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What happens when an engineering graduate sets her sights on becoming a top marketer? Meet Sumedha Mahajan who shares her incredible journey from aspiring IAS officer to marketing leader. 

Sumedha Mahajan is a seasoned marketer, with a passion for brand stories and growth experiments. Currently at the helm as the Head of Marketing, India for Ampverse DMI, she's scripting the next big chapter for Esports in India. She has worked and built marketing campaigns at some of the biggest brands like Paytm and MPL. 

Between scaling partnerships with the biggest brands,  running BTL campaigns in Tier 2 cities, launching and marketing the Indian cricket Team Jersey, launching one of India's biggest Gaming IP , she's worked across channels, audience & scale.

Her interest in Psychology & Public Policy inspired her to study both and implement the learning in her work.

When not busy approving memes at work, she mentors at GrowthX and consults early stage startups. Off work, she is a voracious reader, mental health advocate and foodie.

Influenced by her grandfather, a freedom fighter and storyteller, Sumedha took bold steps that led her to the marketing world. Her story is brimming with inspiration, from her career choices to her dedication to mentoring and advocating for mental health.

Throughout this episode, we uncover Sumedha's strategies for navigating the dynamic marketing landscape. She emphasizes the importance of stepping out of comfort zones, the power of multi-channel strategies, and the crucial role of supportive networks. Her candid discussion on overcoming challenges and building confidence, particularly for women in leadership roles, offers valuable insights. Sumedha's personal anecdotes on imposter syndrome and resilience create a relatable narrative for anyone striving to achieve professional growth.

Sumedha also opens up about her passion projects, especially her work in mental health advocacy. From volunteering with Life Possible to participating in global conferences like Unleash and Unite 2030, she is committed to making a social impact. Her journey of leadership, mentorship, and culinary adventures paints a vivid picture of a life dedicated to personal and professional growth. Tune in to hear Sumedha's rich tapestry of experiences and learn how you can apply her wisdom to your own career and personal development.

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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In this episode of Unlimited Seating, we sit down with Pallavi Bhowmick, Managing Director at Accenture Strategy and Consulting, operating at the forefront of innovation and AI driven assets in the CG&S Industry. Formerly at Unilever, she spearheaded global initiatives in Ecommerce, Route to Market, Sales, and more, positioning herself at the intersection of Industry and AI. Her recent focus at Accenture revolves around developing Generative AI-driven solutions seamlessly integrated into business processes. 

Pallavi, a proud mother of a high schooler, resides in Bangalore with her husband and son, sharing a familial passion for travel, movies, and literature.

Pallavi takes pride in her authentic leadership style, fostering a work environment where she can be her true self daily. As an inclusion ally, she passionately advocates for diversity. Pallavi acknowledges the abundant professional coaching and mentoring she received throughout her career, emphasizing her commitment to passing on the same support to those who follow in her footsteps.

Our conversation dives deep into the art of career growth through mentorship and feedback, moving beyond traditional marketing to embrace data-driven strategies and holistic business perspectives. Pallavi reveals how cross-functional experiences and proactive career planning have been pivotal in her journey.

The episode culminates in a candid discussion about navigating career paths post-maternity leave, the importance of recognizing and playing to one's strengths, and the value of strategic networking. Reflecting on her career philosophy of balancing various aspects of life, Pallavi emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and adapting, particularly in the ever-evolving fields of AI and analytics. Tune in to gain invaluable insights from Pallavi's experiences, and discover strategies to effectively balance professional ambitions with personal well-being.

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Ever wondered what it takes to navigate a career in the fast-evolving tech industry? Join us on Unlimited Seating as we sit down with Sudha Jamthe, a renowned Technology Futurist, Business School of AI which is her personal platform, author of 7 books, educator, and independent researcher with 25+ years of entrepreneurial and operational experience in the technology industry. Sudha builds online learning communities at Weeklywed and IoTWomen and Global South in AI at the NeurIPS conference. 

Her aspiration is a limitless world where AI can work ethically for all of us. In her spare time, Sudha enjoys chasing self-driving cars and hugging robots. 

Get ready to be inspired by her journey of embracing new technologies and her unwavering commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in tech.

In this episode, Sudha reveals how her initial curiosity about the Internet of Things blossomed into a multifaceted career that includes teaching at Stanford and writing influential books. Learn about her unique approach to using community feedback to shape her professional growth and gain a deeper understanding of how real-world applications and industry challenges have fueled her passion for autonomous vehicles, data analytics, and Generative AI. Sudha’s story serves as a testament to the power of continuous learning and the importance of leveraging constructive feedback for personal development.

But Sudha's journey doesn't stop at technology. During our conversation, Sudha shared her candid experiences about career transitions, salary negotiations, and the challenges faced by women re-entering the workforce. From launching a startup during the dot-com boom to consulting for PayPal, Sudha shares valuable lessons on resilience and adaptability. Discover her efforts to empower women in tech through initiatives like IoT Women, and understand the critical need for advocating professional value and self-worth. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice for anyone passionate about technology and diversity.

Sudha can be reached at sudhajamthe.com 

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Join me your host Sanila Samuel on an engaging and insightful conversation on navigating a corporate and entrepreneurial career journey with Hind Frata.

Hind Frata is the founder of Shiftogether, a Barcelona-based Career Coaching & Corporate Leadership training consultancy. Hind's purpose is about humanizing the business world growing business & people together. As an International Executive Career and Corporate coach,Hind has an extensive 18-year tenure in the corporate world as a Senior Marketing Vice President before embarking on an entrepreneurial journey amid the pandemic in 2020. With a profound commitment to purpose-driven action, Hind's transition to entrepreneurship is not just a career pivot but a testament to her dedication to living and working in alignment with her passion and values.

In this enlightening episode, Hind shares the pivotal role her open mindset and rich multicultural background have played in sculpting a fulfilling career. Her insights reveal how staying connected with one's passion and purpose serves as the cornerstone of professional contentment and success. Hind's inspiring approach to career coaching transcends conventional paradigms; she empowers executives across the globe to discover their purpose and create a career plan that not only resonates with this purpose but also encourages them to navigate their career journey from a place of trust rather than fear.

Today, Hind stands as a beacon of inspiration and guidance for many international executives, illuminating the path to achieving a rewarding and impactful career by harnessing the power of purpose, passion, and a positive mindset. Join us in this episode as Hind Frata unfolds the blueprint for creating a career that is not just successful but also deeply fulfilling and aligned with one's true calling.

Discover more about Hind: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/hindfrata/

https://www.shiftogether.com/

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Join me your host, Sanila Samuel on another insightful conversation, this time with Simone Lawrence. 

Simone is the co-founder of The Ameliorate Group (TAG), a Dubai-based coaching and people development consultancy working with teams, leaders and women in the workplace. She has over 20 years experience developing people, leading HR, L&D, operations, sales, business development and fundraising teams across a variety of industries, spanning both the corporate and NGO sectors. TAG partners with bestselling New York Author, Sally Helgesen to design and deliver the How Women Rise Leadership Program-creating awareness and action on the 12 habits that typically hold women back from more success in their careers.

Just when you think you've got your career path figured out, life throws you a curveball – and for certified executive coach Simone , that curveball sent her on an inspiring journey into people development. From a starting out as a hairdresser to becoming a co-founder of The Ameliorate Group, Simone's tale is a testament to the power of continuous learning and reinvention. It's a winding road that has taken her across the globe and back again, with ever-evolving passion for people at its heart. 

 A 360 assessment revealed a new direction for her – transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. And what's more, it highlighted the importance of recognizing your strengths and using them to make a difference. If you've ever thought about a career change or sought to understand yourself better, Simone's wisdom about seeking coaching and the value of an unbiased perspective will be invaluable. 

Simone's insights go beyond individual career development to address broader issues of leadership, particularly the power of women in these roles. But it's not just about breaking glass ceilings. It's about the post-COVID era and the need for a Return to Humanity in how we lead. It's about transforming books into workshops and persisting in the face of rejection. It’s about the challenges we might face in the future of work and how we can prepare for it. So buckle up for a deep-dive into Simone's world of personal growth and professional development, and prepare to be inspired.

Simone believes that professional development crosses over to the personal domain, as work and home lives are now more integrated than ever, developing the whole person is required for a leader to grow. The best leaders continue to master the art of leading themselves first.

Simone is the co-lead as Chief Mentoring Advocate for The Link Mentorship Program, a voluntary initiative where women can find support to advance professionally. Certified as a Senior Practitioner with the European Coaching and Mentoring Council (EMCC) and the International Coaching Federation (ICF).

Simone the coach offers private online coaching globally for high performing leaders who have a “niggle”. They are already successful and yet there is a sense that they want more, something different is wanting to emerge. They are challenged by the duality of delivering on their ambition whilst seeking more fulfilment and energy. 

Simone has lived and worked in numerous countries, including nearly two decades in the Middle East, and is now based in tropical Far North Queensland in Australia with her husband and two daughters. When she is not working you will find her doing yoga, walking in the rainforest or the beach, reading and spending time with family and friends. 

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Meet the extraordinary Emma Henderson, MBE, CEO of Project Wingman, and former commercial pilot. Her story of tenacity and resilience is quite the flight, from childhood dreams of soaring the skies to navigating the challenges of a demanding career while raising three children. Emma's journey wasn't always smooth sailing, but she mastered the turbulence with grace. 

Prepare for a deep-dive into Emma's exhilarating journey, not just as a pilot, but also as a woman proving that no barrier is insurmountable. You'll hear about her days as an airline captain, her recovery from a debilitating neurological condition, and the indispensable role her identity played throughout those trials. It's a testimony to her unyielding spirit, one that will leave you feeling invigorated.

But wait, there's more turbulence ahead! Emma's story takes another interesting turn, from the cockpit to launching Project Wingman. Hear how this incredible woman transitioned from helping passengers reach their destinations, to supporting the mental health of NHS care workers. Emma's tale is not just one of resilience, but also of reinvention, leadership, and bearing witness to the power of human spirit. Listen in, as we ride on the wings of Emma's story and explore what it truly means to soar.

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Ever dream of a career that combines math, science, problem-solving, and the thrill of aviation? Meet Danielle Nicole Vardaro, VP of Worldwide Customer Support & Aftermarket Sales for Commercial Aviation with Embraer. In her current role she is responsible for customer relationship management and providing best-in-class support and services to her global customer base while selling aftermarket products and services to keep fleets flying and leading a high impact global team. 

She has spent her entire career in the Aerospace Industry, with experience in Engineering, Program Management, Business Development, and Product Marketing & Value Selling, and building customer relationships throughout the entire lifecycle of aircraft production. 

Prior to joining Embraer, she held leadership positions at GE Aerospace and Boeing, where she grew her love for aviation, managing people, building teams and strengthening relationships.

Danielle is committed to elevating the impact and presence of women in STEM and is an active member of the International Aviation Women’s Association (IAWA). 

Danielle holds a M.S. in Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in Aircraft Composite Materials & Manufacturing from the University of Washington, and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University.

Danielle is based in Boston, Mass. USA where she resides with her husband, and twin 6-year-old boys. When she’s not managing the very active family sports and events calendar, you can find her on the Peloton, in an airport on her next work. adventure, mentoring, or finding a reason to celebrate with a bottle of champagne.

With a deep-rooted passion for all things STEM, Danielle shares her journey from an eager and curious young girl to becoming a successful leader in a male-dominated industry. Her invaluable experiences with the Society of Women Engineers and Nerd Girls not only solidified her love for engineering but also underscored the importance of strong support networks.

In this captivating conversation, we explore the critical function of mentors, sponsors, and coaches in navigating the ups and downs of professional growth. Danielle opens up about how they've helped her step out of her comfort zone, tackle challenges head-on, and climb the ladder in her field. Her story underscores the significance of having the right people in your corner - individuals who can provide tribal knowledge, world experience, and that push towards reaching the next level faster.

Of course, it's not all about the climb. As we delve into her leadership style, Danielle reveals how she transitioned from being an individual contributor to leading people. She discusses the evolution of her leadership style, the influence of mentors and sponsors in that journey, and the invaluable skill of self-reflection. Whether you're a budding engineer, an established professional, or merely seeking inspiration for growth in your career, Danielle's narrative promises to be a beacon of motivation, leadership, and relentless pursuit of passion.

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Ever wondered how someone can transition from a marketing career to a thrilling world of security services and global investigations?

Join your host Sanila Samuel on an inspiring conversation with Johanna Hladun, a senior executive with over two decades of experience in the government and private sectors. Currently a Senior Director of Security Services at Caterpillar Inc, Johanna shares her fascinating journey from college to the corporate world, her time at Prudential Investments, and her incredible 21-year journey with the FBI.

In this episode, we explore her experience in Iraq and her determination to secure a senior leadership role in Australia. Johanna reveals the importance of having a diverse team, embracing new roles, and staying connected with mentors and champions. We also discuss the essential practices of asking for help, taking on bigger challenges, and seeking feedback to push ourselves further in our careers.

Lastly, Johanna reflects on her growth mindset and leadership philosophy, sharing valuable insights on how to create a team atmosphere of innovation and learning. We also touch upon her journey as a single mother and the inspiration it brought to her life. 

Johanna's story is an empowering reminder of the importance of resilience, perseverance, and embracing failure as we strive for success.

Johanna Hladun joined Caterpillar in January 2019 and currently serves as the Senior Security Services Director in Law, Security, and Public Policy. In May 2020, Johanna served two years as the Global Chairperson for the Caterpillar Women’s Initiative Network Employee Resource Group. Prior to Caterpillar, she served 21 years as a Special Agent with the FBI. Having lived and worked in Asia Pacific and Middle East regions were both culture and gender presented barriers to success, she has demonstrated the power of relationships and leveraging diversity to create maximum business impact.

Johanna has been an executive champion of diversity and inclusion, a longtime supporter of building, a deep bunch of leaders through mentorship, and she has supported numerous women’s leadership programs domestically, and overseas. She’s a single mom by choice to a single mom to a kind, fiery, and independent tween.

#powerwomen #womeninleadership #womenempoweringwomen #diversity #diversityandinclusion #equalopportunities #leadership #leadershiplessons #career #opportunity #leader #globalleader #interview

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Join your host Sanila Samuel in a conversation with Cristina Seda-Hoelle, General Manager for the Regional and Business Aviation division at GE Aerospace. 
We talked about Cristina's role models growing up, how her childhood years helped her build resilience and develop empathy for others and some early career mistakes that she embraced and learned from. Cristina shares some good advice on how to choose mentors and how preparation is key when working on building the habit of speaking about your achievements to others. 

Cristina Seda-Hoelle currently serves as the General Manager of  the Regional & Business Aviation Product Line at GE Aerospace.  

Cristina was born in Cincinnati, Ohio.  She joined GE on the Operations Management Leadership Program, completing assignments with Motors and Lighting. After completing operational roles at Lighting, she joined the Aviation team in 2003, spending time in the Supply Chain, Commercial Services, Commercial Engines, and Military Systems. 

Cristina graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from Brown University. She also holds an MBA from Xavier University.  Cristina has a passion for getting more females into STEM fields and serves on the Board for Mount Notre Dame High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, 

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Join me, your host, Sanila Samuel on another episode of Unlimited Seating . This time we hear from Shelley Svoren, CEO and Founder of Infinite Branches as she shares how she relied on her years of experience working with clients to start her own business and how she leverages her role with the International Aviation Women's Association to build people up and help them grow. 

Infinite Branches works with start-up businesses and investors to build impactful, profitable, and sustainable connections within the global aviation amongst investors and businesses.  

Shelley previously oversaw the portfolio management for an aviation lending portfolio for a $200Bn+ financial institution that originated over $1Bn+ in aviation secured loans without any losses or repossessions she is no stranger to complexity or creativity as her near 30 year career involves serving in financial management capacities in banking and regulatory organizations as well as technology and multinational consumer brands, that involve partnering with multiple groups to manage sales activity and minimize expenses; developing and managing detailed and multi-national budgets; structuring complex credit facilities; providing customized analyses that identified new niche market opportunities and whether divestiture should commence; and developing and managing client, referral, and financing relationships. She is additionally experienced with the complexity of owning, perfecting an interest in, and monetizing maritime, art, and winery & vineyard assets.

She was the keynote speaker for FedEx Express Women's Network 2021 Annual Forum where she discussed the evolution of her career and the trajectory forward.  She serves on the board of the International Aviation Womens Association, as the network’s VP – Leader Development, supporting the activities of the Scholarship, Mentorship, Internship, and Leadership Development committees where she started the members’ only podcast and book club; serves on the National Business Aviation Association’s Diversity Equity Inclusion Working Group; and is a formal Mentor for IAWA, HERiCanes, 100 Women in Finance and Aerospace Xelerated.  She moderates panels and speaks at conferences regarding aviation and marine industries; writes articles and speaks on podcasts; and mentors men and women who she enjoys speaking about when they are not in the room so that doors are opened that were once closed.  

 Shelley earned her BS from the University of Oregon with a focus on Finance, Economics, and Scandinavian Studies and continues to expand her knowledge of FinTech, business aviation and next generation aviation industries; innovation and scalability; strategy; leadership; Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG); and Socially Responsible Investments (SRI) issues.  She resides in the Napa Valley with her family.

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