Sumit Gupta

May 2024

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  • Leadership Journeys [181] – Wais Shaifta – “The moment Work stops being a Hobby, I stop doing it”

    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 episode, we sit down with Wais, the CEO of Private Doc, who shares his fascinating journey from leading major companies like Push Doctor and Just Eat to revolutionizing the wellbeing industry. 

    Wais delves into the intricacies of consumer-first strategies, the profound psychological impact of beauty treatments, and the evolution of digital healthcare. 

    He offers valuable insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of respecting team foundations and adapting management styles to diverse demographics. 

    Discover how Wais balances high-stakes business decisions with a passion for his work, treating it as a hobby rather than a stressor. 

    Whether you’re navigating leadership challenges or seeking inspiration for your own career, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

    You can find Wais Shaifta at the below links

    In the interview, Wais shares

    • “Private Doc is transitioning from online pharmacy and prescriptions into wellbeing, with bespoke healthcare programs for both men and women. Stay tuned for our exciting expansion.”
    • “At Push Doctor, we served over 6 million NHS patients. Leading through COVID was fascinating and challenging.”
    • “I’ve held leadership roles at Just Eat and TreatWell, managing global operations and driving innovation in the digital space.”
    • “In addition to my role at Private Doc, I sit on the boards of a major gym group and Reach PLC, the largest news publisher in the UK.”
    • “My career has been driven by a consumer-first mindset, optimizing products and influencing consumer behavior to deliver the best experiences.”
    • “Treatwell taught me the profound psychological impact of beauty treatments, which was an eye-opener for me in understanding customer wellbeing.”
    • “Joining Push Doctor, we launched the first digital video consultations in the UK, making healthcare more accessible and immediate.”
    • “Leadership is about respecting the foundation built by the team and highlighting their achievements to motivate further growth.”
    • “As a leader, adapting my managerial style to different demographics, especially the younger generation, is a continuous learning process.”
    • “Work is a hobby for me. The key to managing stress is prioritizing family and keeping a balanced perspective on work challenges.”

  • Leadership Journeys [180] – Andy Mackin – “Don’t worry about stuff you can’t control. It takes so much energy.”

    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, Andy Mackin, CEO and founder of the Mackin Group, shares his journey from the Irish Navy to founding a global professional organization. 

    With a focus on environmental health and safety consultancy, Andy discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style and the unexpected turns that led to the growth of his company. 

    He reflects on the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, setting achievable goals, and prioritizing personal well-being. 

    Join us as Andy shares his wisdom on leadership, growth, and the transformative power of changing habits. 

    Whether you’re navigating a career shift or seeking inspiration to take your business to new heights, Andy’s story offers valuable lessons for leaders at every stage.

    You can find Andy Mackin at the below links

    In the interview, Andy shares

    • “Life went on, and time went on. I’ve learned to live with that.” 
    • “It probably shaped my character in terms of just having a more positive outlook in life in general and seeing the good things for what they really are.” 
    • “It was a contrast in style for sure, but by the time my retirement came up, I probably had about four or five regular clients that I was dealing with.” 
    • “If somebody told me we’d be where we are now 20 years ago, I would have said, ‘No, you’re mad.’” 
    • “Every year you do well, you want to improve the following year.” 
    • “I always had a vision. I always want to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. That’s my North star.”
    • “Success for me is having a good balanced life, enjoying life, enjoying the work you’re doing every morning.” 
    • “I always had a vision and I still have it. I always want to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange.” 
    • “The meditating definitely calms the brain, allows you to have a little more focus, and be clear-minded.” 
    • “Look, if you can do this, you can get beyond just living with magic.” 

  • Leadership Journeys [179] – Geeta Gadekar – “Vulnerability makes us human and makes things real rather than just superficial”

    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, Geeta, MD/CEO of Publicis Resources, shares her remarkable journey from the general insurance sector to leading operations for one of India’s top companies. 

    She discusses the pivotal role her son’s passion for cricket played in her decision-making, drawing compelling parallels between motherhood and leadership. 

    Geeta emphasizes the importance of mentorship, self-motivation, and continuous learning, offering invaluable advice on achieving excellence both personally and professionally. 

    Her candid reflections on balancing family life, career growth, and personal passions provide invaluable insights for leaders navigating similar challenges. 

    Get ready to be inspired and empowered as Geeta shares her secrets to success and fulfillment.

    You can find Geeta Gadekar at the below links

    In the interview, Geeta shares

    • “I started off with the general insurance side in India, then moved to the BPM industry. My journey continued into captive shared services, working with organizations like Principal Global Services, WNS, Thomas Cook, and now Publicis Resources.”
    • “As a mother, I’ve learned that parenthood and leadership share many parallels. My father taught me the importance of independence and exploring all aspects of life, which has greatly influenced my journey as a mother and a leader.”
    • “When my son showed a passion for cricket at the age of five, we faced a crucial decision: studies or sports. We chose to support his passion early on, which led us to Mumbai, where he could explore his potential.”
    • “In both my personal and professional life, I believe in pushing people to be their best selves. Whether it’s my son pursuing cricket or my team achieving excellence, mentorship and belief in one’s potential can shatter any ceiling.”
    • “I believe that a leader is as good as their team. It’s not about taking credit for individual accomplishments, but about empowering and guiding your team to reach their full potential.”
    • “For me, career decisions aren’t just about titles or money. It’s about learning, adding value, and leaving a legacy. I constantly strive for excellence and encourage my team to do the same.”
    • “Self-motivation is key. Whether it’s in professional or personal life, finding internal drive and setting high standards for oneself is crucial for growth and success.”
    • “Communication, leading by example, and ensuring that teams are aware of their potential are crucial for creating a culture of excellence within an organization.”
    • “Every six months, I reflect on my personal and professional goals to ensure that I’m aligned with where I want to be. Self-assessment and reflection are vital for personal and professional growth.”
    • “As a leader, mentorship is important to me. In the next 10 years, I aim to focus more on mentoring young professionals, especially women, helping them navigate the corporate world and achieve their goals.”

  • Leadership Journeys [178] – Juhi Garg – “I am a work in progress”

    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 for an inspiring conversation with Juhi, founder and CEO at Divin Grow Private Limited and Divin Pro Foundation, as she shares her journey of empowering women through employment and social impact. 

    From her family’s four-generation legacy of women’s empowerment to her vision of becoming one of the most respected organizations globally by 2040, Juhi’s story is a testament to perseverance and purpose-driven leadership. 

    Discover how she balances practical business strategies with her mission to create meaningful change, and learn valuable insights on leadership, financial empowerment, and prioritizing responsibilities. 

    Tune in for an episode packed with wisdom, passion, and actionable advice for leaders striving to make a difference.

    You can find Juhi Garg at the below links

    In the interview, Juhi shares

    • “My great grandmother and her grandmother were working for women tirelessly before independence. This purpose is perhaps in my genes, and I don’t credit myself for anything.”
    • “To be a leader, you must learn the art of following your purpose and listening to your inner call. And of course, learn from the worthy people around you.”
    • “Just be a parent, take leadership as a parenting job. If you take care of your employees’ hearts, if you can empathize with them, everything will fall in place.”
    • “My clients are my investors. I have not raised any funds from any other party. I have not taken any loans. People believe in causes and good causes.”
    • “By 2040, I would like to be one of the most respected organizations across the globe. Respect doesn’t come easily; you need to prove yourself at every step.”
    • “I would like to be more financially apprised and sensitized so that I can achieve what I want. I still feel that I somehow lack that now, and I am working towards that.”
    • “Perhaps my biggest strength is building institutions, teams that stick with me. Having people in my life and bringing them together and keeping them with me is my biggest strength.”
    • “Create that fertile land wherein you all work and bloom together. Respect differences, be vulnerable, and let people help each other grow.”
    • “Let people say whatever they want. Let me not doubt at least, let me be confident about myself. If I am confident, if I feel that what I know and what I do not know, I accept gracefully.”
    • “You need to make choices and take decisions. When you make choices, you will have to understand what is the right thing that is going to help you rise above.”