The Brand Called You

By tbcy.in

Converse with the brightest minds in the world of business and technology. Stay in the know as we talk to chief executives, high achievers, technology gurus across the world. Find out what is going to... more

· Business

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How many episodes does The Brand Called You have?

The podcast currently has 545 episodes available.

The Brand Called You episodes:

March 10, 2026Insights from Marcus Fontoura, Technical Fellow at Microsoft
Insights from Marcus Fontoura, Technical Fellow at Microsoft
His early days at Microsoft and witnessing the leadership transformation under Satya Nadella.
Challenges of teams working in silos and the importance of unifying under a collaborative platform.

Podcast

Overview

This episode of The Brand Called You (TBCY) features Marcus Fontoura, Technical Fellow at Microsoft and author of “A Platform Mindset: Building a Culture of Collaboration.” Hosted by Ashutosh Garg, the conversation dives deep into how platforms drive collaboration, innovation, and organizational transformation.
Below, we break down the episode into key questions discussed, highlighting important moments and the main topics covered.
00:52 — What defining moments shaped Marcus Fontoura’s views on platforms and scale?
His early days at Microsoft and witnessing the leadership transformation under Satya Nadella.
Challenges of teams working in silos and the importance of unifying under a collaborative platform.
How building software platforms unlocked speed, synergy, and large-scale collaboration.
02:38 — What patterns stand out in high-performing engineering cultures?
A strong emphasis on engineering rigor and structured processes, from ideation to production.
The crucial role of fostering a blameless, innovative, and collaborative work culture.
Why allowing space for ideas and creating safe environments for expression matters.
04:07 — Why did Marcus write A Platform Mindset, and what is it about?
His return to Brazil and recognizing gaps in engineering leadership.
The process of codifying best practices and systematically organizing ideas for building strong technology organizations.
Writing and translating the book to benefit leaders in Brazil and around the world.
06:02 — What allows platforms to become seeds of innovation?
The importance of reducing the cost and risk of experimentation.
How platforms encapsulate foundational elements and create safe extension points for innovation.
Empowering teams to focus on creative expansion rather than reinventing the basics.
08:20 — How is a true platform different from a shared service?
The multiplier effect: genuine platforms accelerate agility and collaboration.
Key distinguishing features include increasing team speed, delivery leverage, and cross-functional synergies.
09:16 — How can leaders foster real collaboration rather than simple compliance?
The need to cultivate a supportive culture for platform adoption.
Lessons from Microsoft’s transformation—collaboration is not just about tools but also about trust between leaders.
Avoiding silos by building trust and encouraging shared success.
11:14 — Why is trust central to platform adoption, and how can organizations rebuild it?
Without trust, teams prefer to operate independently, which harms scalability.
Explicit processes and mechanisms help create shared ownership and collaborative outcomes.
Practices such as evaluating leaders based on their contributions to others’ success.
15:09 — What cultural signs reveal a company isn’t ready for a platform mindset?
Startups in the exploration phase should avoid investing heavily in platforms too early.
The turning point occurs when an idea proves scalable and economically viable—only then does platform thinking become essential.
Platform initiatives can fail if culture or timing is not aligned.
17:05 — What are common leadership mistakes in launching or scaling platforms?
Rushing or delaying platform deployment and missing the right cultural moment.
Failing to evolve both culture and technology together.
Neglecting engineering rigor by moving prototypes to production before they are robust.
19:30 — How does the platform mindset evolve in the AI era?
AI accelerates engineering work, potentially leading to flatter organizations and increased productivity.
The foundational principles of collaboration, validation, and platform leverage remain unchanged.
The risk lies in skipping proper validation because execution becomes faster.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Marcus Fontoura: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
Trust isn’t “nice to have”—it’s fundamental. Without it, “everyone builds their own stack,” explains Marcus Fontoura. True scale begins only when people are willing to depend on each other and optimize collectively.
Share your thoughts in the comments and help spread these insights within your network.
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
His early days at Microsoft and witnessing the leadership transformation under Satya Nadella.
Challenges of teams working in silos and the importance of unifying under a collaborative platform.

The post Insights from Marcus Fontoura, Technical Fellow at Microsoft first appeared on TBCY.
...more
24min
March 09, 2026Jeroen Derwort: Entrepreneur & Game Developer | Building Online Soccer Manager and Beyond
Jeroen Derwort: Entrepreneur & Game Developer | Building Online Soccer Manager and Beyond
The importance of finishing projects and taking ownership of outcomes
How entrepreneurship naturally followed product success

Podcast

Overview

In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Jeroen Derwort—entrepreneur, game developer, and author of Score! Online Soccer Manager: From the Attic to the Arena. Together, they explore Jeroen’s journey from a childhood spent in isolation with computers to building a globally successful gaming platform and ultimately sharing his hard-earned lessons with the next generation of founders.
00:00:54 — What early experiences shaped Jeroen’s product-building philosophy?
The importance of finishing projects and taking ownership of outcomes
How entrepreneurship naturally followed product success
Customers care about the final result, not the building process
00:01:43 — How did Jeroen overcome introversion to lead teams and negotiate deals?
The challenges of leadership and negotiation as an introvert
Bootstrapping allowed gradual growth and confidence building
Support from co-founder Frank helped share responsibilities
Practice and necessity improved leadership skills over time
00:02:46 — How does Jeroen now define his role in the tech and startup ecosystem?
Transition after selling two companies and navigating personal challenges
Involvement with the local university’s game lab, mentoring students
Chairman of the Dutch Games Association, supporting the growth of the Dutch game industry
Continuing personal game development to stay current and keep learning
00:03:54 — Why does the book begin with childhood struggles?
It makes the story more relatable for readers facing similar challenges
Jeroen prefers storytelling over instructional writing
Vulnerability helps illustrate the real journey to success
00:04:49 — How did isolation shape the way Jeroen built online communities?
Early solitary experiences with his MSX computer
Building the OSM online community became a transformative experience
Learning to filter feedback while balancing vision and community input
The importance of staying committed to long-term plans despite distractions
00:05:59 — What problem did OSM’s design solve?
Frustration with football manager games that were mostly solo experiences
Desire for social gameplay where friends could compete together
Use of real club and player names for authenticity
Introduction of the “one-season rule” to keep gameplay fresh and welcoming
00:09:43 — Why is the “one-season rule” fundamental to OSM?
Players can easily enter and exit leagues with friends
Daily matches increase engagement and excitement
The system creates a recurring “heartbeat” for the game, keeping competition active
00:11:01 — Why share failures and bad hires in the book?
Mistakes are universal learning experiences
They humanize the entrepreneurial journey
Example: Overinvesting in office space in anticipation of growth in China that never materialized
00:12:56 — What defines a healthy founder relationship?
Mutual respect and trust
Clearly defined and complementary roles
Conflict resolved through collaboration and shared commitment
00:14:22 — How did intense stress shape Jeroen’s leadership style?
Constant stress rarely improves decision-making
Legal challenges with organizations like AC Milan and the Bundesliga ultimately led to positive outcomes
Conflict can sometimes spark growth and opportunity
00:15:29 — Why are money tensions rarely discussed openly in startups?
Founders often hesitate to admit financial struggles
Many prefer to project success externally
Honest reflection often only happens later, such as during writing
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Jeroen Derwort: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
The hardest stories to tell are often the most personal ones. Jeroen opens his book with the vulnerability of his youth and concludes with the emotional period of selling his company and going through a divorce. No founder’s journey is purely about glamour and success—there is courage in honesty.
Share your thoughts in the comments and help spread these insights with your network.
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
The importance of finishing projects and taking ownership of outcomes
How entrepreneurship naturally followed product success
Customers care about the final result, not the building process

The post Jeroen Derwort: Entrepreneur & Game Developer | Building Online Soccer Manager and Beyond first appeared on TBCY.
...more
24min
March 09, 2026Osahon Akpata, CEO of CANEX Creations Inc., on Building Africa’s Creative Economy
Osahon Akpata, CEO of CANEX Creations Inc., on Building Africa’s Creative Economy
Transforming ideas into tangible outcomes across consulting, finance, and the creative economy.
Emphasizing execution over theory.
The universal skill of making things happen, regardless of the industry.

Podcast

Overview

In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Osahon Akpata, CEO of CANEX Creations Inc., to explore the intersection of creativity, capital, and commercial success in Africa’s rapidly growing creative industries.
Drawing on his extensive experience in finance, consulting, and creative ventures, Osahon unpacks what it truly takes to build scalable businesses and meaningful intellectual property (IP) on the African continent and beyond.
00:53 – What has consistently driven Osahon Akpata’s personal need to win across such diverse arenas as finance, consulting, and the creative economy?
Transforming ideas into tangible outcomes across consulting, finance, and the creative economy.
Emphasizing execution over theory.
The universal skill of making things happen, regardless of the industry.
02:22 – What level of risk does Osahon believe leaders must personally absorb to succeed at scale in Africa’s creative economy?
Why true impact requires personal commercial risk.
Case study: the success of the film “Muganga” and the importance of calculated, downside-protected risk.
Building credibility at scale through exposure and accountability.
04:34 – Can the desire to win be taught, or is it fundamentally intrinsic, according to Osahon?
The interplay of environment and temperament in cultivating ambition.
Childhood story: publishing a book at age eleven as an early spark for sustained drive.
The importance of experiencing visible payoff to build competitive instincts.
06:04 – What was the most demanding strategic battle Osahon has fought, and what did it teach him about himself?
Establishing CANEX Creations as a credible, IP-focused investment platform without an existing blueprint.
Balancing speed with institutional rigor in a high-stakes environment.
The power of persuasion, building consensus, and learning patience.
07:42 – How does Osahon personally measure success when working on long-cycle value creation such as intellectual property?
Focusing on durability, sustainable monetization, and African ownership of IP.
Ensuring future optionality through sequels, adaptations, and licensing pathways.
Valuing economic integrity over short-term financial returns.
09:20 – What are the most common analytical mistakes Osahon observes when creativity meets capital?
Misinterpreting the unpredictability of creative industries as “uninvestable.”
The danger of ignoring portfolio logic and focusing solely on a single potential hit.
Underestimating the long-term lifecycle value of IP assets.
12:03 – What analytical red flags immediately signal that execution will fail, even if a business plan looks compelling on paper?
Unrealistic scaling and projections.
A lack of credible partners and clear accountability.
Misaligned incentives among stakeholders.
13:13 – When evaluating an IP-driven opportunity, what are the first three variables Osahon analyzes before committing his time or capital?
Ownership and control of the intellectual property.
Pathways for sustainable, long-term monetization.
Additionality and execution capacity — whether involvement truly adds value.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Osahon Akpata: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
The alliances that will matter most for African IP success are those that bridge the gap between African creators and global markets, between creative talent and smart capital, and between innovation and infrastructure.
Share your thoughts in the comments and spread these insights with your network.
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
Transforming ideas into tangible outcomes across consulting, finance, and the creative economy.
Emphasizing execution over theory.
The universal skill of making things happen, regardless of the industry.

The post Osahon Akpata, CEO of CANEX Creations Inc., on Building Africa’s Creative Economy first appeared on TBCY.
...more
26min
March 07, 2026Gabrielle Dolan on the Power of Real Communication
Gabrielle Dolan on the Power of Real Communication
Overcoming the misconception that storytelling is merely a “soft skill”
Real-world experience influencing digital transformation in a major bank using stories

Podcast

Overview

In this episode of “The Brand Called You,” host Ashutosh Garg sits down with acclaimed Melbourne-based author Gabrielle Dolan, who shares insights from her latest book, Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling Made Smarter with AI.
They explore why storytelling is far more than a “soft skill.” Gabrielle explains how authentic stories can become a powerful leadership tool, the problems caused by corporate jargon, and how leaders can use AI thoughtfully while preserving their genuine voice.
00:56 — When did Gabrielle realize storytelling is a strategic leadership capability?
Overcoming the misconception that storytelling is merely a “soft skill”
Real-world experience influencing digital transformation in a major bank using stories
Storytelling as a powerful influencing and communication skill in leadership
02:08 — What fears did Gabrielle face when leaving corporate life?
The challenge of leaving a secure job to start an entrepreneurial journey
Balancing family responsibilities during the transition
Facing uncertainty while educating the market about storytelling’s value
03:09 — What is Jargon Free Fridays, and why is it needed?
The origin story behind the global initiative Jargon Free Fridays
How jargon and acronyms prevent real understanding
Raising awareness about communication problems in modern workplaces
04:45 — What is “Story Intelligence,” and how does it differ from traditional storytelling?
Gabrielle Dolan’s definition of story intelligence
A comparison with emotional intelligence
Focus on authentic, purposeful, and clear communication—not just storytelling techniques
06:24 — How does story intelligence help influence behavior?
Moving beyond simply sharing information toward influencing behavior
The “risk manager” story as an example of why stories are memorable
The criteria for effective communication: understanding, remembering, and retelling
09:43 — Why do audiences detect inauthenticity so easily today?
Declining levels of trust in organizations and leaders
The influence of AI-generated content and deepfakes
Growing skepticism and a stronger demand for authenticity
12:11 — How can leaders avoid undermining trust when telling stories?
The dangers of exaggerating or inventing stories
Why even small falsehoods can damage credibility
The fine line between influence and manipulation
12:47 — Is storytelling about performance or clarity?
Storytelling is not theatrics—it is effective communication
Stories should be relevant and relatable, not delivered for applause
Everyday applications in presentations, one-on-one conversations, and team meetings
13:34 — How do you balance vulnerability with credibility in personal stories?
The power of authentic and relatable storytelling
Gabrielle’s advice: “Show scars, not wounds.”
Avoid oversharing or stories that may be too raw for the audience
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Gabrielle Dolan: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
Why are audiences so allergic to inauthentic stories from leaders and brands? “We’re in an era of distrust,” says Gabrielle Dolan. Add AI-generated content and deepfakes, and it’s no wonder authenticity radar is on high alert. Share your thoughts in the comments and spread these insights with friends!
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
Overcoming the misconception that storytelling is merely a “soft skill”
Real-world experience influencing digital transformation in a major bank using stories
Storytelling as a powerful influencing and communication skill in leadership

The post Gabrielle Dolan on the Power of Real Communication first appeared on TBCY.
...more
23min
March 07, 2026Transforming Businesses with Conversational AI: Insights from Peter L. Swimm, Founder of Toilville LLC
Transforming Businesses with Conversational AI: Insights from Peter L. Swimm, Founder of Toilville LLC
Peter L. Swimm describes his early passion for building people-first technology, improving human-computer interaction, and making technology more understandable and relatable. He emphasizes the value of conversational AI in bridging gaps between technology and users.

Podcast

Overview

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Peter L. Swimm, Founder of Toilville LLC, to explore the current state, challenges, and future trends in conversational AI. Drawing from Peter’s extensive experience across startups, global enterprises, and open communities, the conversation delivers actionable insights for business leaders, technologists, and AI enthusiasts alike.
00:44 – What first drew you to conversational interfaces long before they became mainstream?
Peter L. Swimm describes his early passion for building people-first technology, improving human-computer interaction, and making technology more understandable and relatable. He emphasizes the value of conversational AI in bridging gaps between technology and users.
01:29 – Which phase of your journey most shaped your philosophy on building human-centered AI?
He explains how wearing multiple hats in startups honed his confidence and technical acumen and reflects on the ongoing evolution in tech, leaving room for newcomers and agile thinkers.
03:02 – Advice to his younger self at the start of his AI journey:
Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to voice your ideas, especially in new or uncertain fields. He highlights the importance of diverse voices and collaboration in driving innovation.
04:12 – What does “multidisciplinary” mean in practice when building conversational AI for businesses?
At Toilville, team members come from diverse backgrounds, including musicians and artists, enriching the AI development process. Multidisciplinary teams help slow down and rethink project directions instead of acting on autopilot.
05:35 – Why are context, institutional knowledge, and human connection often missing in enterprise AI deployments?
AI projects often fail due to top-down approaches that lack input from all key stakeholders. Consultants must embed themselves within organizations to truly understand processes.
06:49 – Biggest misconception business leaders have about conversational AI:
Many believe conversational AI is “free work,” but it actually requires training and contextual understanding—similar to raising a newborn. Leaders often struggle to measure current processes, making ROI calculations challenging.
07:42 – Real-world example of a misconception solved:
Peter shares a case study from a call center: instead of automating everything, Toilville focused on the verification step, achieving major efficiency gains. Small, targeted automation often delivers more impact than large-scale overhauls.
09:13 – Transitioning from AI pilots to embedded business solutions:
Unifying siloed company knowledge is the first critical step. AI can optimize processes effectively once foundational data and workflows are clear.
10:22 – Role of conversational AI in revenue generation:
Beyond cost reduction, conversational AI can enhance customer retention, provide analytics, and improve processes. Businesses should A/B test and measure outcomes relevant to their core models.
12:29 – How NLU and generative AI complement each other in production systems:
NLU provides context, reducing generative AI’s tendency to “hallucinate.” Pairing both leads to more accurate, compute-efficient, and human-like AI systems.
14:36 – True democratization of AI for small businesses and communities:
Meaningful democratization includes transparency, plurality in outcomes, and correction mechanisms. AI providers must ensure responsible curation and truthfulness.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Peter L Swimm: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
Embedding AI in the business model isn’t just about deployment—it’s about unifying knowledge, breaking silos, and asking critical questions. Share your thoughts and spread these insights!
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
Peter L. Swimm describes his early passion for building people-first technology, improving human-computer interaction, and making technology more understandable and relatable. He emphasizes the value of conversational AI in bridging gaps between technology and users.

The post Transforming Businesses with Conversational AI: Insights from Peter L. Swimm, Founder of Toilville LLC first appeared on TBCY.
...more
22min
March 06, 2026Jake Knox, Author & Mentor: Rethinking Success, Growth, and Burnout with Oak Logs & Gasoline
Jake Knox, Author & Mentor: Rethinking Success, Growth, and Burnout with Oak Logs & Gasoline
For Jake, family — particularly marriage and fatherhood — surpasses professional accomplishments.
He speaks about the evolving nature of relationships and the lifelong journey of bonding with his sons.

Podcast

Overview

Welcome to a new episode of The Brand Called You, featuring the deeply insightful author Jake Knox in conversation with host Ashutosh Garg.This blog unpacks Jake’s philosophy, his book Oak Logs & Gasoline, and timeless advice on living a more authentic — and sustainable — life.
00:47 | Which identity most shaped Jake Knox’s life?
For Jake, family — particularly marriage and fatherhood — surpasses professional accomplishments.
He speaks about the evolving nature of relationships and the lifelong journey of bonding with his sons.
02:16 | Was there a moment when Jake realized his life lessons should be shared?
The pivotal affirmation came from one of his older sons, who encouraged him to write.
Everyday fatherly metaphors and sayings eventually formed the foundation of his book.
Jake spent nearly three years collecting anecdotes and life lessons that later shaped the narrative.
04:43 | How did Jake’s definition of success evolve?
Jake openly reflects on confronting pride and ego in his younger years.
His definition of success shifted from seeking external recognition (“visibility”) to valuing consistency and follow-through.
He draws inspiration from mentors such as Mahatma Gandhi, particularly the idea of growing into one’s true capacity.
07:03 | What is the “Oak Logs & Gasoline” metaphor?
The metaphor emerged through meditation and observations from daily family life.
Oak logs represent steady, earned, and lasting achievements.
Gasoline symbolizes the temptation of quick fixes and shortcuts.
Jake also credits the influence of Wisconsin’s lumberjack culture and campfire-style mentoring traditions.
09:32 | Why are we pushed toward “gasoline habits” in modern life?
Modern society moves at a relentless pace, heavily driven by technology and instant gratification.
Multitasking often creates the illusion of productivity while reducing meaningful connection.
Practices like meditation help restore balance and presence.
11:22 | How can purpose be quietly recognized?
Purpose does not always arrive as a dramatic moment.
Instead, it often grows from intentional daily actions.
Starting with small responsibilities — especially within family — helps build a meaningful sense of purpose.
13:17 | How do you stay grounded in a world obsessed with attention?
Jake emphasizes a timeless principle: Integrity is how you behave when no one is watching.
True character shows when values guide actions rather than external validation.
Owning mistakes, making amends, and communicating honestly help maintain integrity.
14:48 | What stress signals do people often ignore?
Many people mistake stress and burnout for intensity and productivity.
Ignoring internal warning signals can have long-term consequences.
Developing self-awareness helps individuals interpret stress as valuable feedback.
16:26 | Why is being “good on the inside” as important as being “good on the outside”?
Young people today often struggle with identity and external validation.
Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding them toward authenticity.
Jake encourages self-acceptance and genuine character over performative success.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Jake Knox: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
“Integrity is how you act when nobody’s watching,” Jake Knox shares. In a world obsessed with attention, staying true to yourself is more powerful than chasing likes. Share your thoughts in the comments and spread these insights with friends!
Would you love to give us 5 stars? If yes, we’d greatly appreciate your review. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere. Stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and experts.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
For Jake, family — particularly marriage and fatherhood — surpasses professional accomplishments.
He speaks about the evolving nature of relationships and the lifelong journey of bonding with his sons.

The post Jake Knox, Author & Mentor: Rethinking Success, Growth, and Burnout with Oak Logs & Gasoline first appeared on TBCY.
...more
26min
March 06, 2026David Homan, Author of Orchestrating Connection | Building Meaningful Networks & Community Principles
David Homan, Author of Orchestrating Connection | Building Meaningful Networks & Community Principles
David Homan recounts his illness at age 12 and how he was often seen as the “sick kid.”

Podcast

Overview

In this enlightening episode of The Brand Called You (TBCY), host Ashutosh Garg speaks with author, composer, and connector David Homan about his book Orchestrating Connection and the art of building meaningful relationships.
From personal setbacks to professional breakthroughs, the conversation dives deep into what truly makes connections powerful and lasting.
Explore the most compelling moments from the episode, with clickable timestamps for easy navigation:
00:41 – What personal experiences shaped your understanding of connection as a discipline rather than a personality trait?
David Homan recounts his illness at age 12 and how he was often seen as the “sick kid.”
These early experiences of loneliness shaped his perspective on relationships and taught him to understand how others perceived him.
02:05 – Was there a specific failure or moment of loneliness that forced you to rethink how relationships actually work?
David reflects on losing foundation funds during the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme.
This experience highlighted the limitations of transactional networking and reinforced the value of diverse, genuine connections.
04:27 – At what point did you realize that your way of connecting people could be systematized and taught
David shares how his intuitive approach evolved into a structured framework for building trust-based relationships.
He also discusses hosting events designed to empower introverts and launching a relationship-focused CRM startup.
07:03 – What is the most damaging myth people still hold about networking today
The common misconception is that perfect pitching leads to success.
David explains why listening, empathy, and vulnerability are far more powerful than a polished pitch.
08:25 – Why choose the metaphor of orchestration to describe your approach?
As a classical composer, David draws inspiration from music.
He explains that building community is similar to bringing people onto the same “wavelength,” creating harmony rather than forcing alignment.
09:35 – Why do successful people struggle to articulate what they actually need
The paradox: those who listen and give the most often struggle to ask for help.
David emphasizes the importance of clarity about personal needs and goals.
10:44 – What kind of diversity truly strengthens a community?
Diversity goes beyond surface-level markers
David shares examples of connecting people across women’s health, entrepreneurship, arts, and philanthropy to create deeper collaboration.
13:17 – Where do most leaders misunderstand vulnerability?
Many leaders fear that showing vulnerability signals weakness.
David explains how sharing personal challenges, including the loss of his father, deepened trust and strengthened relationships.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about David Homan: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
The biggest networking myth:
“If my pitch is perfect, I’ll win.”
Not true.
David Homan explains that real connection is not about impressing others—it’s about listening, staying curious, and making others feel valued.
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David Homan recounts his illness at age 12 and how he was often seen as the “sick kid.”
These early experiences of loneliness shaped his perspective on relationships and taught him to understand how others perceived him.

The post David Homan, Author of Orchestrating Connection | Building Meaningful Networks & Community Principles first appeared on TBCY.
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27min
March 05, 2026Inderjit Singh Makkar, Founder, Factacy
Inderjit Singh Makkar, Founder, Factacy
Inderjit is the founder of Factacy which is an AI as a service firm specializing in financial intelligence, market research and ESG data analytics.

Podcast

Overview

In this episode of The Brand Called You, Inderjit Singh Makkar—Founder of Factacy—shares his journey from global enterprise leadership to entrepreneurship. He unpacks why disciplined data is the backbone of strategy, how AI must be bespoke to real business use cases, and what it takes to build defensible, long-term value in fintech, ESG analytics, and agentic AI.
00:37- About Inderjit Singh Makkar
Inderjit is the founder of Factacy which is an AI as a service firm specializing in financial intelligence, market research and ESG data analytics.
07:08- What gaps in existing analytics inspired the creation of factacy.ai?
AI was treated as a consumer chatbot, not as a scalable, enterprise-ready capability embedded into real business workflows.
Lack of bespoke, use-case–driven analytics, with one-size-fits-all tools failing to adapt AI to specific industry and operational needs.
Overreliance on legacy data stacks, focused on databases and SQL rather than AI-first architectures built to last decades.
15:57- How does factacy.ai transform real-world IoT and operational data into actionable financial and ESG insights?
Captures granular operational signals across energy sourcing, materials, and supply chains (e.g., power mix, recycled vs fresh inputs) to quantify real ESG impact.
Applies data science weighting models to normalize and contextualize these signals across thousands of SKUs and complex supply routes.
Amplifies performance outcomes by translating supply-chain efficiency (good or bad) into clear financial, carbon, and ESG metrics for enterprises.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Inderjit Singh Makkar: LinkedIn
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Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile

Inderjit is the founder of Factacy which is an AI as a service firm specializing in financial intelligence, market research and ESG data analytics.

The post Inderjit Singh Makkar, Founder, Factacy first appeared on TBCY.
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30min
March 05, 2026Hunter Hastings, Founder, The Value Creators; Author
Hunter Hastings, Founder, The Value Creators; Author
Hunter is the founder of The Value Creators, which is a business education brand that aims to bring a new perspective on value creation.
He’s also an author and his latest book is titled The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism).

Podcast

Overview

In this thought-provoking episode of The Brand Called You, Hunter Hastings, founder of The Value Creators and author of The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism) drawing from decades across multinationals, Silicon Valley startups, and venture capital, Hastings challenges the very foundations of traditional management. He explains why hierarchy and control now constrain innovation, how self-managed and entrepreneurial organizations outperform bureaucracies, and what leaders must unlearn to design organizations built around customers, trust, and experimentation.
00:35- About Hunter Hastings
Hunter is the founder of The Value Creators, which is a business education brand that aims to bring a new perspective on value creation.
He’s also an author and his latest book is titled The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism).
04:30- When did you realize management itself was broken, not just in need of improvement?
During Silicon Valley and venture capital work, seeing venture-mode firms scale rapidly.
Market evidence showed stark contrast in growth, margins, and responsiveness.
Traditional companies consistently lagged, proving old management was unsustainable.
23:46- Why do business schools and corporate elites resist the post-managerial paradigm?
Bureaucracy rewards control, not risk, imagination, or experimentation.
Institutions are structurally conservative, prioritizing administration over innovation.
Elites protect their power, resisting changes that dismantle hierarchical ladders.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Hunter Hastings: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
If you learned new insights about Entrepreneurial Mindset, subscribe and share it with friends!
Love to give us 5 stars? If you do, we’d love a review from you. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere; stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and gurus.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
Hunter is the founder of The Value Creators, which is a business education brand that aims to bring a new perspective on value creation.
He’s also an author and his latest book is titled The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism)

The post Hunter Hastings, Founder, The Value Creators; Author first appeared on TBCY.
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29min
March 04, 2026Edward Bjurstrom, Author, ‘The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment’
Edward Bjurstrom, Author, ‘The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment’
Edward is the author of a book titled The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment.

Podcast

Overview

In this episode of The Brand Called You, Edward Bjurstrom, author of The Success Guide: How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment drawing on four decades in the biopharmaceutical industry, Edward shares practical, experience-driven insights on mindset, emotional intelligence, leadership under pressure, focus, trust, and what it truly takes to thrive—personally and professionally—in demanding corporate environments.
00:33- About Edward Bjurstrom
Edward is the author of a book titled The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment.
07:34- How can professionals cut distractions to regain focus and flow?
Check email only once or twice a day and resist the urge to constantly react.
Turn off notifications, close doors, and signal “Do Not Disturb” during focus time.
Defend uninterrupted time to enter flow and maximize creativity and output.
15:47- How can leaders deliver results without compromising integrity under pressure?
Results never justify hiding mistakes or compromising trust, especially in regulated environments.
Leaders must address dishonesty firmly, even when it’s uncomfortable or questioned by others.
Ask whether you’d trust the outcome if it affected someone you love—this clarifies the right choice under pressure.
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Edward Bjurstrom: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
If you learned new insights about Career Growth, subscribe and share it with friends!
Love to give us 5 stars? If you do, we’d love a review from you. Help us reach more people to keep them in the know as we talk to leaders, high achievers, and thought leaders from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Excellence can come from anywhere; stay in the know, and hear from emergent high achievers and gurus.
Stay updated with what’s shaping the world today through the latest The Brand Called You Podcast episode. Follow us on iTunes, Spotify, and Anchor.fm.
You can find us at:
Website: www.tbcy.in
Instagram: http://bit.ly/3HO7N06
Facebook:http://bit.ly/3YzJOaD
Twitter: http://bit.ly/3wMBOXK
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tbcy/
YouTube: http://bit.ly/3jmBqfq
Chingari: https://chingari.io/tbcypodcast
Moj:http://bit.ly/3wOrmPv
Josh: http://bit.ly/3WWP0nB
Thanks for listening!

Profile
Edward is the author of a book titled The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment.

The post Edward Bjurstrom, Author, ‘The Success Guide – How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment’ first appeared on TBCY.
...more
23min

FAQs about The Brand Called You:

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The podcast currently has 545 episodes available.