The Brand Called You

Anita Kishore, PhD, ACC – Executive Coach, Facilitator & Instructor

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Anita Kishore, PhD, ACC – Executive Coach, Facilitator & Instructor
  • Anita reflects on the influence of people and relationships over titles and roles. While she began her career in academia, she observed that a significant percentage of life sciences PhDs eventually leave academia — a number that has risen from around 80% to nearly 94%.
    • Podcast
    Overview

    In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, Ashutosh Garg sits down with Anita Kishore, PhD, ACC — an accomplished executive coach, facilitator, and instructor based in New York City.

    The conversation explores leadership transitions, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the transformative power of mindfulness in professional growth. Below is a structured breakdown of the key themes discussed.

    00:38 – What were the pivotal moments that led you to transition from scientist to executive coach?
    • Anita reflects on the influence of people and relationships over titles and roles. While she began her career in academia, she observed that a significant percentage of life sciences PhDs eventually leave academia — a number that has risen from around 80% to nearly 94%.
    • Consulting became a bridge between science and coaching. In consulting, she saw senior partners model the role of trusted advisor, which resonated deeply with her. Later, exposure to executive coaching within the pharmaceutical industry became a defining turning point, guiding her toward her current path.
      • 03:33 – How did you develop the balance between being a “straight shooter” and showing deep empathy?
      • Initially, Anita felt uncomfortable being described as a “straight shooter.” Over time, she realized that analytical clarity and empathy are not mutually exclusive.
      • Her leadership style evolved from binary thinking — either direct or compassionate — to embracing complexity. She learned that candor and empathy can coexist, and that integrating both strengthens leadership credibility and trust.
        • 05:05 – What personal leadership challenge most influenced your coaching approach?
        • One of Anita’s most significant leadership lessons was the importance of “working on yourself.” As a coach — and as a former problem-solver — she had to learn to “tame the advice monster.”
        • For leaders accustomed to solving problems quickly, the instinct to provide immediate solutions can override listening. By managing this tendency, Anita developed greater empathy for executives who struggle with the same challenge.
          • 07:10 – What blind spots do high-IQ achievers and analytically strong leaders commonly have?
          • Highly analytical leaders often over-rely on intellect. Anita describes this as turning up the “intellectual volume dial” so high that emotional and relational cues are drowned out.
          • The growth process involves awareness, unlearning, and expanding one’s leadership toolkit beyond logic alone. True leadership effectiveness requires integrating intellect with emotional intelligence.
            • 09:09 – What internal and systemic barriers do women and underrepresented leaders face?
            • Barriers are often experienced by those outside the dominant group — not only women but many underrepresented professionals.
            • Common challenges include a lack of specific, actionable feedback and vague expectations such as “executive presence” or “confidence.” Without clarity, growth becomes harder to navigate. Anita emphasizes the need for precise feedback, equitable opportunities, and environments that support diverse leadership styles.

              • RESOURCES:

              Learn more about Anita Kishore: LinkedIn 

              Enjoyed this podcast?

              “Anita Kishore, you’re a straight shooter.” At first, she wasn’t sure how to take that feedback. Over time, she realized something powerful: you can be both direct and deeply empathetic. Two things can be true at once. It’s not either/or — great leaders braid both qualities together.

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              • Anita reflects on the influence of people and relationships over titles and roles. While she began her career in academia, she observed that a significant percentage of life sciences PhDs eventually leave academia — a number that has risen from around 80% to nearly 94%.
              • Consulting became a bridge between science and coaching. In consulting, she saw senior partners model the role of trusted advisor, which resonated deeply with her. Later, exposure to executive coaching within the pharmaceutical industry became a defining turning point, guiding her toward her current path.

                • The post Anita Kishore, PhD, ACC – Executive Coach, Facilitator & Instructor first appeared on TBCY.

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