The Brand Called You

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Frits Bussemaker speaks with Boris Koprivnikar, former Deputy Prime Minister of Slovenia and a leading SmartGov and SmartCity consultant.Boris shares insights from his diverse journey—from digital sciences and social care to politics and cultural innovation. He explains how following passion and focusing on impact shaped his career.Discover:His work with the blind and elderlyHis leadership in public administration reformThe extraordinary Mother Violin project

Join us for an in-depth conversation with John L. Hennessy, Chairman of Alphabet and Co-founder of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program. This episode explores the rapid progress of artificial intelligence, breakthroughs in chip technology, quantum computing, and the evolution of leadership in the era of complexity. We discuss agentic models, world models, advances in drug discovery, robotics, and the vibrant startup ecosystem at Stanford, all through the lens of one of the world's most accomplished innovators.Whether you're a tech enthusiast, startup founder, or leader navigating the complexities of today's world, this episode offers invaluable insights, practical recommendations, and a vision for the future shaped by AI and innovation.Subscribe for more episodes featuring visionary leaders and experts!

Join us for this inspiring episode of TBCY as John Swift, Head of Private Capital & Wealth Management at Rockfleet and a CIA-trained chef, shares his extraordinary journey from Wall Street to fighting food insecurity. Hosted by Frits Bussemaker, this conversation explores career pivots, the value of following your passions, the art of coaching vs. managing, and how life's unexpected turns can lead to personal and professional fulfillment. Discover how a diverse background—including music, culinary arts, and financial services—can shape leadership, resilience, and creativity. If you're seeking guidance on career decisions, leadership, or simply love stories about following your passion, this episode is for you!

Join us for an enlightening episode of TBCY, where host Fritz Bussemacher sits down with Mariella Erkens, an acclaimed tea connoisseur, educator, and former chef.Discover:What it means to be a tea professionalThe difference between pure teas and herbal infusionsExpert tea and food pairing techniquesMariella's inspiring career journeyThe importance of cultural awareness in tea traditions

Join Ashutosh Garg as he welcomes Byron McFarland, respected author of The Bankable Buyer, for an insightful conversation on leadership transitions, succession planning, and protecting your business legacy. Byron shares his journey, the inspiration behind his book, and practical advice for founders who want to ensure their management team can successfully buy the business—while allowing the owner to get paid in full.In this episode, you'll learn why so many founders delay succession planning, the emotional complexities of exiting a business, how to build a bankable management team, and the common pitfalls to avoid in management buyouts. Byron also explains why staged transactions are important and how leaders can effectively manage internal politics during ownership transitions.Whether you are a founder, an aspiring leader, or someone interested in business succession, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you navigate one of the most significant milestones in your professional journey.

Join Ashutosh Garg as he speaks with Mel Blackwell, author of Uncommon Sense: The Fight to Fix Your Workplace Culture in the Wild West of Business.In this engaging conversation, Mel shares his journey from humble beginnings to C-suite leadership and unpacks powerful insights on workplace culture, leadership, and organizational health.Why culture often trumps strategyEarly warning signs that your company's culture may be collapsingThe dangers of “culture bandits” and problem worshipPractical steps leaders can take to transform toxic workplacesHow to leverage staff, systems, and personal leadership for real change

Welcome to this episode of The Brand Called You, featuring Amanda Spann, America's leading app educator and author of “I Have an App Idea.”Hosted by Ashutosh Garg, this episode explores Amanda's journey as a non-technical founder, her mission to empower everyday innovators, and practical insights into building scalable, income-generating apps—even without a coding background.Amanda shares lessons from working with over 30,000 entrepreneurs, debunks myths about app development, and introduces her ID3 framework, a step-by-step process designed to help domain experts turn ideas into viable products.Whether you're a teacher, doctor, entrepreneur, or community leader, this episode reveals how to transform your ideas into real digital solutions.If you've ever thought, “I have an app idea, but I don't know where to start,” this conversation will inspire you to move from rumination to execution.

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg speaks with Marc Seitz, Founder of Papermark—an innovative open-source platform transforming secure document sharing and data rooms.Marc shares his journey from studying physics and economics to becoming a tech entrepreneur and explains how Papermark empowers startups, VC firms, and enterprises with modern, analytics-driven document management.Discover the challenges of building in a competitive market, the importance of design and trust in digital dealmaking, how AI can optimize workflows, and practical advice for founders venturing into open source.Whether you're a founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, this conversation offers unique insights into the future of digital collaboration and security, including what's missing in legacy data rooms and how Papermark's open-source, customizable approach is setting new standards for transparency and innovation.

Join us for an insightful episode of “The Brand Called You” as Ashutosh Garg sits down with Tim Vipond, Co-Founder and CEO of the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI).Discover how CFI bridges the gap between theoretical finance education and practical, job-ready skills. Tim shares the story behind building a global, practical finance education platform, the philosophy behind the FMVA certification, and why adapting to evolving industry needs—like AI—is critical for today's finance professionals.The key gap between academic finance learning and actual job requirementsHow CFI builds trust and scales practical education globallyWhy real-world application and feedback matter more than memorizationNavigating global regulations, essential soft skills, and the future of finance certificationsLessons on leadership, scaling company culture, and staying connected with learnersIn this episode, you will learn:

In this episode of The Brand Called You, we welcome Erez Avramov, a Resilience & Communication Expert with an extraordinary journey of overcoming adversity and transforming lives.From serving in Israel's elite commando units to founding multiple businesses in Canada, Erez shares powerful insights on resilience, decision-making under pressure, and the art of adaptive leadership.His story includes near-death experiences, elective amputation, and personal rebirth, resulting in the creation of the Resilience Edge Operating System, now helping leaders and organizations globally navigate uncertainty and change.Tune in to discover actionable strategies for building personal and organizational resilience, and learn how Erez is training for the Paralympics as a para-archer.If you're facing challenges or seeking growth, this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Brand Called You (TBCY), host Stephen sits down with Bill Wisotsky, Principal Quantum Systems Architect of R&D at SAS, to uncover the journey behind one of quantum technology's leading innovators. Bill shares his captivating career path—from an early fascination with law enforcement to a life-changing pivot into neuroscience, and eventually, the frontier of quantum computing. Discover how hands-on experiences, curiosity, and embracing new technology shaped his approach to solving modern-day challenges.Dive into Bill's insights on quantum SDKs like Qiskit, PennyLane, D-Wave's Ocean, and his exploration of quantum hardware platforms ranging from superconducting qubits to photonics. Learn how SAS leverages its powerful analytics platform as a meta-layer to simplify quantum adoption for clients, and why hybrid quantum-classical orchestration is key to future-proofing enterprise AI and optimization.Whether you're a tech leader, quantum enthusiast, or simply fascinated by breakthrough innovation, this episode offers a practical look at the technologies, trends, and strategies driving quantum's evolution—and how you, too, can get started.Key Topics Covered:Bill Wisotsky's turning points and inspirationsThe convergence of neuroscience and quantum physicsQuantum SDKs: Qiskit, PennyLane, D-Wave Ocean, TketQuantum hardware: superconducting qubits, trapped ions, neutral atoms, photonicsSAS's quantum integration approach and client solutionsThe future of quantum: hybrid orchestration and fault toleranceGuidance for organizations and individuals entering quantum

Welcome to The Brand Called You! In this episode, Ashutosh Garg speaks with Mo Rousso, author of How to Build an AI-Powered Business Without Losing Control, Trust, or Your Mind. Mo shares his journey as a founder of seven companies, his approach to leadership and clarity, and insights on adopting AI without compromising trust or control.You'll learn:Why AI acts as a stress test for leadership.How to avoid common pitfalls in AI adoption.Best practices for successful AI integration in SMBs.

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg interviews Ann Lopez, Founder and CEO of Studio 790 Interior Design, Miami. Discover how she transitioned from a 20-year luxury hospitality career to launch a multi-seven-figure interior design firm, starting from her dining room table.Ann shares her journey of overcoming imposter syndrome, leading with faith, building high-performance teams, and scaling beyond herself. She reveals practical strategies for growth, the importance of marketing and PR, and mindset shifts needed for women entrepreneurs to build wealth.Whether you're thinking of starting, scaling, or reinventing your career at 40 or beyond, this episode is full of actionable wisdom! ✨

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Frits Bussemaker sits down with Mark Schuurman, Co-Founder of NGO 3x3 Unites and co-founder of Guts, to dive into the world of 3x3 basketball and its power to unite communities and empower youth. Marc shares his inspiring journey from grassroots development in Dutch basketball to building a sustainable impact through 3x3 Unites. Discover how basketball is changing lives, creating jobs, and offering new opportunities for young people across the Netherlands.Learn about the ethos and growth of 3x3 basketball, the bumps along the road, and the story behind the Netherlands' Olympic gold in Paris! Marc also discusses the organization's focus on life skills development and how success is measured in terms of sustainable impact and community growth.

Join us for an insightful episode of The Brand Called You, where Ashutosh Garg hosts Pawan Kumar Marella, former Vice President of Marketing at Unilever, author of Dear Rookie, Don't Panic, and founder of Learnity Labs. Pawan takes us through his remarkable journey from engineering to global marketing leadership, sharing hard-earned lessons in brand building, leadership, and personal growth across emerging and frontier markets.Learn how patience, frugal innovation, and deep respect for consumer realities shape successful branding strategies. Pawan also explores the power of ruthless clarity in leadership, essential capabilities for modern marketers, the role of AI, and practical guidance for young professionals starting their careers. Additionally, he offers valuable advice on building a strong reputation, cultivating a network, and balancing technical and soft skills for lasting success.Don't miss these career-transforming insights from one of the most influential voices in global marketing and leadership!

Dr. Stephen Shaya shares his remarkable journey in global healthcare, servant leadership, and creating meaningful impact across multiple sectors. In this conversation, he reflects on the evolution of J&B Medical, his ventures in biotechnology, sports media, and technology, and the guiding philosophy of radical abundance and purposeful action.The discussion is enriched with stories of rare recognitions, family influence, and pressing global challenges—offering inspiration to anyone striving to make a meaningful difference.Origins as a family-owned businessGrowth into 19 business enterprisesImpact: Reaching over 260 million Americans through insurance contracts and 200 million through pharmacy servicesGlobal operations across 28 countries and 49 U.S. statesTelemedicine, mental health screenings, and connections between animal and human healthSuicide prevention impact through early mental health screening programsAkkad Holdings: Mission-driven investments in biotech, sports media, and technology

Join host Stephen Ibaraki in this deeply insightful episode of TBCY as he welcomes back Justin Breen, Co-Founder of Corvia.AI and author of the upcoming book Epic Journey. In this dynamic conversation, Justin shares the wisdom and patterns he has gained over two years of personal growth, spiritual awakening, and creative transformation since their last interview.Explore how Justin views the world through the lens of healing, manifesting, and heart-driven leadership. They discuss the concept of being a “manifester,” the importance of addressing trauma, and a unique formula for transcending fear and materialism to achieve true healing and higher purpose.Packed with profound insights on consciousness, overcoming life's challenges, and combining logic with heart-centered decision-making, this episode offers valuable guidance for entrepreneurs, creative leaders, and anyone on their own epic journey. Prepare to expand your perspective and be inspired to transform your life.

Join us for a captivating conversation with Dr. Sabrina Hsueh, AI Enablement and External Innovation Lead at Pfizer, as she shares her journey from being one of the first girls in a gifted program in Taiwan to pioneering AI advancements in healthcare and life sciences at industry leaders like IBM and Pfizer. Hosted by Stephen Ibaraki, this episode dives deep into Dr. Hsueh's milestones, from her educational path across Taiwan, UC Berkeley, and the University of Edinburgh, to her hands-on innovation and leadership through startups and global organizations such as ACM.You'll learn how Dr. Hsueh has shaped the intersection of AI, machine learning, and healthcare, and gain her perspective on responsible AI governance, productization, and adoption. Discover exclusive insights on the future of agentic AI, the role of women in tech, and the critical importance of public-private partnerships in shaping AI's impact on society.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Mary Inman, Partner at Whistleblower Partners LLP and Board Member of the nonprofit PSST.org. With over 30 years of experience, Mary shares her journey supporting whistleblowers worldwide and explains the crucial role they play in society as “canaries in the coal mine.”In this episode of The Brand Called You, hosted by Frits Bussemaker, you'll discover:The legal and cultural definitions of whistleblowers and the stigma they face.How whistleblowers are matched with government agencies, and how reward programs work.Stories from high-profile cases like Theranos and Uber.The importance of psychosocial support and building supportive whistleblower communities.Mary's personal motivation, challenges, and advice for aspiring whistleblower lawyers.

How can women break free from family guilt, embrace their inner strength, and lead authentically in both the workplace and at home?In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Mita Chaudhury, a transformation coach and social entrepreneur, to explore the deep connections between personal values and professional success.Drawing from her extensive experience with the Taj Group and Tupperware, as well as her work empowering thousands of women, Mita Chaudhury discusses the importance of self-belief, financial independence, emotional intelligence, and leading with empathy.If you're a woman seeking inspiration to balance home and career—or an ally looking to foster inclusive leadership—this conversation is filled with actionable wisdom and honest insights.Discover why authentic leadership begins as an “inner game,” how personal pain can evolve into purpose, and what it takes to create a meaningful legacy for the next generation.

The Brand Called You, featuring Benoy Tamang, President & CEO of Blueriver Direct, hosted by Ashutosh Garg, explores the realities of leadership, coaching, and founder challenges.Benoy shares:Pivotal moments and failures that shaped his leadership philosophyStories from coaching CEOs and foundersHow to distinguish real leadership from authority (and why first-time founders often get it wrong)Early signs of misaligned leadership teams—even when results look positivePractical advice for leaders navigating board pressures and uncertaintyWhy believing in yourself is the ultimate leadership lesson

In this episode, host Stephen Ibaraki interviews Florian Kemmerich, Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Human Planet.Florian shares his inspiring journey at the intersection of impact investing, humanitarian work, and AI-driven innovation.He discusses the challenges and opportunities involved in mobilizing capital for purpose-driven initiatives, shares case studies about refugee impact bonds, and explains how Human Planet bridges the gap between the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.Discover Florian's vision for using business, leadership, and capital as forces for good, along with insights from his book and practical advice for NGOs, corporations, and investors.Whether you are passionate about social impact, sustainable finance, AI's disruptive potential, or aligning purpose with your profession, this thoughtful conversation offers valuable insights and strategies.

Join us for an enthralling episode of The Brand Called You, where host Ashutosh Garg explores the imaginative world of acclaimed Pennsylvania-based author Richard Spegal. Hear how his military service shaped both his worldview and his writing, why he believes adult fantasy readers are often overlooked, and the profound themes woven into his popular trilogies, Eternal Nights and Wolves and Ravens. From the challenges of immortality to forbidden love and moral ambiguity, this conversation dives deep into what lies beneath the surface of supernatural fiction—and the thought-provoking questions it raises about humanity. If you enjoy compelling storytelling with strong, relatable characters, this episode is not to be missed!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Brand Called You! In this conversation, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Josh Epperson, senior manager of Organizational Development at Amazon and author of "Bacon, Bots and Teamwork: How to Orchestrate Success When Agents Join Your Team."Josh shares the story behind his book's unique title and dives into the powerful “bacon moment” that transformed his perspective on work, teamwork, and leveraging AI agents. This episode explores why middle managers are under unique pressure, the pitfalls of getting stuck in execution mode, and why stepping back can lead to the biggest breakthroughs.Josh breaks down the crucial differences between humans and AI agents, explains common misconceptions about AI, and reveals what leaders must do to successfully integrate AI into their workflows without losing a sense of identity or relevance. If you're curious about the future of work, human-AI collaboration, and how to future-proof your approach to leadership, this episode is for you!

Join us in this insightful episode as Aditi Kumar sits down with Willy Boulter, a globetrotting airline consultant, advisor, and author. With over 40 years of experience, Willy shares candid stories covering military leadership lessons, adapting to the airline industry's unique demands, team building, motivation, global citizenship, and cross-cultural experiences.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Brand Called You!In this conversation, host Stephen Ibaraki reconnects with his long-time colleague and friend, Richard Longworth, author of Becoming Whole in a Fractured World. Richard shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey—from his early days in Manchester, England, through a distinguished academic career in Canada, to his current passion for empowering Generation Z.Discover Richard's unique insights on philosophy, education, and technology—including how he helps Gen Z navigate mental health challenges and the rapidly evolving world of AI and Python programming. Through stories of innovation, collaboration, and community building, this episode is packed with wisdom for educators, technologists, and anyone committed to making a positive difference.What you'll learn in this episode:Richard's personal and professional inflection pointsThe evolution of technology education in CanadaHow Richard co-writes with Gen Z for Gen ZThe pedagogy behind his upcoming book, Python for BenefitBuilding intergenerational bridges through technology and community

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You, host Lisa Lipkin sits down with Miryam Kabakov, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Eshel—the largest organization supporting LGBTQ+ Orthodox Jewish individuals and their families.Miryam shares her powerful journey of growing up in an Orthodox Jewish environment while keeping her sexuality a secret. She discusses the complexities and struggles faced by LGBTQ+ members within Orthodox communities, what it means to live authentically, and how Eshel is creating safe spaces and fostering acceptance.This honest conversation covers:Jewish texts and their interpretations regarding LGBTQ+ identitiesFamily reconciliation and the evolving process of coming outChallenges and successes in educating religious leaders and communitiesThe importance of integrating LGBTQ+ individuals into Orthodox life without losing connection to faith

In this enlightening episode of The Brand Called You, host Frits Bussemaker sits down with Frank Wouters, Chairman MENA at Hydrogen Alliance and a renowned “green hydrogen evangelist.”Discover Frank's inspiring journey from renewable energy projects in Africa to leading major clean energy initiatives in Abu Dhabi. He discusses the future of green hydrogen, the challenges of energy infrastructure, the role of politics and geopolitics, and why the Middle East is uniquely positioned to lead the green energy revolution.Frank also shares candid insights into career setbacks, leadership during tough times, and how to navigate a passion-driven career in the energy sector.This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in sustainable energy, leadership lessons, and real-world insights from a global energy transition leader.

In this episode, host Lisa Lipkin sits down with Gazit Chaya Nkosi—nervous system educator, SSP provider, and somatic parts work coach—to explore how we can rewire our brains for healing and connection.Gazit shares her deeply personal journey from struggling with depression to discovering transformation through neuroplasticity, polyvagal theory, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).Together, they discuss:What it really means to retrain your brainHow trauma affects the nervous systemThe role of safety and connection in healingWhy storytelling and creativity are therapeutic tools

Join Stephen Ibaraki as he sits down with Dr. Caroline Chung, Vice President, Chief Data & Analytics Officer, and Professor at MD Anderson Cancer Center, for an inspiring conversation about transforming medicine through data, technology, and human-centered innovation.In this episode, Dr. Chung shares her incredible journey—from her early years as a second-generation Canadian to leading pioneering initiatives in oncology at UBC, Princess Margaret, and MD Anderson. Discover how her personal experiences, mentorship, and fearless approach to nonlinear career paths shaped her impact in medicine and data science.Career Inflection Points: How early life experiences and family inspired a mission-driven path in medicine.Precision Medicine & Innovation: Dr. Chung's focus on brain tumors, quantitative imaging, and translational research.Leading Change: Creating multidisciplinary clinics, standardizing tumor measurement, and integrating AI in oncology.Data & Technology in Healthcare: Building enterprise-level data governance, exploring digital twins, and leveraging AI, HPC, and quantum computing.Future of Medicine: Overcoming challenges in interoperability, collaboration across sectors, and fostering the next generation of innovators.

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You (TBCY), host Ashutosh Garg speaks with Uma Subramanian, Founder of Limitless Leaders and a former leader at Microsoft.With nearly two decades of experience in the tech industry, Uma shares powerful insights on leadership, career growth, and the hidden challenges that many high-performing professionals face when transitioning into leadership roles.The conversation explores why mid-career is often the most overlooked stage of leadership development, and how talented professionals can overcome invisible barriers such as imposter syndrome, communication blind spots, and burnout.You'll also discover practical strategies for building trust when managing former peers, developing emotional intelligence to navigate difficult conversations, and making your leadership impact visible beyond technical expertise.If you're a mid-career tech professional, aspiring leader, or someone looking to unlock greater leadership potential, this episode offers practical wisdom and actionable insights to help you grow.Watch the full episode to learn how to unlock your limitless leadership potential.

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You, hosts Lisa Lipkin and AG sit down with Fabienne Jacquet—the dynamic founder of InnovEve, award-winning author, former innovation leader at Colgate-Palmolive and International Flavors & Fragrances, and a passionate advocate for feminine energy in innovation.Fabienne shares the transformative journey behind her latest book, "Champagne and Apple Pie," revealing how her move from France to the United States—and later from New York to South Carolina—helped her discover authentic passion, balanced purpose, and the true alchemy of reinvention.She also discusses the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies for sustainable innovation, embracing both strengths and passions, and making joy a strategic focus in life and work. Fabienne shares practical tools and her personal formula for “uncorking” a new chapter in life, blending scientific curiosity with real-world resilience.Whether you're an expatriate, a career changer, or someone searching for more meaning and joy, this conversation offers encouragement, actionable insights, and a refreshing perspective on embracing your past while intentionally shaping your future.Grab your coffee (or some champagne), get ready for strategic joy, and discover what it truly means to reinvent yourself—wherever you are.

Welcome to The Brand Called You (TBCY)!In this insightful episode, host Ashutosh Garg interviews Dianne Chase, Principal and Founder of Chase Media and author of The 7 Cs of the New Communication Compass. With decades of experience in broadcast journalism, strategic communication, and crisis management, Dianne Chase shares her wisdom on what makes communication truly effective in business and leadership.Discover how the 7 Cs—Collaboration, Connection, Compassion, Cohesion, Community, Congruency, and Calibration—are essential to future-forward success. Dianne Chase discusses practical strategies, real-world anecdotes, and why compassion stands out as the cornerstone of meaningful leadership in the age of AI and rapid change.Tune in for actionable tips, leadership lessons, and inspiration to elevate your communication, build trust, and create cultures that thrive.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Salma Refass — researcher, artist, educator, and founder of Yadra & The Radical Commons.Broadcasting from Brussels, Salma shares her journey from studying economics during the 2008 financial crisis to reimagining public policy and creating spaces for radical knowledge.Discover why mainstream economics often fails to reflect real-world realities, how technocratic development models can become extractive, and why accessible knowledge and imagination are essential for genuine transformation.Salma also discusses the critical role of art as a parallel mode of inquiry and her vision for more ethical international cooperation, particularly for the Global South.Tune in for deep insights into shifting power dynamics in policy, gatekeeping in knowledge, and why hope and imagination are essential forces for a more just future

Cybersecurity is often perceived as merely a technical challenge. However, as JC Gaillard emphasizes in his insightful conversation with Ashutosh Garg, it encompasses leadership, governance, and business alignment. This episode explores common organizational pitfalls and highlights the strategic thinking necessary to safeguard businesses in an evolving threat landscape.01:01 – Leadership & Governance RealizationJC Gaillard shares his early realization at Rabobank in 2000 that cybersecurity is less about technology and more about “how and by whom” security is executed.Key Questions from the Interview (with Time-Stamped Insights)Transformation is often blocked by governance and leadership challenges, not technical limitations.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Brand Called You.Today, Ashutosh Garg sits down with Vedika Agarwal, Founder & CEO of Yein Udaan, a social entrepreneur creating meaningful change for children, youth, and women in Chennai's urban communities.In this candid conversation, Vedika shares her journey of discovering social inequalities, the challenges of building trust in marginalized communities, and the importance of designing safe spaces for those most at risk.Learn how Yein Udaan balances structured education with emotional well-being, what resilience truly looks like, and how breaking generational cycles of trauma can transform lives.From practical insights on community engagement to powerful stories of hope and empowerment, this episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about social impact, education, and grassroots leadership.

In this episode, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Indrajit Lahiri, the founder of Foodka and Pickle Solutions Pvt. Ltd., to unravel the extraordinary journey of a food documentarian who bridges the worlds of IT, entrepreneurship, and Indian culinary storytelling.Indrajit shares insights on his transition from corporate IT to food documentation, why story always comes before food on his channel, and what makes Indian cuisine one of the most varied in the world. Dive into the nuances of regional recipes, disappearing traditions, and the importance of context—plus discover what makes Bengali and Northeastern cuisine so underrated and unique.Whether you're a food lover, aspiring entrepreneur, or cultural explorer, this episode offers wisdom on identity, storytelling, and the challenges facing Indian food today.

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Darryl "DJ" Heffline, author of Shifting Gears in the Crossroads, to explore the tough moments of change we all face—both professionally and personally. Darryl "DJ" Heffline shares candid stories of entrepreneurship, overcoming setbacks, and the crucial importance of recognizing crossroads in life. Together, they dig into the psychological shifts, the challenge of letting go, and how to rebuild when you're forced to pivot.Discover practical frameworks from DJ's book, advice for leaders struggling with their identity, and the four essential “Fs” that serve as foundational pillars: faith, family, fitness, and finances. If you're navigating transitions, feeling stuck, or seeking inspiration to “shift gears” in your own journey, this episode delivers fresh insights, relatable anecdotes, and actionable strategies for moving forward.

In this inspiring conversation, host Ashutosh Garg speaks with Sophie Shah, the 16-year-old founder of Chronically Me. Sophie is a speaker, researcher, and patient advocate whose work spans healthcare innovation and global equity.She shares her personal journey with chronic illness, the challenges of navigating an often isolating healthcare system, and how she transformed her experiences into a platform that empowers thousands of patients worldwide.Discover how Sophie built a distributed ambassador network across five continents, developed a patient-centric health app, and continues to champion health equity. She also shares valuable lessons on leadership, scaling impact, and staying true to one's mission.In addition, Sophie offers practical advice for young people who want to turn their lived experiences into meaningful systemic change.Don't miss this thought-provoking episode filled with leadership insights and real-world impact.

Join us for a transformative conversation with Keenan L. McBride, author of VIRX-LEONATUS and Founder of Virx-Leonatus (VX) Culture. Hosted by Ashutosh Garg, this episode explores Keenan's 30-year leadership journey, the profound influence of his father, and the principles behind the VX Culture philosophy.Discover why discipline, empathy, presence, and courtesy are not merely “soft skills” but powerful strategic advantages in business and life.Keenan explains the five pillars of the VX philosophy, the leadership lessons inspired by the lion, and why true authority is defined by quiet command rather than loud dominance.Whether you are a leader, aspiring leader, or someone rethinking organizational culture, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.The shift from operations to strategic leadershipLessons from overcoming early career challengesHow personal presence and image shape leadershipThe strategic value of courtesy and empathyBuilding organizational culture through the VX philosophyIn this episode:Practical ways to develop confident, authentic leadership

How can leaders embrace chaos, foster belonging, and find genuine meaning in their work?In this episode, Pierre du Plessis shares insights from his diverse career across fashion, advertising, branding, product design, strategy, and theology. He explains why strategy is about positioning, not just growth, and why embracing complexity and chaos is essential for true innovation.Pierre also delves into his research on loneliness and belonging, exploring the modern workplace, remote work, and what it truly takes to find meaning at work and in life. He offers practical wisdom on evolving leadership styles, the dangers of relentless growth, and the fundamental questions every leader should ask themselves to ensure personal and organizational wellbeing.

In this insightful episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg welcomes Marcus Fontoura, Technical Fellow at Microsoft and author of “A Platform Mindset: Building a Culture of Collaboration.”Drawing on leadership roles at some of the world's most influential tech companies—including Microsoft, Google, Yahoo, IBM Research, and StoneCo—Marcus shares his perspective on what truly defines a platform and why culture, trust, and collaboration are essential to achieving scale and innovation.You'll learn:How Marcus's experiences during Microsoft's transformational era under Satya Nadella shaped his platform strategy.Why building high-performing engineering cultures is about behavioral change, not just technology.Practical leadership lessons for fostering collaboration, identifying when your company isn't ready for a platform, and evolving the platform mindset in the AI-driven era.

Join us for a compelling episode of The Brand Called You, featuring entrepreneur, game developer, and author Jeroen Derwort.Hosted by Ashutosh Garg, this conversation explores Jeroen's journey from a childhood spent programming alone in his attic to building the globally successful Online Soccer Manager (OSM) and later sharing his entrepreneurial lessons through his book Score! Online Soccer Manager: From the Attic to the Arena.In this candid discussion, Jeroen reflects on the real story behind startup success—covering leadership challenges, co-founder conflicts, stressful legal battles, and the personal experiences that shaped his perspective on entrepreneurship and life.This episode offers an honest look at the human side of building successful technology companies.

In this insightful conversation, host Ashutosh Garg speaks with Osahon Akpata, CEO of CANEX Creations Inc., about transforming Africa's creative economy and intellectual property into powerful global assets.Osahon shares his journey from finance and consulting to leading investments in Africa's intellectual property–driven industries, offering deep insights into what it takes to build scalable creative businesses.The discussion explores the intersection of creativity, capital, and execution, highlighting how leaders can structure smart investments, build strategic partnerships, and unlock the long-term value of intellectual property.Whether you are an entrepreneur, investor, creator, or business leader, this episode provides practical insights on navigating risk, building sustainable creative ventures, and connecting African talent with global markets.

In this episode of The Brand Called You, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Melbourne-based author Gabrielle Dolan, a global storytelling expert and author of Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling Made Smarter with AI.Gabrielle shares her journey from corporate leadership to becoming a worldwide advocate for authentic storytelling, revealing why storytelling is not just a “soft skill” but a strategic leadership superpower. She also discusses how leaders can harness AI to enhance storytelling without losing authenticity, avoid common communication pitfalls, and inspire trust across their teams.Key Takeaways:Storytelling as a Leadership Superpower: Move beyond just sharing information—use stories to influence, engage, and connect with your audience.Authenticity Over Performance: Powerful stories come from clarity, honesty, and relevance, not exaggeration or theatrics.AI as a Creative Partner: Leverage AI for idea generation and refinement while keeping your authentic voice at the center of your storytelling.

In this insightful conversation, host Ashutosh Garg sits down with Peter L. Swimm, Founder of Toilville LLC, a multidisciplinary agency transforming businesses into conversational AI powerhouses.Peter shares his unique journey through startups, global enterprises, and open communities, and offers a people-first perspective on building conversational AI. Learn why multidisciplinary teams, context, and human connection are critical for successful AI deployments, and how businesses can avoid common misconceptions.In This Episode, You'll Discover:How Peter's early passion for human-centered technology shaped his career.What “multidisciplinary” really means in conversational AI.Why context and institutional knowledge are often missing in enterprise AI deployments.Real-world examples of solving AI misconceptions for clients.How to transition from isolated AI pilots to fully embedded business solutions.How NLU and generative AI work together in production-grade systems.The future of AI democratization, community-driven innovation, and emerging trends.Peter's top three strategic questions for businesses starting their conversational AI journey.

Join host Ashutosh Garg as he speaks with Jake about the powerful metaphor behind sustainable growth, consistency, integrity, and navigating the complexities of modern life.Jake explains how his most meaningful roles — husband and father — have shaped his worldview and inspired his book Oak Logs & Gasoline. He explores why modern culture often pushes us toward “gasoline habits” — quick fixes and instant gratification — and how adopting “oak log practices” can lead to lasting fulfillment.From managing stress and discovering purpose to transforming solitude into strength, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking balance and deeper meaning in their lives.

In this episode, Ashutosh Garg sits down with David Homan, author of Orchestrating Connection, classical composer, and founder.David shares his journey—from overcoming childhood illness to navigating professional challenges like the Bernie Madoff Ponzi scheme—and explains how these experiences shaped his philosophy of connection.Discover why David draws a clear distinction between networking and genuine connection, how vulnerability and generosity build lasting relationships, and why diversity and empathy are essential for thriving communities.Whether you are a leader, connector, or simply curious about human relationships, this episode will transform how you think about community and connection.

In this episode of The Brand Called You, Inderjit Singh Makkar—Founder of Factacy—shares his journey from global enterprise leadership to entrepreneurship. He unpacks why disciplined data is the backbone of strategy, how AI must be bespoke to real business use cases, and what it takes to build defensible, long-term value in fintech, ESG analytics, and agentic AI.00:37- About Inderjit Singh MakkarInderjit is the founder of Factacy which is an AI as a service firm specializing in financial intelligence, market research and ESG data analytics. 

In this thought-provoking episode of The Brand Called You, Hunter Hastings, founder of The Value Creators and author of The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism) drawing from decades across multinationals, Silicon Valley startups, and venture capital, Hastings challenges the very foundations of traditional management. He explains why hierarchy and control now constrain innovation, how self-managed and entrepreneurial organizations outperform bureaucracies, and what leaders must unlearn to design organizations built around customers, trust, and experimentation.00:35- About Hunter HastingsHunter is the founder of The Value Creators, which is a business education brand that aims to bring a new perspective on value creation. He's also an author and his latest book is titled The Post‑Managerial Era of Capitalism:Organizational Design as the Next Innovation Frontier (Elements in Reinventing Capitalism). 

In this episode of The Brand Called You, Edward Bjurstrom, author of The Success Guide: How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment  drawing on four decades in the biopharmaceutical industry, Edward shares practical, experience-driven insights on mindset, emotional intelligence, leadership under pressure, focus, trust, and what it truly takes to thrive—personally and professionally—in demanding corporate environments.00:33- About Edward BjurstromEdward is the author of a book titled The Success Guide - How to Thrive in the Corporate Environment.