In this eye-opening episode of You Got This, host Monica Mahi sits down with Emma Jordaan, a leading expert in cultural intelligence (CQ) and author of Dubai Decoded. They dive deep into why understanding cultural differences isn’t just a "soft skill"—it’s a critical business advantage, especially in multicultural hubs like the UAE. Emma breaks down the four pillars of CQ (Drive, Knowledge, Strategy, Action), shares real-world examples of cultural clashes (and how to avoid them), and reveals how organizations can foster inclusive, high-performing teams. Whether you’re an expat, leader, or just curious about human behavior, this episode will change how you navigate workplaces—and the world.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:

✅ The 4 components of cultural intelligence (CQ) and why they matter

✅ How misjudging culture costs businesses (e.g., turnover, failed relocations)

✅ Real-life examples of cultural misunderstandings (restaurants, meetings, dress codes)

✅ RAPID Framework to handle cross-cultural conflicts (Recognize, Assess, Pause, Interpret, Decide)

✅ How companies can embed CQ into recruitment, onboarding, and leadership

✅ Emma’s Culture Vantage Model (simplifying cultural differences for teams)

👩💼 About the Guest:

Emma Jordaan is a cultural intelligence thought leader, international trainer, and founder of Infinite Consulting. With 20+ years in L&D, she helps organizations decode multicultural workplaces—from communication styles to leadership expectations. Her book, Dubai Decoded, unpacks Emirati culture and offers a practical framework for thriving in diverse environments. Based in the UAE, Emma works with global clients to bridge cultural gaps and drive business success.

🎙️ About Monica Mahi:

Monica Mahi is a globally recognised expert in leadership and emotional intelligence, with over 20 years in corporate and personal development. She helps individuals and organizations unlock their potential through self-awareness, viewing emotional intelligence as key to success. Monica empowers others to pursue meaningful lives beyond financial achievements, offering tools and guidance for personal fulfillment and effective leadership.

Monica is the founder of EQ Brain 🧠🎧 — a platform dedicated to leading life in emotional intelligence. Learn more at 🌐 eqbrains.com

Learn more about Monica Mahi's work: 

Website: monicamahi.com

Insta: @monicamahiconsulting

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamahi/

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In this episode of You Got This by Monica Mahi, we’re thrilled to welcome Sabine Karunanithy, who is an Awareness Trainer. 

We all know goals are important - but how do we make them real? What if the key wasn’t just in the big vision, but in the small steps we take every day? That’s where micro-habits come in. By building simple, consistent systems, we might just wake up one day having achieved those big dreams - and more.

Sabine has spent many years understanding what stops employees and leaders from achieving the goals they set for themselves, why they did not yet become the person they always wanted to be. Sabine’s goal is to help people understanding how they can make changes in their lives and careers - through deeper self-awareness, increased emotional and cultural intelligence, and the ability to create and maintain the habits that allow for success.

Today, Sabine shares how micro-habits can change the game, helping you move from stuck to thriving. She works with individuals to reclaim their lives, make lasting changes, and unlock potential through the power of awareness and habit.  

This episode provides an insight into the how goals can be overwhelming and ways to overcome these feelings. From feeling overwhelmed to becoming intentional, this episode takes you on a practical journey - one small shift at a time.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why do big goals feel overwhelming? 
• The power of micro-habits
• Real-life examples of micro habits leading to big success
• How to implement micro habits effectively
• How micro habits shift our mindset about what's possible

 Guest Spotlight:

Sabine has spent many years understanding what stops employees and leaders from achieving the goals they set for themselves, why they did not yet become the person they always wanted to be. Sabine’s goal is to help people understanding how they can make changes in their lives and careers - through deeper self-awareness, increased emotional and cultural intelligence, and the ability to create and maintain the habits that allow for success.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabine-karunanithy/

Website: https://www.cm4c.co

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more engaging conversations with experts like Sabine Karunanithy.

 About Monica Mahi:

Monica Mahi is a globally recognised expert in leadership and emotional intelligence, with over 20 years in corporate and personal development. She helps individuals and organizations unlock their potential through self-awareness, viewing emotional intelligence as key to success. Monica empowers others to pursue meaningful lives beyond financial achievements, offering tools and guidance for personal fulfillment and effective leadership.

Subscribe, like, and share for more inspiring content!

Learn more about Monica Mahi's work: 

Website: monicamahi.com

Insta: @monicamahiconsulting

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamahi/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of You Got This by Monica Mahi, we’re thrilled to welcome Gemma McFall, who is UAEs first Pain Reprocessing Therapist.

Gemma experienced chronic and debilitating back pain - she came close to having several major operations until one day, she found the answers. This changed her life and she now is on a mission to help others.

Gemma embarked on a journey to become pain-free without any meditations nor invasive therapies. She healed herself through understanding the root cause of pain, by tapping into her emotional triggers, journaling and more.

Today, she is active and is proof that we can become pain-free.

This episode is a practical insight into pain, it's purpose, the lessons we are here to learn and practical tools to implement to release pain and live a truly thriving life.

Key Topics Covered:

- What is pain?

- Is it normal to have pain?

- What are the root causes of pain?

- The emotion-pain connection

- How living with pain impacts us at work and at home

- Tips and tools to overcome pain

Gemma shares her 4-P model to explain pain, provides actionable steps to follow and how she works with men and women all over the world to help them overcome debilitating pain.

Guest Spotlight:

Gemma empowers individuals to recover from chronic pain and mental health challenges, helping them regain control of their well-being. One of the first Pain Reprocessing Therapists in the UAE, she has been instrumental in bringing this approach to the region. With 15+ years of corporate experience, including roles at Disney, Marriott, and Fairmont, she blends positive psychology, mindfulness, and neuroscience to create life-changing solutions for individuals and organizations worldwide.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmamcfall/

Website: https://gemmamcfall.com/

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more engaging conversations with experts like Gemma McFall.

About Monica Mahi:

Monica Mahi is a globally recognised expert in leadership and emotional intelligence, with over 20 years in corporate and personal development. She helps individuals and organizations unlock their potential through self-awareness, viewing emotional intelligence as key to success. Monica empowers others to pursue meaningful lives beyond financial achievements, offering tools and guidance for personal fulfillment and effective leadership.

Subscribe, like, and share for more inspiring content!

Learn more about Monica Mahi's work:

Website: monicamahi.com

Insta: @monicamahiconsulting

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamahi/

You Got This Podcast:

Welcome to You Got This. The podcast inspires you to overcome life's challenges through impactful conversations and practical tips. We all can overcome it, you just need to find that one thing to help you get there.

Hosted by Monica Mahi, the founder of Monica Mahi Consulting, A Big Four management consultant turned emotional intelligence expert.

Join the conversation in the comments: How can you use these tips to overcome the pain you are experiencing?

Overcome your pain, thrive in life, You Got This Podcast, be a better leader, become a more aware parent, understand yourself, the body keeps a score, be pain-free.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of You Got This by Monica Mahi, we’re thrilled to welcome Paul Littlejohn, famously known as The Wingman. Paul’s extraordinary journey began as a fighter pilot with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the US Marine Corps, where he honed discipline, risk management, and leadership under high-stakes conditions. After his military career, Paul transitioned into the business world, bringing his unique skillset to global companies like The Emirates Group and FTI as a consultant and executive leader. Now, as an executive advisor, Paul shares how his experiences in the cockpit translate into real-world strategies for success in leadership, business, and personal growth. This episode is a masterclass in navigating challenges, utilizing past experiences, and fostering a people-first approach in organizations.

Key Topics Covered:

Journey of a Wingman: Fighter pilot to executive advisor

Lessons: How military experience shapes career success

Leveraging past experiences in daily life

Key skills for business success

The importance of people in organizational growth

Readiness and risk management in business

Tips from the Paul Littlejohn

Paul shares actionable advice on how to utilize past experiences, foster a people-centric organization, improve productivity, and master risk management. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways!

Guest Spotlight:

Paul Littlejohn is a former fighter pilot with the RAF and US Marine Corps, who transitioned into consulting and executive operational roles with global companies like The Emirates Group and FTI. Now, he serves as an executive advisor, offering a unique perspective on leadership and success.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paullittlejohn/

Website: https://www.wingmanexecutive.com

Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more engaging conversations with inspiring leaders like Paul Littlejohn!

About Monica Mahi:

Monica Mahi is a globally recognised expert in leadership and emotional intelligence, with over 20 years in corporate and personal development. She helps individuals and organizations unlock their potential through self-awareness, viewing emotional intelligence as key to success. Monica empowers others to pursue meaningful lives beyond financial achievements, offering tools and guidance for personal fulfillment and effective leadership.

Subscribe, like, and share for more inspiring content!

Learn more about Monica Mahi's work:

Website: www.eqbrains.com

Insta: @monicamahiconsulting

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicamahi/

You Got This Podcast:

Welcome to You Got This. The podcast inspires you to overcome life's challenges through impactful conversations and practical tips. We all can overcome it, you just need to find that one thing to help you get there.

Hosted by Monica Mahi, the founder of Monica Mahi Consulting, A Big Four management consultant turned emotional intelligence expert.

Join the conversation in the comments: What’s your biggest takeaway from the Wingman’s journey?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of You Got This, host Monica Mahi is joined by Pooja Dhiman, a former banking lawyer turned values-based leadership coach and consultant, to dive deep into the transformative world of manifestation.

Together, they explore how to align your thoughts, energy, and actions to create the life you truly desire.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Steps to manifest the life you desire
• Is the journey of life logical?
• What is manifestation, really?
• How manifestation transformed Pooja's journey
• The importance of enjoying the process
• The role of chakras in manifestation
• The energy of money
• Supporting yourself during tough times
• Game-changing tips for manifesting your dreams

Pooja shares her unique approach, underpinned by Vedic principles and mindfulness, to help individuals and teams unlock their full potential. Drawing from her extensive experience with corporate leaders at Google, University College London, and the NHS, Pooja reveals how ancient wisdom can empower us to manifest abundance, clarity, and harmony.

Pooja Dhiman is a former banking lawyer who now works as a coach and consultant in the leadership space. Pooja specializes in values-based leadership and helping individuals and teams create the lives they desire. Having trained thousands of corporate leaders at places including Google, University College London, and the NHS, her approach is underpinned by Vedic principles. Pooja infuses this ancient wisdom which includes mindfulness to help individuals and teams to align, work together, and manifest what they want.

💻 Learn More About Pooja Dhiman:

🌐 Website: vivedaconsulting.com

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooja-dhiman-coach/

🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@poojadenergycoach

📧 Email: [email protected]

Become part of the You Got This movement, want to share your insights to share with the world? Reach out to Monica today – [email protected]

#yougotthis

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In this insightful episode of the You Got This podcast, host Monica Mahi sits down with Suzanne Gandy to delve into a life journey marked by resilience, leadership, and emotional intelligence. Suzanne’s story spans her impactful military career, her successful transition into the corporate world, and her powerful role as a mother navigating the challenges of raising a child with Type 1 Diabetes.

From the outset, Suzanne shares a deep connection between faith, discipline, and self-awareness that has empowered her through life’s transitions. She discusses pivotal moments that have shaped her perspective on leadership, highlighting the significance of empathy and support within organizations, especially when employees face personal hardships. Suzanne’s personal journey offers valuable insights into maintaining emotional well-being, managing workplace culture, and supporting the physical, mental, and financial health of employees.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, leaders, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of emotional intelligence and resilience. Discover Suzanne’s unique approach to parenting a child with diabetes, transforming what many might consider a hardship into a superpower, and how a supportive environment can foster healing and growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Suzanne’s inspiring journey from military to corporate leadership
• Navigating Type 1 Diabetes as a family and building resilience
• Leadership's role in promoting a healthy workplace culture
• Strategies for self-awareness and emotional intelligence in times of crisis
• Ways organizations can support employees' physical, mental, and emotional health
• Tune in to learn about Suzanne’s approach to life, leadership, and the unwavering love of a mother.

Suzanne Gandy’s career has stemmed from the military, first as a Captain in the Royal Logistic Corps (a fuel troop commander) and now as an HR leader in a highly prestigious organisation, plus everything else in between. A graduate of the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, with a Degree in Psychology and a Master's in Human Resources along with a gold medal for Great Britain, a passionate sportsperson and a doula! 

Contact Suzanne: Instagram @Suzanne_Gandy

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of You Got This podcast, our host Monica Mahi talks with Shaazia Qureishi about her journey through motherhood, from balancing work and parenting to overcoming body image challenges. Shaazia shares insights on maternity leave, raising children, and rediscovering herself as a mother. They also discuss intergenerational trauma, ayahuasca experiences, and tips for emotional well-being. This episode offers powerful advice for new moms navigating the challenges of parenting and self-love.

• Work-life balance: Challenges of managing work and motherhood.
• Body image: Overcoming post-pregnancy body image issues.
• Maternity leave: Importance for child development and mothers.
• Self-discovery: Personal growth and evolving relationships in motherhood.
• Healing trauma: Breaking generational trauma and ayahuasca for emotional healing.

Find out more about Shaazia and check out the PAD studio if you are based in the UAE:

https://thepadfitness.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaazia-qureishi-795a73b5/

https://www.instagram.com/thepaddxb/

https://www.instagram.com/shaaziaq/

🎙️ About Monica Mahi

Monica Mahi is a leadership and emotional intelligence consultant, with over 20 years of experience in corporate and personal development. Her true passion lies in helping individuals and organizations unlock their full potential through self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Monica believes that understanding oneself is the cornerstone of both personal and professional success.

With her extensive experience working with organizations, Monica has witnessed firsthand how emotional intelligence can transform people’s lives and careers. She empowers others to live meaningful, fulfilling lives by embracing their true purpose beyond financial success. Whether you're looking to improve your leadership skills or find personal fulfilment, Monica provides the tools and guidance to help you create a life you love for the long-term.

Subscribe, like, and share for more inspiring content.

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davidji is a globally recognized mindbody health & wellness expert, mindful performance trainer, meditation teacher and author of three award-winning books: Sacred Powers: The Five Secrets to Awakening Transformation; destressifying: The Real-World Guide to Personal Empowerment, Lasting Fulfillment, and Peace of Mind; and Secrets of Meditation: A Practical Guide to Inner Peace & Personal Transformation. 

After a 20-year career in business, finance, and mergers and acquisitions, davidji began a new journey to wholeness, apprenticing for a decade under Drs. Deepak Chopra and David Simon, serving as the Chopra Center COO, Lead Educator and then as the first Dean of Chopra Center University, where he trained more than 300,000 people to meditate and certified more than 2,500 meditation teachers.

He has a passion for working with entrepreneurs, business leaders & those in high-pressure, high-stress situations. His teachings on stress release, conflict resolution, and mindfulness are now practiced in Fortune 500 companies, the military, law enforcement and his signature techniques have been portrayed in movies and TV. davidji has taught millions of people around the world to heal their hearts, plant powerful intentions and manifest their dream lives. His grasp of time tested solutions combined with real-world practical applications, have helped people at every life stage and circumstance find balance, heal deep wounds, and transform into their best versions. 

In this episode, Monica and davidji discuss:

• Navigating stress in today’s world using mindful hacks
• Cultivating rituals to support our own wellbeing
• Meditation models to implement
• Meditation and the impact on the brain
• How to find stillness in your life
• Dealing with the ups and downs of life

Links:

https://davidji.com

https://www.facebook.com/flowoflove

https://www.instagram.com/davidjimeditation/

https://www.youtube.com/c/davidjimeditation

https://davidjimeditationacademy.com

https://www.pinterest.com/davidjimeditation/

https://insighttimer.com/davidji

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In this episode, Monica explores the topic of self-love and its impact on our lives. We are worthy of self-love and without it, life can feel bitter and resentful.

Monica covers:

• Why self-love matters
• What can happen if we fail to love ourselves
• How to start the journey of self-love

To find out more about Monica:

www.monicamahi.com

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

https://www.instagram.com/monicamahiconsulting/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-rFpZD5vzpZUU4lxGVnE3g

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our experiences act as the building blocks of our personal and professional growth, shaping our perspectives, our decisions, and guiding us through the complexities of life. BUT, we are not defined by them, we are defined by the choices we make about who we want to become and how we want to behave. 

In this episode, Monica’s guest is David Ribott. He is an award-winning executive coach and executive leadership advisor, independent non-executive director, angel investor and social entrepreneur with a successful track record in helping c-level leaders and board directors and senior government officials transform their leadership and strategy acumen to steward business growth, culture change, and fiduciary duty across multiple industries and sectors throughout the world. 

Monica & David discuss: 

1. The impact of our early influences and choices 
2. The discipline of sport 
3. What does it mean to lead in today’s world 
4. Taking ownership for the lives we lead 
5. Doing the work to design your life 

Find out more about David and his work: 

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

https://davidribott.com

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