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

On this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder and Trustee at Ashoka University, Founding Dean of ISB, Founder of Harappa Education and President at upGrad. Dr. Sinha is a visionary leader in education and entrepreneurship. He has reshaped higher education in India and is now setting his sights on the entire world.

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

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Pramath Raj Sinha -

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

Ashoka University | LinkedIn -

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

Ashoka University | Website -

https://www.ashoka.edu.in

upGrad LinkedIn -

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

upGrad | Website -

https://www.upgrad.com

Indian School of Business (ISB) -

https://www.isb.edu

Harappa Education -

https://harappa.education

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#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Ashish Jha, former White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator and Dean of the Brown University School of Public Health. Dr. Jha shares his inspiring journey from growing up in a small village in Bihar, India, to being asked by the President of the United States to join his administration. He also opens up about facing racism in high school and how support at Columbia University helped shape his dual identity and career.

Key Takeaways:



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Ashish Jha -

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

Columbia University -

https://www.columbia.edu

Brown University School of Public Health -

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

Harvard Medical School -

https://hms.harvard.edu

University of Toronto -

https://www.utoronto.ca

World Health Organization (WHO) -

https://www.who.int

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, Kedar Deshpande, former CEO of Zappos and Groupon, joins me to share his insights on leadership, entrepreneurship and redefining success. Kedar’s perspective on curiosity and questioning the status quo has led him to make a significant impact in various sectors.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

(40:47) Improving strategies for financial assistance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Kedar Deshpande -

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

Zappos -

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

Groupon -

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

“Delivering Happiness” by Tony Hsieh -

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

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Kaschit Pandya, Chief Technology Officer of the Internal Revenue Service of the United States of America. Kaschit shares insights from his journey from IT roles in India to leading technology efforts at one of the largest government agencies in the US.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Kaschit Pandya -

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

Internal Revenue Service -

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

“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown -

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

“Think Again” by Adam Grant -

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

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

Every story begins with roots that nurture towering ambitions. In this episode, I’m joined by Sita Sonty, CEO of Space Tango and a guest lecturer at MIT. From the artful stages of Bharatanatyam to the technological helm of Space Tango, Sita Sonty is an example of how blending cultural heritage with modern innovation propels leadership in aerospace technology.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Sita Sonty -

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

MIT -

https://www.mit.edu/

Space Tango -

https://www.spacetango.com/

Herding Rockets: Improving Space Traffic Management -

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

Space and SPACs: A COVID Romance -

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

Automation: Key to the Future Space Economy -

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

Latest Updates from Space Tango -

https://spacetango.com/latest/

Watch: Innovations in Space Technology -

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

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I welcome Dr. Ravi Pendse, Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer at the University of Michigan. He joins us to discuss how appreciation has guided his personal and professional journey, deeply rooted in his rich cultural heritage.

Key Takeaways: 

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

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

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

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

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

(30:35) Transmitting cultural values across generations.

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Ravi Pendse -

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

University of Michigan | LinkedIn -

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

University of Michigan | Website -

https://umich.edu/

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

Every groundbreaking leap forward in technology begins with a simple step taken by someone who dares to think differently. In today’s episode, I’m joined by Ravi Pendekanti, Senior Vice President of Product Management and Marketing at Western Digital. We explore his journey from a small Indian village to the heights of global tech leadership, and how this embodies the principle of innovative thinking and strategic foresight.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Ravi Pendekanti -

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

Western Digital | LinkedIn -

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

Western Digital | Website -

https://www.westerndigital.com/

Hyderabad Public School -

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

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

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On this episode, I'm joined by Ramesh Razdan, Global CIO of Bain & Company. His journey from a remote village in Kashmir to the helm of a global consulting giant is not just inspiring but a testament to an indomitable spirit of determination and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

(14:33) The transformative power of mentorship.

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Ramesh Razdan -

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

Bain & Company -

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

Savitribai Phule Pune University -

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

Padma Shri Award -

https://padmaawards.gov.in/

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I’m joined by Raju Rajan, Chief Technologist for US East Globals at Hewlett Packard Enterprises and the pioneering force behind ReWild Long Island. His journey from the educational lanes of Chennai to the corridors of global tech leadership and environmental advocacy exemplifies a narrative rich with determination, innovation and a deep-rooted connection to heritage.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Raju Rajan -

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

Hewlett Packard Enterprises -

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

ReWild Long Island -

http://rewildlongisland.org/

Hewlett Packard US East Global -

https://www.hp.com/

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness

On this episode, I welcome Praveen Akkiraju, Managing Director of Insight Partners. Praveen shares insights gained on his journey from the lush landscapes of Andhra Pradesh into a leading role in the global tech and investment world. His story is a clear example of how embracing our cultural roots — coupled with adaptability and visionary leadership — can lead to unparalleled success.

Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources Mentioned:

Praveen Akkiraju -

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

Insight Partners | LinkedIn -

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

Insight Partners | Website -

https://www.insightpartners.com/

Cisco Systems -

https://www.cisco.com/

Thanks for listening to the Indianness podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, hit the subscribe button and never miss another insightful conversation with leaders of Indian origin. And be sure to leave a review to help get the word out about the show.

#Indian #IndiaBusiness #India #Indianness