ReWrite The Rules

Can one person's decision to shift careers impact a nation's Olympic dreams?
Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Deepthi Bopaiah, CEO of GoSports Foundation. Deepthi's story begins with a successful career in banking, where she honed her professional skills and learned the art of perseverance. However, the 2012 Olympics sparked a pivotal change in her life. Discontent with India's underrepresentation in sports, she left her banking job to redefine the country's approach to nurturing Olympic talent.
At GoSports, she's not just a former athlete turned executive; she's a catalyst for change, helping young athletes achieve their Olympic dreams while challenging societal norms about sports in India. Tune in to discover how Deepthi and GoSports are rewriting the rules and fostering a new era of Indian athletes!

IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Why does Deepthi work in sports?
(02:00) How did Deepthi’s past shape her future?
(05:00) What does it take to train an Olympic athlete?
(08:00) How are women changing the sports landscape?
(11:00) Can one athlete inspire a nation?
(14:00) What is the role of mentorship in achieving success?
(17:00) How does Deepthi handle rejection and setbacks?
(20:00) What does leadership look like in high-pressure environments?
(23:00) How does Deepthi balance ambition with personal growth?
(26:00) What defines success for Deepthi?

Our Guest: Deepthi Bopaiah
Deepthi Bopaiah, a former Karnataka state-level tennis player, Banker turned Sports Administrator whose also been awarded the Chevening Gurukul Fellowship at University of Oxford and member of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme, an initiative of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Affairs, is the CEO of GoSports Foundation, a National Award-winning not-for-profit organization working towards the development of 200+ emerging and elite Indian athletes across Olympic and Paralympic disciplines through athlete scholarships and knowledge-building programmes.
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepthi-bopaiah-810444a/

Your Host: Ritu Gupta Mehrish
Ritu Gupta Mehrish is a speaker, executive coach and author, with 20 years of corporate experience working in companies such as P&G, GE Capital and GE spin-off Genpact. In her last role, Ritu ran a multimillion-dollar business vertical with 1000 people across eight countries and five continents. Throughout her extensive career, Ritu has had the opportunity to work, coach and converse with leaders across the globe from diverse industries. Her business and leadership experience has enabled her to bring in a pragmatic approach to leadership development. Her client list of Google, PayPal, Swiss Re, JP Morgan, Applied Materials, Intel, Knight Frank, Johnson & Johnson, AIA, Medtronic, Wharton Executive Education highlights the level of expertise she brings to the leadership topic.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritugmehrish/
https://www.ritumehrish.com/

Rajita Saxena is a leader and people manager with over 20 years of business experience in sales, sales support, strategic operations, and learning & development. She builds strong, high-performing teams and believes in being a Level 5 leader to unleash the potential and performance of teams. She thrives in an environment that provides an opportunity to problem solve or create impact, whether it is a situation that is full of change and ambiguity or one that requires creating a strategy.
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This podcast is powered by CrazyTok: We help experts become influencers by helping launch, produce and grow your custom-branded audio and video podcast channels. Find us on our Website, LinkedIn and Instagram

How does a passion for reading transform not just lives but careers, too? Join us in this episode as Nora Nazerene, the publisher of Penguin Random House Southeast Asia, takes us through her journey from being a teacher to steering one of the most prestigious publishing houses in the region. Nora shares the pivotal moments of her career, the challenges of balancing motherhood with professional life, and the joy of impacting the literary world. Tune in to hear her story of change, resilience, and the enduring power of books to shape our destinies!

IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) How Does a Teacher Become a Leading Publisher? Dive into Nora's unique journey from her roots in teaching to becoming a key player in the publishing industry.
(00:33) Can Your First Job Predict Your Future? Nora reflects on her unexpected transition from education to publishing.
(02:16) Is It Possible to Turn Your Passion Into Your Profession? Explore Nora's lifelong love for reading and how it seamlessly transitioned into a career of reading raw manuscripts and shaping the future of literature.
(05:29) What Challenges Do Women Face in Leadership Roles? Nora shares the hurdles she faced as a woman making her voice heard in the early days of her career.
(07:18) How Do You Balance Motherhood and Ambition? Delve into the personal story of Nora's battle with mother's guilt and the societal pressures of balancing a demanding career with being a present parent.
(10:31) Finding Your Voice: How to Speak Up and Make an Impact? Gain insights from Nora's approach to speaking her mind in professional settings, emphasizing the importance of timing, wisdom, and impact in communication.
(15:39) The Leap of Faith: Changing Companies After a Decade - Witness Nora's pivotal career decision to leave a long-term position for a new challenge at Penguin.
(17:36) What Advice Would You Give to Your Younger Self and Others? Advice to her younger self and to anyone at the crossroads of their career, highlighting the importance of kindness, self-forgiveness, and the pursuit of passion.
(22:29) Wrapping up

Our Guest: Nora Nazerene Abu Bakar
Nora Nazerene Abu Bakar is the executive editor at Penguin Random House SEA, responsible for discovering and publishing different voices across the region. With over 12 years of experience in the publishing industry, her network of relationships and keen knowledge of the region will be key in establishing a publishing presence for Penguin Random House SEA in the market.
https://sg.linkedin.com/in/nora-nazerene-abu-bakar-7568425a

Your Hosts: Ritu Gupta Mehrish
Ritu Gupta Mehrish is a speaker, executive coach and author, with 20 years of corporate experience working in companies such as P&G, GE Capital and GE spin-off Genpact. In her last role, Ritu ran a multimillion-dollar business vertical with 1000 people across eight countries and five continents. Throughout her extensive career, Ritu has had the opportunity to work, coach and converse with leaders across the globe from diverse industries. Her business and leadership experience has enabled her to bring in a pragmatic approach to leadership development. Her client list of Google, PayPal, Swiss Re, JP Morgan, Applied Materials, Intel, Knight Frank, Johnson & Johnson, AIA, Medtronic, Wharton Executive Education highlights the level of expertise she brings to the leadership topic.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritugmehrish/
https://www.ritumehrish.com/

Rajita Saxena is a leader and people manager with over 20 years of business experience in sales, sales support, strategic operations, and learning & development. She builds strong, high-performing teams and believes in being a Level 5 leader to unleash the potential and performance of teams. She thrives in an environment that provides an opportunity to problem solve or create impact, whether it is a situation that is full of change and ambiguity or one that requires creating a strategy.

How does a journey from a banking career to academic leadership shape one's approach to diversity and inclusion? In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Dr. Rao, Executive Director of INSEAD Africa Initiative and Hoffman Institute for Business and Society Asia. Discover how her early career in banking led to pivotal changes, steering her towards a significant role in education focused on leadership, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Dr. Rao shares insights into the challenges and transformations she faced, from being a "trailing spouse" to becoming a thought leader in creating equitable educational and corporate environments. Tune in to learn how personal choices and professional shifts can profoundly impact leadership and innovation in the field of business and society!

IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) How did a career switch from banking to academia shape Dr. Rao's views on diversity and inclusion?
(03:20) What impact did becoming a trailing spouse have on personal identity and career direction?
(06:38) How can pivotal life decisions, like relocating for a spouse's job opportunity, influence career paths?
(09:21) How does teaching align with Dr. Rao's passion for leadership and inclusion?
(13:48) How can women redefine their roles in leadership and corporate environments?
(21:28) How can you balance your personal life while pursuing professional ambitions?
(25:54) Summing it up

Our Guest: Dr Vinika Rao
Vinika started her career with a multinational bank in India, went on to become General Manager of an American Asian JV in the field of industrial chemicals, and later became the Managing Director of a listed company in Indonesia. She co-founded a boutique advisory firm working with mid-cap SE Asian companies, before making a serendipitous transition to Education. Prior to joining INSEAD, she was Associate Professor of Strategy at the S.P. Jain Centre of Management, Singapore. She is frequently invited to speak on her research interests and has been quoted / published in leading business publications including Forbes, Economist, Business Times, South China Morning Post, Harvard Business Review and INSEAD Knowledge.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinikarao/

Your Hosts: Ritu Gupta Mehrish
Ritu Gupta Mehrish is a speaker, executive coach and author, with 20 years of corporate experience working in companies such as P&G, GE Capital and GE spin-off Genpact. In her last role, Ritu ran a multimillion-dollar business vertical with 1000 people across eight countries and five continents. Throughout her extensive career, Ritu has had the opportunity to work, coach and converse with leaders across the globe from diverse industries. Her business and leadership experience has enabled her to bring in a pragmatic approach to leadership development. Her client list of Google, PayPal, Swiss Re, JP Morgan, Applied Materials, Intel, Knight Frank, Johnson & Johnson, AIA, Medtronic, Wharton Executive Education highlights the level of expertise she brings to the leadership topic.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritugmehrish/
https://www.ritumehrish.com/

Rajita Saxena is a leader and people manager with over 20 years of business experience in sales, sales support, strategic operations, and learning & development. She builds strong, high-performing teams and believes in being a Level 5 leader to unleash the potential and performance of teams. She thrives in an environment that provides an opportunity to problem solve or create impact, whether it is a situation that is full of change and ambiguity or one that requires creating a strategy.

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This podcast is powered by CrazyTok: We help experts become influencers by helping launch, produce and grow your custom-branded audio and video podcast channels. Find us on our Website, LinkedIn and Instagram

How did Nicole Tan climb to the top of the beauty industry during a global pandemic? In this episode, Nicole Tan, the President & CEO of Shiseido Asia Pacific (APAC), delves into her journey, the challenges as a woman leader, and the keys to her success. From joining Shiseido amidst the turmoil of 2020 with a rich 25-year background in beauty, to balancing the demands of career and family, Nicole’s story is one of perseverance, networking, and the crucial role of support. As Shiseido's first female regional CEO, she shares valuable advice for aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of calculated risks and patience in achieving professional growth!

IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Introduction to Nicole Tan and a brief overview of her career trajectory.
(00:46) Joining Shiseido During a Pandemic - Nicole discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of stepping into her leadership role amid the global pandemic.
(01:07) Trailblazing as Shiseido's First Female Regional CEO - Exploring Nicole's achievement as the first female regional CEO at Shiseido, reflecting on the significance of female leadership in the beauty industry.
(07:32) How to Balance Career and Family - Insights into Nicole's personal journey balancing career ambitions with family responsibilities and the choices that have shaped her path.
(08:59) Overcoming Professional Challenges - Nicole shares her experiences with overcoming obstacles in her career, emphasizing resilience and strategic problem-solving.
(12:37) The Power of Networking and Seeking Support - The importance of building a strong network and seeking support and the role these factors have played in Nicole's career development.
(16:35) Advice for Emerging Women Leaders - Nicole’s advice to aspiring female leaders, focusing on the value of not trying to solve everything alone and the importance of taking calculated risks.
(21:39) Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations - Reflections on the future, including Nicole's personal goals, aspirations for Shiseido, and her vision for the beauty industry's evolution.
(24:29) Wrapping up

Our Guest: Nicole Tan
Nicole Tan is President & CEO of Shiseido Asia Pacific (APAC), regional headquarters of leading Japan-based beauty group, Shiseido. Ms Tan is the first female Regional CEO at Shiseido and member of the Global Leadership Committee.

In her role, Ms Tan is responsible for driving the strategic vision, transformation and growth for Shiseido’s business in APAC – a region that includes more than 5,000 employees spread across eight markets offering iconic makeup, skincare and fragrance brands including Shiseido, NARS, Cle De Peau Beaute, Drunk Elephant, D&G and Anessa, amongst others.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-tan-928a40/

Your Hosts: Ritu Gupta Mehrish
Ritu Gupta Mehrish is a speaker, executive coach and author, with 20 years of corporate experience working in companies such as P&G, GE Capital and GE spin-off Genpact. In her last role, Ritu ran a multimillion-dollar business vertical with 1000 people across eight countries and five continents. Throughout her extensive career, Ritu has had the opportunity to work, coach and converse with leaders across the globe from diverse industries. Her business and leadership experience has enabled her to bring in a pragmatic approach to leadership development. Her client list of Google, PayPal, Swiss Re, JP Morgan, Applied Materials, Intel, Knight Frank, Johnson & Johnson, AIA, Medtronic, Wharton Executive Education highlights the level of expertise she brings to the leadership topic.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritugmehrish/
https://www.ritumehrish.com/

Rajita Saxena is a leader and people manager with over 20 years of business experience in sales, sales support, strategic operations, and learning & development. She builds strong, high-performing teams and believes in being a Level 5 leader to unleash the potential and performance of teams. She thrives in an environment that provides an opportunity to problem solve or create impact, whether it is a situation that is full of change and ambiguity or one that requires creating a strategy.

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This podcast is powered by CrazyTok: We help experts become influencers by helping launch, produce and grow your custom-branded audio and video podcast channels. Connect with us through the Crazytok website, LinkedIn, or Instagram.

What makes someone leave a 16-year career in banking for the unpredictable world of tech? In this episode, I’m thrilled to chat with someone I truly admire—Sandhya Devanathan, the incredible Vice President of Meta India. We dive into her personal journey, from watching her husband thrive in the startup world to taking a leap of faith into tech herself. Sandhya shares the highs, the challenges of balancing career and family, and how she’s now shaping the future of women in tech. Join me for a conversation about taking bold risks, continuous learning, and paving the way for future leaders!

IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Why did Sandhya take a leap of faith from banking to tech?
(01:30) A personal story behind her career switch—what sparked it?
(03:00) Unlearning everything: How tech shook up Sandhya's career path.
(04:00) Breaking barriers: What’s it like being a woman leader in tech?
(07:00) Mentors vs. Sponsors – Which helped her rise faster?
(09:30) Family vs. career: How Sandhya made the tough call.
(12:00) Facing imposter syndrome – how Sandhya overcame self-doubt.
(17:00) What advice would Sandhya give her 21-year-old self?

Our Guest: Sandhya Devanathan
Sandhya Devanathan is the Vice President and Managing Director of Meta India, a position she has held since January 2023. She holds an MBA from FMS Delhi and has previously worked with Citibank and Standard Chartered. Devanathan joined Meta in 2016 and has held various leadership roles across Southeast Asia. Recognized for her contributions to the tech industry, she was named one of India's most powerful women by *Fortune* in 2023 and 2024.
https://sg.linkedin.com/in/sandhyadevanathan

Your Host: Ritu Gupta Mehrish
Ritu Gupta Mehrish is a speaker, executive coach and author, with 20 years of corporate experience working in companies such as P&G, GE Capital and GE spin-off Genpact. In her last role, Ritu ran a multimillion-dollar business vertical with 1000 people across eight countries and five continents. Throughout her extensive career, Ritu has had the opportunity to work, coach and converse with leaders across the globe from diverse industries. Her business and leadership experience has enabled her to bring in a pragmatic approach to leadership development. Her client list of Google, PayPal, Swiss Re, JP Morgan, Applied Materials, Intel, Knight Frank, Johnson & Johnson, AIA, Medtronic, Wharton Executive Education highlights the level of expertise she brings to the leadership topic.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritugmehrish/
https://www.ritumehrish.com/
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This podcast is powered by CrazyTok: We help experts become influencers by helping launch, produce and grow your custom-branded audio and video podcast channels. Find us on our Website, LinkedIn and Instagram