The xMonks Drive

“The War for Delhi” wasn't just political, it was personal.In this unfiltered conversation, Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Jasmine Shah reveals how Delhi's governance was dismantled, its leaders jailed, and institutions weaponized.

What makes someone pick up a gun in the name of God?Why are books — not bullets — the real weapon in today's wars?In this gripping conversation, Lt Col Manoj Kumar Sinha (Retd.), Sena Medal awardee and counter-terror veteran, shares unfiltered truths about religious radicalization, terrorism in Kashmir, and the inner war every soldier must fight.From being shot in the neck during an anti-terror operation to confronting belief systems that justify killing, this episode goes far beyond headlines — into the psychology of violence, the limits of peace, and what it really means to defend a nation.

What if your suffering wasn't a disorder — but a disconnection?In this powerful episode of The xMonks Drive, Kavyal Sedani sits down with Gaurav Arora to explore the invisible threads between mental illness, faith, ego, and healing.She once wrote letters to strangers just to serve Oprah a glass of water. That moment changed everything — but it wasn't magic. It was alignment.From anxiety to ambition, shame to spirituality — this conversation unpacks the stories we silently live by, and how to finally rewrite them.

This episode was shot on the morning of May 9th, just hours before India and Pakistan agreed to a so-called “ceasefire” — which has already been violated by Pakistan.Major General Vikram Dev Dogra (AVSM), known as the Ironman of the Indian Army and former GOC of a Strike Division, joins Gaurav Arora for an unfiltered, urgent conversation about Operation Sindoor — India's largest, most direct military strike inside Pakistan since 1971.In this interview:- Why India struck 9 targets inside Pakistan- What the Indian Navy is doing at the Karachi port- The real reason Pakistan keeps provoking war- How Pakistan's military survives on Allah, America, and Army- And what India must prepare for next — even as the media celebrates “peace”

In this powerful episode of xMonks Drive, Kargil War Hero and Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Yogendra Singh Yadav speaks with Gaurav Arora about the Pahalgam terror attack, the truth about Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, and what it truly means to be an Indian soldier.From surviving 15 bullets at Tiger Hill to calling out cowardice masked as ideology, Yogendra Singh Yadav brings raw courage, unfiltered truth, and deep patriotism to this conversation.He reflects on:- Why religion doesn't exist on the battlefield- The mindset of Indian soldiers versus terrorists- What really happened in Pahalgam- His thoughts on Pakistan, war, and national security- What Bhagat Singh and the youth of India can still teach us todayThis is more than a political debate — it's a soldier's lived truth. Watch till the end for a message every Indian must hear.

What if everything you thought was success… was just setup for the breakdown that finally woke you up?In this episode of xMonks Drive, Ryan Seaman dives into the unraveling of identity — through ego death, plant medicine, spiritual initiation, and a journey far beyond the Hollywood spotlight.From Mayan pyramids to jungle rituals, Saturn returns to silent meditation, this isn't just a story of healing — it's a mirror for anyone on the edge of transformation.

In this profoundly moving episode of The xMonks Drive, Gaurav sits down with Lisa Prajna Hallstrom — Harvard scholar, spiritual mentor, and lifelong devotee of Anandamayi Ma.Lisa shares the extraordinary journey that led her from a difficult childhood and academic pursuit at Harvard to a life of surrender, spiritual devotion, and divine grace. She speaks about discovering the teachings of Anandamayi Ma, her powerful Shakti experiences, and the moment she walked away from her marriage to follow a higher calling.Together, they explore the nature of God, non-duality, the illusion of separateness, and the sacred power of presence. Lisa opens up about parenting as a spiritual path, healing intergenerational trauma, and the resistance she faced when choosing devotion over convention.If you've ever asked yourself what it means to live in alignment with truth, or what it takes to truly let go and follow the Divine — this conversation is for you.Themes we explore: • What is presence beyond ego? • Shakti, surrender, and the role of the guru • Healing the past and transforming legacy • Eastern spirituality through a Western lens • Building a life around devotion to Anandamayi Ma00:00 – Opening Reflections on Divine Presence02:40 – Stillness, Surrender, and Spiritual Experience05:10 – Early Life & Spiritual Quest07:20 – Awakening Through a Guru10:00 – The Search for Anandamayi Ma12:00 – Harvard & Destiny Fulfilled14:10 – Grief, Loss, and Divine Guidance16:00 – Shakti Transmission & Anandamayi Ma's Grace19:00 – The Depth of Presence vs. Executive Presence21:00 – Divine Joy and Ma's Lightness23:30 – The Kingdom of the Mind and Oneness25:35 – Victimhood vs. Gratitude28:00 – Letting Go of Old Patterns29:30 – Resistance from the World32:00 – Parenting, Healing, and Generational Impact34:30 – Spirituality vs. Religion36:45 – Homecoming to India & Indic Wisdom39:30 – Ma's Early Journey & the First Ashram41:00 – Universal Spirituality & Embracing All Faiths44:00 – Jesus, Shakti, and the Transmission of Grace46:45 – Western Spiritual Void & India's Wisdom48:45 – Integrating the Spiritual and Material Worlds51:00 – Wisdom & Devotion as Twin Wings53:00 – India's Spiritual Decline and Renewal55:30 – Spiritual Service Through Work57:30 – Surrendering the Fruits of Action59:00 – Building an Ashram in America

What if the best leadership strategies were written centuries ago?In this episode, author and corporate leader Manish Chaturvedi joins Gaurav Arora to share the inside story of his book Yogi @ Corporate Street — where epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bhagavad Gita meet the demands of today's boardrooms.They explore:The leadership styles of Ram vs KrishnaWhy self-leadership is the first step to leading othersKarma, Gyan, and Bhakti as frameworks for professional growthNavigating corporate politics with ethical clarityHow purpose-driven leadership outlasts strategy aloneWhether you're a CXO, entrepreneur, coach, or a seeker of wisdom, this episode offers timeless insights for anyone looking to lead from a deeper place.

Can ambition be sustainable? Can AI scale without consequence?In this powerful episode of the xMonks Drive Podcast, host Gaurav Arora sits down with Gaurav Singh, founder of Verloop, for an unfiltered conversation on building in the age of AI.From growing up in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, to coding at 10, launching his first projects by 13, and now leading one of India's most ambitious AI startups, Gaurav shares what most founders won't:

What does it mean to give forward?In this deeply reflective episode of xMonks Drive, Govind Iyer—Independent Director at Infosys, Chairperson of Social Venture Partners India, and board member at Give India and Karmayogi Bharat—joins Gaurav Arora for a conversation that bridges corporate clarity with soulful leadership.Govind shares the philosophy that guides his life today: don't give back… give forward. Together, they explore the culture of leadership without hierarchy, the power of authentic relationships, and what it truly means to lead with love.From his early days at Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, to 23 years at Egon Zehnder, to pledging half his wealth toward social impact, Govind opens up about the choices, mentors, and moments that have shaped him.This episode is an invitation—to slow down, reflect, and reimagine the relationship between success and service.⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 02:10 – Govind's farewell story 04:20 – Early family influences 06:00 – A turning point at Mobius 07:45 – “Give forward” vs. “give back” 09:00 – Staying 23 years at Egon Zehnder 12:30 – A firm with no bosses or competition 15:45 – Fulfillment vs. performance 20:00 – Leadership culture at Unilever, McKinsey, and Teach For India 21:15 – What fulfilled leaders have in common 23:00 – Learning calmness from Nithya Shanti 24:45 – Why CEOs fail: EQ over IQ 26:30 – Shrinking CEO tenures 29:30 – Integration in work and life 30:30 – Shifting from corporate to social sector 33:00 – The discipline of deep listening 35:30 – Lessons from early philanthropic mistakes 40:30 – What Govind is learning from Gen Z 41:30 – Why SVP India feels different 43:00 – Philanthropy as leadership development 45:00 – Capacity vs. capability in NGOs 47:00 – The value of time over money 48:20 – Final reflections on presence and love Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Why did a Greek psychology professor surrender to a Hindu guru?Watch as Dino Petridis, a London-based academic, shares his incredible spiritual journey—from academia to devotion! He reveals how he found Bhagwan Nithyananda, why he never wavered despite controversy, and what made him leave Western logic behind for deep faith. This is not just a story—it's a transformation!

Breaking Barriers: Shalini Singh on Thriving in a Male-Dominated IndustryShalini Singh, Chief of Corporate Communications & Sustainability at Tata Power, is a force of impact and innovation. From leading award-winning initiatives like Club Enerji and Greenolution to earning a board seat at just 40, she has paved the way for change.In this conversation, she shares her journey of working in a male-dominated industry, the doubts she faced, and how listening became her biggest strength. A TEDx speaker and passionate sustainability advocate, she continues to drive real change—one initiative at a time.

Is our life written in the stars, or do we have the power to change it? In this episode of xMonks Drive, Gaurav Arora sits down with astrologer Dr. Sundeep Kochar to explore the age-old debate between destiny and free will—with a fresh, modern perspective.They dive into:

In this powerful episode of The xMonks Drive, Gaurav Arora sits down with Neeraj Yadav, a celebrated para-athlete known for his resilience and extraordinary achievements. Neeraj shares his journey from facing paralysis to winning gold medals on the global stage, the pride of representing India, and the pain of being accused of doping despite his innocence.He discusses how faith in Bajrang Bali and support from loved ones kept him strong through moments of doubt. Neeraj's vow to return stronger and win another gold medal is a testament to his indomitable spirit.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about courage, hope, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

From a Small Town to Breaking Barriers in the Auto Industry!What does it take for a woman to thrive in a male-dominated industry? Meet Muskan, an entrepreneur who went from being doubted to leading one of India's most trusted car servicing brands.In this episode of the xMonks Drive, Muskan shares:- Her journey from a small town in Punjab to the auto industry- The biases she faced in investor meetings & boardrooms- Balancing motherhood & leadership in a high-pressure field- Why hard work is the ultimate game-changerShe was once asked if she'd return to work after having twins. Years later, she asked her boss the same question! Now that's what breaking stereotypes looks like.

The Gen. Bali saga continues. In Part II of our podcast with Maj. Gen. Neeraj Bali, we take a deeper dive into the lessons corporates can draw from the Indian army. Gen. Bali spills his thoughts on Ukraine, Palestine, and the geopolitical scenario of the world. Watch the entire episode, it's a bucket full of stories, inspiration, and moments that changed the course of history.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

I drew a lot of inspiration from the Indian Army growing up. They were my real-life heroes.When I got the opportunity to interview Maj. Gen Neeraj Bali on the xMonks Drive podcast, it was like traveling an entire circle of life. The episode is filled with everything you can imagine and more, from the triumphs of Kargil to the glorious life of Sam Manekshaw. This is an episode packed with insights that can be drawn from the Indian army and how those can be incorporated into our lives. Listen to the entire episode, it is worth every second invested.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Yes, we finally have him here. This is indeed one of the most special episodes we have shot on the xMonks Drive, because today we have a guest known to most of us, a personality that has captivated millions of people online making them financially sound.If you haven't guessed already it's none other than Mr. Ankur Warikoo, The idea behind this episode was not just to bring Ankur to the camera and ask questions about finance or his life as an influencer, but to peep inside the the human side of this flamboyant, aspirational personality that everyone desires.So tune in until the very end because this episode is full of value, entertainment, and crores and crores.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Passing the civil services exam is one of the most esteemed achievements in our country, a true testament to dedication and excellence.This week on The xMonks Drive podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Vivek Srivastava, an IPS officer whose remarkable career spans over two decades of service to the nation.Some stories don't just inspire, they captivate. Vivek's journey is one such tale. From serving under three prime ministers, including Mr. Narendra Modi, to facing life-or-death challenges in the line of duty, his experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.In this riveting episode, Vivek shares his firsthand accounts of pivotal moments in India's history, from navigating the chaos of the Babri Masjid riots to orchestrating the high-stakes arrest of Yaseen Bhatkal. It's a story filled with courage, drama, and an unshakable commitment to justice.Tune in for a conversation that's as inspiring as it is thrilling. Don't miss it, this is a story you'll remember.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

What happens when the title on your business card no longer defines you? In this riveting episode, Amit Malik invites us to reflect on the essence of identity and success beyond accolades and job roles. From the exhilarating highs of being a CEO to the humbling process of rediscovery, Amit's journey is as relatable as it is inspiring.He also explores the magic of inclusive growth, turning generational diversity into strength and building cultures where everyone thrives, from the cha-cha of the sixties to today's Swifties.Packed with insights and inspiration, this episode will challenge you to rethink what truly matters. Tune in!Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

What if life was simply a summary of your experiences? In this heartfelt conversation, Gaurav and Anupam take you on a journey filled with life's profound truths, leadership lessons, and the beauty of embracing uncertainty.From navigating the highs and lows of life to scaling a company from scratch, Anupam shares his real and raw story—complete with moments of doubt, imposter syndrome, and ultimately, growth.Here's what you can look forward to:

What does it take to walk away from a successful global business and dive into a world of startups and impact-driven ventures? In this episode of The xMonks Drive, I had the privilege of sitting down with Srini Vitoba, a man whose journey is nothing short of inspiring.Srini opened up about why he left behind a listed company to follow his inner calling, the bold decisions he made as an entrepreneur, and his advice for anyone building their dream. We dug deep into:

India is fast becoming the diabetes capital of the world and the concern is on a red alert now. This episode of the xMonks drive is primarily based around raising awareness for the same.We have with us Dr. Jasjeet Wasir who is the Director of Endocrinology and Diabetology in the world-renowned Mendanta. Join us in this educational dialogue and learn from the very best Dr. Jasjeet Wasir about the how's and why's of Diabetes.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Between Triumph and Turmoil: The Corporate Journey of a True BelieverIn this episode of the xMonks Drive podcast, Rajeev Dubey opens up about the extraordinary highs and devastating lows of his corporate journey. From devoting his career to Tata for nearly three decades, to his unexpected resignation as Managing Director of Rallis India, he shares how life threw him a curveball at the pinnacle of his career, thrusting him into uncertainty.But there's much more to Rajeev's story than the corporate ladder. Guided by principles of Satya (Truth), Prem (Love), and Seva (Service), he reflects on the forces that held him together during trying times—and what kept him grounded in the corporate world. From the brink of giving it all up, Rajeev reemerged, inspired by an unforgettable mentor: Anand Mahindra. Described as a rare blend of “head, heart, and soul,” Mahindra became a north star in Rajeev's path, embodying authenticity and trust in every aspect of leadership.Join us for this inspiring conversation as Rajeev reveals his journey of transformation: learning self-acceptance, facing the feeling of inadequacy, and ultimately embracing life after retirement. This episode is a deep dive into what it means to pursue success while staying true to oneself, featuring reflections that will resonate with anyone navigating their own career, purpose, or journey of self-discovery.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

5 people sharing a room to living in multi-million mansions. This episode of the xMonks Drive is special, it features the one and only Sunil Tulsiani, a real estate mogul, a bestselling author, a former detective, and a mentor to many. Join us, as we dig deeper into an exciting, emotional, and most importantly inspirational journey of a man who refused to give up, a man who envisioned his goal and chased it until glory. Listen till the very end, because Sunil is on a pursuit to make 100 more millionaires walk the planet.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

We all know about Srikanth Bolla and his chronicles. This episode of the xMonks Drive features the man behind Srikanth Bolla's success. Ravi Gundlapalli. In this conversation, Ravi reflects on the importance of mentorship and his mission to build Mentorcloud, a platform that fosters meaningful, borderless connections. He emphasizes the impact of a strong support system. He challenges the myth of the "self-made" entrepreneur and highlights the silent, inner strength of successful leaders. Tune in to hear Ravi's inspiring insights on leadership, mentorship, and investing time in what truly matters.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

250₹ in his pocket and a life going nowhere. Ankit Jhamb has been a dear friend and one of the most hardworking hustling humans I know. This episode of The xMonks Drive is about the journey of a guy who stood tall at his worst, the result?Join me in this intimate conversation with Ankit as he unfolds chapters of his life that are worth taking note of. Hope you stick till the very end!Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Imagine being on the battlefield on 26/11. This episode of the xMonks Drive is about decisions, decisions that can make or break what is ahead of us.Featuring, Former Intelligence Officer Prabhakar Aloka this episode is a gold mine of experiences that are beyond our constricted imagination.Prabhakar takes us back to the dark night, of 26/11, and shares a piece of information still unheard of.Want to know what happens next? Join us and find outFollow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

There are not too many adjectives that can justify the work Arun Maira has put towards building a better India.His ideologies and policies are impeccable. This episode is a treasure chest of wisdom, as Arun takes us on a drive-through of his life. From his time as a young TAS executive to working alongside Dr. Manmohan Singh in the Planning Commission of India. Stick with us till the very end, pause anything and everything that you're doing. Because this is not a conversation, it's a journey. A journey worth being a part of. Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this episode of The xMonks Drive, I sit down with the incredible Kirthiga Reddy, a powerhouse who's played a pivotal role in shaping the tech landscape as the first employee and Managing Director of Facebook India, a key leader at SoftBank, and now the force behind Virtualness.Kirthiga takes us on a deeply personal journey, sharing not just her successes, but the challenges and lessons that came along the way. We talk about the importance of hard work (because, spoiler alert, there's no substitute!), what it means to make the most of the cards life deals you, and how her mother's story of perseverance shaped her drive.You'll hear Kirthiga reflect on how her definition of success has evolved, from achieving career milestones to focusing on the impact she creates. She opens up about the sacrifices leaders often make, the power of coaching (and how she wishes she started earlier), and why she believes her best is yet to come.And of course, we dive into her secret sauce for building genuine relationships and why she believes people are at the heart of everything meaningful. In her own words, if a book were written about her, the last sentence would be: "It's all about people."Key Takeaways:- How Kirthiga envisioned Facebook India's '100 million users, revenue, and community' at a time when there weren't even 100 million people on the internet.- Why coaching has been a game-changer for her, and her only regret about it.- The dark truths of leadership and the personal sacrifices that often go unnoticed.- Her answer to Stanford's MBA essay question: 'What matters most to you and why?'- And a touching, human perspective on what drives her to keep pushing boundaries.This episode is all about leadership, growth, and unlocking the potential in others. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation with one of the most dynamic leaders of our time.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this special in-person edition of "The xMonks Drive," I have the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Krishna Madappa, President of The Institute of Science, Spirituality & Sustainability, for a conversation that will completely change the way you see water. After years of Zoom interviews, this episode is a milestone as we shift to face-to-face conversations, bringing a deeper, more human connection to the show.Born in the Andaman Islands and with a background spanning continents, Krishna has spent over 35 years exploring the intelligence of water—not just as a life-giving resource, but as a conscious, living force. With expertise in Ayurveda, Bio-Energy, and Psycho Neurobic Sciences, Krishna's work bridges the gap between science and spirituality, delving into water's ability to carry trauma and its potential for healing through his groundbreaking JEEVA device.Join me as we explore Krishna's lifelong passion for reviving ecosystems, from soil to human life, and his visionary contributions to the science of water, bio-energy, and global consciousness. This conversation is packed with wisdom and insight into how water, the essence of life, holds the key to our wellbeing—and how we can transform our relationship with it.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this thought-provoking episode of The xMonks Drive, we explore the profound insights of Allison Shultz, co-founder of Reboot.io and author of The Art of Being Human at Work. Allison delves into the idea that the more connected we are to ourselves, the closer we come to self-actualization, ultimately making the world a better place. She discusses the shift from an anthropocentric to an ecocentric worldview, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our deepest selves and the natural world.Allison also shares her perspective on the simplicity and authenticity of connections with animals, who engage with us without pretense or manipulation—just being to being. She reflects on the relational nature of both wounding and healing, reminding us that our beliefs, even from the earliest stages of life, can shape who we are. Join us as we explore how these connections, both with ourselves and the world around us, are the missing pieces to leading a more fulfilled and authentic life.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this episode of "The xMonks Drive," Dr. Tasha Eurich, a leading organizational psychologist and self-awareness expert, takes us on an enlightening journey into the depths of self-awareness. Tasha likens the pursuit of self-awareness to exploring space—an ever-expanding frontier with endless discoveries. She delves into the importance of self-awareness in leadership, explaining how it is the will and skill to understand both who we are and how we are perceived by others.Throughout the conversation, Tasha emphasizes that self-awareness isn't about having dramatic breakthroughs but rather about making small, incremental improvements. Surprisingly, she reveals that introspection can sometimes lead to less self-awareness, increasing stress, anxiety, and even depression. Tasha also touches on the profound insights of Gabor Maté, highlighting that trauma is not just a psychological event but a deep-seated injury to our nervous system, shaping our internal responses to external experiences.This episode offers powerful insights for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and improve their leadership and personal growth.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this episode of The xMonks Drive, we sit down with Rajeev Peshawaria, a global thought leader and CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre, who has spent over two decades leading Fortune 100 companies and pioneering innovative leadership models. Rajeev, also the author of bestsellers like Open Source Leadership and Too Many Bosses, Too Few Leaders, challenges conventional notions of leadership. He delves into the essence of true leadership—not as a position of power, but as the ability to touch lives and make them better.Throughout the conversation, Rajeev shares his groundbreaking concepts such as leadership energy, emotional integrity, and steward leadership, offering practical insights into how leaders can drive sustainable business growth while maintaining a deep sense of responsibility to those they serve. He also reflects on the importance of empathy in leadership, posing the powerful question: In the same situations we judge others, might we have slipped too?Join us for this thought-provoking discussion as Rajeev Peshawaria redefines what it means to be a leader in the modern world and inspires us to lead with purpose, empathy, and integrity.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this compelling episode of the xMonks Drive, we sit down with Jeremy Earnshaw, an accomplished Executive Coach and Mentor with over 25 years of global C-Suite experience. Jeremy shares his insights on transitioning from a CFO to a coach.He discusses his relentless drive to fill gaps in his executive career, which ultimately led him to coaching.Jeremy also delves into the challenges of letting go of public personas and the deep self-reflection required to become an effective coach. We explore how coaching can shift organizational behaviors and values, enabling everyone to embrace leadership. Jeremy also introduces the concept of obliquity, highlighting how indirect levers in coaching can lead to profound changes.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on growth, leadership, and the power of coaching with a focus on purpose and transformation.4oFollow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this engaging episode of the xMonks Drive, we sit down with Abhijit Bhaduri, renowned author, columnist, and management consultant, to explore the multifaceted journey of building a fulfilling career and life. Abhijit shares profound insights on success, failure, and the inevitable evolution that comes with time and experience.Key Takeaways:The Dual Nature of Success and Failure: Understand why success cannot exist without failure and how to cultivate a balanced perspective towards both.Changing Landscapes: Discover how the perception of India's large population has shifted from being seen as a problem to a tremendous opportunity, illustrating the dynamic nature of societal change.Imposter Syndrome: Learn how to navigate feelings of inadequacy by continuously pursuing curiosity and honing your skills.Career Reinvention: Abhijit emphasizes the importance of reinventing oneself, driven by personal circumstances and evolving aspirations, and how each career path is as unique as a fingerprint.Philosophical Insights: Dive into the wisdom of the Geeta, which teaches us to focus on our actions without being overly concerned about the outcomes, revealing the true essence of success and failure.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that will inspire you to embrace the unpredictable nature of your career and personal growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to reinvent yourself, this episode offers valuable lessons for every stage of your journey.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

Join us on the xMonks Drive for an enlightening conversation with Stephen Shapiro, author of "Best Practices Are Stupid" "Pivotal" and many more bestsellers.Discover 40 innovative strategies that challenge conventional thinking. Stephen redefines innovation, emphasizing relevance over quantity of ideas. He shares a powerful basketball analogy, highlighting the importance of a stable foundation—the "planted foot"—in business pivots.We also dive into midlife crises, exploring how staying connected to foundational experiences can prevent stagnation. Stephen's approach of "meandering with purpose" offers a fresh perspective on navigating life's twists and turns.Tune in for insights that will transform your approach to both business and personal growth. Click to listen now and unlock the secrets to innovation and purposeful living!Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

This illuminating episode of The xMonks Drive features Dr. Ruth Gotian, the globally acclaimed Chief Learning Officer and Associate Professor of Education in Anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine.  Named a top 20 mentor worldwide and hailed by Nature, Wall Street Journal, and Columbia University, Ruth was also ranked as the #1 emerging management thinker by Thinkers50 in 2021.Discover how mentorship has shaped the journeys of high achievers, the crucial differences between mentoring and coaching, and the secrets to finding your life's purpose during major life changes. Ruth's mission to redefine success shines through as she reveals why emulating mindsets over habits is key. Learn the profound impact of genuine mentorship and why bad mentorship can be more detrimental than none. Tune in till the very end!Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

In this episode of The xMonks Drive, we have one of the most influential coaches Nadezhda Mihaylova joining us all the way from Bulgaria. Join us and dive into the complexities of motivation as we unravel the myths that shroud this often misunderstood concept. Discover why true alignment lies in inspiration and energy rather than conventional motivational tactics. Explore how work serves as a powerful medium for self-expression, offering a potent source of dopamine, and understand why this addictive nature makes it challenging to disconnect from our professional lives. Challenge the detrimental myth that a leader's role is to make people happy. Instead, learn about the importance of inspiring dreams, allowing room for mistakes, and fostering a culture of learning and action.  Stick till the very end as we delve into these compelling insights, providing a fresh perspective on personal growth, leadership, and the path to genuine fulfillment.Follow us on our Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xmonks.ecosystem/Follow me On YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHsytOG-7i57hrSwB7fNkcwFollow me On LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv/

If you are a coach this episode of the xMonks drive will do wonders for you.Our guest Prof. David Clutterbuck, who is a pioneer in coaching and mentoring shared his insights on Coaching Maturity.A concept that is born out of his idea and research.He shares how 70% of all the coaches he came across, couldn't actually coach.Understand what it means to be a mature coach.David introduces the concept of "systemic electics," where powerful coaches integrate their being with their doing, recognizing, and working within the client's broader systems. This episode provides actionable advice for coaches looking to elevate their practice, making it a must-listen for anyone serious about mastering the art of coaching and making a significant impact in their clients' lives. Tune in to The xMonks Drive to deepen your understanding of what it means to be a truly mature coach in today's rapidly changing world.Click on the link if you would like to know more about our Coach Maturity program by Prof. David Clutterbuck himself.https://xmonks.com/coach-maturity/

In this enlightening episode of The xMonks Drive, we dive deep into the intricate relationship between the brain and the heart with our esteemed guest, Rollin McCraty. Discover how our emotional baselines shape our perceptions and well-being, as Rollin explains the brain's role as a pattern recognition system and the amygdala's crucial function in discerning the familiar from the unfamiliar.Through a series of fascinating insights, McCraty unveils the profound influence of heart rhythms on our emotional state and delves into the concepts of intuitive intelligence and self-regulation. Explore how deeply ingrained belief systems, formed during childhood, create a familiar worldview that can often keep us stuck in cycles of worry, anxiety, and fear.Join us as we discuss the path to lifting consciousness and establishing a new, more coherent baseline. Learn how synchronizing the heart and brain can lead to greater self-connection and emotional freedom, ultimately transforming the way we experience the world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the hidden patterns that govern our emotional lives and seeking a more harmonious connection with their inner self.

People connect with people and that's all we need to know.Remember the days when our personal brands were confined to our visiting cards but now in this digital age, it's a whole different thing. Personal Branding has gained a significant amount of importance in the past few years. Almost everyone is now trying to leverage personal branding as a channel for more business. But how do you create a personal brand that stands out in this crowded space?Our guest, Siddharth Deshmukh a.k.a The Travelling Professor will help us understand the science behind creating a powerful personal brand. So if you are trying to figure out personal branding, or how to create one for yourself this episode is for you.Tune in to find out!

Leadership is not about answering, it's about asking!This episode of The xMonks Drive is all about understanding these questions and how to leverage them for transitioning into a better leader.We have with us Bob Tiede who runs a blog called Leading With Emotions, with an audience in 200 countries around the globe.Join us in this conversation and delve deeper into the art of asking questions and not just questions, The right questions. So listen till the very end.

In this episode of the xMonks Drive, we will explore the impact of building meaningful relationships. Our host Gaurav gets candid with Charles Byrd, a relationship-building expert, who shares insights on connecting and thriving both personally and professionally.Discover the power of initial connections, the importance of providing value, and the necessity of consistent follow-up. Charles explains why genuine connections are essential for well-being and deeply rooted in human evolution. Learn practical advice on adding value in every interaction and avoiding common mistakes, especially for CXO-level professionals.Charles also highlights the importance of a healthy relationship with oneself, emphasizing that self-care enables better support and connection with others. Join us on "The xMonks Drive" to uncover the keys to building amazing relationships and thriving in all areas of life with Charles Byrd.

What if happiness isn't about getting rid of problems, but choosing the ones you want? Accompany us on a journey deep within the realms of Dharma and Sukha with none other than Steven Puri.This thought-provoking episode of the xMonks drive will dive into the essence of joy, the journey of finding your Dharma, and the secret to overcoming burnout.Discover how the Sukha Company turns productivity from a lonely grind into fulfilling connection.

Embark on an exhilarating voyage into the uncharted waters of human cognition and emotion.Prepare to have your mind expanded and your perspectives challenged as we navigate the depths of high-level thinking and adult development, guided by our guest Dr. Darren Stevens's revolutionary Constructed Development Theory.Join us as we journey through the turbulent seas of traditional coaching associations, where validation struggles to anchor itself in the ever-shifting tides of innovation. Discover the captivating tales of individuals at different levels of development, from the money-hungry Level 2s to the visionary Level 5s like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk.But our adventure doesn't stop there! Prepare to be captivated by the elusive concept of identity, where the notion of authenticity is unmasked as a mere illusion. Explore the labyrinth of intention, awareness, choice, and response, where the true essence of identity lies waiting to be discovered.From the pitfalls of generic statements to the complexities of human behavior, our journey promises to be a thrilling rollercoaster ride through the depths of the human psyche.Don't miss out on this epic adventure that promises to revolutionize your understanding of human cognition and emotion. Listen now to embark on the journey of a lifetime!

There's no feeling more satisfying than loving what you do. This episode of the xMonks Drive podcast is all about following our hearts and making sure, we do what we want to do. Gary Crotaz who started his professional life as a Doctor shares his story and the challenges he faced as he quit his career to follow a childhood passion "Dance".However, he has also parted ways with dancing and is now an acclaimed executive coach.Come join us in a story that projects positivity, critical decision-making, and love. Connect your headsets, you would not want to miss out on this one. 

Welcome to the Voice Revolution, where we turn up the volume on what it means to truly own your voice and rock the world with it! In this episode, get ready to jam out with Arthur, the ultimate voice coach and visionary, as we dive deep into the wild and wonderful world of vocal mastery and empowerment.Picture this, a world where every voice is a powerhouse, where speaking isn't just about making noise but about making waves. Arthur's not your average coach; he's a vibe conductor, tuning into the essence of every voice he encounters, from A-list celebrities like Angelina Jolie to the guy next door dreaming of his big break.But hold onto your headphones because it's not all serious vocal warm-ups and vision statements. We're talking about claiming your stature, finding your groove, and using your voice to shake things up in style. From coaching industry titans to turning basketball stars into true champions, Arthur's got the magic touch when it comes to unleashing the full potential of every voice he encounters.So, crank up the enthusiasm, and get ready to groove as we explore the wild, wacky, and wonderful world of voices. Follow us on:InstagramYoutubeLinkedin Follow the host:Gaurav's LinkedIn

A journey from 187,000 dollars in debt to becoming a multi-millionaire. In this installment of the xMonks Drive Podcast, we were accompanied by the gracious Simone Milasas.She reflects on the universal challenge of decision-making and how embracing choice over hesitation can dissolve barriers, unveiling hidden capacities waiting to be realized. Understand the common human pursuit of validation external to ourselves, revealing personal anecdotes that shed light on the innate desire for expression and visibility.Now without further delay, let's get right into the podcast and catch Simone and her vision.Follow us on:InstagramYoutubeLinkedin Follow the host:Gaurav's LinkedIn

An Ivy League graduate. A TEDx speaker.An enthralling personality.This instalment of the xMonks Drive showcases, Shamini Jain, an advocate of curiosity-driven goals. Come join us, as we talk about the impact of fostering wellness in physical, emotional, interpersonal, and spiritual dimensions that can aid in stronger resilience in times of crisis.

“Coaching has helped me evolve. As a mother, as a partner, as a human.”This episode of the xMonks Drive features Shonna Winters, who is an award winning psychologist, a coach and most interestingly a technologist.Catch us talk about coaching, psychology and how she practises this unique formula of combining behavioural science with computer science.Intrigued?Let's get right in!