In this episode of Silicon Dreams, host Preethy Padmanabhan speaks with Sushma Malhotra, President & CEO of S5 Advisory, about how How to Win Friends and Influence People shaped her leadership journey.

Sushma also shares actionable leadership strategies — giving sincere praise, avoiding direct criticism, encouraging growth after mistakes, and using empathy to influence clients and teams effectively. The discussion also touches on insights from How to Stop Worrying and Start Living and The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

A powerful reminder that great leadership starts with genuine interest, meaningful relationships, and the ability to make others feel heard, valued, and inspired.