mindsets and behaviors.
• Public schools should become parents' top choice across income groups.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

In this episode, Enma discusses how vulnerability has served as a success factor for her Atalantas, helping them build trust, foster meaningful connections, and create psychological safety within their teams.

This episode highlights stories from five inspiring Atalantas who have embraced vulnerability as a leadership strength, cultivating authentic human connections along the way. 

• Kim Kirkconnell: Vice President and Head of Global Digital Supply Chain and Finance at Kimberly-Clark. Kim speaks to the power of honesty during tough days, showing how sharing her struggles with her team builds trust and collective resilience. (Episode 19)
• Monica Retamal: Social entrepreneur and Executive Director of Fundación Kodea in Chile. Monica embraces directness in addressing conflict, fostering an environment where open, honest dialogue strengthens team connection and safety. (Episode 81)
• Jenny Dearborn: HR thought leader and advocate for neurodiversity. Jenny opens up about her journey to disclose her neurodiversity after years of silence, demonstrating how vulnerability can pave the way for greater inclusion and empathy. (Episode 15)
• Alina Alam: Founder and CEO of Mitti Cafe. Alina recounts the challenges of building her business from the ground up, sharing how being open about these struggles has allowed her to create a network of resilience and support. (Episode 74)
• Devika Bulchandani: Global CEO of Ogilvy. Devika shares how embracing her human side, especially in high-stakes moments, builds a sense of shared experience and strength within her team. (Episode 56)

Enma also reflects on her own journey and experience as an executive coach, sharing how vulnerability has become a foundation of her work. By sharing her own story, she builds trust with clients and creates safe spaces for open, authentic conversation.

This episode invites listeners to reflect on their leadership journeys: How can embracing vulnerability deepen connections and create stronger teams. Vulnerability isn’t one-size-fits-all; it takes different forms for everyone and is most effective when it feels genuine and true to one's  leadership style.

If you know someone who might benefit from this episode, please consider sharing it. Stay tuned for the next musing, where Enma will explore self-awareness as another critical success factor, revealing how it can empower leaders to thrive by looking inward and understanding the power they hold to manage both stress and success.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dr. Linnie S. Carter is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She holds significant positions as the Vice President of College Advancement at HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, and the Executive Director of the HACC Foundation. She also serves as the President and CEO of Linnie Carter & Associates LLC, a consulting firm specializing in public relations, marketing, fundraising, and executive services.

In 2011, Linnie co-founded Carter Scholars Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to students in Virginia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. With an impressive educational background, she holds a Ph.D. in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University, along with master's and bachelor's degrees in Mass Communications from Virginia Commonwealth University. Linnie has also been recognized with the prestigious Accredited in Public Relations (APR) designation from the Public Relations Society of America.

Linnie actively engages in various professional and community organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, and PRSA. Her remarkable contributions have earned her numerous accolades, reflecting her dedication and expertise. These include the Central Penn Business Journal's Women of Influence Awards, which honors women business leaders for their contributions to their companies, industries, and communities in 2020, as well as the Bruce E. Cooper, Esq. Leadership Award in 2016.

With over 26 years of marriage, Linnie finds joy in her role as a bonus mom, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, and mentor.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Dealing with racism and misogyny
• Striving for excellence rather than perfection.
• Understanding that people work at different paces.
• Viewing apology as a sign of strength and leadership.
• Being an advocate for other women and uplifting them.
• Not giving permission for mistreatment and standing up against it.
• Allowing children to face the real world rather than shielding them 
• Seeing correction as an act of care and an opportunity for growth.
• Having multiple revenue streams instead of relying on a single source.
• Competing with oneself for personal growth and continuous improvement

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli’s website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

(Hon) Dr. Vibha Bakshi is a critically acclaimed, multi-award-winning film director and producer and the recipient of four National Film Awards, the highest recognition in Indian cinema. She has also been awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Boston University for her work as a filmmaker and journalist.

Vibha's latest film, "Son Rise," is a multi-award-winning documentary that challenges gender injustice globally, winning the National Film Award for Best Film (non-feature). It has been selected by the UN Academic Impact to promote human rights in 1,400 institutions across 147 countries and is showcased as part of the #HeForShe movement. Her previous film, "Daughters of Mother India," addressed rape and gender violence, becoming the most-awarded social campaign in the world in 2017.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Without Hope, no Fight can be won.
• Access is Key to Documentary Filmmaking.
• Using Difference to their Advantage.
• Becoming one with the Subjects to earn Trust.
• The Power of Storytelling Can Influence Mindsets.
• It is easy to Sensationalize, but very hard to Sensitize.
• Humor, even in the toughest situations, keeps you going.
• Once things get Uncomfortable, people tend to Step Back.
• Accolades Open Doors and Amplify Voices of Change-Makers.
• You cannot find your Role Models solely in a Bollywood Hero.
• With Privilege comes Responsibility; how do you use your Voice?
• When the Intent is Right, the Universe Conspires to Make Things Happen.
• Unless Police are Gender-Sensitized, Justice will continue to be Delayed.
• For those more Blessed, the question becomes - How do you Pay It Forward?
• Leaving your own Biases, Prejudices, and Judgments adds Perspective to Storytelling.
• Boys and Men part of Movement for Change when addressing Burning Issues like Rape.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Devika Bulchandani is a world-class marketer who leads with passion, purpose, and an uncompromising focus on creating impact. As Global CEO of Ogilvy, she is responsible for all aspects of the creative network's business, spanning Advertising, PR, Consulting, Relationship Design, and Health across over 120 offices in 90 countries. Under her leadership, Ogilvy has been recognized as the leading agency for creative excellence and effectiveness in the world by the World Advertising Research Center's annual ranking (WARC). Devika has received numerous recognitions for her contributions and leadership, including the Matrix Award by New York Women in Communications, Working Mother of the Year by She Runs It, and the ADCOLOR Innovator award.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• From Good Girl to Consequential Girl.
• Positive Human Energy is a Force Multiplier.
• Need to Break Centuries of Preordained Codes.
• Select friends who can ask for 'Dev talk' at any time. 
• Navigating Challenges to Earn a Seat at the Table.
• No Justifications, just Rectification,Saying Sorry.
• The most important Freedom is Economic Freedom.
• Leadership is Taking Responsibility for Team Failures.
• Being a global leader means giving up control and having influence.
• Can't Change the Environment; the only thing under Our Control is Self.
• Advertising a Force to Create Systemic Change in Laws and Policies.
• Own what you want; Saying it is the First Step, even if you don't get it.
• Getting a Seat of Power is just the Start; Real Change begins once there.
• The Moment we Stop being a Work in Progress, We might as well be Dead.
• You can't talk about Equity and Equality in the World if it doesn't exist in Marriage.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

In this episode, Enma shifts the focus to Mentorship and Allyship as critical success factors that have helped her Atalantas thrive in their personal and professional journeys. She also reflects on her own experiences with mentorship and shares how building strong alliances has been pivotal in her growth.

The episode highlights the stories of four inspiring Atalantas across fields and their perspectives on mentoring and allyship:

• Diane Schwartz: Chief Information Officer of Johnson Controls, Diane highlights the importance of allyship and how a network of female CIOs collaborated to support each other's success. (Episode 78)
• Vedika Bhandarkar: CEO of Water.org, Vedika recalls how a colleague publicly acknowledged her ideas in a board meeting, underscoring the power of allyship. (Episode 44)
• Asha Kharga: Asha shares how a mentor's advice to step into an unfamiliar role transformed her career by building leadership skills outside her marketing expertise. (Episode 47)
• Annette Clayton: Former CEO of Schneider Electric, Annette shared how mentoring others helped her gain unexpected insights and improve challenging relationships in her professional journey. (Episode 43)

This episode serves as a reminder that no one succeeds alone. It invites listeners to think about their own mentors and allies, and encourages them to consider how they can help guide or support someone else in return.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Devita started her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 24 by founding the Vu Group in California, a leader in high-end consumer electronics. Vu Televisions has a revenue of Rs.1000 Cr ($130 Million) that has sold more than 3 million televisions to date. Her passion for technology, leadership and innovation has led Vu to become the highest-selling Indian-owned TV brand in the world, and her speech to the Prime Minister at the Young CEO Champions of Change initiative had an impact on the government's Make in India manufacturing policy.

Devita is the richest self-made woman in India under 40, according to the Hurun Report, and has been listed among Fortune's Top 50 Most Powerful Women in India. She also wrote an Op-Ed column for the Wall Street Journal for two years and is an astute observer and speaker on subjects such as leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, technology and the empowerment of women in business. 

Devita was named 'India's Model CEO' by Forbes for being the first businesswoman in the world to appear in her brand's advertising campaigns and since then has collaborated with luxury brands worldwide. 

She is an alumna of the University of Southern California and Harvard Business School.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Respect is a two-way street.
• Encountering challenges in finding investors. 
• Recognizing what you're good at and building on it.
• Guiding values and principles in stakeholder engagement.
• How life and experiences helped see the entrepreneur within. 
• Being secure, hiring people who are younger and smarter than you.
• Surround yourself with people who will support you, role models.
• Following the path of the men in the house, having respect and power.
• Making your own money and having the right mindset, not playing victim.
• What happened, why did it happen, and what are we going to do next time?
• Entrepreneurship and modelling, embracing the beautiful and intelligent side.
• No one invites you to be a king or queen. You have to decide that on your own.
• Navigating working dynamics with family members to establish mutual respect.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Nicky P. Kaur, a successful entrepreneur with over 21 years of leadership experience, shifted her focus from business to a cause close to her heart: standing up for those who can't. This passion led her to start Chandigarh Spinal Rehab, where she serves as founder and CEO. Her journey of faith has resulted in a unique and holistic rehabilitation center in India dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. Today, Chandigarh Spinal Rehab stands as a beacon of hope, providing comprehensive care and life-enhancing support under Nicky's visionary leadership.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Flowing Karma, Band on Wheels.
• Need for Meaning and Substance in life.
• Shifting Mindset from Pity to Recognizing Abilities.
• Handpicking the Team, Strength of the Organization.
• Paraplegia is a multi-disability, not a condition present from birth.
• The Camaraderie, Strength, and Positivity as a catalyst for change.
• Helping find a life of Dreams, Exposing to a World of Possibilities.
• Faith and Trust that inspired the journey and continue to sustain it.
• Sounding Boards in the journey: Daughters in the past, Team in the present.
• Daughters are an integral part of life, leaving a significant void when they move on.
• Laughter is very important; it bids goodbye to many woes without conscious effort.
• No need to seek validation or explain oneself to society; Judgments will always exist.
• Challenging for any woman to step out of her comfort zone and stand up for her vision. 
• Unwavering support and encouragement from my father to become a woman of substance.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Sita Kapadia is Professor Emeritus of English, Asian Literature, and World Literature at the City University of New York. Born and raised in India, Sita grew up in a progressive and humanitarian family deeply rooted in Gandhian values, with her father's principles and her mother's extraordinary artistic talent shaping her worldview.

Sita's journey has taken her from India to Singapore and Malaysia and finally to the United States, where she has made significant contributions to education. She is the author of The Woman Beside Gandhi: A Biography of Kasturba, Wife of the Mahatma, a work deeply connected to her family's values and her childhood desire to meet Kasturba Gandhi.

In addition to her academic achievements, Sita is a self-trained artist, sculptor, and master gardener. Now almost 88 years old, she continues to embody resilience, creativity, and a lifelong passion for learning. Her life and work are a testament to the enduring power of art, education, and storytelling.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Every day might bring something new to learn.
• The importance of having invincible faith and belief.
• Acknowledging the regret of not cultivating certain friendships.
• Resilience, humility, and quiet leadership learned from Kasturba.
• If the soul is eager and there is a desire, anything can be achieved.
• An unusually progressive upbringing where equality was at its core.
• My experience as a teacher in the prison was deeply humane and enlightening.
• The spark to write Kasturba's story came from a drive to seek more answers.
• Literature is a medium that cuts through life's busyness, revealing core truths.
• A feisty spirit from the mother and progressive Gandhian values from the father.
• If the soul is eager and there is a genuine desire to help, anything can be achieved.
• A true Vaishnava follower of the Lord is one who understands the pain of another.
• Patience and support from a partner enabled the pursuit of interests and ambitions.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

In this episode, Enma highlights Perseverance as the first key success factor to emerge from the stories of the Atalanta’s on the podcast. She reflects on how Perseverance has influenced her life and the journeys of the remarkable women she's interviewed, revisiting some of the impactful moments from past episodes.

Through the lens of Perseverance, the episode highlights the stories of four inspiring women from different fields:

• Mridula Jain revolutionized India's shawl industry by breaking through Legal Barriers. (Episode 38)
• Vanessa Van Ameyde navigated imposter syndrome through Strategic Preparation.(Episode 79)
• Radha Kessar conquered self-doubt despite an exemplary Academic Career. (Episode 20)
• Abha Narain Lambah transformed fear into a driving force for Heritage Conservation.(Episode 32).

This episode acts as a guide, offering a moment to reflect on the perseverance that has carried you through your own challenges. Through these stories, Enma provides an opportunity to pause, consider, and gather new insights that will help you continue to Persevere on your path.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Rina Singh's roots are in rural North India, where she was raised within a culture of family and community craftsmanship, which continues to influence her. She has experience researching and developing indigenous Indian textile techniques with NIFT Gandhinagar, where she worked as an assistant professor. She gained international fashion insight through her travels and work with an international design studio based in Prato, Italy, and with Wills Lifestyle, where she headed the women's wear category.

In 2011, Rina Singh launched "ekà," primarily working with textile craftspeople in rural Western and Eastern India to develop natural and sustainable fabrics in modern yet enduring silhouettes.

Eka` means one in Sanskrit and describes a one-of-a-kind product for women who wear their hearts on their sleeves and attitude in their clothes.

Rina Singh made history as the first designer from India to collaborate with the global apparel conglomerate Uniqlo for the launch of its first-ever Kurta collection, available across stores globally, for the AW19 and SS20 seasons.

She received the Chairman's Scholarship from Wigan & Leigh College to study fashion in the UK in 1998. In 2015, she was awarded the Elle India Graduates Award. In 2016, she was a runner-up at the Vogue India Fashion Fund and a regional finalist from India for the prestigious International Woolmark Prize. In 2019, Rina Singh was awarded the Vogue Power List - Minimalist Designer of the Year and featured as Harper Bazaar's Women of the Year.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Education was not a right, and she had to earn it. 
• Creating the Eka Tribe and building the community.
• Rina's relationship with her different mentors, her confidant.
• Strong women are often silenced more than empowered.
• Discover how Rina's scholarship paved the path to where she stands today.
• How reading served as a refuge during challenging times, an escape.
• She recognized her place in the world of fashion and that everyone rises together.
• Fashion is not just an attire but a means of expressing one's personality and individuality.
• Values of simple village life, rural surroundings, and elements like earth, water, air, and nature and their influence on Rina's work and perspective.
• Highly skilled and dexterous craft should not merely survive but thrive and become a form of art.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Vinita Gursahani Singh is the Founder and Managing Trustee of We, The People Abhiyan, and she has dedicated over 28 years to advancing social development in India, with a focus on livelihoods, human rights, and active citizenship. Her work is grounded in the belief that empowering individuals with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to address their own challenges is crucial for societal progress.

Vinita naturally excels in exploring issues and solutions through active dialogue and consultation, striving to build meaningful engagements with stakeholders at all levels—from grassroots communities to government agencies, corporations, and civil society organizations. Over the past 25 years, she has worked tirelessly to educate and inspire citizens to understand and exercise their rights and responsibilities, fostering a deep pride in democratic values.

With a management degree from SP Jain Institute in Mumbai and an MSc in Social Policy from the London School of Economics, Vinita blends academic knowledge with hands-on experience to drive impactful change in India through the Constitution.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Social cohesion and solidarity.
• Feeling fear, holding on to faith.
• Celebrating success, even the smallest wins.
• Navigating risks when challenging the machinery.
• Discrimination against women remains a real issue.
• Constitution is a long word and an incredibly powerful word.
• The State is a duty holder; citizens need to challenge for access.
• Believing in the goodness of people is an important state of mind.
• With the right information and mindset, transformation is possible.
• Challenge ourselves to take ownership and bring our voices forward.
• When one's back is to the wall, there's only one way, and that's forward.
• Demonstrating, to inspire Gen Z to consider a career in the social sector.
• Professional commitments and personal life, not trying to strike a balance.
• Lack of access is a barrier; even with the desire to make a change, possibilities remain unknown.
• Independence provided us with political democracy, but social democracy requires people to change for themselves and others.
• The Constitution empowers us to make a difference and bring our own voices to the table.
• Once you open someone's mind, you have to accept their perspective.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Monica has been a technology entrepreneur since 1999 and a social entrepreneur since 2015. As a founding board member of Nisum Latam, she played a crucial role in its growth and international expansion, transforming it from a Chilean startup into a global firm with 100 employees from over 25 countries, specializing in complex software development for the U.S. market.

Currently, Monica serves as the Executive Director of Kodea Nonprofit, which focuses on digitally empowering Latin Americans. Kodea promotes inclusive tech development, female digital empowerment, early innovation, and the integration of Computer Science in classrooms to foster digital talent.

Monica has represented Chile on the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) since 2022 and has been a Business Director and columnist for Economy and Business at El Mercurio since 2019. Her accolades include the Chiletec Women in Technology Award (2015) and the Service Export Award (2016). She has been honored as one of Chile's 100 Women Leaders and, in 2021, received the Woman in Tech Lifetime Achievement Award and the Women that Build Awards from Globant. Additionally, she served as an ambassador for the Chile Brand and, with her Kodea team, won the JK Visionaries award in 2020.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Operating as a Pleaser
• From Chile to New York
• A Round Peg in a Square Hole
• All the Limits Are in Our Mind
• A Lonely Journey and Naysayers
• Focus on Excellence, Money Follows
• Unpacking Pain and Self-Acceptance
• Sharing Your Problems, Your Fragility
• Resolving Conflict, Creating  Safe Spaces
• Promoting Chile and Breaking Stereotypes
• Understanding Why We Act the Way We Do
• From Tech Entrepreneur to Founder of Kodea
• Risks of Poor Planning, Leading to Desperation
• Finding Your tribe, People with the Same Mindset 

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

With over 20 years of international experience spanning Asia, North America, and Europe, Simran has been at the forefront of delivering transformative technology solutions across various industry verticals, including Education, Non-Profits, Retail, Real Estate, Media, and Shipping & Logistics. Her career has been dedicated to driving business operations towards a "digital first" approach, harnessing the power of technology to innovate and optimize.

Simran attributes her personal competitive advantage to a blend of pragmatism, ambition, intuition, trust in people, and an appreciation for data. Her commitment to closing the loop on any challenge that comes her way has been a key factor in her success.

Recognized by LinkedIn as a "Top Leadership Voice," Simran has made significant contributions through her insightful writing and engagement on the platform.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Simran is a passionate advocate for financial inclusion for women, emphasizing the importance of autonomy and literacy. She actively supports women-led businesses as an angel investor and serves as a Limited Partner (LP) in private equity firms focusing on Climate Tech, Healthcare, the Future of Work, and Retail Reinvention.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Control is an illusion.
• Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
• Finding joy in work helps you endure difficult days.
• Growth comes from stepping out of comfort zones.
• Clearing the mind is a superpower for a long, sustained career.
• Meditation and yoga have the power to rewire the brain and thoughts.
• Introverts make great leaders, which is important to mastering extroverted skills.
• Choosing risky options over safe choices where there is potential for growth.
• Conveying understanding is more important than accents in language learning.
• Don't second-guess why you have a seat at the table. Focus on preparing for that role.
• Money is a tool; especially women should focus not just on earning but also on investing.
• Having an independent mind allows one to have different opinions and still move forward together.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Vennesa Van Ameyde serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Kasasa, an award-winning fintech and marketing services company that provides reward checking accounts people love, the first-ever loan with Take-Backs™, and ongoing expert consulting services to more than 600 community financial institutions nationwide.

As COO, Vennesa manages the day-to-day operations, marketing, creative services, client implementation & support services, internal application infrastructure, operating standards, people programs, and culture at Kasasa.

She is a senior operating executive with demonstrated talent for transforming and scaling organizations by developing the operational infrastructure, systems, processes, reporting, and organizational strategies to foster rapid growth. Vennesa is a people's champion, passionate about creating a best-place-to-work culture via the development of innovative programs that focus on talent attraction, development, leadership training, engagement, reward and recognition, community outreach, and DE&I.

She holds an MA in Diplomacy from Norwich University and a BS in Political Science and Anthropology from Vanderbilt University. Vennesa received Lean Six Sigma training from the University of Michigan College of Engineering and studied Theory of Constraints for Operations at The Goldratt Institute. She has been honored to receive recognition by the Austin Business Journal as a “Profiles In Power & Woman Of Influence” Finalist in 2015.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Leadership lessons from team sports.
• Knowing your value, knowing your worth.
• Not letting perfect get in the way of progress.
• Emotional leadership and business leadership.
• Advocating for other women, providing allyship .
• Imposter syndrome, to be worthy of sitting at the table.
• Communication tools, emailing vs meeting, when and why.
• Leaning in, leveraging an opportunity before it passes you by.
• Being human, being vulnerable and being willing to talk about what you're capable of and being able to ask for help.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli’s website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Diane Schwarz is Johnson Controls' chief information officer and the global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings. She is responsible for leading a global, business-aligned information technology organization. Schwarz develops and executes enterprise-wide I.T. strategy to ensure a strong digital core for Johnson Controls to scale and achieve its global growth objectives.

A senior I.T. executive with experience in building and leading best-in-class I.T. teams, Schwarz most recently served as chief digital and information officer for Hunt Consolidated and previously worked at Textron, Bell and Honeywell. With a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, her scope covers digital transformations, cybersecurity, data analytics, infrastructure and cloud operations, ERP/SAP applications and I.T. supplier management.

Schwarz holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She is a board member of NPower, a non-profit that creates pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital careers for military veterans and young adults from underserved communities and of T200, a non-profit that elevates women in technology. 

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Work Hard, Party Harder.
• Addressing issues one at a time.
• Moment of humility, don't know it at all.
• Having diverse experiences, trying everything.
• Startups don't align with everyone's risk tolerance. 
• Recognizing traits that will stop you from scaling as a leader.
• Vulnerability and Empathy are essential skills for becoming a better leader. 
• Make the right choice for the family while having a sustainable career.
• You will not be able to do your job well if you don't care for yourself.
• Identifying and addressing behaviours to evolve as a leader.
• Helping others succeed creates opportunities for your own success.
• Self-awareness to become better as humans, as parents, and as professionals.
• She who wants to go fast goes alone; she who wants to go far goes together. 
• Mentors can come from different backgrounds, not just the business world.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Alina Alam, founder of Mitti Cafe at the age of 23, embarked on a mission to showcase the magic of abilities to the world. She believes that compassion and courage are powerful tools in tackling global challenges, advocating strongly for inclusive development and empowering vulnerable communities. Mitti Cafe, initiated during her university years, provides sustainable livelihood opportunities for adults with physical, intellectual, and psychiatric disabilities. 

Alina, a three-time TEDx speaker, is celebrated on Forbes' 30 Under 30 Asia list and has received numerous accolades, including the Commonwealth Youth Award, Niti Aayog-Women Transforming India Award, Helen Keller Award, United Nations Intercultural Innovation Award, Times of India-She Unlimited Award, Rotary Exemplar Award, and Tiecon Young Female Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Emphasizing participatory management, Alina is passionate about her journey alongside the extraordinary team at Mitti, composed of individuals with disabilities who have collectively served over 11 million meals and beverages across 40-plus MITTI CAFE locations. Their work not only provides economic independence and dignity but also promotes awareness about inclusion and disability rights globally.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Money is not the only thing that enables it.
• Faith and her mother were her biggest cheerleaders.
• Scarcity is the best resource for any entrepreneur.
• You don't have to be in sales mode with everyone. 
• The transformative power of community kindness.
• Economic independence and dignity are not privileges but rights.
• Anything nice you do for anyone is a favour you're doing to yourself.
• Strength in faith and the belief that after every hardship comes ease.
• Not having enough helps us learn to value other important things in life.
• You need to know when to listen to your heart, which is your best friend.
• The CEO is also the Chief Pitching Officer and has to bring the stories alive.
• Change can only happen when people overcome uncomfortable moments.
• How Mitti Cafe was inspired by the documentary on Emperor Nero's abuse of power.
• When you're passionate, you're your strongest, most leech-like, and most shameless.
• 70 million people with disabilities in India,  and over 1 billion people with disabilities across the world.
• Silence or inaction supports oppression, the moral imperative to stand up for what is right.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website
>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Anoushka Jolly is the 15-year-old founder of Kavach who embarked on her journey as a response to distressing childhood experiences with bullying. 

Her mission began at just nine years old when she founded the Anti-Bullying Squad (www.antibullyingsquad.com), an impact enterprise that worked on creating awareness against bullying amongst children; she's since impacted over 2 million people in 20,000 schools. 

After collaborating with a few NGOs and doing some more groundwork on bullying, she observed that the main reason bullying is such a big issue is that it isn't reported. Based on this ideology and the current education infrastructure, she created an app called Kavach, which is a bullying reporting mechanism. 

At the age of 13, Anoushka became the youngest entrepreneur to receive funding for Shark Tank India. In 2023, she won the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (the highest civilian honour for a child) from the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, in the field of social service. As a social entrepreneur and changemaker, she strongly believes in the power of technology for the betterment of mental health, as evident in her work.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Defining Bullying.

• How one can empower oneself.

• Significant role of grandparents.

• Inspiration drawn from Shark Tank.

• Inspiration behind the anti-bullying journey.

• The dynamic with parents as business partners.

• Standing up for oneself without disrespecting others.

• How can the family empower rather than solve problems.

• The role of the school counsellor is to help build empathy and forgiveness.

• Balancing entrepreneurial pursuit, academic commitment, and personal life. 

• Expressing emotions in a safe space has the therapeutic effect of releasing pent-up anger.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website
>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

NASA’s first South Asian female flight director, Pooja Jesrani has a unique lens on building inclusive environments in high stakes circumstances.

As one of the 24 NASA Flight Directors, apart from guiding mission control Pooja is responsible for managing operations for all human spaceflight programs including the International Space Station (ISS), a habitable artificial satellite and microgravity laboratory that is maintained as a multinational collaborative project. 

Pooja has managed life support and motion control systems on the ISS and has also been a capsule communicator (CAPCOM), speaking directly with the astronauts in space.

Recently, Pooja has been working to integrate mission operations for the upcoming commercial crew flights.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Bringing authenticity and vulnerability to leadership.

• Importance of building relationships as Individuals vs team members.

• Finding the balance, you can't have it all.

• Mentoring and Supporting other women.

• Setting your reputation at get go.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

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Vedika Bhandarkar, Chief Operating Officer for Water.org, is responsible for the operating efficiency and effectiveness of Water.org and for the attainment of strategic objectives and annual organizational goals. She works closely with the CEO, the executive team, and the President of WaterEquity to support the mission and vision of Water.org. She previously served as Water.org's Chief Global Impact Officer and the Managing Director of India.

Vedika has more than 25 years of experience building teams and businesses with Indian and international financial institutions. Prior to joining Water.org in January 2016, she served as Vice Chairman and Managing Director at Credit Suisse Securities (India) Private Limited from 2010-2015. Previously, she served as the Managing Director and head of Investment Banking at J.P. Morgan, where she worked for over 10 years. She started her career with ICICI Limited in Mumbai.

Vedika serves as an Independent Director on the boards of several companies. She also serves as a board member of the Jai Vakeel Foundation, an institution focused on children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Attitude and Competence.

• Seeing change as an adventure.

• Joy as a leader is the definition of success. 

• Recognizing that you don't have all the answers.

• Fostering Allyship, building a network of cheerleaders.

• Trusting Your Gut by listening to your intuition and instincts.

• Embracing Humility, leaving behind preconceived notions and biases. 

• Managing Imposter Syndrome: it doesn't go away, but learning how to manage it.

• Not Fearing Mistakes: considering the worst-case scenario when fearing mistakes.

• Embracing Setbacks, viewing them as opportunities. Learning from mistakes and taking ownership of them.

• Learning from the Past, you can't change it, so not obsessing over it. Prioritizing the present and future.

• Prioritizing Ruthlessly by being decisive. Making conscious choices instead of compromising.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website

>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Brenda Soya is the Public Affairs Officer at the Consulate General in Mumbai. She directs public diplomacy and outreach efforts to reach 400 million people in western India, further U.S. policy, and strengthen people-to-people relations.  She leads Consulate General Mumbai's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility organization and is committed to the aspirational goal of women's economic empowerment. Her State Department career includes working in Sierra Leone, the Holy See (Vatican), Togo, and Burkina Faso. 

Brenda received a master's degree in security studies at the Naval War College in Newport, RI, and used that degree to teach International Relations at the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, CO.  Brenda has a B.A. summa cum laude from the University of Colorado at Boulder, was a Presidents Leadership Class and a Boettcher scholar. 

In this conversation, Brenda is sharing her personal ideas and not as a representative of any organization or of the U.S. Department of State. 

Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

• Mind is Your Worst Enemy.
• The Many Layers of Culture.
• Recognizing and Managing Self-Doubt.
• Creativity as a Tool for Problem-Solving.
• Seeking Out Advice, When Ready for Feedback.
• Shadowing Adults to Broaden One's Perspective.
• Work-Life Integration: to Achieve Holistic Well-being.
• Living in a Diverse Community, Adapting to a Mountain Lifestyle.
• Making choices, serving one's Country, and sharing one's own Culture.
• Embracing Change: Focusing on the Potential for New Experiences.
• Navigating Cultural Differences, Cultural Faux Pas, or Cultural Shock.
• Being Open to Seizing Opportunities, Even if They Entail Uncertainty.
• Connection Between Language and the History and Culture of a Country.

Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

>> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/

Visit Enma Popli's website
>> http://www.enmapopli.com/