February 2024

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.

Dive into an inspiring conversation with Ragu Raghunandan Jagdish, the MD of London GSE Private Limited, as he shares the incredible journey of turning challenges into opportunities. 

From the unexpected closure of his workplace to founding Nandan Enterprises, Ragu’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through. 

Discover how his innovative solutions in material handling are making the world a safer place, especially in aviation and defense. 

Gain valuable insights into his leadership philosophy, tackling obstacles like COVID-19 with a focus on upscaling, and the importance of mentorship. 

Join us for a candid discussion that not only unveils the secrets behind his success but also offers practical wisdom for your own leadership journey.

You can find Raghunandan Jagdish at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/raghujagdish/
• http://www.raghudon.com/

In the interview, Raghunandan shares

• “At London GSE Private Limited, we make the world a safer place by providing material handling solutions for aviation, defense, and industrial needs.” 
• “Nandan Enterprises was born out of a challenge – when the union struck and the company shut down, I decided to start something small on my own.” 
• “My entrepreneurial journey began with a desire to contribute to India’s growth and make a difference, especially in the field of material handling.” 
• “Returning to India after my master’s in the U.S. was a culture shock, but I saw it as a challenge to overcome.” 
• “Machines are crucial for industrialization, making material handling safer, more ergonomic, and sustainable.” 
• “Our vision is to address the challenge of placing the right people in the right positions at the right time, using machines to enhance efficiency.” 
• “In the face of challenges like COVID-19, we pivoted and focused on upscaling rather than downsizing, rebuilding our factory and expanding our team.” 
• “Our growth strategy involves focusing on aviation, defense, and material handling, while embracing global standards and best practices.” 
• “Transitioning from an MSME organization to a leadership-focused one requires competency mapping and upscaling of our team’s skills.” 
• “As a leader, my primary role is to ensure my team scales up – leaders generate more leaders, not just followers.”

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.

In this insightful interview with Cem Eyi, co-founder of KidStart, we unravel the journey of transforming everyday shopping into a powerful tool for securing your children’s financial future. 

Cem shares his personal realization about the overlooked segment of children’s savings and how KidStart emerged as an innovative solution in the ever-changing financial landscape. 

Discover the unique vision beyond being a leading name in children’s savings as KidStart aims to solve broader family financial challenges. 

Dive into the challenges of growing a consumer-facing fintech business and learn about the importance of balancing priorities in a small, dynamic team. 

Cem’s story, infused with passion for music and multi-instrumentalism, adds a delightful touch to this conversation that goes beyond the traditional financial narrative.

You can find Cem Eyi at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/cemeyi/
• https://beanstalkapp.co.uk/

In the interview, Cem shares

• “At KidStart, we’re on a mission to turn shopping into savings for your children’s future – because every little bit counts!”
• “Discovering the unique path of building KidStart, I realized the overlooked segment of children’s savings was ripe for innovation.”
• “In a world where incomes struggle to keep pace with living costs, KidStart aims to bring a sense of hope to parents, making every contribution count.”
• “The journey of KidStart began as a personal realization – the importance of securing a financial future for our children.”
• “As we build KidStart, our vision extends beyond being a leading name in children’s savings. We aim to solve broader family financial challenges.”
• “In three to five years, success for KidStart means empowering parents who thought building wealth for their children was impossible.”
• “Navigating the challenges of growing a consumer-facing fintech business, KidStart is determined to economically scale and make a lasting impact.”
• “In the midst of the hustle, balancing priorities is key – focusing on needle-moving activities rather than ego-massaging tasks.”
• “The strength of KidStart lies in its culture of open communication, ensuring the team stays aligned and avoids unnecessary rabbit holes.”
• “Beyond the world of finance, my passion for music and being a multi-instrumentalist has taught me valuable lessons in acquiring complementary skills.”

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 fascinating world of data protection and entrepreneurship with Rob Masson, the Chief Executive of the DPO Center.

In this insightful interview, Rob shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from developing software at the age of 18 to founding a globally recognized consultancy company.

Learn how the DPO Center’s unique ‘team first, client second’ philosophy shapes their approach to business, and discover the challenges and triumphs of managing a culturally diverse team across international borders.

Rob’s leadership insights, influenced by his passion for extreme sports, provide a refreshing perspective on tackling challenges and fostering a work environment where anything is possible.

Join us for a captivating conversation that transcends the conventional boundaries of leadership and business.

You can find Rob Masson at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-masson/

In the interview, Rob Masson shares

• “In our consultancy business, we provide outsourced data protection officers globally, adhering to various data protection laws. Our core philosophy revolves around our one team approach, putting team dynamics at the forefront.”
• “My entrepreneurial journey began at 18, developing software for the advertising industry. Over the years, I ventured into e-commerce and software, eventually founding the DPO Center. Each experience shaped our philosophy, emphasizing the importance of a motivated and cohesive team.”
• “Team first, client second – our unique approach ensures a happy team leads to satisfied clients. Focusing on team development and camaraderie is key to achieving our goals and delivering exceptional service.”
• “Balancing team priorities with client needs is crucial. Our ‘one team’ philosophy helps us navigate challenges, emphasizing the importance of a supportive environment for individuals to thrive.”
• “Our philosophy extends beyond borders, with a culturally diverse team representing 20 different cultures. Managing a globally dispersed team requires recognizing and respecting various cultural expectations and beliefs.”
• “As a CEO, I understand the challenges of scaling a people-centric business. Our success hinges on attracting and retaining the best talent, making our rigorous selection process and team-building efforts crucial.”
• “Our vision is driven by a robust business model with high recurring revenue. This stability allows us to invest strategically, focusing on global expansion while nurturing new talent in the privacy sector.”
• “Empowering our Managing Directors to lead with autonomy fosters a culture aligned with our core values. It’s crucial to adapt to local nuances while maintaining non-negotiable principles at a global level.”
• “Beyond my role as a CEO, my passion for fitness and extreme sports reflects my leadership style. Ironman’s ‘Anything is Possible’ resonates in my belief that, together, we can overcome any challenge presented to us.”
• “Reflecting on my ultramarathon and Ironman experiences, I encourage our team to embrace the idea that ‘it’s only impossible until it’s done.’ This mindset cultivates an environment where achieving the extraordinary is not just a goal but an expectation.”

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.

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.

Dive into an insightful conversation with Hariharan Subramanian, a seasoned HR professional with over 18 years of experience. 

In this engaging interview, Hariharan shares his journey from HR novice to a strategic business partner, shedding light on the transformative evolution of the HR industry. 

Discover the key role he plays in the growth of Iris Software Group in India and the delicate balance of maintaining a unified organizational culture in a digital world. 

Gain valuable leadership insights as Hariharan discusses the importance of flexibility, customization, and fostering genuine connections in the ever-evolving landscape of HR. 

Don’t miss out on this friendly and informative dialogue that promises to inspire and add value to your leadership journey.

You can find Hariharan Subramanian at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/hariharan-subramanian-6778728/

In the interview, Hariharan Subramanian shares

• “In my 18-year journey in HR, I’ve witnessed the evolution from an administrative role to an integral business partner—a journey shaped by the hard work of predecessors in the industry.”
• “As HR professionals, we must embrace the role of business partners, understanding the technology, target audience, and market dynamics to truly contribute to organizational success.”
• “Joining Iris Software Group during a period of significant growth in India, my role involves bridging the gap, connecting the talent and opportunities for our UK-based organization.”
• “Success in HR is measured not only by numbers but also by factors like retention and employer branding—a delicate balance of building a strong workforce and a positive company image.”
• “The challenge lies in fostering a unified organizational culture, especially as we expand globally. Communicating the ‘Iris feeling’ becomes crucial in a world where virtual connections prevail.”
• “Transitioning to a digital world was smoother for me, having experienced a work-from-home culture in Poland. However, maintaining emotional connections in a digital landscape remains a challenge.”
• “Flexibility and customization are my strengths, but there’s a fine line. Sometimes being the ‘bad cop’ is necessary to maintain a balance between employee expectations and organizational goals.”
• “Missed opportunities in HR arise when we fail to connect regularly. Frequent conversations are essential to uncover hidden talents, align employees with their passions, and retain top performers.”
• “Employee voice champions, a successful initiative, ensures communication flows from top to bottom. Engaging line managers becomes key in conveying the organization’s vision and objectives.”
• “In a world dominated by technology, my message is clear: ‘Express to express, not to impress.’ Genuine communication, rooted in ethics and righteousness, is the key to lasting connections and success.”

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.

In this insightful interview, Tom Jensen, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Freyr Battery, takes us on a journey through the dynamic landscape of sustainable energy. 

As a leading force in Norwegian battery cell manufacturing, Tom shares the remarkable story of Freyr’s evolution, from going public on the New York Stock Exchange to pioneering disruptive technologies like the 24m battery. 

With an economist’s background, Tom delves into the intricate balance between technology, market understanding, and raising capital—a must-listen for budding entrepreneurs navigating the sustainable energy sector. 

Engagingly, he explores the personal journey that fueled his passion for sustainable development, intertwining experiences from the oil and gas industry with a commitment to global change. 

Tune in for a captivating conversation that not only highlights the challenges in renewable energy but also provides valuable insights for leaders navigating the evolving landscape of innovation and sustainable business.

You can find Tom Einar Jensen at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-einar-jensen-33024716/

In the interview, Tom Einar Jensen shares

• “We are the leading Norwegian initiative for sustainable battery cell manufacturing, listed on the New York Stock Exchange after relocating from Luxembourg to the United States.”
• “Freyr Battery is dedicated to large containerized energy storage solutions using LFP batteries, with a focus on scaling disruptive technology like 24m for larger and thicker batteries.”
• “My background in economics has fueled a 15-year journey leading disruptive technology in renewable energy, from hydrogen to solar and now batteries.”
• “I’ve been preoccupied with sustainable development, influenced by my experiences in the oil and gas and aluminum industries, realizing the climatic impact of fossil fuels on the environment.”
• “Success in startups is about a viable value proposition based on sound technology, understanding market dynamics, and securing the right people and funding over time.”
• “To be credible stewards of investors’ money, understanding the subject matter is crucial, whether it’s technology, physics, chemistry, or the intricacies of renewable energy.”
• “The integration of private and public initiatives is crucial for a sustainable energy transition, with China and the U.S. taking significant steps forward in renewable energy leadership.”
• “Aspiring to be a spokesperson for global battery industry enablement, I believe in the importance of deploying facilities locally for critical energy infrastructure.”
• “We are in the steepest part of the adoption curve for renewable technologies, beyond early adopters. The disruptive environment requires us to get up early to compete and clean up the mess for future generations.”

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.

In this insightful interview, Yunus, a dynamic leader at Honda’s Emerging Technology Lab in the UK, takes us on a journey from his roots in Mumbai to his pivotal role envisioning the world of 2030 and beyond. 

As a passionate advocate for democratizing opportunities, Yunus shares the challenges and opportunities he faces in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology. 

Discover the key lessons he learned from being a project leader at a crucial time in his career, and how being comfortable with the unknown has become his superpower. 

He dives into the importance of surrounding oneself with the right team and emphasizes the value of internalizing support to navigate both personal and professional challenges. 

Join us for a candid conversation that unveils the mindset and practices he relies on to excel in his leadership role and stay resilient in the face of uncertainty.

You can find Yunus Jabalpurwala at the below links

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

In the interview, Yunus Jabalpurwala shares

• “My role at Honda is mainly focused on 2030 and beyond – what would the world look like, and what technologies do we need to work on to be relevant and make lives better?”
• “From Mumbai to the UK, my journey to a leadership role involved pivotal moments, like working as a research assistant and stepping up for a big project at Honda.”
• “Comfort with being uncomfortable is crucial. It’s about pushing boundaries and striving for continuous growth, both personally and professionally.”
• “In a world changing rapidly due to technology, my vision is to democratize opportunities. Access to technology should be available to everyone, bridging the gap between those who understand and embrace it and those who don’t.”
• “Challenges include staying updated with advancing technologies and curating information. The real struggle now is not the lack of information but choosing the right tools to create effective solutions.”
• “The biggest opportunity lies in the successful use of AI tools at the beginning of an exponential growth curve. Embracing these tools can lead to innovative solutions that benefit society.”
• “As a leader, it’s crucial to surround yourself with the right team and constantly learn from experts in various fields. It’s a person-centric approach to problem-solving.”
• “Being comfortable with the unknown has its challenges. Meeting accomplished individuals can trigger self-doubt, but understanding that success is relative helps navigate these moments.”
• “Internalizing support is vital. While external support matters, relying solely on it can be problematic. Knowing you are enough and finding that internal strength is key.”
• “Physical, mental, and spiritual health are interconnected tools for navigating challenges. Daily practices, like intense physical activities and self-reflection, help achieve a better version of oneself.”

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.

Embark on an inspiring journey with Gilles Sebrechts, the dynamic CEO of ProTime, as he shares his remarkable rise from mechanical engineer to leading a cutting-edge workforce management company.

In this insightful interview, Gilles reveals the crucial moments that shaped his transition, offering valuable lessons for young leaders.

Discover ProTime’s bold vision to double its turnover and impact 2 million lives through optimized time management.

Gilles candidly discusses the challenges of fast growth, providing practical insights for leaders navigating similar paths.

Join us for a conversation that goes beyond numbers, diving into the essence of leadership, growth hurdles, and the timeless quest for balance.

You can find Gille Sebrechts at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/gille-sebrechts-7b048b62/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/protime/

In the interview, Gille Sebrechts shares

• “I’m Gilles Sebrechts, CEO of ProTime, a workforce management company based in Belgium, specializing in time management solutions.”
• “At 30, I might be considered young for a CEO, but my journey from engineer to CEO unfolded organically.”
• “My background is in mechanical engineering, but a switch to traffic and logistics engineering set the stage for my transition into leadership roles.”
• “The pivotal moment came when I joined SD Works, and after reflection, I embraced the growth journey, eventually becoming their director of transformation.”
• “ProTime’s big vision is to double our turnover in the next three to four years and reach 200 million euros by 2028, optimizing businesses through effective time management.”
• “Time is the most valuable resource. Our goal is to have 2 million people using our solutions to optimize their time within the next five to six years.”
• “The challenge of fast growth is ensuring we don’t just run faster but also work differently, thinking strategically to sustain the marathon, not just the sprint.”
• “As a young CEO, my initial challenge was finding my leadership role—balancing giving freedom while providing guidance. Now, the challenge is coping with rapid growth.”
• “Leadership isn’t a yes-or-no playbook. It’s a constant learning journey. Confidence and asking for help are crucial in navigating the challenges.”
• “For aspiring leaders, my advice is simple: Say yes to challenges, tackle them with passion, be confident, and don’t hesitate to seek help when needed. Leadership is a continuous learning journey.”

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.

In this engaging interview with Vaibhav Mittal, a dynamic entrepreneur hailing from Punjab, India, we delve into the intriguing world of family business, entrepreneurship, and the delicate balance between passion and responsibility. 

Vaibhav shares captivating anecdotes from his journey, from counting cash at the family business to studying entrepreneurship at Babson College in the US. 

His insights dispel misconceptions about the easy life of a business heir, emphasizing the daily hustle and the need for continuous growth. 

Discover how his love for music influences both his personal and professional life, offering unique lessons in teamwork and patience. 

Join us for a candid conversation that uncovers the challenges of leadership, the importance of empathy, and the powerful role of passion in shaping a fulfilling career. 

You can find Vaibhav Mittal at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/vaibhavmittalindia/
• https://twitter.com/vaibhavmittal_

In the interview, Vaibhav Mittal shares

• “Being in the family business is like fun because you get to hear about the business problems on the dinner table or on the breakfast table, and you keep getting exposed from a very young age.”
• “In the late nineties, a gentleman confronted me while counting cash behind the counter, implying that sitting there with a lot of cash wasn’t suitable for someone my age. I clarified it was a responsibility given to me by my father, not just a means to feel wealthy.”
• “You’re fortunate to be born into a family business, but you have to work hard every single day. If you don’t, someone will take over all the wealth, and it will deplete. Every day is a hustle; you have to learn and grow as a person and professional.”
• “Studying at Babson College, the world’s top entrepreneurship school, instilled the feeling of being an entrepreneur. However, the real journey made me question the glamour of startups, emphasizing the importance of profitability over just being a founder.”
• “The next 10 years are uncertain, but my fundamental job is to justify whatever work I do, learn and grow, and ensure that each business venture is not only profitable but also able to sustain and grow.”
• “Passionate about music and organic/natural products, my dream is to explore these areas in business. Music, for me, is not just a hobby; it keeps me stable, sane, and creative, offering valuable lessons in teamwork and patience.”
• “Music has taught me to work with different styles of people, similar to the diverse backgrounds of those in my workplace. It’s an ecosystem that connects people toward a common goal of productivity.”
• “Challenges include getting the best out of people from diverse backgrounds, empathizing with their struggles, and keeping them motivated despite life problems. Impatience among the younger workforce is a common hurdle.”
• “The dark side of wanting others to succeed is often misunderstood; people may perceive it as selfishness. Empathy and strong leadership sometimes lead to negative perceptions.”
• “To tackle overwhelming situations, I introspect after a failure, motivating myself to learn and improve. If external circumstances lead to negative outcomes despite sincere efforts, I move on, staying clear and passionate about my work.”

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.

Embark on an inspiring journey with Anirudh Pareek, Chief Technology Officer at Vamani Overseas, as he shares his incredible career story on our latest podcast episode. 

From facing setbacks in his early days to leading technology and business operations, Anirudh’s resilience shines through. 

Gain valuable insights as he discusses the pivotal role of self-belief, the importance of aligning technological ideas with business growth, and the unique challenges of transitioning from a technologist to a business leader. 

Join us as Anirudh unveils the secrets to building a process-dependent company and successfully expanding operations globally. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to be one, this episode promises wisdom, relatability, and a sprinkle of creativity from Anirudh’s poetic side. 

Don’t miss out on this empowering conversation that blends tech, business, and the art of leadership! 

You can find Anirudh Pareek at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/anirudh-pareek-62962512/
• pareek.anirudh@gmail.com

In the interview, Anirudh shares

• “My career journey started with a turbulent twist – a company shutting down after six months, leaving us jobless. Little did I know then that this setback would shape my resilient path to success.”
• “In 2007, paying a bank guarantee of 75,000 rupees as a fresher was a big deal. Fast forward, the experience taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but opportunities for growth.”
• “The golden years of my learning curve were spent building a startup from scratch. Navigating the world of technology and business operations during the startup boom of 2012 was both challenging and enlightening.”
• “Transitioning from an engineer to a tech leader, my biggest takeaway was aligning technological ideas with business growth. It’s not just about code; it’s about contributing to the company’s revenue and success.”
• “Self-belief was my greatest transformation. Learning to keep my cool during setbacks and having situation awareness became pivotal. Experience taught me more than textbooks ever could.”
• “Beyond the code, I found solace in poetry during the challenging times of the pandemic. Writing became not just a creative outlet but a source of confidence, proving that one can excel in multiple facets of life.”
• “In the journey from zero to one and now aiming for a hundred, we’ve evolved into a process-dependent company. Building and improving processes have become paramount for seamless expansion.”
• “Transitioning from technology to business, I learned that technology is a means to aid business goals. The real value lies in aligning technological ideas with the company’s growth and revenue.”
• “As we expand globally, the challenge lies in combining technology and processes to fuel business growth. Success came when we seamlessly implemented processes in the UK without setting foot there.”
• “Supporting leaders in a growing team involves understanding their challenges at the ground level. Involving everyone in decision-making, taking customer feedback first, and building solutions collaboratively has become our unique approach.”