Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/small-big-wins Small Big Wins started in middle of 2020. The primary objective has been to talk to people who are not so famous or known but have done exceptional work. Most of these conversations are with people who have done some real solid social good, while also holding up their selflessness. Their wins in their own words. You be the judge, whether Small or Big. Coming to my latest conversations with Swami Atmananda Saraswati ji, I would first share in a few words my own journey of searching the higher. This started somewhere in 2012, from reading, listening to Osho, then spending months at Isha Foundation Ashram doing everything in the book there, listening to some globally “famous” masters, I ended up at home. Home meaning our own timeless Indian scriptures – Bhagwad Gita, RamCharit Manas, Upanishads, which reveal that, where only a few blessed revel. I learnt about Adi Shankaracharya and his contribution to Sanatan Dharma. Hearing discourses from different masters, once I came across a discourse on “Atma Bodha” by Swami Atmanada Saraswati. When I tried to google him, I could not find anything. Somehow deep down the searches, I found some co-ordinates to reach him. This resulted in increased interactions and my knowledge seeking got a definite direction. If at all, these conversations would be valuable and known, it would be for Swami Atmananda Saraswati. It is my great fortune to bring “Who is My Charioteer” to the audiences. For someone Small like me this is a Big win! The Part 1 of this series is titled “Fundamental Understanding about Life”. You will find these conversations starting Episode 59. Just search for “Who is My Charioteer” in the title. © 2020, HVJ.coach c9a59d55-a4a7-56c8-84ba-340decf0f062 no en Wed, 23 Jul 2025 20:06:39 +0530 Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:39:08 +0530 https://sbw.hvj.coach https://img.transistor.fm/aaw005upiJxQT5EX6RMr_v9gVTX3vj6xv5doNkQFoTM/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/Lzk3MDUvMTU4NzQ2/OTg1NS1hcnR3b3Jr/LmpwZw.jpg https://sbw.hvj.coach episodic HVJ Small Big Wins started in middle of 2020. The primary objective has been to talk to people who are not so famous or known but have done exceptional work. Most of these conversations are with people who have done some real solid social good, while also holding up their selflessness. Their wins in their own words. You be the judge, whether Small or Big. Coming to my latest conversations with Swami Atmananda Saraswati ji, I would first share in a few words my own journey of searching the higher. This started somewhere in 2012, from reading, listening to Osho, then spending months at Isha Foundation Ashram doing everything in the book there, listening to some globally “famous” masters, I ended up at home. Home meaning our own timeless Indian scriptures – Bhagwad Gita, RamCharit Manas, Upanishads, which reveal that, where only a few blessed revel. I learnt about Adi Shankaracharya and his contribution to Sanatan Dharma. Hearing discourses from different masters, once I came across a discourse on “Atma Bodha” by Swami Atmanada Saraswati. When I tried to google him, I could not find anything. Somehow deep down the searches, I found some co-ordinates to reach him. This resulted in increased interactions and my knowledge seeking got a definite direction. If at all, these conversations would be valuable and known, it would be for Swami Atmananda Saraswati. It is my great fortune to bring “Who is My Charioteer” to the audiences. For someone Small like me this is a Big win! The Part 1 of this series is titled “Fundamental Understanding about Life”. You will find these conversations starting Episode 59. Just search for “Who is My Charioteer” in the title. Small Big Wins started in middle of 2020. HVJ No No 63 63 Who is My Charioteer - Part 1 - What is the Role of Visiting Holy Places full 723bd061-0d04-4ad7-88d8-d2705a220e82 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c89bc114 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/charioteer/episode5

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]]> Tue, 03 Jan 2023 20:46:03 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2671 Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the curriculum never appealed to him. Because of his deep rooted interest in physics and practical experimenting, he finished the four years of engineering curriculum in 2 years, leaving him with 2 years of bonus time to follow his own pursuits. Today he is Director and co Founder of Maruvan, literally meaning Forest in a Desert. It is a section 8 not for profit company led by Gaurav Gurjar with the sole objective of testing the Miyawaki method of tree plantation in an extreme environment and to start a native desert tree nursery. Maruvan is 30 acres of desert situated in Rajasthan near Jodhpur. Gauravs’s restoration approach is linked to deeply researching cultural roots which includes studying local paintings, scriptures, poetry and folklore and it is with this approach and an ignited selfless pursuit that Maruvan is inching closer and closer to success. I am sure you all have already watched the previous two parts of this podcast and are familiar with Gaurav’s journey & his work at Maruvan inspired by the famous Miyazaki method of plantation. This part (Part 3), is the last part in this podcast series and sums up Gaurav’s overall life and his philosophy. Since quite early in life, Gaurav has been very clear on what he wants from life based on what he really really likes to do. Although the path to achieve it was difficult and untravelled, he always knew he would be able to reach his destination because that is what made him really happy. I was amazed to hear that he and his wife Varsha live a modest home, most of which they have built themselves using eco friendly materials. And their house guests are all types of birds including bats, squirrels and even a wild cat. Gaurav also tells us about the direct influence of Sameer, Sameer and Manish (all of whom he was very close to at various points in his life) and how each of them has helped him achieve more and more clarity. I hope you enjoy this last part as much as the first two parts of the podcast and find at least a couple of takeaways from the entire series. Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the c plantation, sustainability, dessert forest, afforest, clarity, life's purpose, influence No 57 57 Gaurav on life, risks, pursuits and Maruvan : Part 2 The story of Maruvan full fcfd16f6-661e-468c-be4e-125a7f3cbbd1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4398a15c https://sbw.hvj.coach/gaurav2

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]]> Wed, 07 Dec 2022 22:54:53 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2849 Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the curriculum never appealed to him. Because of his deep rooted interest in physics and practical experimenting, he finished the four years of engineering curriculum in 2 years, leaving him with 2 years of bonus time to follow his own pursuits. Today he is Director and co-founder of Maruvan, literally meaning Forest in a Desert. It is a section 8 not for profit company led by Gaurav Gurjar with the sole objective of testing the Miyawaki method of tree plantation in an extreme environment and to start a native desert tree nursery. Maruvan is 30 acres of desert situated in Rajasthan near Jodhpur. Gauravs’s restoration approach is linked to deeply researching cultural roots which includes studying local paintings, scriptures, poetry and folklore and it is with this approach and an ignited selfless pursuit that Maruvan is inching closer and closer to success. For the first time ever, I found a story so interesting that covering it entirely in one episode is a task next to impossible. Hence, this podcast is a 3 part podcast series of which Part 1 released on 20th November, is all about Gaurav’s personal journey from being an engineering student to the director of Maruvan. If you have not watched it already, you can watch it by clicking on this link. This podcast (Part 2) is all about the evolution of Maruvan; the research, the thought process and all the hard work that went behind planting a forest right in the middle of a desert. Gaurav goes on to tell us about the effectiveness of the often misinterpreted Miyawaki method of tree plantation which involves a deep study of the native environment and identifying the potential natural vegetation of that area. He also asserts the importance of ecological balance and how soil, water and vegetation are correlated to create the actual environment. I found this dialogue with Gaurav interesting, and Gaurav’s modest yet straightforward attitude towards it is worth taking inspiration from. Join me in this podcast to spread this flame of simplicity and courage. One more podcast (Part 3) coming your way soon. Stay tuned! Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the c trees, plantation, maruvan, desert plantation, desert forest, afforest, sustainability, sustainable living, karma No 56 56 Gaurav on pursuits, risks and Maruvan : Part 1 "The Journey" full ecb5ce99-baf1-42ce-9934-3afa7ca6ef1f https://share.transistor.fm/s/7b8da3f4 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/gaurav

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]]> Sat, 19 Nov 2022 16:07:48 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3095 Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the curriculum never appealed to him. Because of his deep rooted interest in physics and practical experimenting, he finished the four years of engineering curriculum in 2 years, leaving him with 2 years of bonus time to follow his own pursuits. Today he is Director and co-founder of Maruvan, literally meaning Forest in a Desert. It is a section 8 not for profit company led by Gaurav Gurjar with the sole objective of testing the Miyawaki method of tree plantation in an extreme environment and to start a native desert tree nursery. Maruvan is 30 acres of desert situated in Rajasthan near Jodhpur. Gauravs’s restoration approach is linked to deeply researching cultural roots which includes studying local paintings, scriptures, poetry and folklore and it is with this approach and an ignited selfless pursuit that Maruvan is inching closer and closer to success. For the first time ever, I found a story so interesting that covering it entirely in one episode is a task next to impossible. Hence, this podcast is a 3 part podcast series of which this part (Part 1), is all about Gaurav’s journey from being an engineering student to the director of Maruvan. This transition did not happen overnight. It is an expedition of arduous years of travel, quests and taking risks to find the right motivation for his life’s calling. Join me while Gaurav engrosses us all with his fascinating story, where his life takes him from engineering to backpacking adventures, living in the forests, architecture, building bamboo houses, organic farming, winning India's only reality environment show and finally returning back to his roots of Marwar. Intrigued already? Watch the podcast and stay tuned for the next one. Usually I start the podcast introduction with the guest name, age and general details. But today, as I write this, I am falling short of words to introduce Gaurav Gurjar who is many things but ordinary. Academically he is an electronic engineer, but the c sustainability, plantation, green, vegetation, afforestation, risk, life, calling No 55 55 Niwas and Shivani on the story of Anantmool – a gender neutral learning center full 442cab28-9e49-4352-aa4a-b8524667956b https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe472317 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/niwas

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]]> Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:18:11 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3155 Niwas Kumar comes from a remote village in Bihar and was a part of age-old public school education. Later when his family moved to a bigger town, he went to an all-boys school till he finished high school. The current education system never interested him and he decided to do his graduation from an open university where he could travel, research and explore. During this time he realised that contrary to his belief, he was actually very interested in education and wanted to change the ideology and methodology of the very education system. During his post graduation from Azim Premji University, he found that the effects of gender-bias is far more acute for children experiencing gender dysphoria. They don’t find a safe space to study and feel difficult to socialise. Shivani also belongs to a small village in Jharkhand and went to a co-education public school. The patriarchal culture in her village did not allow her to interact with boys in school and she was always subject to gender discrimination in school as well as other public places. When she went to NIT Jamshedpur for engineering, she found it extremely challenging to open up to the fellow students. Niwas and Shivani met during an internship and realised that they share a unique but common dream. Thus was laid the foundation of ANANTMOOL – India’s first ever gender neutral learning centre which addresses the issue of gender diversity and inclusion by questioning existing norms and introducing an alternative system where gender no longer exists as a stereotype. Here binary students and those with gender dysphoria are treated as equals. With gender diverse facilitators, gender-free toilets, seating and group activities, Anantmool is also keen on changing their curriculum into a more practical one. This one of a kind learning centre focusses on holistic development of children including physical, social, emotional and intellectual. They both believe that this dream would not have been possible without the help of leaders from Kanthari, an international institute for leadership and entrepreneurial activities. Anantmool is open for donations and the cost to fund the education of one child is just Rs. 500 per month, which , I am very sure most of you will agree, is what we spend at a coffee shop these days. You can find more about this on the Milaap website below. https://milaap.org/fundraisers/support-niwas-kumar# During this small yet powerful conversation with Niwas and Shivani, I learned as well as unlearned perspectives and I am looking forward to join them at Anantmool for a volunteering session in the coming days. Join me in this endeavour. Niwas Kumar comes from a remote village in Bihar and was a part of age-old public school education. Later when his family moved to a bigger town, he went to an all-boys school till he finished high school. The current education system never interested him gender fluid, gender free, gender neutral, gender equality, gender dysphoria, school, education, free education, holistic education No 54 54 Tanvi, a proud trans woman, on her journey from Pretence to Reality! full ecf77e02-3b1f-47c3-ba3a-762c53ec0dfb https://share.transistor.fm/s/f797f631 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/tanvi

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]]> Fri, 02 Sep 2022 17:24:03 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2842 Tanvi Nair, 32, TEDx speaker, an avid blogger, a proud trans woman and a vocal LGBTQ+ advocate. Professionally she is a data analyst working with a multinational company. She has done masters in statistics from the university of Pune. Being diligent passionate and hardworking, she has excelled very well in her career. For many years Tanvi led a life of pretence by hiding her authentic self from the world. She could explore her true self by donning her mother’s clothes only in the privacy of her home when her parents would go out. Even though her secret was unexpectedly revealed in her first year of college (you will hear the story in this podcast), Tanvi still struggled with her true identity. She even maintained two Facebook accounts, one for her authentic self and one for the world, until one day she accidentally posted a picture dressed as a woman on the wrong account. It was then (in 2020) that she finally decided to come out and accept herself as she truly is. Tanvi’s journey was not an easy one, dealing with anxiety and depression. But the direct or sometimes even silent support from her parents and true friends made her life sailable. Today, Tanvi works with the “Ally Nation Project” to give gender sensitisation training to public. Her blogs are thought provoking, curious and educating at the same time. Do give them a read here - https://passionforstorytelling.wordpress.com . This podcast focusses on Tanvi’s life before and after coming out. Tanvi’s calm demeanour and views on spirituality truly amaze me. I learnt and explored a lot from this conversation and hope you will too. Join me in spreading this flame of courage and conviction further. Tanvi Nair, 32, TEDx speaker, an avid blogger, a proud trans woman and a vocal LGBTQ+ advocate. Professionally she is a data analyst working with a multinational company. She has done masters in statistics from the university of Pune. Being diligent passi transgender, trans women, LGBTQ, TEDx speaker, proud, life story, journey No 53 53 "Discarded tyres to sustainable furniture" - Vaishali’s story of conscious capitalism full 16a258cc-0410-406c-8942-1784bd68bbbb https://share.transistor.fm/s/8f3e62db https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/vaishali

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]]> Sat, 13 Aug 2022 12:47:46 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2385 Vaishali was born and brought up in a traditional middle-class household in Rajasthan, then moved to Delhi and finally settled in Kanpur after her marriage. She was living an ordinary life, but destiny had extra-ordinary plans for her. For some reason the scrap tyres abandoned on road caught her attention and she began experimenting on it with the help of some colleagues. With a vision to promote sustainability in a creative fashion, Vaishali founded De’Dzines, a company that transfigures scrap tyres into beautiful décor items such as chairs, coffee tables, planters, sculptures and even bags. All these items are 100% handcrafted, sturdy, durable and yet upcycled from scrap automobile tyres. In just over 3 years, Vaishali’s efforts have been recognised and appreciated by many prestigious authorities in India. She got a chance to meet PM Narendra Modi ji and Uttar Pradesh’s CM Aditya Yoginath ji. She also won the title of “Most promising 100 women entrepreneurs – MSME and FICCI”. She has also been invited by IKEA to talk about her products and company. Studies show that the fumes coming from burning tyres are 13000 times more toxic than the fumes coming from coal mines. By transforming these tyres with creativity, Vaishali and her team are striking ecological balance and save the ecosystem. This conversation is a live example of converting your dreams and desires into reality with a little bit of zest and loads of passion. To know more about De’Dzines and to buy their products online, visit their website. As Vaishali says, buying from De’Dzines means saving the ecosystem. https://dedzines.com/ Vaishali was born and brought up in a traditional middle-class household in Rajasthan, then moved to Delhi and finally settled in Kanpur after her marriage. She was living an ordinary life, but destiny had extra-ordinary plans for her. For some reason the conscious capitalism, discarded tyres, scrap, sustainable furniture, sustainability, nature, ecosystem No 52 52 Ganesh on the "Lakhpati Kisan" initiative full f2dcca32-a230-405d-9ee4-4451fab830e1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a52651fb https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ganesh

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]]> Sun, 31 Jul 2022 16:10:42 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2659 Ganesh Neelam obtained his Master’s degree in Geoscience from University of Pune, in the year 2000. Post his masters, he joined BAIF Development Research Foundation as a Hydrogeologist where he worked for four years on Watershed Development Programmes to ensure quality planning and optimum utilization of the groundwater resource for livelihood enhancement of tribal and rural communities. He joined the Tata Trusts in 2004, handling the flagship initiative named Central India Initiative focusing on enhancing livelihoods of tribal communities in central India. He presently is the Executive Director of Collectives for Integrated Livelihood Initiatives (CInI), an associate organization of the Trusts. The “Lakhpati Kisan – Smart Village” programme focusing on meeting the aspirations of more than 100,000 small and marginal farmers in Central India is being implemented by CInI under his leadership. He also leads the Renewable Energy theme at the Trusts. One of his key facets is his involvement in analyzing the areas of Technology and Innovations in the ecosystem to create sustainable solutions that meet the needs of rural communities. I have known Ganesh for many years and have been able to observe CInI’s work closely. The massive transformational work that Ganesh and his team are doing is changing the lives of tribals and marginal farmers, making them independent and self-sustainable. The highlight of this podcast is Ganesh narrating his experiences with Mr. Ratan Tata himself which will reinstate in you the belief of humility and humanitarianism. Ganesh Neelam obtained his Master’s degree in Geoscience from University of Pune, in the year 2000. Post his masters, he joined BAIF Development Research Foundation as a Hydrogeologist where he worked for four years on Watershed Development Programmes to social work, farming, farmers, philanthropy, tata trust, tata, ratan tata No 51 51 Nidhi on manifestation, braille and children full f99e151a-8c6f-433f-b118-b517debd73df https://share.transistor.fm/s/8655d1e3 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/nidhi

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]]> Sat, 18 Jun 2022 23:53:31 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2306 Nidhi Arora, an alumni of IIM Kolkata and a leader in Human Capital Management, is in true sense a social entrepreneur. Inspired by a movie (Sparsh) which she saw at the tender age of 7, Nidhi went on to learn braille and start Esha – people for the blind, a non- profit initiative striving to help the blind by devising innovative ways of sustainable livelihood. Esha also provides one of India’s largest audio library in multiple languages across the world. Through Esha Nidhi and her team of volunteers have done pioneering work for the visually challenged, by introducing braille visiting cards. Nidhi was a book lover since her childhood. When she found out that there was no daily newspaper available for children, she founded The Children’s Post of India, a home print daily for children, specially curated by mothers. This conversation is not just about Nidhi’s exceptional work in various fields or her social entrepreneurial skills that are helping thousands of individuals. But it is also about her thoughts and experiences with consciousness, spirituality and manifestation. Join me as we enter a new era of Small Big Wins with this special 51st episode. Nidhi Arora, an alumni of IIM Kolkata and a leader in Human Capital Management, is in true sense a social entrepreneur. Inspired by a movie (Sparsh) which she saw at the tender age of 7, Nidhi went on to learn braille and start Esha – people for the blind blind, social entrepreneur, inclusion, manifestation, conviction No 50 50 “A wheelchair won’t stop me from doing what I want to” - Meet Somya Dawar  full d33b2a01-a95a-4111-a4bd-0b6c7fc74c21 https://share.transistor.fm/s/583a09d6 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/abhishek

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]]> Wed, 25 May 2022 14:54:46 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2519 Somya Dawar, 36, is a wheelchair enabled woman. But don’t mistake this for her identity. First and foremost she is a caring daughter to proud parents, a loving friend to her big friend circle, a corporate working with a large organisation, a traveller and a motorsport enthusiast. Recently she participated in the Gumball India Endurance Driving event and drove 4000 km, from Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh on her own in mere 4 days. She “aspires to inspire” everyone to chase and fulfil their dreams under any circumstances. Somya met with an accident in 2003 at the age of 17 while kite flying, when she tripped and fell from a height of more than 20 feet. She suffered a major spinal cord injury and inspite of multiple treatments she was confined to a wheelchair. But this did not crush her spirits. She completed her education, has a successful career and lives life to the fullest. Her travel stories are an inspiration to all. She believes that perspective is the most important factor to overcome any situation in life. I was truly in awe of her conviction and courage. I am sure after watching the podcast, you will be too. I am delighted that Somya could join me as a guest on the 50th episode of Small Big Wins and make it even more special! Somya Dawar, 36, is a wheelchair enabled woman. But don’t mistake this for her identity. First and foremost she is a caring daughter to proud parents, a loving friend to her big friend circle, a corporate working with a large organisation, a traveller and disability, courage, success, living the dream, living life, wheelchair No 49 49 Renuka on climate action, plant signaling and redefining agriculture through BioPrime Agrisolutions full 0f8fef00-6fd6-4d42-80ac-0374ff72a234 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7fa0f57e https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/renuka

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]]> Fri, 29 Apr 2022 14:20:06 +0530 HVJ HVJ 1873 Dr. Renuka Diwan, has completed her PhD in Plant Sciences from University of Pune. She has also done her post doc in genetic engineering in collaboration with an Australian company. She specializes in bioactives and has a vast experience in plant tissue culture. In 2016, Renuka was conflicted by an incident where she noticed extreme diversity of the conditions for farmers versus city dwellers. She also came to understand there are only a handful of agri-biological companies around the world and none in India who can help the farmers to solve crop issues in a sustainable manner. In the same year, BioPrime agrisolutions was founded by Renuka along with Dr. Shekhar Bhosale and Dr. Amit Shinde. BioPrime agrisolutions are developing effective & affordable Agri biological products to help farmers struggling with crop loss, temperature fluctuations, drought, resilient insects and diseases. These solutions are based on multiple scientific experiments based on advanced technologies which involve biomolecules, plant signaling etc. They are aiming to transform agriculture in nature’s way without causing harm to the climate. As someone said, “climate action is not a priority, it is something which affects all the priorities”. Let’s come together to encourage and spread the wonderful work done by Renuka and her team. Dr. Renuka Diwan, has completed her PhD in Plant Sciences from University of Pune. She has also done her post doc in genetic engineering in collaboration with an Australian company. She specializes in bioactives and has a vast experience in plant tissue c climate change, agriculture, plant produce, agricultural improvement, farming No 48 48 Kaveri “The Dog Mother” on dedicating her life to animal rescue and SMART sanctuary full 0272dee2-dac1-4815-ac56-04f1b984d3a8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9cbcb1c7 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/kaveri

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]]> Thu, 14 Apr 2022 21:15:03 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3221 Kaveri Bhardwaj is a selfless soul who has been working for the past several years to rescue and rehabilitate stray dogs, cats, donkeys and cows. Her work brings a ray of hope to the injured and disabled strays who can’t speak for themselves. She takes pride in popularly being called “The Dog Mother” and often refers to them as children. After Kaveri’s first adopted dog Sophie passed away, she was heartbroken and it created a void in her life. That is when she decided to set up the “Sophie Memorial Animal Relief Trust” in 2017 in Greater Noida at a time when there were no other animal shelters in place. Through this trust, Kaveri and her husband Yashraj have rescued over 2000 dogs and sterilised & vaccinated around 2500 cats and dogs. Recently they have even rescued 2 baby monkeys (one of which you can see affectionately playing with Kaveri in the podcast.) There are moments in the podcast where I found myself speechless while listening to Kaveri’s stories. I hope this podcast will help me spread the flame of courage, conviction and selflessness. To help the animals in SMART sanctuary, you can visit their Facebook page or donate through their crowdfunding page on Milaap. Kaveri Bhardwaj is a selfless soul who has been working for the past several years to rescue and rehabilitate stray dogs, cats, donkeys and cows. Her work brings a ray of hope to the injured and disabled strays who can’t speak for themselves. She takes pr animal rescue, animal relief, dog rescue, dog shelter No 47 47 Ramveer "Library Man of India" on Education and Mission Rural Libraries full 0fd5c0a2-2d9c-4d4c-a010-60895f4d0e9d https://share.transistor.fm/s/50d7f94a https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ramveer2

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]]> Fri, 25 Mar 2022 14:28:27 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2420 Ramveer Tanwar, 33, is fondly known as the “Library Man of India”. After completing his B.Tech. in mechanical engineering, he took up a job at a multinational company, but the urge of giving back to his people always kept nudging him. Ramveer comes from a small village named Jhundpura in Noida, U.P. and when he saw the poor children of his village swaying away from education, lurking towards drugs and other bad influences, he decided to open a library for them to inculcate the value of education. In 2018, he opened the first library in Jhundpura, and thus started his journey of “Mission Rural Libraries”. These libraries are well equipped with books and large seating arrangements for children of all ages and communities from villages who come from a poor background and lack resources and basic amenities for education. Today, he along with his team “Gram Pathshala”, have opened libraries in more than 250 villages in U.P , Delhi and Rajasthan that are benefiting thousands of children. Check out the podcast or watch him on the Small Big Wins YouTube channel to uncover the full story behind his struggle, achievements and gratification. If any of you want to help this cause or know someone who needs help, please connect with the Gram Pathshala team on 93104 03565 or their Facebook handle mentioned below. P.S. I find myself extremely lucky to meet Ramveer (a humble man with a distinguished personality) and record this podcast in person. Ramveer Tanwar, 33, is fondly known as the “Library Man of India”. After completing his B.Tech. in mechanical engineering, he took up a job at a multinational company, but the urge of giving back to his people always kept nudging him. Ramveer comes from a education, library, india, poor children, education for all, importance of education, school, villages No 46 46 Dr Ali Khwaja and the story of Banjara Academy full c33c33f9-25ae-42ce-ac59-41e38614916d https://share.transistor.fm/s/2c2dc5c9 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ali

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]]> Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:50:02 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3315 Dr. Ali Khwaja, B.Tech. (IIT),MIE, MIIE and Ph.D in behavioral sciences, is a counselor, author, principal faculty, life skills coach, and most importantly a perpetual student. He is the author of 30 books and nearly 80 booklets. He is regularly invited by many prestigious and reputed Schools, Colleges, Universities, NGOs, Corporates and various other institutions for lectures, talks and workshops. He is an advocate of “go with the flow” philosophy and believes you should cherish each and every moment of life as it comes. “Mai akela hee chala tha, log aate gaye, karavaan banta gaya” and thus was born the Banjara Academy. There is a very interesting story behind the distinctive name “Banjara Academy” which you will hear in the podcast. The organization is selflessly helping individuals who seek guidance in child, adolescent, family, and interpersonal emotional issues since 1983 and believes in enriching the quality of people’s lives through empowerment. It is one of the few organizations from India to be granted full membership of the World Federation of Mental Health, with voting rights. For more details, I have given their website link in the links section. This short conversation with Dr. Ali has touched on a variety of topics and enlightened me on its way. I am sure you will also feel the same after listening to this podcast. Dr. Ali Khwaja, B.Tech. (IIT),MIE, MIIE and Ph.D in behavioral sciences, is a counselor, author, principal faculty, life skills coach, and most importantly a perpetual student. He is the author of 30 books and nearly 80 booklets. He is regularly invited b No 45 45 Deep on his mission to solve feminine hygiene issues through social entrepreneurship full 47116ac0-3814-484b-b95b-2ad156419dce https://share.transistor.fm/s/be4dafe1 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/deep

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]]> Fri, 25 Feb 2022 15:10:42 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2327 Deep Bajaj always had an inquisitive mind and an entrepreneurial brain which led him to venture into many businesses right from an early age. He has brought a number of innovative and India first products in the space of feminine hygiene. His company Sirona is now getting close to selling a million menstrual cups and more than 3 million peebuddies, the female urination device. He has won several ET awards, Fortune 40 Under 40, National Entrepreneurship award and Spirits of Manufacturing award. But above all, he is a successful social entrepreneur and a problem solver. The menstrual cups by Sirona are a revolution as they can replace millions of pads used over the years and provide multifold advantages of being sustainable, cost-effective and ease of use for women of all age groups. The fact that Deep and his team are out there to solve the menstrual hygiene issues which are often neglected is in itself highly commendable. I feel it is very fascinating that more and more men are now talking about feminine hygiene and striving towards solving these issues making a huge difference. Join me in spreading this wave of awareness to bring about a radical social change. Deep Bajaj always had an inquisitive mind and an entrepreneurial brain which led him to venture into many businesses right from an early age. He has brought a number of innovative and India first products in the space of feminine hygiene. His company Siro No 44 44 Pallavi on teaching Hindi and breaking the language barriers and bringing inclusivity for expats in India full b0e25461-d954-4719-8649-09cc88e02197 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9c1219d9 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/pallavi

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]]> Thu, 10 Feb 2022 23:01:42 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2845 Pallavi Singh, 31, is a BTech and Masters in Psychology by education but an innovative and passionate Hindi teacher by profession. In an India where the younger generation is fast forgetting their Hindi heritage, Pallavi is determined to keep it alive and to even spread it beyond the borders by teaching Hindi to foreigners. What started as a fun college project quickly escalated to a full-fledged career when Pallavi comprehended a gap between the practical requirement of foreign embassy & consulates members to learn Hindi and the existing methods available. Some of her more famous students are writers such as William Dalrymple and Bollywood actress Jacqueline Fernandes. What I thought would be a very academic conversation, actually turned out to be a fun yet profound one revolving around psychology, culture, curiosity (for the lack of an equivalent word for “jigyasa”) and their influence on a language. Join me to unravel some nuances of our beloved Hindi and many more interesting stories and incidents that Pallavi went through with her students, some funny while some insightful. P.S. When I asked her if she could recommend some of her favorite books to our audience, she said “Champak” and “Chandamama” 😊 It immediately took me to my sweet childhood memories and my face lit up with a smile. Does the same happen to you when you hear these names? Pallavi Singh, 31, is a BTech and Masters in Psychology by education but an innovative and passionate Hindi teacher by profession. In an India where the younger generation is fast forgetting their Hindi heritage, Pallavi is determined to keep it alive and hindi, language, psychology, culture No 43 43 Shalini on the journey of “why me” to “why not me” full cd592bb9-5192-4932-b8ab-4d86a09d0cc5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cdf9ef37 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/shalini

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]]> Thu, 27 Jan 2022 22:53:42 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3285 Shalini Gupta, 55, is a Masters in Economy from the University of Lucknow and a Doctorate in Management from IIM Ahmedabad. She has two daughters, Advika and Gayatri. Gayatri was blessed with neurodiversity called trisomy 21, loosely known as down syndrome. Shalini works extensively in the neurodiverse space, promoting social inclusion and social entrepreneurship. She is one of the founding members of The Art Sanctuary, which is a charitable trust set up in 2019 by trustees from varied fields such as design, music, and the corporate world which works towards skill - upgradation of persons with intellectual challenges so that they can be included in mainstream society. Shalini believes that raising a neurodiverse child can be a joyous journey and this conversation in itself is the proof of it. It is very heartening to listen to her talk about the various phases of her life along this journey from being a corporate logic driven person to accepting the challenges bought by Gayatri’s condition and taking the less-travelled paths of workshops and pranik healing for her; from being depressive to starting support groups and helping out those in the same boat. Her energy, honesty and positivity are very contagious. I am sure this conversation will leave you in good vibes as it did to me. Shalini Gupta, 55, is a Masters in Economy from the University of Lucknow and a Doctorate in Management from IIM Ahmedabad. She has two daughters, Advika and Gayatri. Gayatri was blessed with neurodiversity called trisomy 21, loosely known as down syndrom neurodiversity; down syndrome; positive attitude; why me; miracles; spirituality; self-belief No 42 42 Anshul Vohra on the Future of News full 1389a685-551a-403f-9554-768dd6214633 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a0a8579a https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/anshul

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]]> Sat, 15 Jan 2022 16:43:32 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2445 Anshul Vohra, 26, is the Founder of Newsline, India’s most consumable form of news, professionally curated, unbiased, relevant, byte sized 1/2 minute videos. And the singular thought behind this has been – if entertainment has moved to videos then why not news. This conversation also shows yet again that when individuals are not conditioned with limiting factors, they can deliver breakthrough ideas. There were three factors which stood out for me in this conversation – First is that the 80%+ of the team members in Newsline, including Anshul, have full time day jobs. Their contribution to Newsline is an initiative fuelled by their passion. The second is the team is very youthful and it is heartening to see that they have found News as an avenue to share their creativity and thirdly the culture of commitment, togetherness and purpose, which they create at Newsline is what sets them apart. Check out this conversation for learning more. Anshul Vohra, 26, is the Founder of Newsline, India’s most consumable form of news, professionally curated, unbiased, relevant, byte sized 1/2 minute videos. And the singular thought behind this has been – if entertainment has moved to videos then why not news, newsline No 41 41 Nisheeth Mehta on specially abled, social inclusion and employment full abbcdbed-6899-4292-9920-43d88fe52481 https://share.transistor.fm/s/48ce2887 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/nisheeth

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]]> Tue, 21 Dec 2021 00:11:14 +0530 HVJ HVJ 1410 Nisheeth Mehta, CEO of Microsign Products (a small/medium enterprise), doesn’t lead by example. He leads long before the example is even being thought about. Since mid 70s when his company was incorporated, he has had #specially-abled people in his workforce. What stands out is that all through this period, the majority of his workforce is specially abled – deaf/mute, mentally challenged and orthopaedically challenged. Out of 75 people he employs today, 40 people (on the shop floor) are specially abled. That’s close to 60%. His products go to top corporate houses and he too has to comply with stringent norms of safety and quality but Nisheeth simply says that it's always easier to work with specially abled people because they just don’t have the attitude to bypass any systems. Only the “normal” people need monitoring because they can take shortcuts for their selfishness. It's contradictory that those who were designed by the divine, perfect in body and mind fail and those who were flawed in some ways succeed – that is what Nisheeth’s industrial world shows us. I welcome all those who would like to bring Nisheeth’s experience to their business community to please reach out to me at hvj@hvj.coach Nisheeth Mehta, CEO of Microsign Products (a small/medium enterprise), doesn’t lead by example. He leads long before the example is even being thought about. Since mid 70s when his company was incorporated, he has had #specially-abled people in his workfo disability, specially-abled, equality, social inclusion, equal opportunities No 40 40 Suman, India’s PadWoman & Oscar Winner, on MHM, Men and Society full 0c29d80d-e3cc-45c8-9c3a-f8edf835d56f https://share.transistor.fm/s/c21e15d0 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/suman

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]]> Sat, 13 Nov 2021 16:52:07 +0530 HVJ HVJ 6056 Suman, 39, is known as the PadWoman of India. She is an Oscar winner (2019) for being the driving force behind the documentary “Period. End of Sentence”. Growing up in a simple and traditional household, whenever she asked her mother permission to do something beyond her scope, she was told to do it after marriage. Combined with the influence from “Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jaayenge” she thought she will get a blanket pass after marriage, to do anything she wanted. This notion came crashing down when she found that her new home doesn’t even have a kitchen, forget a bathroom. A home with 15 people living in two rooms, one of the rooms housed the home temple and the lady could not go to the other toom if she was menstruating. From bearing two kids at 20 years to setting up sanitary pad machines in her home to winning the Oscar and taking Hapur and India to a global stage, it shudders me to think of the will and effort required. This is a shining example of the untapped potential, a human being is blessed with. The only feeling which she could relate to when she got the Oscar was from the film “Roop Ki Rani, Choron Ka Raaja” in which Anil Kapoor and Sridevi are shown receiving an award. Watch/Hear this conversation to taste the lethal brew of unimaginable innocence with an indomitable will. This is a conversation in Hindi and I request each of you who read this, not only to share this with your family and friends, but also share the YouTube link (Sayali, can you link this here to the youtube link) with your domestic help/s and the larger household eco system you influence and are influenced by. The local language speaking heartland is where our shining gems are. As I end, I would like to share a few matters: - Suman’s success is possible because of the rock solid unconditional support and love of her husband. - In some parts of the conversation you would hear some household disturbance, please excuse that due to an exclusive space not being available to Suman. - She addressed me as Sir, that is embarrassing. Suman, 39, is known as the PadWoman of India. She is an Oscar winner (2019) for being the driving force behind the documentary “Period. End of Sentence”. Growing up in a simple and traditional household, whenever she asked her mother permission to do some Menstruation, hygiene, women health, women empowerment, padwoman, iron lady, oscar, No 39 39 Ramveer "Pondman of India" on Sensitivity towards Water full 3791ead0-a5db-4758-8b38-c8782b63d072 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9c7b06e3 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ramveer

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]]> Fri, 22 Oct 2021 02:05:14 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3857 Ramveer Tanwar, 28, popularly known as the Pondman of India, has resurrected 52 ponds savig about 1 billion litres of water per annum. He is the only one who studies beyond Grade 10 in his village and went on to complete his engineering. He was the youngest from his village to have a job in a MNC. His childhood days of grazing the cattle and memories of a clean pond in his village kept him on with his pond rejuvenation quest and while working, he spent about four hours visiting senior environmentalists and learning from them, in return doing their work gratis. He gave up his job to fulfil his yearning for clean ponds, he hid this fact from parents, eared money giving tuitions and went broke, returning to look for a job again. And it was at this turn that he was selected for an award and cash recognition of US $10K from Taiwan, towards appreciation of his work done towards water awareness. This gave him hope and he marched past all obstacles. He employs 15 people, runs his own NGO working with leading corporates to give life back to India’s water bodies, has been gloriously mentioned by PM Modi in Mann Ki Baat, and still maintains his rustic humility. Check out a podcast or watch him on the Small Big Wins YouTube channel, you will relish a story which is now fully revealed, a sweet aftertaste, admiration and much kindle. This is the starting of Hindi podcasts for me. I never knew I would pull it through. Watch out for more. Ramveer Tanwar, 28, popularly known as the Pondman of India, has resurrected 52 ponds savig about 1 billion litres of water per annum. He is the only one who studies beyond Grade 10 in his village and went on to complete his engineering. He was the younge No 38 38 Karishma – epitome of Here & Now full 90122b11-6467-404d-b59b-1fc177e87d42 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5594530b https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/karishma

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]]> Fri, 08 Oct 2021 12:13:59 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3833 Karishma, 29, has a condition called Down’s Syndrome. When I was introduced to Karishma, I was moved by the paintings (150 of her paitings have been sold for $75,000 and all proceeds have gone to charities) which her mother Kalpana, showed me. When I met Karishma and witnessed the exuberance she brought to life, I was wonderstruck. We all suffer from a major condition – that of worry and anxiety. This condition takes over our abilities so many times, causing myriad problems. Karishma is blessed to not possess this and live in the here & now, in spite of the physical and intellectual challenges which Down’s syndrome brings. It is paradoxical that being fully abled most of us limit ourselves whereas Karishma has taken herself to peak of her being. Her parents and sister and some other divine beings have embraced her to make her feel included without any conditions, bias or difference of treatment. What they have got in return from Karishma is much grander – to learn to live in here & now. Watch (unless you watch Karishma, you won’t feel included) this conversation to appreciate sacrifice, empathy, adaptability, inclusion and more than anything here & now. Karishma, 29, has a condition called Down’s Syndrome. When I was introduced to Karishma, I was moved by the paintings (150 of her paitings have been sold for $75,000 and all proceeds have gone to charities) which her mother Kalpana, showed me. When I sown syndrome, awareness, living in here and now, overcoming disability, helping others No 37 37 Ramji Raghavan on living a “higher ideal” full b628eef1-4c53-4061-a7ca-35cd02f2e26d https://share.transistor.fm/s/903f69b6 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ramji

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]]> Sat, 18 Sep 2021 22:01:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3687 It was a huge privilege to talk to Ramji Raghavan, Founder & Chairman of Agastya Foundation which operates close to 300 mobile labs, 75 science centres and 600 Operation Vasantha (working to bring school dropouts back into mainstream academic programs) centres in India to spark curiosity, nurture creativity and instill confidence in economically disadvantaged children and government schoolteachers. Theit crown jewel is the 172 acre lush green creativity campus in Kuppam near Bangalore. In this convo, Ramji talks about cauldron of competition in which he was caught up as an investment banker and the crunch time he witnessed to pick up a higher cause in life, his dual existence which swayed him between the mind and the intellect, how easily and deceptively we get caught up in words and how consciousness is not about cause & effect and how J. Krishnamurti and the Rishi Valley School helped him shape his thinking. This is a convo to enrich your thoughts and convey yet once more that when you take the leap towards good, good does follow you. It was a huge privilege to talk to Ramji Raghavan, Founder & Chairman of Agastya Foundation which operates close to 300 mobile labs, 75 science centres and 600 Operation Vasantha (working to bring school dropouts back into mainstream academic programs school, education, creativity, children, underprivileged children, school dropout, hostel life, school life No 36 36 Vineet on counting the extras, acceptance, and awards full 2e0a395a-ac3d-4751-a0f9-774155706d89 https://share.transistor.fm/s/36baa860 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/vineet

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]]> Thu, 02 Sep 2021 20:29:55 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2420 Vineet Saraiwala, 31, has a condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. This is a degenerative eye condition in which the eyesight deteriorates with the passage of time. He (and his brother who also has the same condition) found this at the age of 16. Vineet went on to qualify from IIM-Bangalore and work at a senior position in Future Group. His remarkable work on inclusion at Future Group has made the world better. He is now the founder of Atypicaladvantage, where his vision is to be able to generate 100 opportunities every single day for the specially-abled. Once you visit the site, I am so sure that you will be a contributor in some way or the other. Try it. I think Vineet is a true Karmayogi. He believes in total action and has found his way to not let his mind get disturbed. As I say that’s the 247 quality which we need 24/7. Each of us can be and must be an instrument of selfless service – that is the super-strong message I get from this conversation and the one with Dharmaraj. Vineet Saraiwala, 31, has a condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa. This is a degenerative eye condition in which the eyesight deteriorates with the passage of time. He (and his brother who also has the same condition) found this at the age of 16. Vineet w podcast, small big wins, disability, specially-abled, selfless, inspire, motivate, acceptance, mental strength No 35 35 Harshvardhan Joshi on his journey to scale the Everest full d891a2be-5231-4470-9106-124d87b05cc6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8ae9be9 https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/harshvardhan3

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]]> Sat, 14 Aug 2021 14:53:27 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2261 This is Part 3 and the final episode of the three series podcast with Harshvardhan Joshi. He scaled the Everest on May 23rd, 2021 and even after his absolutely stellar preparation, there were enough times when he was severely tested both physically and mentally. From the need to take a longer route and cover it in a shorter time, finding a borrowed tent on the way up because his tent was blown away, facing winds at 100kmph and contracting Covid-19 after he had completed the acclimatization drill of going over to Camp 1-2-3 and back to the Everest Base Camp, he was still at the Peak and with amazing display of confidence and conviction. What carried him through this arduous journey were his discipline, discernment, taking one day at a time and never caring about the result. Watch this episode for all of this, for if we learn & improve even a bit, we contribute in raising humanity to a level higher. This is Part 3 and the final episode of the three series podcast with Harshvardhan Joshi. He scaled the Everest on May 23rd, 2021 and even after his absolutely stellar preparation, there were enough times when he was severely tested both physically and me covid, covid19, mount everest, mountains, trek, travel, passion, youth, perseverance, determination, apple, google, spotify, climb to everest, scaling mount everest, how I scaled Everest despite covid19 No 34 34 Dharmaraj on Volunteering full 4f686c1b-2f4d-42c2-b910-db47a58bf408 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0341c4c sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/dharmaraj

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]]> Sun, 01 Aug 2021 01:28:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4998 Dharmaraj Solanki, 30, works with the India Welfare Trust, an organisation that promotes citizenship, philanthropy and volunteering in India. Volunteering has been a major part of Dharmaraj’s life right from a very young age. It is therefore no coincidence that he personifies the wonderful meaning of his name – Dharmaraj. The opening word of the Celestial Song, Bhagwad Gita is “Dharmakshetra” – and Dharmaraj is leading the way of Dharma with every Karma. Dharmaraj’s contagious smiles throughout the conversation reminds me of what “Little Prince” Author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry “Care granted to the sick, welcome offered to the banished, forgiveness itself are worth nothing without a smile enlightening the deed.” Perhaps that is exactly why he says his name is as good as his job description – that’s a powerful thought to live by. Why is it important to read the scriptures, what is faith vacuum, why is non-clinical mental health so prevalent, how volunteering helps you overcome the most difficult challenges of life, and why he prefers to be in a BE-school rather than a B-school – tune into this convo to enrich your BE-ing. Dharmaraj Solanki, 30, works with the India Welfare Trust, an organisation that promotes citizenship, philanthropy and volunteering in India. Volunteering has been a major part of Dharmaraj’s life right from a very young age. It is therefore no coincidenc No 33 33 Pawani on Mental Health, Parents and Gratitude full ddec8d8f-79cc-4b54-aefc-e19d043f7772 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd9f27b7 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/pawani

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]]> Fri, 16 Jul 2021 22:37:33 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3616 Pawani Khandelwal, 26, is the Founder & CEO of Atmanirbhar, which is a hugely laudable initiative to build one of the basic foundations of women empowerment – mobility. Pawani and her team have done this in all earnestness; it deserves training more than 9000 women so far to drive a scooty. She lives in Mathura with her parents and brother. Behind the exuberant, cheerful and chirpy Pawani, is another Pawani. This is the Pawani who has faced mental health issues and panic attacks since the age of 17. From her journey so far, she shares insightful tips on how to deal with mental health problems but more importantly, she opens up about the stories of her travels and triumphs in this period. How she dealt with anxiety and panic attacks, the role her parents played and how the small everyday wins became important to amass courage and conviction. There are many questions one doesn’t find answers to – and yet how important it is to still live with those questions. If you face this dilemma, watch this episode. Yes, you could watch it, this is the first Small Big Wins episode fully on video too. Pawani Khandelwal, 26, is the Founder & CEO of Atmanirbhar, which is a hugely laudable initiative to build one of the basic foundations of women empowerment – mobility. Pawani and her team have done this in all earnestness; it deserves training more t No 32 32 Shubham on Starting early in life, Crop waste and a World of tree-free products full aeb9c5e9-57ff-4a0d-a57d-8ff437557a09 https://share.transistor.fm/s/38bc42b0 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/shubham

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]]> Fri, 02 Jul 2021 18:51:19 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2936 Every year crop burning releases 150 million tonnes of CO2 in India. The solution: Crop residue based products. Meet Shubham Singh, 29, is the Founder & CEO of Craste. The word Craste is a combination of “Crop Waste”. Shubham has pioneered a path breaking technology to convert crop waste into pulp and engineered boards. His sojourns in different parts of India, particularly the north, gave him an insight into the insurmountable problem of crop waste and then started the journey of his company Craste, which has set up a proprietary process for separating the three main components from crop waste which are - cellulose, lignin and hemi cellulose. He says reduce-recycle-reuse is no longer enough, we have to put waste to work. He wants to see a world with tree-free products, so that the dependence is only on living trees not cutting them. His company’s vision is zero inorganic waste and mind you it is not as a company goal but for the environment as a whole. That is one of the most audacious visions I have come across. You can find more on him at craste.co. Shubham comes from Morena, a small town in Madhya Pradesh. At 19, he found a non-profit called “Gramiksha”, which is going to celebrate 10 successful years of making an impact. Catch the story behind all this, Shubham’s view on networking and our discussion of the two axioms propounded by James H Austin. Every year crop burning releases 150 million tonnes of CO2 in India. The solution: Crop residue based products. Meet Shubham Singh, 29, is the Founder & CEO of Craste. The word Craste is a combination of “Crop Waste”. Shubham has pioneered a path No 31 31 Mayur on “Inefficacy in last mile delivery of vaccines, Incremental innovation and not getting lured” full ebcee933-ef62-40be-8d78-2ce6d91fca60 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4fbff1ab sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/mayur

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]]> Sat, 12 Jun 2021 23:53:44 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2372 Mayur Shetty, 28, and his co-founders have solved a crucial logistical problem plaguing the entire world for last mile delivery of vaccines and biologicals, through their first patented product called the Emvolio. The Immunization Technical Support Unit (ITSU) of Health Ministry (Govt. of India) claims around 25% of all vaccines go to waste due to poor cold-chain management. Ice-based products and technologies exposing vaccines to sub-zero temperatures is potentially endemic. A recent study found that ~65% of vaccine vials showed evidence of freezing in vaccine stores and peripheral health facilities across 10 states in India. Hear this conversation for the simple, down to earth approach of Mayur, dealing life with stoic, and wonderment of how individualised action and chance come together. This story reinforces that when one takes initiative, the providence comes to support in various ways. Mayur’s gratitude to the Government of India is noteworthy as he says “I don't think I would be here unless the Government of India decided on throwing the taxpayers money in our direction and telling us to make it work. If it doesn't work, it's okay. We will not put you in a debt trap. And that's the kind of faith I think we need in technology entrepreneurs, because we cannot raise venture capital funds with just an idea or a proposal”. Mayur Shetty, 28, and his co-founders have solved a crucial logistical problem plaguing the entire world for last mile delivery of vaccines and biologicals, through their first patented product called the Emvolio. The Immunization Technical Support Unit ( No 30 30 Jigyasa on underprivileged children, de-prioritisation of artistic expressions & slamming out loud full 429646da-f576-40af-ad7f-da613cc8afb1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6cc425ae sbw.hvj.coach/epsiodes/jigyasa

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]]> Sun, 30 May 2021 10:24:21 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3190 Jigyasa, 29, is a Teach for India fellow and the Founder & CEO of Slam Out Loud, whose work has impacted 50,000 under privileged children by helping them find artistic expression by unravelling their inner voice and helping them find creative confidence. In English, her name would mean curiosity but in Hindi, her name conveys a deep internal yearning to demystify, which she is attempting her best to. Jigyasa actually starts this podcast by interviewing me but more importantly this podcast was very therapeutic for me for the way it flowed. I ended up speaking a lot more in the podcast than a host would do. I have done the least amount of edits to leave it as close to the flow it was in the original conversation. I also identify with the conversation because I have seen my elder sister suppressing her artistic expressions well into her adult life. I hope as a society, we will do all what it takes to not let this happen, at least with those around us. Jigyasa, 29, is a Teach for India fellow and the Founder & CEO of Slam Out Loud, whose work has impacted 50,000 under privileged children by helping them find artistic expression by unravelling their inner voice and helping them find creative confiden No 29 29 Ajinkya on Imagination, Providence and “Men” in Menstruation full e07b3166-fb7a-4cc0-9570-da3bb20b08ff https://share.transistor.fm/s/69d3e368 sbw.hvj.coach/episode/ajinkya

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]]> Thu, 13 May 2021 22:12:39 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3825 Being able to come out of the comfort zone in-spite of having the comfort of a supportive family, possessing good academic qualifications and the lure of peer pressure, Ajinkya chose to take the path less travelled. (It is this chemistry leading to such choices, which draws me to host Small Big Wins). The result is a patent pending technology, which has the ability to solve an impending and a not so obvious but mammoth environmental problem of sanitary pads disposal. And this is the first such technology in the world. Between the recording and release of this podcast, Ajinkya has been recognised as a Forbes 30U30 leader. Listen to this conversation to know a bit deeper about the nonchalant Ajinkya – his relationship with pen & paper, his simple takes on conviction and culture, and how providence has helped him to get where he is. Being able to come out of the comfort zone in-spite of having the comfort of a supportive family, possessing good academic qualifications and the lure of peer pressure, Ajinkya chose to take the path less travelled. (It is this chemistry leading to such c No 28 28 My conversation with Harshvardhan Joshi on Everest Base Camp full 5b361e16-c278-4c75-bf0d-d694084ab207 https://share.transistor.fm/s/34d719c6 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/harshvardhan2

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]]> Fri, 30 Apr 2021 22:43:55 +0530 HVJ HVJ 1201 The earlier episode with Harshvardhan was released on 14th Feb 2021. In some way that episode also changed my life as I decided to go to Everest Base Camp accompanying Harshvardhan, who is continuing further to get to the highest point on earth – Mount Everest. I experienced nature at its pristine and at its might – an experience of the subtle and gross simultaneously. Intellectually, I knew that when I leave this world, there is nothing to take. But in front of these mountains, I was already reduced to just being with a backpack with some basics. A week later on the 21st, I lost my father. The message was even drilling deeper. Listen to this short 15 minute convo for understanding how Harshvardhan focuses on intangibles (relationships, equations..) as much as he focuses on tangibles (gear & equipment). How he reflects as a figure of equanimity but doesn’t deter a bit to hide his vulnerability. How he recognises the tremendous but not enough spoken contribution of the Sherpa community. And how he wants his experience to help people do what they want to do more passionately. The earlier episode with Harshvardhan was released on 14th Feb 2021. In some way that episode also changed my life as I decided to go to Everest Base Camp accompanying Harshvardhan, who is continuing further to get to the highest point on earth – Mount Ev No 27 27 Meet Richa & Vaibhav on the making of “Maker’s Asylum” full ef09ae0f-b949-4625-9d8a-f3c36a1ee609 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4aaddd90 sbw.hvj.coach/makersasylum

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]]> Sat, 17 Apr 2021 19:49:33 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4019 Vaibhav started on the journey of creating Maker’s Asylum somewhere in 2013-14 and Richa joined him later in this journey. Maker’s Asylum is India’s first creative community space housing various co- located labs to facilitate prototyping of interdisciplinary ideas to foster innovation, through hands-on learning. They say this is a community of unlike minded, thinkers, artists, and engineers. For example, at the start of the pandemic, Maker’s Asylum turned into a PPE factory, making a million shields across India in 49 days calling it the M 19 project. Vaibhav started on the journey of creating Maker’s Asylum somewhere in 2013-14 and Richa joined him later in this journey. Maker’s Asylum is India’s first creative community space housing various co- located labs to facilitate prototyping of interdiscipli No 26 26 Dr Gauri Rokkam on Whole Plant Based Diet full 616a336a-2992-49ef-a360-2a1b4a77b686 https://share.transistor.fm/s/417b69a0 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/gauri

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]]> Thu, 01 Apr 2021 23:12:31 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3840 It all starts from the gut. That’s why intuition also comes from “gut-feeling”. And it takes guts to have the right gut. Dr. Gauri Rokkam is a doctorate in yogic and life sciences and masters in food and nutrition. She's a nature cure therapist. a yoga instructor, lactation consultant, sports nutritionist and trained in yogic management of back pain. Her research work on fresh coconut was the first ever and was funded by the Indian Government. It went on to prove that the humble coconut is after all innocent. Amongst her many activities in holistic health she offers a custom built holistic nutrition training and internship program, and has a signature healing program with a client base of more than 1000 people. She says if a food does not have a nutrition label, it is the best, it is healthy. And the more detailed the nutrition label is, she advices to stay away from it. We converse about whole plant based diets, the importance of fibre, the interconnection between lifestyle diseases, the pill popping culture and the hyped proteins – if these are important for you, go ahead and listen to this convo? It all starts from the gut. That’s why intuition also comes from “gut-feeling”. And it takes guts to have the right gut. Dr. Gauri Rokkam is a doctorate in yogic and life sciences and masters in food and nutrition. She's a nature cure therapist. a yoga i No 25 25 Salman on Polymath-ism, Serendipity and Writing full 73d380f8-77fd-48df-92ca-402bfad69e09 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d01f2993 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/salman

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]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2021 12:19:03 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4604 Salman Ansari, 35, is the author of a weekly newsletter called “Quick Brown Fox”. He decided to do this after having many other options to pursue because he could ask himself “If I get to the end of my life and I survived it but didn’t live it, what worth has it been”. And what strikes from his work or this conversation is the fact that he treads this journey with complete authenticity. He talks about his self-doubt and difficulties and also shares what he does to keep it going. His twitter handle doesn’t have his name, but speaks of what he is about @daretorant and he stays true to that not in an external focused, rebellious manner but in a manner which resonates with his internal self. Salman has resisted the common ground and the common urge of just going out there and doing the usual stuff which people his age would generally chose to do. And that is why this conversation was elevating. He has taken the plunge to give narrative to his inner expression by exploring the creativity within. Salman Ansari, 35, is the author of a weekly newsletter called “Quick Brown Fox”. He decided to do this after having many other options to pursue because he could ask himself “If I get to the end of my life and I survived it but didn’t live it, what worth No 24 24 Harshvardhan on the Alignment of Intention & Actions, Sustainability and Mountaineering full 3c767222-8c88-4b25-9f1e-2268a709c19d https://share.transistor.fm/s/aaf04fc5 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/harshvardhan

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]]> Sun, 28 Feb 2021 17:01:54 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4233 One is always in awe of someone who has scaled the Everest and the awe is greater when you see a journey of preparation which comes out of choice amidst other enticing options. And it’s not that Harsh has been a man of means. What does it take to do this? The credibility that he has built for himself backed by his arduous preparation has inspired many to come together to contribute towards the expenses of this audacious expedition. Such individuals are trailblazers and that’s what Harsh is. He has already been part of 40 expeditions out of which 20+ are ultra-high altitude (excess of 20,000 feet) and from April 1, 2021, he will start his journey to scale the Everest using 100% of the power requirement during the climb from solar. When Harsh talks about how he completed an unofficial solo-triathlon treating it like a long training day, using the lakes near Mumbai and the Ahmedabad-Mumbai Highway in a temperature of 40oC, one can only appreciate the extent he is going to convey a larger message of purpose, passion and sustainability. When I hear him speak about what the mountains teach us and yet how he over thinks about the future, I relate to his calm and confusion. It just goes on to tell that Harsh is just another guy like all of us and like him we also have the possibility to chase something unchaseable. Hear this convo for what the mountains teach us and maybe you also want to accept Harsh’s offer to join him till the Everest Base Camp in April 2021. I didn’t blink an eye to latch on to that offer. This is an unedited conversation because there are times when unedited conveys more than the edited does. We will follow up on this convo now from EBC. One is always in awe of someone who has scaled the Everest and the awe is greater when you see a journey of preparation which comes out of choice amidst other enticing options. And it’s not that Harsh has been a man of means. What does it take to do this? No 23 23 Manoj on the uniqueness of Social Alpha, Entrepreneurs and Entrepreurism full 7df5263d-bf86-4fec-bb01-fe4952de2f0f https://share.transistor.fm/s/7c9cdf7e https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/manoj

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]]> Thu, 25 Feb 2021 17:53:36 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3368 Manoj is the Founder of Social Alpha, a unique initiative to strengthen the Science and Technology start-up ecosystem in India with a focus on “lab to market” enablement to support mission driven entrepreneurs. He is also a senior advisor to Tata Trusts and leads their engagement with research and development institutions globally. In this podcast Manoj talks to us about why Social Alpha has created a distinct uniqueness in supporting social start-ups and what all went behind making that happen. He is candid in telling us how he changed as a person once he started working with social start-ups and shares some fine success stories and also his advice to first time entrepreneurs. As s Senior Adviser to Tata Trusts, he opens up to tell us how charity and philanthropy differ from building institutions and what he thinks is the most important lesson he learnt from Mr. Ratan Tata. Manoj is the Founder of Social Alpha, a unique initiative to strengthen the Science and Technology start-up ecosystem in India with a focus on “lab to market” enablement to support mission driven entrepreneurs. He is also a senior advisor to Tata Trusts a No 22 22 Prashant on Purpose, Giving back and Prosthetic Arms full 0235045a-f60b-4c24-91a1-ae22e0dce7d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/de0392ce sbw.hvj.coach/episode/prashantg

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]]> Wed, 27 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2728 Prashant Gade, 28, is someone who at 12, saw his Grandpa pass away and asked his mother, “Why isn’t Grandpa taking along some clothes and some other stuff with him?”. Later in college, he was aghast when all his engineering dreams were shattered. One year ago, he had fixed a prosthetic arm for a lady who broke down in tears telling him that she will now be able to comb her daughter’s hair. Perhaps these three incidences over a 16 year span, answered his question – “What is the purpose of life?” My own personal moment from the conversation came when I asked Prashant, “How does one keep carrying on with so much conviction”? and he shot back “Don’t have a Plan B”. That is the quickest and most courageous advice I have ever received. No wonder Mahatma Gandhi said “Achievement is possible only when emotions run beyond reason”. And Prashant is a living example of that. Hear this episode for a conversation which will help you meta-think on how to think about life, what is clarity and why questioning to self is probably the most important of all. Prashant Gade, 28, is someone who at 12, saw his Grandpa pass away and asked his mother, “Why isn’t Grandpa taking along some clothes and some other stuff with him?”. Later in college, he was aghast when all his engineering dreams were shattered. One year No 21 21 VOCTRONICA on “Music out of thin air” full a019cf7d-6695-4020-bb6f-c83855b4deff https://share.transistor.fm/s/271a1277 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/voctronica

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]]> Fri, 01 Jan 2021 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3330 Often in life, we look at products, we watch a movie or we hear some music, for us it’s just that few minutes/few hours. But there’s always so much story behind the story. This is a conversation with VOCTRONICA, India’s first all vocal ensemble. (And it dawned on me that it is not only manufacturing which can boast about “Made in India” or “Make in India”.) Yes, all vocal – not even snaps and foot taps. Anyone who’s interested to see the potential of human voice or how people can think like musical instruments, must listen to this conversation. Often in life, we look at products, we watch a movie or we hear some music, for us it’s just that few minutes/few hours. But there’s always so much story behind the story. This is a conversation with VOCTRONICA, India’s first all vocal ensemble. (And it d No 20 20 Prashant on Bamboo, Misgivings & Unwavering Conviction full 8b0aa89e-2d51-4a28-bdff-4d16585f0bd5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/05a5ab67 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/prashant

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]]> Sun, 20 Dec 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4924 Prashant, 45, doesn’t mince words when he says he is a Leftist. And when you understand where he’s coming from, what he has seen, what he is doing, you would think about it...seriously. It’s impossible to conceive how one life can have so many misgivings, so many rejections, so many dejections and still someone could face it all and establish a social business which impacts thousands of lives and has the potential to make bamboo a full-fledged industrial activity for the country. When you feel low and feel hopeless, when you feel “why does it happen to me”, hear this podcast and I guarantee you will have the spring back in your feet. Prashant and his family have faced innumerable and unsurmountable ordeals and have achieved their dreams. They had no formal education and knowledge of the subject, all they had was mad love for bamboo. Prashant, 45, doesn’t mince words when he says he is a Leftist. And when you understand where he’s coming from, what he has seen, what he is doing, you would think about it...seriously. It’s impossible to conceive how one life can have so many misgivings, No 19 19 Hunny on Observation, Innovation and Visual Impairment full d1b1e47e-e1e8-41b3-8844-6824d714c19e https://sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/hunny sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/hunny

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]]> Sun, 29 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 1187 Hunny Bhagchandani, 25, brings such simplicity and humility to his work, that it makes me look up and think whether “Saarthi” is really an innovation, does it really make a difference to the world of the visually impaired. “Saarthi” has changed the lives of 50,000 visually impaired people and is manufactured & marketed by visually impaired people, and has enabled its own stories of micro-entrepreneurship. His perseverance is undoubtedly at the forefront, but what goes unnoticed is his sacrifice. I think it is rare to find a youth gold medallist, who is so nonchalant about his work, service and contribution. The visually impaired probably suffer the most amongst us, both with mobility and education. Hunny and his team have addressed the mobility issue, and now we very keenly await their audio e-braille initiative and e-braille keyboard. The former will help convert every e-book or e-document to an audio format, and the latter will help them operate smart phones with so much more ease thus enabling them to be independent in far more ways. This will further enhance the possibilities life brings for the visually impaired. Hunny Bhagchandani, 25, brings such simplicity and humility to his work, that it makes me look up and think whether “Saarthi” is really an innovation, does it really make a difference to the world of the visually impaired. “Saarthi” has changed the lives No 18 18 Kesava on Risk Taking, Technology and Education full b4eb2948-d91c-42db-b515-b4372ac92c01 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8a965a66 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/kesava

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]]> Sun, 08 Nov 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 4022 Kesava Kirupa Dinakaran, 20, is an example of risk taking and giving it all fearlessly yet being completely open to vulnerabilities. His journey with Rubik’s cube is a perfect example of setting the Butterfly Effect in motion. His cycling journey conveys determination and doggedness. His choosing not to go to college brings to us hope to travel more, the path less travelled. His gratitude to friends and family shows his warmth and connectedness. He talks with enthusiasm about his start up and the vision he has for it, he knows that the purpose of his life is much larger and the canvas he needs to paint is much grander. Looking at all what he has already packed in his life, when I ended the conversation, I could just tell him these beautiful lines by Kipling “If you can fill the unforgiving minute with 60 seconds worth of distance run, yours is the Earth and everything that's in it”. Kesava Kirupa Dinakaran, 20, is an example of risk taking and giving it all fearlessly yet being completely open to vulnerabilities. His journey with Rubik’s cube is a perfect example of setting the Butterfly Effect in motion. His cycling journey conveys No 17 17 Viraj on Quantum Physics, Upanishads & Artificial Intelligence full 1dd6cda7-56c1-404a-927a-534df1950334 https://share.transistor.fm/s/53a389af sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/viraj

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]]> Sun, 25 Oct 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3031 Viraj, 32, addresses questions related to computational theory with the same ease as he can address questions related to consciousness. He is a computer scientist deep diving into machine learning and quantum computing. He has a decade's experience in solving real-world problems using machine learning, neural networks, time series forecasting, natural language processing, computer vision, and mathematical optimization and in his professional pursuit he manages a team of data scientists and engineers for diagnosing medical conditions from X-ray, MRI, and CT scans. The extraordinary part about him is his interest and study of Philosophy which not only includes the Upanishads but also great masters such as Ramana Maharishi and Seneca amongst others. This combination of outer and inner science brings a unique ability in him to look at the mystery and meaning of life. His book “Her Journey Within” was rated #1 in the spiritual fiction category on amazon.in and is available as a free download. Viraj, 32, addresses questions related to computational theory with the same ease as he can address questions related to consciousness. He is a computer scientist deep diving into machine learning and quantum computing. He has a decade's experience in sol No 16 16 Palak on Storytelling, Writing & Women full b33b6f51-1698-46b8-9dc5-274657261ba1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ea117e36 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/palak

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]]> Sun, 11 Oct 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3892 Palak, 25, is a writer, a sleep deprived writer and a copywriter. She is a storyteller who can identify with problems and opportunities only through the medium of stories. She is now close to learning the seventh language. Her projects are artistic, sensitive, aesthetic and are aimed to solve a problem. Along with her partner, she conceived the idea of Amazon Alexa, being able to recite interactive stories (under beta now) to kids, so that girls in particular aren’t stereotyped to only become princesses. Her work with TTT (Terribly Tiny Tales) speaks of her being able to convey the communication in precise and concise ways. Her work for the promotion of the movie “Lipstick under my Burkha” or her poem “Fragile” will convince you that she has her soul in her writing. Her project “Blackout the Hate” will show you that it’s easy to find light, only you have to be willing. You will be enriched looking at her creative website but more so you would want to visit it again to relook at the beautiful meanings of Tuko Pamoja (Swahili) or Goya (Urdu) or Shemomechama (Georgian) and you will certainly be tempted to look at the work behind the word. Palak, 25, is a writer, a sleep deprived writer and a copywriter. She is a storyteller who can identify with problems and opportunities only through the medium of stories. She is now close to learning the seventh language. Her projects are artistic, sensi No 15 15 Kunal on By-products, Green Chemistry and Culture full 58f0d61a-bf58-48d6-bc2c-9901ce4089ed https://share.transistor.fm/s/4b732805 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/kunal

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]]> Mon, 28 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3201 Kunal, 33, is India’s first and only manufacturer of Natural Vitamin E. He has mastered the production process after painstaking R&D efforts and the success is visible over the last six years wherein his production capacity expanded by six times and business turnover by fifty times. His quest with working on industry by-products which were being exported from India and then being used all over the world for manufacturing value added products, lead him to the discovery that there is no manufacturer of Natural Vitamin E in India. After his toil over the years to produce Natural vitamin E on a commercial scale, he has commissioned 20% of the world’s Vitamin E production in Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India. Along with this his company produces Phytosterol and is also one of the sizeable manufacturers of bio-diesel. He humbly passes on the credit to his team and his company name – Matrix Fine Sciences – is a reflection of his belief that creation of a great business entails so much chemistry in the matrix of people. Kunal, 33, is India’s first and only manufacturer of Natural Vitamin E. He has mastered the production process after painstaking R&D efforts and the success is visible over the last six years wherein his production capacity expanded by six times and b No 14 14 Paras on Plastic Waste, Recycling and Entrepreneurism full d21cd518-3946-468e-aee3-5066ab49f784 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fffdd0b1 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/paras

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]]> Sun, 13 Sep 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2831 Paras, 34, worked for more than a decade in his family business. All through his growing up, the obsession with hygiene and cleanliness persisted. His different travels brought back the same issues in the forefront and somewhere in 2015, he decided to do something about it. This led him to make tiles and paver blocks from plastic waste. Interestingly, this process requires upcycling of plastic, which means that these tiles and paver blocks are recyclable and will never end up in the landfill. Though a commerce graduate, he learnt the chemistry about plastics and ended up becoming the first technology holder from National physical Laboratory, India. A simple man with an impactful dream, indeed Paras has been a Parasmani – the stone which converts the base plastic into recyclable tiles. Paras, 34, worked for more than a decade in his family business. All through his growing up, the obsession with hygiene and cleanliness persisted. His different travels brought back the same issues in the forefront and somewhere in 2015, he decided to do No 13 13 Kartik on Machine Building, Decentralization and Hardware Startups full 1ac0da30-1a23-4454-8e70-ca925c012e50 https://share.transistor.fm/s/07139819 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/kartik

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]]> Sat, 29 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3258 Kartik, 30, is founded Saral Designs, along with Suhani. Kartik’s passion for building machines and Suhani’s knowledge about the menstruation space merged well into their common longing of solving a mostly unspoken problem for women, which is mostly unspoken. The result was the creation of a machine called “Swachh” which produces ultra-thin high quality sanitary pads on indigenous equipment which run at about 1/30th the speed of modern imported machines but cost 1/100th. Not only are close to 40 of their machines now running in different parts of the country and many more on the way, but the COVID 19 crisis gave Kartik and his team the opportunity to manufacture masks on the same machines. In this process, they are not only creating well-being for women, they are creating entrepreneurs and employment. Kartik, 30, is founded Saral Designs, along with Suhani. Kartik’s passion for building machines and Suhani’s knowledge about the menstruation space merged well into their common longing of solving a mostly unspoken problem for women, which is mostly unspo No 12 12 Abhishek on Vulnerability, Money and Idea-boundedness full 155bbe14-17cc-47cf-bfa5-9703b57be7c5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9527590a sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/abhishek

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]]> Fri, 14 Aug 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 6560 Abhishek Gupta, 28, is the founder of NavGurukul, along with his co-founder Rishabh Verma. They were listed in the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30. Abhishek is a graduate from IIT Delhi. In this episode, he speaks to us in-depth about his journey, the philosophy behind NavGurukul and hisvarious encounters with vulnerability right since childhood. He almost turns every question ofmine upside down and presents an insight which ordinarily, would be unthinkable. He talks about how being idea-bound affects his relationships adversely and yet each time he picks himself up and marches ahead. From not using fan or ACs irrespective of the weather, bathing with cold water wherever he may be and maintaining just three sets of clothes, he profoundly goes on to talk about his relationship with money and how he would grow kids, leaving us wonder, why we haven’t thought about it yet. It is all this coming together which makes NavGurukul so unique for all its inmates. The world thinks NavGurukul is creating coders, the fact is that they are reconstructing lives and while they also develop coders. Abhishek Gupta, 28, is the founder of NavGurukul, along with his co-founder Rishabh Verma. They were listed in the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30. Abhishek is a graduate from IIT Delhi. In this episode, he speaks to us in-depth about his journey, the philosophy No 11 11 Sheraz on Blockchain, Cryptocurrency and the Change that ensues full baddb431-3648-443e-bfd9-453b8470b64c https://share.transistor.fm/s/4aeda717 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/sheraz

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]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3366 Experienced with an insightful understanding of Blockchain Technology, Sheraz, 25, is advising various start-ups on the implementation of modern practices to further their objectives. His initial leap into the digital realm, started with his role as Marketing Lead of Smart Valor, the Swiss-based blockchain start-up set to build a decentralized marketplace for tokenized alternative investments. Alongside his current commitments to Katarina, he is an Advisor to Jur, a leading legal tech start-up pursuing the vision of creating a decentralized legal ecosystem. He also advises Yoke Network, the revolutionary influencer driven marketing platform. Additionally, Sheraz drives growth, collaboration and integrity across the global blockchain economy through his role as Head of Business Development at the Crypto Valley Association. Experienced with an insightful understanding of Blockchain Technology, Sheraz, 25, is advising various start-ups on the implementation of modern practices to further their objectives. His initial leap into the digital realm, started with his role as Marke No 10 10 Kevin on Gaming, Winning & Awareness full eca5d103-33aa-4c6d-ad67-79c6139f1805 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1167d387 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/kevin

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]]> Tue, 14 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2534 Kevin, 31, got hooked on to video games when he was 4 years. When he was 15 he was playing video games professionally and at 26, he quit the professional video gaming world, proceeding to pursue a degree in Computer Science. Kevin’s personal experience about professional gaming, how it helps grow the brain, how it helps you understand and appreciated diversity, how it makes you mentally strong provide us with valuable insights. Kevin’s gaming story paves the way for parents to understand that video games need not be shunned. They can be as or even more worthwhile than chess, piano or karate, for that matter. What matters is helping one channelize the energies towards strengths. And what more, you could get some really cool followers on Twitter, helping you later to give a wing to your dreams. Kevin, 31, got hooked on to video games when he was 4 years. When he was 15 he was playing video games professionally and at 26, he quit the professional video gaming world, proceeding to pursue a degree in Computer Science. Kevin’s personal experience ab No 9 9 Jahan on Cannabis, Bureaucracy & Friendship full 9df3966b-ef52-4ae2-94b1-32bdd0f468d5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e2dd619b sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/jahan

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]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 6960 Jahan, 30, and his other six co-founders - whom I fondly refer to as Saptarishi - createdBOHECO or The BOmbay HEmp COmpany. They are India’s first Hemp company with a mission to provide all what it needs for India to become a major producer of Hemp. Industrial Hemp will change the not only the agricultural landscape of India but also spur entrepreneur-ism from bottom up. It is a major source of nutrition, textiles, medicinal uses and BOHECO spearheads several other important researches in the areas of replacing synthetic plastic with hemp,conventional bricks with hempcrete and also finding a hemp substitute for graphene. Their seed bank already has 350 varieties of Hemp seeds mapped and are adding at least 50 every year. BOHECO is not only unique because of its product, vision and legacy it wants to leave, but it is also a company which epitomizes the power of friendship, for it is a company conceived,created and managed by seven friends who thought about this in college. Jahan was featured in the Forbes 30 Under 30 in 2018. The co-founders have also been awarded through the Ashoka Foundation, INK and Rajeev Circle fellowships. Jahan, 30, and his other six co-founders - whom I fondly refer to as Saptarishi - createdBOHECO or The BOmbay HEmp COmpany. They are India’s first Hemp company with a mission to provide all what it needs for India to become a major producer of Hemp. Indus No 8 8 Shuvi on Founders, Leaders and Non-Transactional Relationships full a7ea262a-75c5-4564-9746-b9d88e8a870a https://share.transistor.fm/s/a51f81e8 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/shuvi

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]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3993 Shuvi, 28, is a product of IIT Delhi, having done Production & Industrial Engineering. She is now part of the Lightspeed India Partners Team focussing on Internet first and consumer fintech investing. Shuvi has recently been listed in Forbes 30 under 30. She describes herself as a founder who didn't get to the product market fit and therefore understands the psychological price of entrepreneurship. This perhaps is the craft she brings to venture and that is why in the world of early stage investing, she calls herself part therapist, part coach and always on the side of those who chase purpose and break protocol. Shuvi, 28, is a product of IIT Delhi, having done Production & Industrial Engineering. She is now part of the Lightspeed India Partners Team focussing on Internet first and consumer fintech investing. Shuvi has recently been listed in Forbes 30 under No 7 7 Rajlaxmi on Positive Psychology, Design and Multiple Roles full d24258dd-a25f-4ffd-b254-90f92f6cf390 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bf175303 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/rajlaxmi

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]]> Sun, 31 May 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3828 Rajlaxmi, 24, did her Majors in Finance in Kolkata and that is when she questioned herself as to why she was doing what she was doing. That reflection brought awareness and she changed track without any ado moving into the vast space of Design by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Design for Visual Communication from London College of Communication, London, followed by Masters of Professional Studies in Communication Design (with a concentration in Digital Product Design) Parsons School of Design, New York. In this journey, her college project, “One Mindful Mind” went on to receive more than 15 highly prestigious international awards including two Cannes Lions. Listen to this podcast for Rajlaxmi’s journey and the magic woven by “One Mindful Mind” on children and parents alike. Rajlaxmi, 24, did her Majors in Finance in Kolkata and that is when she questioned herself as to why she was doing what she was doing. That reflection brought awareness and she changed track without any ado moving into the vast space of Design by pursuing No 6 6 Ankit on environment, risk taking, and women empowerment full aa19776e-42fa-4589-a27b-bd9b29d2d39b https://share.transistor.fm/s/196c23a6 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ankit

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]]> Wed, 13 May 2020 08:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3094 Ankit, 30, is the founder of Phool. Phool started with preparing charcoal free incense sticks (agarbattis) from waste flowers and has progressed in making two more revolutionary products. The first is Florafoam, which is a decomposable thermocole substitute and the second is Fleather, which is a breathable non-animal leather. These products once scaled up, will have a massive contribution in protecting green landmass, saving water resources and reducing carbon emissions. Ankit’s aim is to employ 5000 women from the lowest stratas of society and give them meaningful lives. Ankit is one of the seventeen young leaders, chosen for the propagation of the SDGs, on behalf of the UN Secretary General. Ankit, 30, is the founder of Phool. Phool started with preparing charcoal free incense sticks (agarbattis) from waste flowers and has progressed in making two more revolutionary products. The first is Florafoam, which is a decomposable thermocole substitu No 5 5 Zach on Hacking, Schooling and COVID full 35c6e9fb-1879-48f3-ad67-e1f83112d3af https://share.transistor.fm/s/a0e01628 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/zach

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]]> Fri, 24 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3061 Zach, 22, is the founder of Hack Club. Zach couldn’t contain himself to the confines of high school and dropped out in his freshman year. In his quest to find his tribe, he reached Silicon Valley and then for him it was one peak after the other. He has changed the paradigm as to how students and schools look at coding, and says that all you need to be a Hack Clubber is to be a teenager. Zach, 22, is the founder of Hack Club. Zach couldn’t contain himself to the confines of high school and dropped out in his freshman year. In his quest to find his tribe, he reached Silicon Valley and then for him it was one peak after the other. He ha No 4 4 Ronaldo on Curiosity, Persistence and Observation full a215622f-870f-4ee2-8254-bb19bf4f8c60 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c8817564 sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/ronaldo

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]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 1205 Ronaldo, 23, is India’s Asteroid Star. He was awarded by Shri APJ Abdul Kalam, for the discovery of MAUR 397, when he was 16. Ronaldo is a unique example of perseverance from a very young age. He grew up in a small village in Manipur and is well on his way to keep furthering his Astronomical dreams. Ronaldo, 23, is India’s Asteroid Star. He was awarded by Shri APJ Abdul Kalam, for the discovery of MAUR 397, when he was 16. Ronaldo is a unique example of perseverance from a very young age. He grew up in a small village in Manipur and is well on hi No 3 3 Geet on Insight, Empathy and Compassion full 820895ff-dc4e-41cd-a86c-58e239a4ac58 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4078d5ee sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/geet

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]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 2570 Geet, 33, has been part of the creative and advertising space as she started her career. She rose to exceptional fame in 2018 when her work “Blink to Speak” won the Cannes Grand Prix Gold Award for Good. Her work is a brilliant example of converting a crisis into an opportunity. In 2019, she was associated with another Grand Prix Award for “One Mindful Mind”. These works are available for the public at large to use. Geet, 33, has been part of the creative and advertising space as she started her career. She rose to exceptional fame in 2018 when her work “Blink to Speak” won the Cannes Grand Prix Gold Award for Good. Her work is a brilliant example of converting a cri No 2 2 VD on the Meaning of Life, Education and Fear of Failure full c26b608a-b717-46d0-a806-cc3e7a5398c0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e9447caa sbw.hvj.coach/episodes/vidyadhar

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]]> Tue, 21 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 5273 Vidyadhar, or as everyone calls him, VD is an Educator, Engineer & a Full Stack Maker. Currently 24, He runs his company, Speckbit in Bangalore. In Class XII, while most fear about exams and results, he launched his first startup, Science Panorama. After it failed, He went on to work for about a dozen startups while in college. When his teachers failed to explain most of his questions, He founded Speckbit, while self-learning everything on the Internet. His thinking is profound - he is well-read and his startup is a failure by all conventional start-up metrics but he goes on unabated. Unlike many technologists, VD demonstrates a strong emotional investment in his students, team, and people around him. Vidyadhar, or as everyone calls him, VD is an Educator, Engineer & a Full Stack Maker. Currently 24, He runs his company, Speckbit in Bangalore. In Class XII, while most fear about exams and results, he launched his first startup, Science Panorama. No 1 1 Simar on Art, Serendipity and Gender full 47247921-2011-4446-b890-04a621447b17 https://share.transistor.fm/s/36f219a1 sbw.hvj.coach/episdoes/simar

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]]> Mon, 20 Apr 2020 12:00:00 +0530 HVJ HVJ 3603 Simar, currently 19, is the founder of Unerase, India’s leading platform for spoken word poetry. Simar’s first stage performance was at 5, his first crush at 11 and he found Unerase in Grade X, when he was 16. In the journey so far, Unerase has brought 100s of budding poets together, who were otherwise hidden from the mainstream. Unerase has delivered several rocking globally acclaimed performances focusing on social issues, especially those about Gender. Simar, currently 19, is the founder of Unerase, India’s leading platform for spoken word poetry. Simar’s first stage performance was at 5, his first crush at 11 and he found Unerase in Grade X, when he was 16. In the journey so far, Unerase has brought No