Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

By Enma PopliBusinessCareers
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Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli episodes

  • Ep 33: [Republish] Breaking Barriers, Embracing Neurodiversity: The Inspiring Journey of Tech Leader Jenny Dearborn

    Recognized as one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Tech for five consecutive years, Jenny is a thought leader in HR, Human Capital Management, the Future of Work, and data analytics. She is the Founder of Actionable Analytics Group, an advisory firm that supports Human Capital Management and Education Tech startups from Seed to IPO.

    Her first book, Data Driven, was selected as one of the top 10 for “What Corporate America is Reading” out of 11,000 business books published that year. Her next book, The Data Driven Leader, was published in November 2017. She is a regular contributor to USA Today, Forbes, Huffington Post and Fast Company.

    In her earlier role she was the Chief People Officer at Klaviyo and before that the Chief Talent Officer at SAP and a C-level executive at SuccessFactors, Sun Microsystems and Hewlett-Packard leading award-winning teams that drove measurable business impact.

    A champion of equality, diversity, and community involvement, Jenny has been recognized with honors including the Stevie Award for Female Business Executive of the Year, Athena Leadership Award, and Financial Times Top 20 Global Executive LGBT Allies. She co-founded the Silicon Valley Apprenticeship Consortium and is a former board member of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group and Association for Talent Development, the leading organization for talent professionals globally. She currently serves as an Independent Director on the board of several companies, and is a member of the Forbes San Francisco Business Council.

    Jenny is a painter, glass blower, hot metal sculptor (aka welder), award winning film producer, bee keeper, runner and proudly neurodiverse.


    Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

    • Give first before you ask 
    • Nuances of Vulnerability  
    • Luck comes to the Prepared
    • Interplays of Decision Making
    • How Neurodiversity is a Blessing
    • Importance of Mentoring and Giving Back

    • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

      >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


      Visit Enma Popli’s website
      >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

      41 min
    • Ep 32: [Republish] Defying Conventions, Creating Legacies: Award Winning Architect Abha Narain Lambah's Trailblazing Path"

      Abha's architectural practice includes the restoration of 15th Century temples in Ladakh and Hampi, mosques, historic palaces, forts and caravansarais in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab. She has worked on Mughal gardens in Kashmir, urban and regional conservation in Kancheepuram and Shekhawati and conserving colonial heritage in Delhi, Nainital and Mumbai. She has prepared the UNESCO Nomination Dossier for the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath as well as management plans for UNESCO sites of Ajanta, and Bodh Gaya, Amer Fort as well as modern heritage of Corbusier’s Capitol Complex and Mumbai’s Art Deco & Victorian ensembles.


      Abha is a consultant to ICCROM, Global Heritage Fund and World Monuments Fund and has served on the heritage committees of both Delhi and Mumbai. Her practice has won 11 UNESCO Asia Pacific Awards for heritage conservation.


      Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

      • Benchmark of success
      • Trying to fit into a mould
      • A little bit of fear is important
      • Learning can be from anywhere
      • Fundamental qualities to build relationships, trust and respect
      • Making unconventional choices, creating your own rule book and paradigms
      • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

        >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


        Visit Enma Popli’s website
        >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

        43 min
      • Ep 31: From Badminton Courts to Boardrooms: Nandini Dias' Trailblazing Leadership in the Media Arena

        Nandini Dias, an independent Advisor to the Media and Entertainment industry, brings a wealth of experience as the former CEO of Universal McCann and Lodestar. She has consistently been ranked among the top 10 influential leaders in the Indian advertising and media industry by Economic Times for several years, being the sole woman leader in the initial two years.

        With almost three decades of career milestones, Nandini has successfully launched over 400 brands while strategically managing communication and investments for more than 250 notable businesses across diverse sectors. Her innovative mindset has led to the development of research-based tools that optimize media investments, while she has also established specialized practices such as Brand Experience, Branded Content, Celebrity Management, CRM and Data, and Digital, which have gained recognition as centres of excellence. Additionally, Nandini has actively contributed as part of a core leadership team driving ideation, transformation, and channelization of the FCB Group's journey under an Oxford University program.

        Nandini's exceptional achievements have earned her numerous awards throughout her career. From winning Media Planner of the Year in 1998 to being named Media CEO of the Year multiple times, she has been honoured by respected organizations like The World Leadership Congress and The Times of India's Times Power Women list. Notably, her visionary concept and execution of the WorkToLiveToWork initiative in 2018 garnered her the prestigious 'Gamechanger Of The Year award. Nandini's remarkable accomplishments include over 100 awards at Asia-Pacific Spikes, Festival Of Media Global and APAC, Creative Media Award, and multiple Cannes awards, including Gold.

        Driven by a focus on innovative solutions, Nandini has transformed Lodestar UM into an award-winning organization. Beyond her professional endeavours, she actively engages with several NGOs and serves as an Independent Board Director. Nandini, a sports enthusiast, national-level badminton player, and avid reader, resides in Mumbai, India.


        Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

        • Leadership can be lonely.
        • Daring to dream and sharing those dreams.
        • Women in leadership make many sacrifices.
        • Invaluable lessons from sports and their criticality.
        • Need for women to overcome societal challenges.
        • Mutual support of partners and not taking the easy route.
        • Building consensus, carrying the team, and playing to their strengths.
        • Importance of working hard and not giving up in pursuit of success.
        • Influence of parents: openness to new experiences and financial independence.

        • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

          >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


          Visit Enma Popli’s website
          >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

          48 min
        • Ep 30: Fatin Arifin: From Introvert to Influencer, Championing Brunei's Development and Youth Empowerment

          Fatin Arifin is an advocate for entrepreneurship and youth development and has made a significant impact both locally and regionally as a catalyst for development. She has founded and co-founded various initiatives, including the Brunei Chevening Youth Forum (BCYF) in 2015, the Chevening Youth Forum – Southeast Asia in 2017, and for-purpose enterprises like the Young Professionals Network. Through these platforms, she has engaged with over 10,000 young individuals, providing invaluable opportunities for personal and skills development.

          In 2021, during Brunei's ASEAN Chairmanship, Fatin served as the Chairperson of the ASEAN Young Entrepreneurs Council (AYEC), founded the ASEAN Young Women Entrepreneurs Club (AYWEC), and convened the 6th ASEAN Young Entrepreneur Carnival virtually. 

          Alongside her full-time role as part of the leadership team at Ghanim (Brunei Halal Foods), Fatin continues to contribute significantly to community endeavors as the President of YEAB (Youth Entrepreneurship Association Brunei), YPN (Young Professionals Network) and Chevening Alumni Brunei.

          Fatin holds an MSc in Emerging Economies and International Development from King's College London, where she was a Chevening Scholar in 2014. Her exceptional achievements have been recognized through prestigious awards such as the Meritorious Youth Service Award 2015, the Excellent Youth Award 2017, and the ASEAN Youth Award 2016. She is an Alumni of Global Shapers for the Bandar Seri Begawan hub and was also a finalist in the Women of the Future Award - Community Spirit & Public Service category in 2020.


          Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

          • Finding community and like-minded people.
          • Growth only occurs in uncomfortable situations.
          • Giving, whether we realize it or not, brings happiness.
          • Wearing a hijab allows others to see us for our intellect.
          • To navigate cultures, it's important to embrace discomfort.
          • Sometimes, when we have it good, we become complacent.
          • Introversion and extroversion are where you gain your energy from.
          • It is helpful to understand the intentions behind people's comments.
          • Traveling builds self-confidence and provides a euphoric experience.
          • Volunteering shows us our true capabilities and helps us discover a lot. 
          • Experiencing other cultures increases our appreciation for our own culture.
          • Giving advice becomes challenging when we lack a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

          • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

            >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


            Visit Enma Popli’s website
            >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

            49 min
          • Ep 29: Honoring Fathers: Tales of Love, Guidance, and Inspiration

            In this Father's Day special edition of Atalanta Diaries, we delve into the profound impact fathers have had on the lives of my amazing guests as they embarked on their journeys. 

            These fathers have served as role models, mentors, and sources of inspiration, shaping the dreams and guiding the paths of their daughters. From sacrifices made to unwavering support, their influence has been immeasurable. 

            This episode celebrates the fathers who have played instrumental roles in nurturing the incredible women we honor today. Join us as we listen to these powerful life lessons and the lasting legacies created by these remarkable fathers.


            Key themes of the episode:

            • Archana Chandra: Upbringing that instilled discipline, resilience, self-reliance, and personal balance. 
            • Madhura Dasgupta Sinha: Strong feminist upbringing and exposure to diverse cultures.
            • Meenakshi Wadhwa: Gender equality and belief in limitless possibilities from her family.
            • Swati Shetty: Father's role as a hero, despite differing paths to success.
            • Dona Kay Rule: Admiration for her father fueling her passion for rodeo racing.
            • Sandhya Rao: Unwavering support and sacrifices of her father shaped her career decisions.
            • Annette Philip: Parents recognizing her passion for piano and supporting her journey.
            • Bhavani Vadlamudi: Father's emphasis on independence and self-reliance despite lack of formal education.
            • Pooja Jesrani: Father's passion for space inspires her career in the field.
            • Manisha Girotra: Influence of migrant background, small city, and father's inclusive leadership style.
            • Monica Manpreet Singh: Foundation in religion and culture from parents preserving their roots.
            • Radha Kessar: Father's influence in valuing deep thinking and understanding.
            • Tanya Hart Little: Building a business as a legacy to her father.

            • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

              >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


              Visit Enma Popli’s website
              >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

              20 min
            • Ep 28: Building a Legacy: Tanya Hart Little's Inspiring Journey from C-Suite to Entrepreneurship

              Tanya Hart Little is the co-founder and managing partner of Hart Commercial. In addition to brokerage assignments, Tanya leads the strategic planning, operations, franchise, and corporate services accounts for the firm. With 35 years of experience in multiple aspects of commercial real estate, Tanya has built marketing and asset management platforms for some of North America's largest real estate and finance companies.

              In 2009, Tanya founded a distressed debt real estate advisory company, Hart Advisors Group, where she and her team completed over $11 billion in commercial loan restructures, assumptions, recapitalizations, and loan sales through 2020, when she sold the company to a private investor. 

              During her tenure at GE Capital, Tanya oversaw the leasing, management, and disposition of a $425 million national commercial portfolio for the GE Pension Trust. In addition, in her subsequent role as Managing Director, she developed and directed the marketing strategy for GE Real Estate's $7 billion-per-year national lending platform. Tanya left GE in 2006 to become the Chief Operating Officer at RBC, where she developed and oversaw all business operations for a new lending business unit that produced more than $2.3 billion in loans while overseeing the asset management and servicing for a $1 billion interim loan portfolio.

              Since her tenure at GE Real Estate, Tanya has been mentoring and promoting young commercial real estate professionals through her involvement in The Real Estate Council, CREW Dallas, 4Word, Ladies in CRETM, and individual relationships. 

              Tanya holds a bachelor's degree in Business and Marketing, a broker's license in Texas and Florida, and earned her certification as a Gallup-Certified Strengths coach. 

              Allison Johnston Frizzo, whom Tanya met through a mentoring relationship, is Tanya's partner in Hart Commercial and co-founded the firm in 2021. Tanya's passion for mentoring and her business accomplishments have been recognized with numerous awards, including the DBJ Women in Business Award and, most recently, GlobeSt's Women of Influence Award.


              Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

              • Building and leading teams
              • Taking accountability and self-reflection
              • Different definitions of success and purpose
              • Common sense and intelligence are equally important.
              • Never give up; mistakes are learning opportunities.
              • Leadership traits are innate and showcased in various areas of life.
              • We can be more vulnerable when we are comfortable with who we are
              • Being intentional about beliefs and aspirations for self, family, and career
              • Learning, giving, and growing, mentoring others to find their own journey
              • Don't let others' biases or opinions determine destiny; be your own cheerleader.
              • Dealing with people is critical in any job, but if someone isn't performing, maybe they are just incompetent or in the wrong role. 
              • Our journeys are our journeys for a reason, but there's a change in those journeys for a reason, and change can be really good.
              • You can only pour so much into work or a thing, but what you pour into people is forever.

              • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

                >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


                Visit Enma Popli’s website
                >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

                1 hr 3 min
              • Ep 27: Breaking Barriers and Leading Change: Bhavani Vadlamudi's Inspiring Journey from Classroom to Boardroom

                Bhavani Vadlamudi, a visionary in the field of Information Technology, is known for her expertise in ERP transformations and her innovative approach to business challenges. 

                Originally from the small town of Gudivada in India, Bhavani began her professional journey as a computer teacher at Aptech Computers. Driven by her passion for technology and a desire to make a broader impact, she pivoted into the field of Information Technology. With a degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Bhavani quickly established herself as an exceptional Systems Engineer, Network Administrator, and ERP database administrator.

                Bhavani's career took a significant turn when she joined General Electric (GE), where she made a profound impact on the organization's ERP deployments. Her strong leadership and unwavering advocacy for process standardization before digitization earned her the title "ERP Queen" from business leaders across multiple GE businesses. Currently serving as the Vice-President of MRO Digital at GE Aerospace in Cincinnati, USA, Bhavani continues to inspire and drive change in the IT industry. 

                Bhavani has played a pivotal role in establishing Center of Excellence teams that consistently deliver quality results and implement visionary IT strategies and solutions. Leveraging her deep understanding of diverse cultural aspects, Bhavani crafted robust change management strategies for each deployment, solidifying her reputation as a transformative leader.

                Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Bhavani is deeply committed to empowering and supporting women's growth. Through her dedication to coaching and mentoring, she has positively influenced the careers of over 200 women.


                Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

                • Imposter syndrome
                • Navigating new cultures
                • Finding purpose in leadership 
                • From Individual contributor to leader
                • Courage is essential for women to succeed 
                • Education empowers women, and the role of her mother
                • Women should demand respect, equal opportunities, and recognition
                • Embrace change and understand resistance and fear toward change
                • Different roles parents play, Mothers emphasize societal conformity, fathers focus on being bold 


                • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

                  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


                  Visit Enma Popli’s website:
                  >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

                  54 min
                • Ep 26: Dr. Linnie S. Carter: Inspiring Success -A Leader's Commitment to Community College Education and Philanthropy

                  Dr. Linnie S. Carter is an educator, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. She holds significant positions as the Vice President of College Advancement at HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, and the Executive Director of the HACC Foundation. She also serves as the President and CEO of Linnie Carter & Associates LLC, a consulting firm specializing in public relations, marketing, fundraising, and executive services.

                  In 2011, Linnie co-founded Carter Scholars Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to students in Virginia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. With an impressive educational background, she holds a Ph.D. in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University, along with master's and bachelor's degrees in Mass Communications from Virginia Commonwealth University. Linnie has also been recognized with the prestigious Accredited in Public Relations (APR) designation from the Public Relations Society of America.

                  Linnie actively engages in various professional and community organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, and PRSA. Her remarkable contributions have earned her numerous accolades, reflecting her dedication and expertise. These include the Central Penn Business Journal's Women of Influence Awards, which honors women business leaders for their contributions to their companies, industries, and communities in 2020, as well as the Bruce E. Cooper, Esq. Leadership Award in 2016.

                  With over 26 years of marriage, Linnie finds joy in her role as a bonus mom, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, godmother, and mentor.


                  Key themes emerging out of our conversation:


                  • Dealing with racism and misogyny
                  • Striving for excellence rather than perfection.
                  • Understanding that people work at different paces.
                  • Viewing apology as a sign of strength and leadership.
                  • Being an advocate for other women and uplifting them.
                  • Not giving permission for mistreatment and standing up against it.
                  • Allowing children to face the real world rather than shielding them 
                  • Seeing correction as an act of care and an opportunity for growth.
                  • Having multiple revenue streams instead of relying on a single source.
                  • Competing with oneself for personal growth and continuous improvement

                  • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

                    >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


                    Visit Enma Popli’s website
                    >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

                    1 hr 5 min
                  • Ep 25: Annette Philip - Embracing Imperfections: The Grammy-Nominee Art Entrepreneur's Journey in Leadership and Self-Growth

                    Annette Philip is a multi-award-winning musician, educator, and arts entrepreneur. A seasoned recording and touring artist, composer, pianist, and voice-over actor, she is a Grammy-nominated producer, an Emmy-nominated TV personality, and a bonafide sari connoisseur.

                    At Boston's Berklee College of Music, Annette is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Berklee Indian Ensemble, a viral phenomenon with over 300 million views. In 2023, the Ensemble's debut album, "Shuruaat," was nominated for a Grammy for Best Global Music Album. Besides performances with several legends, including A.R. Rahman, Bill Whelan, Nona Hendryx, and Zakir Hussain, Annette has spent over a decade touring the globe with the internationally acclaimed vocal quartet Women of the World, disruptors in the a cappella world, singing in 37 languages and counting. 

                    In all she does, including her songwriting duo, Tigs & Nettles, as well as "keeping it light" in her powerful online reflection series, Annette's message of self-love, dreaming big, bold resilience, and kindness are the foundation.


                    Key themes emerging out of our conversation:

                    • You don't have to do it on your own
                    • There is a Synergy between Math and Music
                    • Believing in yourself and trying something new
                    • Absolute perfection is unachievable and unattainable 
                    • Acknowledging that most learning comes from others
                    • Creativity is inherent in all of us, and we need to embrace it
                    • Embracing "what if" and "why not" in creativity and entrepreneurship
                    • Seeking guidance and mentorship and recognizing areas of stagnation
                    • Art making is collaborative, allowing for different influences and perspectives
                    • Acknowledging that you will make mistakes, practicing forgiveness of oneself
                    • Community building, acknowledging that we can't do it alone, and inviting others into our journey

                    • Mentioned Resources:

                      SHURUAAT (BIE's debut album feat. 98 musicians from 39 countries)

                      Mark My Brow (Feat. Antonio Sanchez & John Patitucci)

                      No Visitors Allowed (Tigs & Nettles)


                      Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

                      >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


                      Visit Enma Popli’s website
                      >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

                      1 hr 3 min
                    • Ep 24: Tribute to Motherhood: Stories of Love, Sacrifice, and Strength

                      In this special Mother's Day episode of Atalanta Diaries, we honor the amazing mothers and grandmothers who have made sacrifices, shown unwavering love, and inspired their daughters to become their best selves. 

                      Our host pays tribute to her own mother, who encouraged her to pursue her dreams and has been the foundation of her success. We'll also hear from other Atalantas who credit their mothers for their success and how they have navigated different roles to become breakthrough women themselves. These women are inspiring the next generation of strong, resilient, and loving women.

                      Join us as we celebrate the incredible generations of mothers in Atalanta Diaries and recognize the immense impact of a mother's love.


                      In this episode, you'll hear:

                      • Dr. Ettie Zilber: Lessons Learned from a Resilient Mother - Navigating Life's Challenges with Courage and Determination
                      • Sandhya Rao: Resilience and Courage - Finding Inspiration in Her Parents' Journey of Sacrifice and Commitment
                      • Dr. Mona Lisa Sur: Shaping Her Narrative - How Her Mother's Independence and Identity Inspired Her
                      • Madhura DasGupta Sinha: Aspire for Her - Drawing Inspiration from Her Mother
                      • Nichol Ng: Lessons from Her Grandma and Mom - Building an Intentional Philosophy
                      • Claude Pellerin: From her Grandmother's Table - Traditional French Recipes and Memories Passed Down
                      • Pooja Jesrani: From Artistic Expression to Scientific Exploration: How Pooja's Parents Shaped Her Path to Success.
                      • Dona Kay Rule: The Evolution of a Mother-Daughter Relationship - Lessons Learned Through the Years
                      • Jaya Padmanabhan: Finding Grace in the Role of Caregiver
                      • Dr. Loretta Chen: Shining Light on Alternative Modalities of Motherhood

                      • Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: 

                        >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/


                        Visit Enma Popli’s website
                        >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

                        26 min

                      About Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

                      From the publisher's feed

                      In 'Atalanta Diaries,' Enma Popli interviews breakthrough women including CEOs, Artists, Athletes, and Scientists, sharing their unique stories to inspire listeners. Born from a profound 'WHY,' AD is…