In this episode of Data Wars, Ash Srivastava and Prash Chandramohan sit down with Vinay Simha, Founder of Strategic Business Networks and a veteran data leader with 25+ years of experience in enterprise transformation. Vinay shares why he walked away from a high-profile corporate career to pursue a mission-driven venture focused on turning data into business value—especially as AI accelerates.

The conversation dives into what it really takes to build a data strategy that works, why leaders must start with a clear vision (not tools), and how India’s Aadhaar + UPI ecosystem is a real-world masterclass in trusted identity, master data, and network effects at scale. Vinay also explores the “human side” of leadership—managing anxiety in volatile job markets, embracing humility, and building resilience through self-care, journaling, and mentorship.

By the end, you’ll walk away with practical lessons on MDM, governance, data platforms, and leadership mindset—plus Vinay’s North Star: helping struggling organizations become “the best” by building trust in their data.

🎧 Watch/Listen Now:

▶️ YouTube: https://youtu.be/t7h_urm_b5k

🎵 Spotify: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/Tl7JW03R00b

🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/quitting-corporate-comfort-to-build-a-data-first/id1782784746?i=1000751202632