エピソード

  • Numbers, Networks, and Nuance with Madhavan Jagannathan

    Numbers, Networks, and Nuance with Madhavan Jagannathan
    2025/11/28
    Gayatri Kalyanaraman is in conversation with Madhavan Jagannathan (Maddy) , Hardware engineer by training, software technologist by experience, and financial explorer at heart. With over two decades of experience across HCL, Adobe, EMC, Dell, and VMware, Maddy brings together deep tech, systems thinking, and a passion for financial markets. Gayatri introduces Maddy, highlighting 17 years of friendship and his rare mix of humor, humility, and insight across hardware, software, and finance.02:00 – The Physics of Curiosity Maddy recalls his fascination with science, choosing physics for his undergraduate degree, and his early ambition to pursue research at IITs before pragmatically opting for instrumentation at Madras Institute of Technology.05:00 – The Unplanned Leap into Software A “lucky break” leads him into HCL Technologies, where a chance campus interview launches his career in software — landing him in the prestigious Cisco division during the early internet boom.08:00 – Early Memories of the Software World Maddy reflects on working at the intersection of hardware and network management — when internet access was rationed, innovation was exploding, and curiosity was rewarded.10:00 – Settling into the Tech Ecosystem He discusses how he initially longed for the process industry, only to realize that the software world offered greater opportunities, intellectual challenge, and balance — ultimately leading teams early in his career.13:00 – From HCL to Adobe: Finding the Power of Software Maddy shares how joining Adobe in Noida, during its early transition to SaaS, transformed his understanding of software’s reach and power. “That one year at Adobe changed my view of what software could do.”16:00 – The EMC and Dell Era: Process Meets Innovation He moves from startups to EMC, where he embraces Six Sigma, process excellence, and later joins Dell, leading teams focused on data center innovation. “Dell was about process discipline and fast engineering — a perfect blend of structure and innovation.”20:00 – Clarifying ‘Process’: From Chemistry to Systems Thinking Maddy reflects on how his training in process control and systems modeling shaped his understanding of software and organizational design.23:00 – Discovering Financial Markets His long-standing curiosity about stock markets takes root. From reading stock pages in newspapers to managing his first ESOPs, Maddy begins to explore investing and financial systems deeply. “It started with curiosity — how a single number next to a company name could tell a story.”26:00 – The Birth of a Trader Inspired by his MBA classes and a growing interest in quantitative methods, Maddy takes professional trading courses — blending math, technology, and market behavior. “Trading is where math, technology, and psychology collide.”29:00 – Lessons from the Trading Floor He shares insights from independent trading during COVID, emphasizing discipline, emotional control, and the realization that he’s better suited for his own portfolio than managing others’ money.32:00 – The Intersection of Tech and Finance Maddy discusses how his tech background enhances his understanding of market microstructures, algorithmic trading, and the growing influence of AI and quantum computing in finance.35:00 – The Philosophy of Continuous Exploration For Maddy, trading and technology are both lifelong explorations. “Markets teach you more than finance — they teach you patience, humility, and the ability to think statistically about your own life.”38:00 – Reflections on Career and Curiosity Gayatri and Maddy reflect on his multi-layered career: from a hardware engineer and software innovator to a financial thinker who continues to connect systems, people, and ideas. Key Themes:Evolving from hardware and instrumentation to deep software systemsThe interplay between process thinking and product innovationLifelong learning and curiosity as a career compassApplying software and systems logic to financial marketsEmotional intelligence and discipline in trading Memorable Quotes:“Trading is where math, technology, and psychology collide.”“That one year at Adobe changed my view of what software could do.”“Markets teach you more than finance — they teach you patience, humility, and the ability to think statistically about your own life.”“I didn’t plan my career — I followed my curiosity, and that made all the difference.”https://www.linkedin.com/in/madhavan-jagannathan-559bb51/Madhavan “Maddy” Jagannadhan is a seasoned technologist and financial explorer whose career spans hardware engineering, software system leadership and independent investing. With early roots in instrumentation and network hardware, Maddy went on to lead development teams at industry names like HCL Technologies, Adobe Inc., EMC Corporation and Dell Technologies—designing software-driven systems and complex processes. Today, Maddy ...
    続きを読む 一部表示
    38 分
  • From Banking to Boardrooms with Rupam Tandon

    From Banking to Boardrooms with Rupam Tandon
    2025/11/22
    Gayatri Kalyanaraman is in conversation with Rupam Tandon, Financial Executive with 30 years of experience across banking, asset management, and insurance. She’s also a certified Independent Director (IoD), ESG specialist, and startup mentor. She talks about her journey starting in a small town to traveling the globe and literally spreading her wings. Gayatri Kalyanaraman, Host for Software People Stories podcast and co-founder Sangatna Angels welcomes Rupam Tandon and sets the tone for an inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and governance. Highlights of the conversation are here01:00 – Early Career and Foundations in FinanceRupam shares her beginnings in Dubai’s financial industry during the 1990s — a period of rapid banking expansion — and lessons on trust, relationships, and financial discipline.03:00 – London Years & the Global Financial Crisis She moves to London to work with asset managers and hedge funds, witnessing firsthand the subprime crisis and collapse of major institutions like Lehman Brothers and AIG.07:00 – Return to India & Setting Up Global Operations Rupam explains her decision to return to India for family reasons and how she helped transition a major bank’s operations from Ireland to Bangalore — navigating SEC and FCA audits successfully.10:00 – The Shift to Insurance and Building Communities She discusses moving from investment banking to insurance, leading initiatives in Risk, ESG, and Cyber, and mentoring senior executives.13:00 – Reflections on Technology & Automation From manual processes to automation and bots — Rupam contrasts the early years of finance with today’s data-driven governance and the rise of straight-through processing (STP).16:00 – Navigating Change and Cultural Adaptation Growing up in Lucknow and moving across continents, Rupam reflects on adapting to different work cultures, continuous learning, and seizing opportunities.20:00 – Decision-Making and Balancing Life & Work Rupam shares personal stories about taking career risks, balancing motherhood, and receiving mentorship and compassion from colleagues during turbulent times.24:00 – Continuous Learning & Board Readiness She outlines her professional upskilling journey — courses from ISB, IIM Bangalore, and IoD — and her belief in lifelong learning as a foundation for effective governance.27:00 – Second Innings: Purpose and Governance for the Future Rupam shares her vision for the next decade — mentoring startups, strengthening governance frameworks, and shaping ethical, transparent organizations. Memorable Quotes:“Success without ethics is incomplete.”“Governance isn’t about control — it’s about responsibility.” “It’s time for stewardship — to give back, guide, and help the next generation grow with integrity.”“Even the strongest institutions can collapse if governance, risk, and culture are not aligned.”https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupam-tandon/After nearly three decades of experience across industries and markets, She is now embarking on my second innings with a focus on startup governance and scaleups. Her journey has been a diverse one, spanning Global roles (in UAE & UK, India) in business strategy, branding, communications, and stakeholder engagement. She is passionate about helping companies build strong, sustainable foundations for growth. As an alumnus of Lucknow University and the Indian School of Business (ISB), where she specialized in Negotiation as part of an Executive Management Program, I’ve honed my ability to adapt and thrive in fast-moving, high-pressure environments.My Core Strengths:- Strategic Oversight: Managing boards/foundations and aligning teams with business goals- Business Model Innovation: Identifying opportunities at the intersection of strategy, branding, product development, and customer experience- Start up consulting , Fintech, Finance based business.- Reputation Building: Creating narratives that enhance corporate reputation and build trust- Communications Strategy: Developing integrated communication plans to engage stakeholders and drive impact- Mentorship & Coaching: Supporting founders, leaders, and teams to grow through personalized guidance and coaching- Crisis Communications: Navigating through challenges to protect and strengthen brand reputation- Networking & Ecosystem Building: Cultivating strategic partnerships and growing influential networks- CSR & Sustainability: Defining and driving impactful corporate social responsibility initiativesRupam Tandon is a certified board director and former investment banker with expertise in governance, risk, and sustainability. She advises startups and SMEs on ethical leadership and board resilience, teaches ESG and stakeholder strategy to executives, and mentors emerging leaders. She advocates for policy-led reforms in India’s entrepreneurial governance landscape.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    35 分
  • Bridging Engineering and Marketing with Mike Maynard

    Bridging Engineering and Marketing with Mike Maynard
    2025/11/15

    In this episode, Shiv is in conversation with Mike Maynard, the Managing Director/CEO of the Napier Group, a PR firm.


    Mike shares his unconventional career journey from electronics engineering to marketing and recounts his initial interest in mathematics and eventual pivot to electronics engineering, sparked by a school project.


    Despite enjoying engineering, he realized his strengths lay in explaining technical details rather than executing them, leading him to roles in technical support and eventually to marketing.


    Mike discusses the lack of planning in his career and how opportunistic decisions led him to buy a tech agency just before the dot-com crash in 2001.


    He elaborates on the challenges and importance of bridging the empathy gap between engineers and marketers, emphasizing communication as a crucial factor.


    The episode also explores the impact of regulatory processes on hardware companies, the importance of diligent marketing in the age of AI, and the evolving landscape of B2B podcasts.


    Mike wraps up by offering career tips for those transitioning to marketing, underscoring the value of data analysis skills over traditional creative skills.


    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:27 Mike's Journey into Technology

    01:54 Transition to Marketing

    04:22 Challenges in Marketing and Engineering

    09:00 Bridging the Gap Between Teams

    13:27 Handling Hardware and Software Delays

    18:56 Lean Approaches and Reputation Management

    21:45 The Hype and Reality of Tech Products

    22:10 The Silicon Valley and Bangalore Comparison

    23:07 The Importance of Perseverance for Founders

    24:51 Product-Led Development vs. Marketing

    27:11 The Role of Gen AI in Marketing

    34:20 The Future of Podcasting in B2B Marketing

    38:47 Career Tips for Aspiring Marketers

    42:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    Note – above timings are approximate; exact timing may be off by a minute or so


    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemaynard/
    続きを読む 一部表示
    46 分
  • Exploring Science and Technology Synergy with Prasad Chodavarapu

    Exploring Science and Technology Synergy with Prasad Chodavarapu
    2025/11/07

    In this episode, Shiv is in conversation with Prasad Chodavarapu, Co-Founder & Managing Director at Aganitha.ai


    In this conversation, Prasad, a tech veteran turned bio-pharma enthusiast, discusses his unique career trajectory from software development to founding a startup in the life sciences space. Prasad shares his journey, starting from his early days in tech during the nascent stages of the internet in the mid-90s, working in startups, and his transition to a large enterprise consulting role.

    The conversation dives into the challenges and learnings from shifting into the bio-pharma industry, the impact of AI in this space, the complexities of scientific data, and the nuances of interdisciplinary collaboration.

    Prasad also offers valuable career advice for newcomers and those experiencing a mid-career crisis, emphasizing the importance of combining disciplines and lifelong learning.

    We wrap up with personal insights on how Prasad maintains balance in his life through music and family support.


    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    00:54 Career Beginnings in Software and Technology

    04:04 Transition to Life Sciences and Biotech

    07:25 Challenges and Innovations in Scientific Computing

    09:51 The Role of AI and Data in Modern Science

    16:29 Preserving and Digitizing Knowledge Systems

    19:42 Startup Journey and Entrepreneurial Insights

    24:17 Scientific Collaboration and Practical Applications

    32:42 Modeling and Prediction Cycles

    33:37 Validating Predictions in the Lab

    33:42 Solving Customer Problems with Algorithms

    35:33 Understanding the Drug Development Value Chain

    37:41 Challenges in Clinical Trials

    40:06 The Impact of AI on Science and Technology

    45:19 Career Advice for Life Sciences and Computing

    51:18 Personal Techniques for Managing Uncertainty


    Prasad Chodavarapu is a hands-on tech business exec with 25+ years of exp. in growing tech businesses from start-up stage to a billion-dollar scale

    His expertise and track record is in building multi-disciplinary teams

    He is a published author, with patents in Data and Process engineering

    He is a Co-Founder & Managing Director at Aganitha.ai

    His interests include: Deep Science (Comp Bio & Quantum Chem) + Deep Tech (AI/ML, LLMs, Data, Cloud) for accelerating R&D at global BioPharma, Re-imagining with Agentic & Generative AI, every process & app in disease studies, therapeutic design & dev, synthesis, clinical, medical & regulatory affairs.


    Among his earlier roles: HCL Tech: SVP & Global delivery head for Transformation Services

    He is an alumnus of Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) & IIT Kharagpur


    Channels to reach him:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/chprasad/

    @Omics_Chap on X,

    @omics-chap.bsky.social on Bluesky
    続きを読む 一部表示
    58 分
  • Celebrating Seven Years: Reflections and Future Aspirations

    Celebrating Seven Years: Reflections and Future Aspirations
    2025/10/31

    In this special episode celebrating seven years of the 'Software People Stories

    podcast, hosts Anita Shiva, Shiv, Gayatri, and Chitra reflect on their journey. They

    discuss the origins, challenges, milestones, and personal experiences of managing

    the podcast, offering insights into what kept them motivated. The conversation also

    touches on the evolution of the podcast, notable guests, and some of the humorous

    behind-the-scenes moments. Looking ahead, the hosts share their vision for the next

    phase, including ideas for new formats and expanding the podcast's reach to a

    broader audience.


    00:00 Introduction and Nervous Beginnings

    00:25 Celebrating Seven Years of Podcasting

    01:29 The Origins of Software People Stories

    02:55 Why Podcasting? Personal Journeys

    06:29 Consistency and Habits for Success

    12:11 Preparation and Rituals Before Recording

    16:54 Tips for Aspiring Podcasters

    22:59 Funny and Memorable Moments

    31:25 The Power of Storytelling

    31:49 Revealing Untold Stories

    32:34 Insights from Guests

    33:31 Personal Journeys and Reflections

    34:42 Influences and Upbringing

    37:34 Memorable Guests

    44:01 Podcasting Habits and Observations

    52:22 Future Aspirations and Gratitude


    Thank you Listeners for making this happen
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間
  • Full Stack Leadership with Dr. Krishna Prasad

    Full Stack Leadership with Dr. Krishna Prasad
    2025/10/24

    In this special episode of 'Software People Stories,' , our guest is Dr. Krishna Prasad, known more popularly as KP from the 'Full Stack Leadership Cast.' KP shares his journey into podcasting, inspired by the host's longstanding podcast. They discuss the concept of full stack leadership, emphasizing a holistic approach to leadership that impacts business, influences people, and focuses on self-development. KP highlights his experiences from the first season, discussing the challenges of podcasting and the valuable insights gained from his diverse guests. They also delve into the prospects for the next season, including potential global guests and cross-industry learning.

    00:00 Introduction and Special Episode Announcement

    00:12 Welcoming the Guest: KP from Full Stack Leadership Cast

    01:29 KP's Podcasting Journey and Inspirations

    04:46 The Concept of Full Stack Leadership

    10:57 Insights from Season One

    15:47 Plans for Season Two and Listener Feedback

    21:05 Where to Listen and Final Thoughts


    Note – above timings are approximate; exact timing may be off by a minute or so


    You can listen to the Full Stack leadershipcast on YouTube

    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4XtBUzCNYXDusMt0HS-T6-hl1BHXpyN9


    Or on the PM Power website

    https://www.pm-powerconsulting.com/full-stack-leadershipcast/



    More on KP at: https://www.pm-powerconsulting.com/experts/krishna-prasad/
    続きを読む 一部表示
    24 分
  • Achieving Excellence with Naresh Choudhary

    Achieving Excellence with Naresh Choudhary
    2025/10/19

    In this episode, Shiv is in conversation with Naresh Choudhary, Senior Vice President, Quality & Productivity, Infosys Ltd.


    Naresh shares his career journey starting from humble beginnings in Mumbai, studying engineering at VJTI, working at Arvind Mills, and eventually contributing to Infosys for 25 years. The discussion covers his transition from manufacturing to IT, the influence of mentors, various roles at Infosys, and the importance of reframing roles. Naresh also emphasizes the value of great work, networking, mentorship, and maintaining a work-life balance. He talks about driving innovation and change management effectively within a large organization through transparent communication, planning, and continuous feedback. Finally, Naresh offers personal practices like journaling, exercising, and separating work from family time to stay grounded and calm.


    00:00 Welcome and Introduction

    00:23 Early Career and Education

    02:00 Transition to Infosys

    03:43 Roles and Responsibilities at Infosys

    07:16 Mentorship and Career Growth

    10:28 Defining Great Work

    15:32 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome

    19:28 The Importance of Mentors

    24:23 Networking and Time Management

    29:19 Clearing the Mind for Focus

    29:51 Work-Life Balance and Breaks

    30:59 Organizational Change and Trust

    33:51 Planning and Transparency in Change

    34:51 Process Over Tools

    36:04 Sponsorship and Milestone Reviews

    37:46 Encouraging Knowledge Sharing

    43:58 Innovation and Idea Management

    47:33 Staying Grounded Amidst Responsibilities

    53:00 Personal Practices for Balance

    56:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Bio:


    In his stint at Infosys over 2 decades, Naresh has worked in different roles in Software Delivery, Consulting, Quality Assurance, Open Source, Enterprise Platforms, Products, Tools & Technology that have provided him opportunities to work on key transformation programs.

    Naresh has experience in Software Development, Quality System Design, Process definition, Implementation and Consulting, Product & Platform Engineering, Software Reuse, Knowledge Management, Training, Audits and Assessments. He possesses a sound understanding of various quality models, methodologies and frameworks like CMMI, ISO, Six Sigma, MBNQA, AI, Automation, Agile, DevSecOps & SRE.

    Naresh participates on several product councils and advisory boards with Infosys’ global technology partners and is currently leading the effort on reimagining the tooling, engineering excellence, digital platforms, Lean and automation landscape for the enterprise


    He is a self confessed Foodie, History enthusiast, Amateur Chef, Motivational Speaker

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/nareshchoudhary/
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間
  • Adapting to Innovation with George Mundassery

    Adapting to Innovation with George Mundassery
    2025/10/10

    In this episode, Shiv is in conversation with George Mundassery, former SVP and Global head, AI and Automation with Tech Mahindra.


    George shares his extensive journey in the IT industry, starting from his early days with Tatas in power systems to his role in automation and AI implementation. George recounts his experiences working with various technologies, including mainframes, real-time systems, Fortran 77, C, and C++, and later transitioning to commercial applications and enterprise solutions with Tuxedo and WebLogic. He also discusses the challenges and successes in delivering large-scale applications, the importance of data management, and the critical role of customer engagement and team collaboration. Additionally, George offers valuable advice for aspiring IT professionals and those navigating mid-career challenges, emphasizing continuous learning, teamwork, and adapting to change.


    00:00 Introduction and Greetings

    00:10 Curiosity About Architects

    00:29 George's Origin Story

    01:12 Early Career in Power Systems

    02:44 Transition to Commercial Applications

    03:38 Exciting Journey with Middleware

    05:23 Experience with HCL and Startups

    07:13 Setting Up Automation and AI Units

    10:51 Challenges in Data Management

    15:49 Role as a CTO and Technology Adoption

    18:43 Importance of Non-Functional Aspects

    22:29 Handling Technical Risks in Projects

    28:05 Building a Strong Team from Scratch

    30:17 Balancing Technology, Customers, and Overheads

    33:22 Challenges and Successes in Automation and AI

    37:56 The Impact of Generative AI on Software Engineering

    46:29 Advice for IT Professionals at Different Career Stages

    53:17 Staying Grounded in a Fast-Paced Industry

    56:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


    https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-mundassery-2117533/


    George Mundassery is a seasoned IT leader with 40 years of global service delivery experience, recognized for his pioneering contributions in Intelligent automation and AI. He has served as Global Head of Automation and AI and held senior roles at major firms like Tech Mahindra representing the face of AI and automation initiatives. Throughout his career, he had been focused on building high-performing teams and establishing competencies to deliver value and outcome to global customers through Business and IT transformation programs. George is acknowledged as a respected thought leader and member in leading organizations and think tanks, having shaped robust AI and Automation ecosystems and mentored cross-functional international teams.
    続きを読む 一部表示
    56 分