Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

Enma Popli

In 'Atalanta Diaries,' Enma Popli interviews breakthrough women including CEOs, Artists, Athletes, and Scientists, sharing their unique stories to inspire listeners. Born from a profound 'WHY,' AD is the outcome of coaching conversations Enma engaged in with her clients as they navigated leadership journeys through a world full of biases, both conscious and unconscious securing a place at the table and building influence. Launched in November 2022, Atalanta Diaries ranks among the top 3% of global podcasts, delivering rich narratives from North America to Brunei, India to Europe. read less
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Episodes

Ep 69: Leading the Change: Katherine's Influence on Youth Leadership Across Sectors
4d ago
Ep 69: Leading the Change: Katherine's Influence on Youth Leadership Across Sectors
Katherine has over 30 years of diverse leadership experience across the private, public, and not-for-profit sectors and a strong track record of developing leaders and connecting them across sectors to achieve collective impact. Katherine is a graduate of Leadership Victoria's flagship Williamson Community Leadership Program, which she celebrates as a pivotal point in her life. Katherine comes to Leadership Victoria from Youth Affairs Council Victoria (YACVic), where, as CEO, she forged a stronger youth sector and led innovative growth against the challenging backdrop of the pandemic and climate disasters. She previously worked in London as Director of Youth Affairs at the Commonwealth of Nations, where she focused on youth empowerment and leadership policy and programs across 53 countries.  Earlier, Katherine spent over a decade in the private sector, working both in Australia and internationally in a variety of analysis, strategy, and corporate social responsibility roles. Katherine holds a Master in Public Administration from the Harvard Kennedy School, a Master in e-Business, a Bachelor of Commerce, and a Diploma of Youth Work. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Putting your hand up.Being an adaptive leader.Fair compensation in the social sector.It's good to know what you're not good at. Vulnerability is both an art and a science.Sharing your ambitions and hopes with others.Tough experiences build resilience and gratitude Intangible rewards of working in the social sector.Recognizing when you are plateauing and losing your freshness.Leaders tend to support people who remind them of themselves. Recognizing one's strength and understanding others' expectations.People who bully often have underlying deficits they're grappling with.Transferring skills from the private sector while preserving its essence.Recognizing the tendency for leaders to favor individuals who resemble them.Finding like-minded individuals provides a sense of permission to be authentic.Strong moral compass instilled by parents, values of social justice and integrity.Engaging with young people creates a safe environment to appreciate their uniqueness. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 68: From Kitchen Beginnings to Culinary Icons: Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken's Four-Decade Gastronomic Adventure
Apr 19 2024
Ep 68: From Kitchen Beginnings to Culinary Icons: Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken's Four-Decade Gastronomic Adventure
Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are James Beard and Julia Child award-winning chefs, cookbook authors, media personalities, and entrepreneurs.Trailblazers from the get-go, the culinary grads (Susan from Culinary Institute of America in New York and Mary Sue from Washburne Culinary Institute in Chicago) met in 1978 at Le Perroquet, one of Chicago's best French restaurants as the first women to break into the all-male kitchen. In 1981, they teamed up to open City Café and changed the culinary landscape of Los Angeles forever by introducing eclectic dishes from around the world. With a partnership of over four decades, they are best known for SOCALO, Alice B., BBQ Mexicana, Pacha Mamas, and Border Grill restaurants, catering, and food trucks in Los Angeles and Las Vegas.   Together, Feniger and Milliken brought their innovative approaches to The Food Network with nearly 400 episodes of the Too Hot Tamales and Tamales World Tour series. They were invited to cook with Julia Child, in her PBS series Cooking with Master Chefs, successfully competed on Bravo's Top Chef Masters, and featured in an episode of the Netflix series The Chef Show. Community, connection, and giving back have always been at the core of the chefs' values, and that passion is felt throughout the company. Susan is a founding member of the Scleroderma Research Foundation Board of Directors, sits on the L.A. Tourism & Convention Board, co-chairs the board of the Los Angeles LGBT Center, and provides visionary leadership for the Center's Culinary Arts Program, a three-month training program launched in 2019 to prepare LGBTQ youth and seniors from the Center for meaningful employment in the restaurant and hospitality industries. Mary Sue also serves on the Board of Trustees for the James Beard Foundation, the U.S. State Department's American Chef Corps, and is a founding member of Regarding Her, a national non-profit on a mission to advance women-identifying and nonbinary food and beverage entrepreneurs and leaders by way of innovative programs that UpliftHER Business, SupportHER Community, and AdvocateHER Industry. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Yin and Yang in partnership.The stronger everybody is, the better.Asking for help is a sign of strength.Support for one another's passions.Loyalty and Trust are pillars of the partnership.Navigating Rifts, sometimes compromising.Finding strength in uncomfortable moments.Allowing opportunities to shape the trajectory.Partnerships: Long-term relationships of any kind are tricky.Making decisions together and sharing equal responsibility.Drawing inspiration from Ayn Rand and other powerful women.Building a Strong Culture across stakeholders, honoring family recipes.Supporting the community and giving back brings rewards beyond measure. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 67: Building Brands, Inspiring Leaders: The Lulu Raghavan Story
Apr 12 2024
Ep 67: Building Brands, Inspiring Leaders: The Lulu Raghavan Story
Lulu Raghavan serves as the Vice President for APAC and Managing Director for India at Landor. With over 23 years of experience at Landor, spanning offices in San Francisco, New York, London, and Mumbai, Lulu has held various roles within the company. Under her leadership, Landor India received prestigious accolades, such as the Campaign South Asia Brand Design Agency of the Year 2023 and the Great Place to Work Award 2023. Her notable awards and achievements include Campaign India Mentor of the Year 2023, Campaign India Woman Shaping Change 2023, IMPACT Top 50 Women in Media, Marketing, and Advertising (2023, 2019, 2015), and serving as a Cannes Lions Design Jury member in 2018. She has also co-authored five business school case studies on branding, which enjoy global circulation, and conceptualized and hosted "Beyond Logo," a TV show for Bloomberg that highlighted the transformative impact of branding on businesses. As a staunch advocate for women in leadership, Lulu played a pivotal role in establishing WPP Stella in India in 2018 and now guides its scaling up as a member of the Super Council. She frequently teaches branding at various business schools and curated a two-week course on personal branding for second-year MBA students at BITSoM in Mumbai last year. Lulu is also a Trustee for Dignity Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the well-being of senior citizens in India. She holds a BA in Economics and Applied Math from Davidson College in the US and an MBA in International Business and Marketing from SP Jain Institute of Management and Research in India. Fluent in five languages, including English, Hindi, Tamil, French, and Spanish, Lulu's diverse background and expertise contribute significantly to her success in the industry. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Discipline and daily rhythm.The value of Personal Branding.Importance of formal education.Balancing left and right brain skills.Creating a cohesive team environment.Fostering a positive and high-performance culture.Fostering deeper connections with linguistic proficiency.Choosing an industry that isn't a rat race, finding the right fit.Influence of mentors, the importance of having a support system.Stepping back and allowing others to take leadership roles, not dominating the room.Being passionate about the company and the work is a key driver of motivation and success. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 66: Dawn Paquette's Leadership Odyssey: Navigating Turbulence with Perseverance and Resilience
Apr 5 2024
Ep 66: Dawn Paquette's Leadership Odyssey: Navigating Turbulence with Perseverance and Resilience
As the Chief Information Officer of GE Aerospace's GE Additive, Dowty, and Unison Industries, Dawn Paquette leads the digital team and oversees technology systems worldwide. She manages three P&Ls, focusing on strategy and solutions for manufacturing 3D additive printers and powders, propeller systems for turboprop aircraft, and gas turbine engine components. With over 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare, aerospace, and technology, Dawn previously served as a senior leader at Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, where she led business operations and technology with oversight across fourteen states and global offshoring. Dawn is also the executive sponsor for the Additive and Digital Technologies women's employee resource groups and champions ArtsWave and March of Dimes campaigns for GE Aerospace in Cincinnati, Ohio. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Miami University and a Master's degree in Strategic and Organizational Leadership. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Facing rejection, persevering.Impact of leadership decisions.Diversifying the circle of mentors.Pivoting to a completely new industry.The profound commitment to achieving success.Mean Girls Syndrome, bullying and manipulation.How early childhood can play a role in finding purpose.Shopping carts are a stark indicator of financial disparities.Switching majors and assessing goals from accounting to MIS.Treating individuals with respect and acknowledging their worth.Value and potential are not limited by external factors and can be reaffirmed by faith and resilience. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 65: Bridging Cultures, Leading Change: Caterina's Journey from Corporate Executive to Entrepreneur
Mar 22 2024
Ep 65: Bridging Cultures, Leading Change: Caterina's Journey from Corporate Executive to Entrepreneur
Caterina Pavone is a highly experienced professional with over two decades of expertise spanning various renowned organizations worldwide. Born in Australia of Italian descent, she is currently based in the UK. Caterina's expertise spans the Payments, Banking, and Technology sectors in leading organizations like TransUnion Ltd, Mastercard International, American Express, and Commonwealth Bank. She has spearheaded growth initiatives like Apple Pay's UK Launch and introduced innovative products for esteemed brands like HSBC, Marks & Spencer, and the John Lewis Partnership. Caterina's contributions have earned her prestigious awards, including the CEO acknowledgment for the best strategic client proposal UK & Global (TransUnion), the Global BRG Award (Mastercard), the CEO Award (CommBank), and the Personal & Small Business Lending Great Performer Award (CommBank) in 2005. Recently, Caterina embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, founding her own company, Pavone Ltd. With Caremiles Inc. as her first client, Caterina is poised to make a significant impact in driving climate action through innovative SaaS solutions and the EV Club app. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Creating a career map.Leadership faux pas and learnings.Earning a seat at the boardroom table.Key contributions as a board member.Imposter syndrome, fears, and apprehensions.Gaining diverse experiences across geographies.Leadership of the future, breaking down barriers.Thought processes across Gen X, Gen Y, and Gen Z.Navigating cultures and sealing with cultural differences.Expanding roles within, solving the need for job changes.Mentoring and supporting women from her tribe and reverse mentoring.Finding the balance between fear of asking and asking after delivering. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 64: [Republish] Sandhya's Triumph: Finding Strength and Purpose through Disability
Mar 15 2024
Ep 64: [Republish] Sandhya's Triumph: Finding Strength and Purpose through Disability
Sandhya is a staff attorney in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division. She conducts legal research on constitutional issues and drafts judicial memoranda. When Sandhya was two months old, she was diagnosed with a rare brittle bone disease called osteopetrosis, which caused her blindness.  Sandhya attended Rice University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1991 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Behavioral Science. In June 1994, she received her Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Stanford University Law School. She was admitted to the State Bar of Texas in November 1994 and started working as a law clerk of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Galveston Division. Sandhya Rao, is the vice president of the i Blind Users Group or iBUG Today and their mission is to promote the individual independence, social integration, and educational development of the blind through accessible technology training. Sandhya has been honoured with the Garland Walker Inn of Court Professionalism award and the Recognition Award for twenty years of Distinguished Federal Judiciary Service. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Taking things in your stride.Using technology to empower.Using humor to put people at ease.Surround yourself with positive people.You need one person to give you a chance.Challenges are opportunities to educate people.People with disabilities are just like everybody else.Nothing like self pity, make the best of what you have. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/⁠ Visit Enma Popli’s website >> ⁠http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 63: Empowering Indigenous Communities: Sandra Kwak's Impactful Path in Sustainability
Mar 8 2024
Ep 63: Empowering Indigenous Communities: Sandra Kwak's Impactful Path in Sustainability
Sandra Kwak is CEO and Founder of social impact enterprise 10Power, working with Native American Tribal Nations to develop renewable energy projects with a community workforce development and gender empowerment lens. She sees renewable energy as one of the keys to forging a path for regenerative development, a concept explored in her TEDx talk "Fourth World Nation Building''. She is an advisor to Caremiles, a Board member at the Foundation for Climate Restoration, and a Partner at ResilientMarkets, applying regenerative design principles to realize the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Prior to that, she worked with AutoGrid (acquired by Schneider Electric), deploying big data for the smart grid to create virtual power plants (VPPs). Sandra has a Sustainable MBA from Presidio Graduate School and a BA in Political Science and Visual Art from Emory University. She taught Race, Activism, and Climate Justice at San Francisco State University and has guest lectured at California College of the Arts and Stanford University. She loves creating regenerative harmonies for a future that is possible with The Seastars and riding bikes with her spouse and child in their home state of California.   Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Influencers and role models in the journey.Having a humble learner need finding process. Advocacy for equity through political and climate activism.Finding partners aligned with the mission's values and goals.Crucial need of gender empowerment and equality in the mission.Energy injustice persists even among people living on reservations.Women leaders with bold missions, knowing that they are not alone.Challenges of securing funding, where less than 2 percent goes to women.Impact of climate change on communities least responsible for its conditions.Finding drive in the bigger picture, shaping a positive future over the next 50 years.Engaging intentionally with places marked by the greatest need, risk, and challenge. Mentioned Resources: TEDx talk “Fourth World Nation Building” >> http://bit.ly/4thWorld Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 62: [Republish] Seema Iyer: The Untraditional People Custodian
Mar 1 2024
Ep 62: [Republish] Seema Iyer: The Untraditional People Custodian
With a Masters Degree in Demographics from University of Berkeley, California, Seema is an HR Executive with over 25 years of progressive HR experience in the technology and space industry and has played a key role in Building, Transforming and Restructuring Organizations for Success through Organizational Innovation.  She started her career with Sun Microsystems where she spent more than a decade and moved on to take on HR leadership positions at SAP, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, SSL and most recently as CHRO of MetricStream in California. Positioned in non-traditional and transformative roles, Seema is recognized and respected for building trust across the enterprise and being a strong voice of HR at the executive table. Seema actively participates in Home of Hope and Bitiya, nonprofits focused on the education and wellbeing of young girls.  Seema currently resides in the Bay Area. Insights from the episode: Don't reinvent the wheel, it's worth researching where else has it been done before, who else has done it before and can I use those learnings to create something different.Put yourself out there and showcase your work, Just the work itself isn't going to carry itself.Take a step back and evaluate, you don't have to chart your career only when you are at cross roads or on hindsight. Be deliberate about finding a hobby. If you put your mind to it, you can stretch yourself. Ask for help, sometimes work will come first. Stop feeling guilty, you cannot have it all. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 61: Shikha Malaviya: Navigating a Poetic Odyssey from the U.K. to California Championing Social Justice
Feb 23 2024
Ep 61: Shikha Malaviya: Navigating a Poetic Odyssey from the U.K. to California Championing Social Justice
Shikha (Saklani) Malaviya, a poet, writer, and publisher, was born in the U.K. and raised in Minnesota and India. Co-founder of The (Great) Indian Poetry Collective, Shikha champions powerful voices from India and the Indian diaspora through a mentorship model press. Her involvement as an AWP (Association of Writers and Writing Professionals) poetry mentor and as a Mosaic America Fellow underscore her commitment to nurturing emerging talents and fostering cultural collaboration. Shikha has released notable works such as "In Her Own Voice: Poems of Anandibai Joshee" and "Geography of Tongues," where the latter was acclaimed and featured at events like the Bangalore Literature Festival and Times of India Literary Carnival. Shikha's passion for poetry intersects with social change, which is evident through her engagement with initiatives like Greenpeace India's solar energy poem and the Sankara Eye Foundation's eye donation campaign. Shikha has been a featured TEDx speaker and was selected as the Poet Laureate of San Ramon, California, in 2016. Her poetry has earned a Pushcart Prize nomination and has been showcased in fine publications such as Catamaran, PLUME, and Prairie Schooner. After completing degrees in liberal studies, creative writing, and mass communications at the University of Minnesota, Shikha now resides in the San Francisco Bay Area. She engages with the poetry community to use poetry as a force for societal change. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Recognizing poetry's early powerPoetry as a personal and universal purposePersonal narration of poems from her bookEmbracing poetry as a meaningful professionThe profound impact of Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet."Celebrating Indian heritage, respecting diverse cultures Navigating racism as one of the few brown people in her schoolThe inspiration behind "In Her Own Voice: Poems of Anandibai Joshee."Embrace feedback as a gift, evolve purpose and genre in poetry.Do what you love; if you love something enough, it will take care of you. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 60: Chiseling Sculptural Narratives: Priyanka Rana's Journey to Artistic Legacy
Feb 16 2024
Ep 60: Chiseling Sculptural Narratives: Priyanka Rana's Journey to Artistic Legacy
Born in India in 1980, Priyanka Rana's early inquiries into aesthetics and philosophy and professional work in exhibitions led her to establish a full-time sculpture practice in 2018.  Largely self-taught, Priyanka's experiments with various sculptural materials have led to a nearly singular engagement with untreated wood.  Her practice is rooted in ecology and sustainability, where she works with local trees, transforming naturally felled trunks into abstract sculptures using a range of power tools and chars many of her surfaces, which she likens to "painting with fire."  Living and working in San Francisco, California's Bay Area, Priyankas' work has been shown widely in the region, including at a number of arts festivals and through prestigious and highly visible public art commissions. Key Themes:  Understanding one's destiny lines.Not getting attached to the outcomeEmbracing freedom with artistic mediums.Embracing the wisdom in not always knowingChallenging stereotypes and showcasing women's strengths.Imparting life lessons, sharing rejections with Kids, and fostering openness.Transforming data into narratives, moving beyond mere numbers.Labor vs. Brain, discovering meditation in the repetitive, recognizing its meditative quality.Seeing tools as Allies, respecting and utilizing tools as powerful assets in the creative process.Working with wood is a fascinating relationship akin to nurturing your own pets.Trusting the process for scalability, Embracing the journey, Sculpting is like farming. You keep at it, and something will come out of it. Hold your ground and believe that you can create value. Developing a thick skin, embracing diverse opinions. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 59: Navigating the Legal Landscape: Insights from Mexico's Successful Woman Lawyer, Claudia Aguilar Barroso
Feb 9 2024
Ep 59: Navigating the Legal Landscape: Insights from Mexico's Successful Woman Lawyer, Claudia Aguilar Barroso
Claudia Aguilar Barroso, a distinguished lawyer from the Escuela Libre de Derecho, is the founding partner and director of the Aguilar Barroso Abogados firm. The firm was founded in 2009 and specializes in constitutional, administrative, regulatory, and human rights litigation.  Claudia is also a professor of the constitutional procedural law course at the Escuela Libre de Derecho, where she served as a member of its Board of Directors from 2018 to 2022. She served as a deputy in the Constituent Assembly of Mexico City from September 2016 to January 2017. Member of the Mexican Bar-College of Lawyers, A.C. Since June 2003, she has been Coordinator of the Mexico City Commission and the Constitutional Law, Human Rights and Amparo Commission. She is currently a member of the Board of Directors and Advisor of her Foundation.  She has specialization studies in Public Services, Hydrocarbons, Electric Energy, Telecommunications, and Water, taught jointly by the Autonomous Technological Institute of Mexico (ITAM), the Carlos III University of Madrid, and the Ciudad Argentina Graduate School. And High Training in Constitutional Justice and Jurisdictional Protection of Human Rights" at the University of Pisa.  In her pro bono work, Claudia has successfully accompanied litigation in education, health, bullying and rights of indigenous peoples and communities, and violence against women and children, among others. Claudia has participated in multiple conferences on topics of constitutional law, constitutional procedural law, and human rights and gender. She is a guest columnist for SIEMPRE magazine and regularly participates as an analyst on legal issues in Adela Micha's information space and various media by invitation. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Navigating UnfairnessJourney of Self-DiscoveryRejecting the Superwoman Syndrome The Modern Woman Lawyer's Perspective Success Factors, Importance of Social NetworkNeed for Resilience, even for the most IntelligentThe transformative shift from Overconfidence to WisdomA Holistic approach, listening to Physical and Emotional cuesRepresentation Matters, building a Diverse Legal EnvironmentLaw School Realities and Early Shocks, the Foundation for Personal and Professional Growth. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 58: Dead Woman Walking: Mountain Daughter Baljeet Kaur
Feb 2 2024
Ep 58: Dead Woman Walking: Mountain Daughter Baljeet Kaur
Baljeet Kaur, an accomplished mountaineer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has etched her name in history with remarkable achievements. As the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Pumori Peak (7161m) and Mount Dhaulagiri Peak (8167m) in Nepal, Baljeet set a precedent. In 2022, she accomplished an unprecedented feat by becoming the first Indian to summit seven peaks above 8000m, achieving five of them within a remarkable 30 days. Beyond her mountaineering skills, Baljeet excels in a variety of sports, demonstrating her skill in marathons, rock climbing, skiing, theatre, kabaddi, volleyball, and hockey. Her commitment to fitness is highlighted by a notable World Record — completing the longest relay marathon run against depression in 2022, covering an astounding 9490 km. Baljeet's mountaineering expertise is further underscored by the successful ascents of iconic peaks like Mount Everest and Mount Trishul. Her unwavering determination shines through in impressive world records, including scaling three peaks above 8000m in just seven days and achieving the unprecedented feat of ascending Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse in a remarkable 25 hours and 20 minutes. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Baljeet was honored with the Gold Medal by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation in 2023.    Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Daring to Dream Big Mental resilience in challengesBeing one's own advocate and supporterSelf-awareness and listening to one's bodyPreparedness and being ready for opportunitiesMountaineering was a calling; mountains chose herAdvocated for paving the way for others in mountaineeringDefying impossibility, embracing audacious goals amidst naysayers Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 57: From Bureaucracy to Bookshelves: Rachna Singh's Path Beyond the Revenue Service
Jan 26 2024
Ep 57: From Bureaucracy to Bookshelves: Rachna Singh's Path Beyond the Revenue Service
Rachna Singh former Principal Commissioner Income Tax is a multifaceted professional whose expertise spans across literature, finance, and writing. She authored notable books on economic matters, including 'Penny Panache: Piecing the Economic Puzzle' (2016), 'Financial Felicity: Making Sense of Money Matters' (2017), and 'Myriad Musings' (2016), a compilation of her published articles and travelogues. Her recent publication, 'The Bitcoin Saga: A Mixed Montage,' was released by Bloomsbury. In the academic sphere, Rachna excelled in English Literature at Punjab University, earning gold medals for academic excellence. Her outstanding achievements led to the Nehru Centenary scholarship for a doctorate at the University of Cambridge. Transitioning from academia to the Indian Revenue Service, Rachna ventured into finance, taxation, economics, and law. Despite this shift, her passion for writing remained steadfast. Completing her Doctorate in English Literature in 2003, Rachna showcased her literary prowess through several books, including 'Myriad Musings,' 'Penny Panache,' and 'The Bitcoin Saga.' In September 2021, Rachna transitioned into full-time writing, establishing 'The Wise Owl,' an online literary & Art magazine. Her latest creation, 'Phoenix in Flames,' celebrates the extraordinary resilience of ordinary women, portraying fortitude and grit, unveiling the remarkable strength inherent in the ordinary. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Confronting challenges.The impact of mentorship.Self-doubt is natural to everyone.Taking inspiration from her daughter. Life skills learned because of Proximity to nature.Importance of financial independence for women. The mind can make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell.Overcoming adversity and emerging stronger on the other side.Qualities of tenacity and passion that contributed to Rachna's success.From a utopian view of the world to a practical understanding of reality.Confronting Fears and Personal Growth, doing things outside your comfort zone. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 56: In Pursuit of Gender Equality: Srishti Bakshi's Epic 3800 km Journey - Inspiring the Award-Winning Film, WOMB
Jan 19 2024
Ep 56: In Pursuit of Gender Equality: Srishti Bakshi's Epic 3800 km Journey - Inspiring the Award-Winning Film, WOMB
Srishti is a dynamic and accomplished impact leader with a track record of successfully designing and implementing projects that create systems change. After spending more than a decade in the corporate world, Srishti’s passion for gender equity led her to embark on a remarkable journey. She walked 3,800 kilometers over 230 days from the very south to the north of India to put a spotlight on social norms that limit a girl's potential in her country. Srishti put up a fight to bring systemic change for all women.  Her journey has been captured in an 11-time awarded documentary WOMB 'Women Of My Billion.'   Over the years, Srishti has collaborated with the UN, governments, and corporations across geographies in data-led impact innovations and complex campaign building.Her work has also been featured in two TED talks, TED and TED Salon. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Srishti has received several awards, including the UN SDG Changemaker Award in 2022 and the British Commonwealth Points of Light award from Her Majesty The Queen in 2019.   Key themes emerging out of our conversation: 'WOMB - Women Of My Billion' A 3800 km, 230-day walk from South to North India.Support and contribution from her father.Advocating for collaboration to effect change.Enabling women to find that energy and feel empowered.The power of collective expression in bringing about change.From armchair activists to actively combating gender inequality.Finding motivation and strength to stay committed to the mission.Having privilege should empower us to use it for support and advocacy.People who are morally upright just have to be more powerful in their expression.Manifestations of modern societal inequalities rooted in age-old cultural practices Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Atalanta Diaries - The Why Story
Dec 22 2023
Atalanta Diaries - The Why Story
Hi! I am Enma, thank you very much for taking the time to listen in. Over the years as a curious traveler of life, I went through different roles - entrepreneur, trainer and now an executive coach across multiple geographies. On this journey I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing women. Every one of them shared a unique story of passion, resilience, and success overcoming challenges in their own unique way. Their stories kept me up, thinking and imagining…… I woke up - inspired, excited and motivated. At the same time, I was coaching young women who were sometimes despondent about challenges they were facing, looking to be inspired or just needed that little push to seize the day. To get broader validation, I conducted research among aspiring women professionals. Questions ranged from, “how do we build presence and exercise influence” to the more powerful observation, “Men have to state whereas women have to convince”. It was evident that there was much to learn from women who had walked the path and created their own course. No matter which discipline you looked at - there were many unsung hidden stories of women that were amazing and inspiring. I am driven to find these hidden stories, collate them and now with the technology of podcasting, share them with you. I named my podcast Atalanta Diaries, after the Greek mythological figure Atalanta. She was abandoned as a child by her father, an Arcadian king because he wished to have a son. She grew up in the forest to become a huntress and was the only woman amongst the famed Argonauts in their quest for the Golden Fleece. Atalanta Diaries, I hope will be a place to have meaningful conversations with breakthrough women where we explore the ebb and flow of their unique journeys. A place where we can learn and connect beyond the limitations of the audio file. Do give me your feedback and your suggestions on other Breakthrough Women you would like me to invite on Atalanta Diaries. Thank you again and happy listening. To connect with Enma or learn more you can visit, www.enmapopli.com
Ep 54: [Republish] Leading with Purpose at Schneider Electric: Insights and Lessons from Annette Clayton's Inspiring Journey
Dec 15 2023
Ep 54: [Republish] Leading with Purpose at Schneider Electric: Insights and Lessons from Annette Clayton's Inspiring Journey
Annette Clayton serves as the chief executive officer for Schneider Electric North America. She is responsible for the business strategy and developing and fostering new growth business models in the areas of sustainability, decarbonization, and renewables for the company's largest operating region, which generated $12 billion in revenue in 2022. She is also a member of Schneider Electric's executive committee. Annette has successfully led the execution of the North American region, overseeing a workforce of 30,000 employees and achieving impressive sales exceeding $8.5 billion in 2021. Her contributions extend further as she previously held the title of Chief Supply Chain Officer, responsible for the $13.4 billion Global Supply Chain (GSC) operation. Under her leadership, Gartner recognized this operation as the global leader, ranking it first in their annual Top 25 list.  Annette also sits on numerous public, private, and industry boards, including serving as a two-term Chair of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. As a Champion for the 'Journey To Lead' organization, she also contributes to accelerating the diversity and trajectory of women in leadership. Annette's commitment to industry extends to her founding membership on the Zero100 Advisory Board, focused on advancing cross-industry initiatives to design supply chains that not only enhance customer experiences but also make positive environmental and societal contributions.  Clayton holds a bachelor's degree in general engineering from Wright State University and a master's degree in engineering management from the University of Dayton. Her educational journey also includes completion of the executive development program at the London Business School.   Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Creating a psychologically safe environmentBeing the change you want to see in the world Taking risks helps build confidence and resilience.Finding something you love and being passionate about it Setting Boundaries, communicating, and forgiving yourselfAcknowledging Impostor Syndrome, Trusting your instinctsPersonal and professional development is a lifelong journeyEmbracing Feedback, never missing an opportunity to receive it.Learning agility to ramp up in new roles and develop effective strategies Creating Adaptive Policies, keeping in mind culture and challenges allows diversity and inclusion  Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 53: [Republish] Meenakshi Wadhwa - Award Winning Planetary Scientist
Dec 8 2023
Ep 53: [Republish] Meenakshi Wadhwa - Award Winning Planetary Scientist
Meenakshi Wadhwa is a planetary scientist and educator who studies the formation and evolution of the Solar System through analysis of planetary materials including Meteorites, Moon rocks and other Extraterrestrial Samples returned by Spacecraft Missions.  Meenakshi  is currently director and Foundation Professor in the School of Earth and Space Exploration at Arizona State University and is additionally appointed as a Distinguished Visiting Scientist and Mars Sample Return Principal Scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. She was previously director of the Center for Meteorite Studies at Arizona State University (2006-2019), where she oversaw the curation of one of the largest university-based meteorite collections. She has also searched for meteorites in Antarctica with the Antarctic Search for Meteorites Program. Among many laurels, Asteroid 8356 has been named 8356 Wadhwa in recognition of Meenakshi's contributions to meteoritics and planetary science and she is a recipient of the J. Lawrence Smith medal of the National Academy of Sciences, the Fulbright-Nehru Academic and Professional Excellence Award and  the Guggenheim Fellowship. Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Leadership is a journey What and who are most Important What does success and impact mean to you Making education and science more accessibleInequitable distribution, Talent vs opportunities Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli’s website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 52: Nurturing Networks, Cultivating Friendships: Hafimi Abdul Haadii's Journey in International Boardrooms
Dec 1 2023
Ep 52: Nurturing Networks, Cultivating Friendships: Hafimi Abdul Haadii's Journey in International Boardrooms
Born into a third-generation business family in Brunei Darussalam, Hafimi Abdul Haadi is the Executive Director of the LVK Group of Companies. Her upbringing reflects a diverse cultural background since she spent her early years in Brunei, New Zealand, and Australia. Dedicated to public service, Hafimi has held influential positions as the Chairperson of the Competition Commission of Brunei Darussalam since 2018. She was also a member of the Legislative Council of Brunei Darussalam from 2017 to 2022, where her contributions made a lasting impression.  Hafimi's commitment to fostering entrepreneurship is evident through her leadership at the Young Entrepreneurs Association of Brunei (YEAB) and as a key contributor to the ASEAN-China Young Entrepreneurs Forum. Internationally, she represents Brunei Darussalam at the APEC Business Advisory Council, chairing the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Working Group. Currently, she also leads the Inclusion Task Force as the Chair for ABAC in 2023. In addition to her professional commitments, Hafimi holds significant board positions in various organizations, including UBD Corp Sdn Bhd in Brunei, TOQQA Global in Australia, and Jen Energy Africa Ltd in Uganda. She also serves as an International Advisor to Abodoo in Ireland. Her passion for community development is exemplified by her role as the Chair of the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation's Committee on Social Enterprise Strategy, initiating a living incubation project called "Ristaan Abadi di Kg Bolkiah. Hafimi is an alumna of Deakin University, holding a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Architecture (Honours). In recognition of her contributions, she was honored with the P.S.B. medal (The Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei-4th Class) by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam in 2019.   Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Significance of profitability in businessInfluence and impact of grandparents and parents Earning your stripes, not taking for granted your positionThe unique way in which appointments are announced in BruneiNo good organization can move forward if it has two mastersThe importance of contributing to and uplifting the communityThe significance of preparation and the power of a reliable networkIkhlas - genuineness and wholeheartedness in one's actions or pursuitsBuilding strong relationships and not taking for granted time spent togetherManaging responsibilities by finding connections and intersections among themDetachment from Material Things, understanding the transient nature of possessions  Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/
Ep 51: From Cricket to Commentary and Beyond: Mel Jones' Brave Strides in Equity and Inclusion
Nov 17 2023
Ep 51: From Cricket to Commentary and Beyond: Mel Jones' Brave Strides in Equity and Inclusion
Born in the UK, Melanie Jones (Mel) returned to Melbourne with her Australian mother at just 3 months old while her West Indian father remained in the UK.  Mel is currently a part of Fox Sports' Cricket team, anchoring coverage alongside renowned cricket personalities. She leads commentary for significant events like the World Cups and the 2023 men's and women's Ashes series for Sky Sport. Her journey into sports commentary began in 2015 when she became one of the first-ever female commentators in the Indian Premier League (IPL). By 2018, Mel had transitioned into full-time sports commentary, notably becoming the first female cricket lead in Australia's men's and women's Big Bash broadcasts. Before her commentary career, Mel had an illustrious playing career in cricket. She played alongside cricket legends such as Karen Rolton and Belinda Clark and faced formidable opponents like Charlotte Edwards and Jhulan Goswami. Her debut in international cricket came during Australia's dominant era, notably with her pivotal role in the 1997 Women's Cricket World Cup victory against New Zealand at Kolkata's Eden Gardens, witnessed by 70,000 fans. She continued to excel, scoring a notable 131 on her test match debut during Australia's Ashes tour of England, and concluded her playing career with a spectacular win in the 2005 Women's Cricket World Cup final in South Africa, earning a reputation as one of the world's finest fielders. Beyond cricket, Mel dedicated herself to supporting and expanding opportunities for women in sports, significantly contributing to various women in sports task forces and serving on the board of Bowls Australia. Her remarkable contributions to cricket and the community led to her receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia in January 2019. Later that year, she assumed a position as a Director on the board of Cricket Australia. An advocate for charitable initiatives promoting equality, Mel is currently an ambassador for Victoria University and Red Dust Role Models."   Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Navigating racial and gender discrimination.Advocating for First Nations in Australian society.Upholding the tradition of mentorship within the sport.Inclusivity and allyship, promoting gender-neutral language.Displaying bravery, embracing discomfort to address conflicts.The impact of cricket and sports contributing to broader societal changes.Various influential figures and their roles in shaping Mel's cricketing journeySports are a platform for acquiring critical life skills like teamwork, resilience, courage, and communication.Earning a seat at the table, advocating for women's representation, and addressing their concerns within cricket.Beautiful mother-daughter relationship showcasing bravery and strong values. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/