This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Uncover the Inspiring Leadership Journey of Blake Hutcherson, CEO of Flippa.com! 

Join us in this captivating interview as Blake shares his leap from a corporate giant to a startup founder, revealing the pivotal moments that shaped his dynamic leadership style. 

Tune in to discover how embracing innovation and rapid change became Blake’s secret sauce for success, and learn how he harnesses customer insights and data to make informed decisions. 

Dive into his unique approach to team building, where aligning individual strengths with company goals is the key to a thriving workplace. 

Don’t miss this engaging conversation that’s packed with actionable insights for leaders navigating the ever-evolving business landscape

You can find Blake at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakehutchison/
• http://flippa.com/

In the interview, Blake shares

• “Flippa is a worldwide marketplace to buy and sell online businesses and digital assets.” 
• “Moving from an established corporate entity into my first startup was a crucial decision that gave me the confidence to dive in deep and take risks.”
• “I learned to love innovation and speed of change. I thrive in innovation-based environments where change is a part of the culture.” 
• “Customer happiness is reflected in the number of deals we do successfully on our platform each quarter and each year.” 
• “We do 10-week sprint cycles: two weeks planning, eight weeks execution. That goes on for the entirety of a full calendar year.” 
• “Listen to your customers, develop a strong gut feel, and use data to make informed decisions.” 
• “We like to profile the right Flippa employee by looking at our existing cultural DNA and the people within it who are having the most success.” 
• “We are a mass change environment, so we look for people who are adaptable.” 
• “Our biggest challenge is driving matching at scale and pinpointing the right buyers for the right assets.” 
• “It’s more about trying to remove the outside noise and focusing all of your energy on the noise that you can generate to drive the behaviors you want.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Discover the inspiring journey of Ajay, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed challenges into opportunities and created a thriving business empire. 

With over a decade in HR, including tenures at Nokia and Vodafone, Ajay’s ambition led him to co-found the successful startup happylocate.com. 

His drive to break free from limitations and his middle-class upbringing fueled his journey into entrepreneurship. Ajay’s candid approach and transparent communication have been his guiding principles, enabling him to weather storms, including the impact of Covid-19. 

Through innovation, Ajay pivoted during the pandemic, launching an asset delivery vertical that became a significant revenue source. With an eye on the future, Ajay envisions his startup evolving to handle even more complex relocations and is driven by an unwavering commitment to creating value for employees, partners, and clients. 

His story is a testament to the power of intent, resilience, and visionary leadership.

You can find Ajay at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajay-tiwari/
• ajaytiwarihr@gmail.com

In the interview, Ajay shares

• “I’ve always believed that ambition is the driving force that propels us to unexpected heights and compels us to embrace the unplanned.” 
• “Entrepreneurship is more than a career choice; it’s an attitude, a mindset that encourages autonomy and the pursuit of significant value.” 
• “From a middle-class background, I understood the true value of money, and that propelled me to become ambitious and explore the path of entrepreneurship.” 
• “In the face of challenges, pain brings us closer to reality, driving us to explore opportunities and pushing us to succeed.” 
• “Finding comfort in discomfort is the turning point where ambition meets determination, and where diplomacy gives way to authenticity.” 
• “Ambition is the compass guiding us, pushing us beyond our limits, and making us explore options we may never have considered.” 
• “During times of crisis, the challenge becomes an opportunity to prove our resilience and adaptability, and to emerge as the fittest.” 
• “Transparency, ethical intent, and candid communication lay the foundation for solving problems, building trust, and achieving success.” 
• “Leadership isn’t about managing tasks alone; it’s about developing people, creating value, and driving growth through collaborative effort.”
• “In moments of pressure, we must remember that our capacity to handle smaller challenges is what prepares us to tackle larger obstacles.” 

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Step into the captivating world of Paul, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 70 years of life’s wisdom and business acumen. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene shores of Wilmington, North Carolina, Paul serves as the President, CEO, and visionary founder of the innovative Wall Printer venture. 

His journey is a symphony of peaks and valleys, with each note playing a part in crafting his resounding success today. With a passion for promoting entrepreneurship, his mission is to ignite dreams and empower individuals to seize business opportunities they are passionate about. 

The Wall Printer, a cutting-edge vertical printing technology, stands as a testament to Paul’s ingenuity. Imagine transforming any surface, from walls to floors, into vibrant canvases for art and expression. It’s more than just a product; it’s a gateway to realizing aspirations.

His wisdom is distilled into a powerful message: success hinges on relationships. Whether he’s creating partnerships, guiding budding entrepreneurs, or building a dedicated team, his ethos is rooted in authenticity and trust.

A community of dreamers turned doers, painting success stories one wall at a time. Amidst this quest, he remains grounded, finding gratitude not only in business triumphs but in the harmonious balance of work, life, and personal passions that define his remarkable tale.

You can find Paul at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/pbbaron/
• https://thewallprinter.com/en/

In the interview, Paul shares

• “Entrepreneurship is about realizing hopes and dreams through passion-aligned products.”
• “Life’s journey is filled with peaks and valleys; success is about how many times you rise.” 
• “The Wall Printer: Transforming walls into canvases of innovation.” 
• “Success is built on relationships, understanding customer needs and being a trusted resource.” 
• “Balancing short-term goals with long-term success requires a strong team and wise leadership.” 
• “Creating opportunities for others to realize their dreams is the essence of The Wall Printer’s mission.” 
• “Innovation is painting a brighter future, one wall at a time.” 
• “A lesson learned: Be a trusted resource even when your product isn’t the solution.” 
• “Building a strong team and letting them thrive is a hallmark of great leadership.” 
• “Gratitude is found in the balance between work, passions, and enriching lives.” 

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Step into the world of Chandan, the co-founder and head of UX design at Coditas, a dynamic software development company shaping the digital landscape. 

With a team of 80 design practitioners, his leadership journey is a masterclass in bridging tech and design. Hailing from a small town near Varanasi, his life’s tapestry is woven with lessons of empathy and perseverance, a bedrock for his career evolution. 

His passion for design, sparked during his college years, has grown into a guiding light for his team. Amidst the fast-paced tech realm, Chandan’s unique blend of spirituality and meditation keeps him centered, nurturing both personal growth and professional excellence. 

As Coditas soars, Chandan faces a challenge that resonates with every leader – cultivating curiosity and encouraging a culture of questioning. 

His secret? Fostering an environment where mistakes are embraced as stepping stones to success. His journey is an ode to growth, an invitation to step out of comfort zones, and a reminder that genuine connections shape remarkable futures.

You can find Chandan at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechandan/
• chandan@coditas.com

In the interview, Chandan shares

• “I am currently working as the co-founder and head of UX design at Coditas, where we offer everything from UX strategy to AI-driven software development.”
• “From my small-town upbringing near Varanasi, I imbibed the values of hard work and valuing what you have.”
• “I started enjoying design, and today, if there’s one thing I could do my entire life for free, it’s design.”
• “In dealing with high-pressure situations and people, meditation and spirituality have played a pivotal role in keeping me grounded.”
• “As my company grows, I’ve realized the importance of maintaining a balance between business and people.”
• “I consistently learned the value of upgrading your own skills, no matter at what position I reach.”
• “As a leader, my focus is on enabling my team to develop new AI-driven thinking, ensuring their success even beyond our company.”
• “The biggest organizational challenge we face is cultivating curiosity and encouraging our team to question the norm.”
• “I channelize my emotions into productive outlets, making sure they contribute positively to my work.”
• “If I could wake up with a new skill, it would be the ability to understand people beyond their words.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Step into the captivating world of Avnish, a trailblazer whose journey from the corporate maze to the helm of CaratLane, India’s foremost omnichannel jewelry giant, is a testament to resilience and daring optimism. 

With a knack for recognizing opportunity where others see impossibility, he unveils his narrative of evolution. From the tenacious days at Onida where he almost walked away but found his grounding, to the fateful encounter that paved his path to entrepreneurship, his story is one of transformation against the odds. 

His leadership prowess shines as he divulges his guiding principles – the alchemy of reflection, the power of empathy, and the art of balancing risk and realism. Through his eyes, we glimpse the artistry of understanding human behavior, the fuel that ignites innovation. 

He opens the door to his treasured library, revealing profound reads like “Think Again” by Adam Grant and insightful biographies of trailblazers, offering readers a compass for navigating leadership challenges. 

His tale is a symphony of unwavering positivity, a testament that the road less traveled can lead to the extraordinary.
 

You can find Avnish at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/avnishanand/

In the interview, Avnish shares

• “CaratLane is India’s first and largest omnichannel jewelry company, a wonderful opportunity I could have asked for in life.”
• “I’ve been through rejection, difficult jobs, and the shock of the real world; overcoming fear changed my perspective.”
• “Reflecting on longer-term windows helped me overcome rejection and focus on winning the wars, not just battles.”
• “I’m delusionally optimistic; optimism is good for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship.”
• “Understanding human behavior is key; what does a person really want and how does it benefit both parties?”
• “Bias for action and valuing both outcomes and inputs are essential for innovation and effective leadership.”
• “Books like ‘Think Again’ by Adam Grant and biographies of leaders offer valuable insights into leadership and reflection.”
• “Radical Candor, ‘A Brave New World’ by Adam, and books on the human aspect of business are highly recommended.”
• “Balance optimism with the ability to recognize risks and when to quit; self-awareness is essential.”
• “A combination of family, personal interests, and professional growth is my future vision, along with making a positive impact.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Step into the captivating world of Marina, a visionary leader on a mission to reshape humanity’s trajectory. An enigmatic blend of a scientist’s curiosity and a diplomat’s acumen, Marina’s journey unfolds across continents, languages, and cultures. 

From an early age, she defied norms, embracing challenges that propelled her into diverse realms, from academia to the event and fashion industries. 

Guided by unshakable ethics, she steered clear of paths misaligned with her values, forging a luminous trail through the intricate landscape of leadership.

Her story is a symphony of resilience, a testament to the power of listening. Her keen perception, honed through encounters with CEOs and navigating uncharted territories, highlights the magic of understanding others.

With an unwavering commitment to positive reinforcement and a conviction that being rich transcends financial gain, she envisions a future where humanity slows down, savors its advancements, and charts a harmonious course with the planet. 

You can find Marina at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-narishkin/

In the interview, Marina shares

• “I’m probably a frustrated scientist, pushed into diplomatic services instead of scientific studies.”
• “I’ve learned that listening is magical; it taught me more than all my education and cultural experiences combined.”
• “Leadership is not about being born or becoming one, but about staying true to yourself through humility and audacity.”
• “Fear is a dominant factor in decision-making; I choose to listen to the call of good instead.”
• “Being rich has nothing to do with money; it’s about finding contentment and learning from the simple joys of life.”
• “We’re living on a ball that’s running around the galaxy; we need to stop taking ourselves so seriously.”
• “Leadership is about embracing diverse forms of intelligence, from academic to emotional, to foster growth.”
• “Authenticity shatters stereotypes; leadership transcends gender norms and empowers each individual’s unique qualities.”
• “In a world racing toward the finish line, we must learn from history and slow down to appreciate our advancements.”
• “Education is the key to humanity’s survival, addressing ecological, financial, and poverty-related challenges.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Anthony is the Founder and Co-Chair of NEXT powered by Shulman Rogers where they are innovating in delivering legal services to startup and emerging growth companies. 

Join us in this insightful and engaging interview with a seasoned entrepreneur, startup attorney, and investor, as he shares his incredible journey in the startup ecosystem spanning over 25 years. 

Discover how he transformed his passion for innovation into a thriving platform, Next Powered by Schulman Rogers, revolutionizing the way legal services are delivered to startups. 

Gain valuable leadership insights on maintaining culture in a distributed workforce, navigating global markets, and staying resilient in the face of challenges. 

If you’re looking for inspiration and practical advice on entrepreneurship and building a successful venture, this interview is a must-listen. 

You can find Anthony at the below links

• https://twitter.com/sanketnadhani
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanketnadhani/

In the interview, Anthony shares

• “For me, my journey with entrepreneurship started in college and high school where friends were getting traditional jobs, but I was already starting my first company—a small publishing business.”
• “Every challenge you overcome, every failure you experience, provides an opportunity for personal growth and development in the entrepreneurial journey.”
• “At Next Powered by Schulman Rogers, we are innovating the way legal services are provided to startups, focusing on predictability and a customer-centric experience.”
• “Our mission at Next Power is all about empowering success, and we’ve launched initiatives like Startup U and Next Raise to support founders in building and scaling their companies.”
• “As we continue to grow and work with global startups, maintaining culture and building a distributed remote workforce become some of the key leadership challenges.”
• “I believe that stepping back to gain perspective during challenging times is crucial, and having a great team around you helps address and solve any crisis.”
• “My unique background as an entrepreneur, startup attorney, and investor gives me a unique perspective on what we are trying to achieve at Next Power.”
• “Outside of work, my family is the most important aspect of my life, and I also enjoy swimming and constantly improving my sports and exercise routines.”
• “To aspiring entrepreneurs, I would emphasize the importance of perseverance and agility—the ability to quickly iterate and make decisions with imperfect information.”
• “Entrepreneurship is not an easy road, but the rewards and fulfillment it brings make it a journey worth embarking on for those with a passion for creating something new.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Adam is the Owner at Hite Digital – St. Louis with a focus on family, growing people, and delivering excellence. 

In this captivating interview, Adam shares his transformation from a successful medical device salesperson to a thriving business owner running a full-service digital marketing agency called Hite Digital. 

Learn how Adam’s family background in entrepreneurship and his passion for sports influenced his competitive edge in the business world. 

Discover the secrets behind building strong partnerships, empowering remote teams, and navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship with grace. 

Tune in for valuable insights on setting clear goals, achieving peace of mind, and creating a remarkable legacy as a leader. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to grow and scale their business while prioritizing family, faith, and personal growth. 

You can find Adam at the below links

• https://www.instagram.com/adamlmcchesney/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-mcchesney-b21b1256/

In the interview, Adam shares

• “I run a full-service digital marketing agency called Hite Digital, so I’m a partner over there. We do everything from logo, branding, web design, search engine optimization, Google ads, Facebook ads, all that good stuff.”
• “Entrepreneurship just has a very competitive edge, and it’s a continuous self-development journey.”
• “I built 200 websites on my own before I ever actually sold one, and just had a ton of experience and built that up on the side in medical device sales.”
• “I’d rather have a smaller piece of a much bigger pie. Find the right people, align on core values, and have strengths in areas that you have weaknesses.”
• “Right now, we’re really focused on growth, building out a sales division to impact more people, both on our employees and their families, but more importantly, impact small businesses around the world.”
• “Finding the right people and getting them aligned with the mission and culture is the biggest challenge in scaling a remote-based organization.”
• “New levels just bring new devils. The higher you get, the more impact you have, the more success you have. It doesn’t get easier; you just get better at navigating those things.”
• “Training in a remote environment gets extremely tough, so investing in online training platforms and QA departments becomes essential.”
• “Setting the right expectations and aligning with core values is crucial in managing a business focused on family and faith first.”
• “Start with the end in mind. Define what success and growth mean to you and reverse engineer what you need to do today in order to get there.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Kilian is the co-founder and COO of Refurbed, which is the fastest growing online-marketplace for sustainable products in Europe. 

In this inspiring interview, Killian shares his journey from a sustainable startup in Shanghai to building a leading marketplace for refurbished products in Europe. 

He reveals the challenges he faced while convincing investors about the power of sustainability as a driving force for their business. 

Learn how he strategically balances supply and demand to create a seamless experience for both customers and suppliers, and how he adapted his leadership style while scaling from a small team to 300 employees. 

Discover valuable insights and personal development tips that will empower you to drive positive change and embrace sustainability in your leadership journey. 

You can find Kilian at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiliankaminski/
• Refurbed

In the interview, Kilian shares

• “Our mission is to make sustainable consumption easier for both end customers and businesses.” 
• “The first touchpoint of being in a startup showed me the strong ownership one can have in driving positive change.” 
• “Launching the Amazon Renewed program opened my eyes to the benefits of refurbished products: lower prices, sustainability, and warranties.” 
• “Joining forces with my co-founder Peter, we saw a huge market for a marketplace focusing solely on refurbished products.” 
• “Our vision is to create a new normal in society where the circular economy and sustainable consumption are at the core of all decisions.” 
• “One of our biggest challenges was convincing investors that sustainability could be a driving force for our business.” 
• “Balancing supply and demand has been a constant challenge for our marketplace model, but we strive to create a great experience for both customers and suppliers.”
• “As we continue to scale, we are focusing on profitability to ensure a sustainable future for the company and the environment.” 
• “The journey from a small startup to a team of 300 has required constant learning and adaptation as a leader.” 
• “Personal development and seeking feedback have been essential in shaping my leadership style and guiding our company towards a more sustainable future.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Mihails is a Scientist turned entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO at Cenos, which is simplifying simulation-based design for every engineer. 

With over six and a half years of experience in the startup world, Mihails shares his fascinating journey from building a scientific career to founding his own engineering simulation software company. 

Discover how he navigated the challenges of transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur, the power of making decisions that embrace the future vision, and valuable insights on maintaining motivation and trust in uncertain times. 

This candid conversation is filled with wisdom and practical takeaways that will inspire and empower leaders facing their own growth challenges. 🚀

You can find Mihails at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mihails-scepanskis/

In the interview, Mihails shares

• “I am Mihails Scepanskis, a scientist turned entrepreneur. My journey from academia to founding a startup has been a visionary quest to revolutionize engineering through simulation software.”
• “As an entrepreneur, I learned that taking risks and daring to speak beyond what you can prove is the essence of visionary thinking. We sell the future, not just the present.”
• “Starting my own company was driven by a realization that my consultancy work was often unnecessary for my customers. It sparked the desire to create a solution that would empower engineers in smaller companies.”
• “The journey from scientist to entrepreneur has been filled with challenges and tough choices. Refusing an investor’s offer may seem emotional, but sometimes it’s about finding the right fit for the long-term vision.”
• “In decision-making, it’s crucial to trust data, but simplicity and beauty also matter. Easy and beautiful solutions tend to find their applications in the future.”
• “Motivation and trust in the future are critical for an entrepreneur. I maintain trust by being transparent with my team about challenges and opportunities, allowing them to be proactive.”
• “For the next 12 months, our biggest challenge is sustaining growth without external funding. We’re focused on making our business more capital efficient to maintain steady progress.”
• “Our growth strategy is sales-driven, but it’s also a careful combination of sales and product development. Delegating sales and documenting processes has helped us scale effectively.”
• “Being an entrepreneur taught me to make decisions that embrace the future vision, not just immediate survival. Thinking beyond the present enriches both personal and professional aspects of life.”
• “Transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur has empowered me to take visionary steps, like going electric with my family car. Embracing the future has made life more beautiful and fulfilling.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Join us in this captivating interview with Sanket, co-founder of Super Gaming, as he shares his inspiring journey of building an empire in the gaming industry. 

From humble beginnings to becoming a leading game development company in India, Sanket’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. 

Discover how he and his team are revolutionizing the gaming landscape by creating immersive experiences that showcase India’s rich art, culture, and history. 

Gain valuable insights on entrepreneurship, overcoming challenges, and the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. 

Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a leader seeking inspiration, this conversation will leave you motivated to embrace new possibilities and unleash your full potential.

You can find Sanket at the below links

• https://twitter.com/sanketnadhani
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanketnadhani/

In the interview, Sanket shares

• “Super Gaming is on a mission to put India on the global gaming map by creating great games built in India, made for the world.”
• “We are building one of India’s most ambitious titles, an end futuristic battle royal that combines Indian art and culture projected 2,500 years into the future.”
• “I started my entrepreneurial journey at a young age, co-founding Fusion Chart, a charting library that became a successful bootstrap SaaS company.”
• “After taking a sabbatical to travel and explore, I realized the importance of having the courage to step out of my comfort zone and try new things.”
• “Building games is an intellectual challenge that opens up horizons and allows for continuous learning and personal growth.”
• “Our biggest opportunity lies in fulfilling the demand for Indian content in gaming and leveraging India’s rich culture and history.”
• “Being a game developer in India was not widely accepted until recently, but the passion for gaming has always driven us to overcome challenges.”
• “As we focus on building great games and creating a sustainable business, we aim to grow a large community and establish India as a force in the global gaming industry.”
• “One of the key challenges is building the right organizational structure and career paths within the company to support our goals.”
• “Embracing new skills and breaking mental roadblocks can lead to surprising achievements. Don’t limit yourself—continuously learn and adapt to succeed.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Derren is a serial entrepreneur and currently the Managing Director of Kinescope, which is Enabling high quality video embedding and streaming at the lowest prices.

With a charming and relatable personality, Darren shares his inspiring path from a hobbyist copywriter to a thriving tech leader, shedding light on the driving forces behind his success. 

As he delves into the challenges faced during his transition from law studies to entrepreneurship, Darren imparts invaluable wisdom on identifying new opportunities, bringing people together, and fostering a culture of autonomy and flexibility. 

Discover the transformative power of prioritizing mental health, finding work-life balance, and embracing the freedom to shape your own path. 

Get ready to be motivated, gain actionable insights, and embark on your own journey of leadership and growth.

You can find Derren at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrendejong/?originalSubdomain=nl
• derren@kinescope.io

In the interview, Derren shares

• “Since 2013, I’ve embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, starting as a copywriter and venturing into various domains.”
• “In addition to my tech company, I serve on the board of the expert committee responsible for allocating innovation subsidies in the northern Netherlands.”
• “From copywriting to entrepreneurship, my journey began with a translation request that led to writing content for multiple clients and eventually growing my business.”
• “Transitioning from studying law to entrepreneurship was a tough decision, but I realized my passion lay in autonomy and freedom rather than a corporate career.”
• “Discovering my talent for bringing people together around common ideas and identifying new opportunities has been key to my success.”
• “Through my experience, I’ve learned the importance of balancing individuality and teamwork, giving autonomy while ensuring introverted team members have space to contribute.”
• “Freedom has been the driving force behind my varied endeavors, seeking flexibility and autonomy to shape my own path.”
• “As I continue to explore new possibilities, my future remains uncertain, whether it’s starting another venture, joining a co-founder role, or managing a larger company.”
• “Prioritizing mental health and avoiding burnout is crucial, and my advice is to measure your activity, set clear expectations, and find a work-life balance that suits your well-being.”

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Deepti is a co-founder of Spyne, which is transforming the way businesses create their catalog using state-of-the-art AI technology without any studio, photography skills, or complex processes.

In this inspiring interview, Deepti shares her journey into entrepreneurship and how she defied societal norms to pursue her passion for making a real impact. 

As a woman leader, she discusses the challenges she faced and offers valuable insights on how to overcome biases and build a strong support system. 

Join us as we delve into her vision for Spyne, their groundbreaking product that revolutionizes cataloging for industries like automotive and e-commerce. 

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a leader seeking inspiration, this interview is packed with practical advice and a refreshing perspective that will leave you motivated to embrace your own journey of growth and success.

You can find Deepti at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepti-prasad-ba1741a/
• deepti.pd.dse@gmail.com

In the interview, Deepti shares

• “At Spyne, our mission is to transform cataloging in industries like automotive, food, and e-commerce using AI and machine learning.”
• “We empower small businesses and enterprises to create studio-quality product images instantly, eliminating the need for third-party services.”
• “My journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t planned; I always wanted to do something impactful and eventually found my passion aligning with Spyne.”
• “Growing up, my parents instilled in me the value of thinking outside the box and taking risks, which shaped my entrepreneurial mindset.”
• “During my maternity leave, I delved into exploring Instagram marketing and the photography industry, which led me to launch Spyne.”
• “Being a woman leader comes with challenges, but surrounding yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision is crucial.”
• “As a leader, it’s important to connect with your team and ensure they align with the company’s vision, especially during growth stages.”
• “Spyne is currently a team of nearly 100 people, and our focus is on expanding our product’s reach before further scaling our team.”
• “The US market presents a significant opportunity for us, and our recent exhibition received positive feedback, driving our expansion plans.”
• “Believing in yourself, staying optimistic, and finding moments of rest and reflection are vital for navigating the fast-paced startup world.”