Atalanta Diaries Breakthrough Women in Conversation with Enma Popli

Diane Schwarz is Johnson Controls' chief information officer and the global leader in smart, healthy, and sustainable buildings. She is responsible for leading a global, business-aligned information technology organization. Schwarz develops and executes enterprise-wide I.T. strategy to ensure a strong digital core for Johnson Controls to scale and achieve its global growth objectives. A senior I.T. executive with experience in building and leading best-in-class I.T. teams, Schwarz most recently served as chief digital and information officer for Hunt Consolidated and previously worked at Textron, Bell and Honeywell. With a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, her scope covers digital transformations, cybersecurity, data analytics, infrastructure and cloud operations, ERP/SAP applications and I.T. supplier management. Schwarz holds a B.S. in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She is a board member of NPower, a non-profit that creates pathways to economic prosperity by launching digital careers for military veterans and young adults from underserved communities and of T200, a non-profit that elevates women in technology.    Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Work Hard, Party Harder. Addressing issues one at a time. Moment of humility, don't know it at all. Having diverse experiences, trying everything. Startups don't align with everyone's risk tolerance.  Recognizing traits that will stop you from scaling as a leader. Vulnerability and Empathy are essential skills for becoming a better leader.  Make the right choice for the family while having a sustainable career. You will not be able to do your job well if you don't care for yourself. Identifying and addressing behaviours to evolve as a leader. Helping others succeed creates opportunities for your own success. Self-awareness to become better as humans, as parents, and as professionals. She who wants to go fast goes alone; she who wants to go far goes together.  Mentors can come from different backgrounds, not just the business world. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli's website >> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dr. Meeran Chadha Borwankar is a retired IPS officer who served in the state of Maharashtra, India, from 1981 to 2017 and retired as the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development.  Among many prestigious positions, Dr. Borwankar was the first woman Police Commissioner in Pune City, the first woman Chief of the Mumbai Crime Branch, and the Chief of the Maharashtra Prison Department. In recognition of her illustrious police career, Dr. Borwankar was awarded the President of India Police Medal for Distinguished Service in 2006 and the Police Medal for Meritorious Services in 1997. She was also awarded the Distinguished Leadership Award 2008 from the University of Minnesota.  Dr. Borwankar received her Doctorate in 'Organizational Management' from Pune University and is a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow from the University of Minnesota USA. A Law graduate, she was an Independent External Monitor (IEM) for Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, Gas Authority of India, and Air India and is on boards of different academic institutes. She is the author of the best-seller "Leaves of Life," an autobiographical book of short stories and life lessons directed at the younger generations - especially women and girls and 'Inspector Chougule' which deals with real police stories. Her third book, Madam Commissioner, is launching soon.  Key themes emerging out of our conversation: Learn slowly and then act Perspective towards guilt and sacrifice Channelising energy in a positive way Self-talk and having a clear conscience Being intentional about selecting a team Being self-aware and identifying feelings Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin:  >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/ Visit Enma Popli’s website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Rachna Singh former Principal Commissioner Income Tax is a multifaceted professional whose expertise spans across literature, finance, and writing. She authored notable books on economic matters, including 'Penny Panache: Piecing the Economic Puzzle' (2016), 'Financial Felicity: Making Sense of Money Matters' (2017), and 'Myriad Musings' (2016), a compilation of her published articles and travelogues. Her recent publication, 'The Bitcoin Saga: A Mixed Montage,' was released by Bloomsbury.In the academic sphere, Rachna excelled in English Literature at Punjab University, earning gold medals for academic excellence. Her outstanding achievements led to the Nehru Centenary scholarship for a doctorate at the University of Cambridge.Transitioning from academia to the Indian Revenue Service, Rachna ventured into finance, taxation, economics, and law. Despite this shift, her passion for writing remained steadfast. Completing her Doctorate in English Literature in 2003, Rachna showcased her literary prowess through several books, including 'Myriad Musings,' 'Penny Panache,' and 'The Bitcoin Saga.'In September 2021, Rachna transitioned into full-time writing, establishing 'The Wise Owl,' an online literary & Art magazine. Her latest creation, 'Phoenix in Flames,' celebrates the extraordinary resilience of ordinary women, portraying fortitude and grit, unveiling the remarkable strength inherent in the ordinary.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Confronting challenges.The impact of mentorship.Self-doubt is natural to everyone.Taking inspiration from her daughter. Life skills learned because of Proximity to nature.Importance of financial independence for women. The mind can make a hell of heaven and a heaven of hell.Overcoming adversity and emerging stronger on the other side.Qualities of tenacity and passion that contributed to Rachna's success.From a utopian view of the world to a practical understanding of reality.Confronting Fears and Personal Growth, doing things outside your comfort zone.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dusica H. Lukac is Partner and Managing Director of DL Capital Partners. She crossed from Money Street to Tech Street after decades in investment banking and millions under management and M&A deals.Dusica has worked with multiple PE/VC funds and other institutional investors, technology companies in growth stage, founded her own companies, invested as an angel; as well as Non Executive Director or Advisor in multiple boards. Her core expertise is Financial services and Fintechs. Apart from emerging technologies she has keen interest in financial innovations. She also provides focused Transaction advisory and her team fondly calls her Transaction Diva. In 2018 Dusica was awarded as best Fintech Consultant in CEE, and in 2019 she took part in a blockchain panel at Cannes Film Festival.Apart from working and living in 5 countries and speaking 5 languages, Dusica loves traveling. …and chanced upon an app which made her realize the current count is 78. Some insights from this episode: If things are not going your way, recognize and accept it and while you're waiting, gain some new skill because one day you will get out of the challenge and have an extra skill. The biggest illusion is that life is just going in one direction, which is  up. Life is like pockets of enormous happiness and all in between.Success comes in waves; resilience, persistence and how you use your energy and what you do in downtime as well as uptime, matters.One of the important things when you come to negotiations is that you do not bring your own luggage to the room, else you will never be able to see the reality. IQ is the supporting function of emotions because actually we make choices based on our emotional reactions and that is the key for our decision making. If you can combine analytical risk management skills which are going very fast with a high awareness of where the emotional reaction is coming from, you actually combine the best of both worlds. Sometimes people don't like us because they just don't like us and sometimes they do. Whether they do or don't, just focus on your job and what you can achieve. It's not your  job to change the world by arguing with the world. Change the world by doing what you are doing. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Bhavani Vadlamudi, a visionary in the field of Information Technology, is known for her expertise in ERP transformations and her innovative approach to business challenges. Originally from the small town of Guntoor in India, Bhavani began her professional journey as a computer teacher at Aptech Computers. Driven by her passion for technology and a desire to make a broader impact, she pivoted into the field of Information Technology. With a degree in Computer Science and Engineering, Bhavani quickly established herself as an exceptional Systems Engineer, Network Administrator, and ERP database administrator.Bhavani's career took a significant turn when she joined General Electric (GE), where she made a profound impact on the organization's ERP deployments. Her strong leadership and unwavering advocacy for process standardization before digitization earned her the title "ERP Queen" from business leaders across multiple GE businesses. Currently serving as the Vice-President of MRO Digital at GE Aerospace in Cincinnati, USA, Bhavani continues to inspire and drive change in the IT industry. Bhavani has played a pivotal role in establishing Center of Excellence teams that consistently deliver quality results and implement visionary IT strategies and solutions. Leveraging her deep understanding of diverse cultural aspects, Bhavani crafted robust change management strategies for each deployment, solidifying her reputation as a transformative leader.Beyond her remarkable professional achievements, Bhavani is deeply committed to empowering and supporting women's growth. Through her dedication to coaching and mentoring, she has positively influenced the careers of over 200 women.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Imposter syndrome.Navigating new cultures.Finding purpose in leadership .From Individual contributor to leader.Courage is essential for women to succeed .Education empowers women, and the role of her mother.Women should demand respect, equal opportunities, and recognition.Embrace change and understand resistance and fear toward change.Different roles parents play, Mothers emphasize societal conformity, fathers focus on being bold.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli’s website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Runsi Sen is the Founder, President, and CEO of Ovarcome, a leading global advocacy organization dedicated to raising awareness, funding research, and providing financial, psycho-social, and informational assistance to empower women and their families in “Ovarcoming” ovarian cancer.Runsi lost her beloved mother to ovarian cancer, and in her memory—and with her inspiration—she founded Ovarcome. With a vision rooted in empathy, equity, empowerment, and impact, she has led the organization’s expansion into a globally recognized platform that bridges clinical care, advocacy, and community outreach. Under her leadership, Ovarcome has reached millions through awareness campaigns, support initiatives, and direct services—all provided to patients at no cost.She holds an MBA in Strategy and Marketing from Rice University and a Master’s degree in Economics. Her academic background, global experience, and personal journey as a caregiver bring a unique, deeply human perspective to her work in nonprofit leadership and patient advocacy.Runsi is a two-time TEDx speaker and, most recently, she led the publication of Ovarcoming: Stories of Hope & Healing, and has been recognized with awards such as the Global Impact Award from the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition and the Global Advocacy Award from the International Gynecologic Cancer Society. She also serves on the Rice Business Alumni Board, advises MD Anderson Cancer Center, and was named one of Houston’s Top 30 Influential Women in 2025. Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Take your time to choose, but once you do, commit fully and own your path. Using the “deathbed perspective”—making choices your future self will not regret. Embracing diverse perspectives, how different minds can come together to achieve a shared vision. It’s not just about the work—it’s about how we come together as humans to build, celebrate, and grow as a team. A strong 'why' keeps you going—even when the work is tough. Choosing to transform personal grief into purpose.Not every 'no' is because of you—sometimes it's just about timing, priorities, or limited resources. Listening to what’s uncomfortable is often where growth starts. Challenges often carry the seeds of possibility—we just have to stay open to finding them.The word ‘Survivor’ gives power to the disease—‘Overcomer’ gives it back to the person.BEACH—a symptom awareness tool to bridge the gap in ovarian cancer detection. In mission-driven work, alignment of talent is as critical as ability. Entrepreneurship isn’t just strategy—it’s intuition, courage, and heart. When you’re walking the path meant for you, even exhaustion feels like joy. Being emotionally aware isn’t a weakness—it’s a leadership edge. It’s time to normalize flexibility and humanity—life happens, and people shouldn’t have to apologize for it. Corporate spaces are still built for extroverts, but true inclusion means valuing all ways of thinking and expressing. You can’t lead with impact if you’re hiding who you really are. Compassion is the driving force behind, um, everything in life. Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Roshena is the Deputy Lord Mayor of Melbourne, a commercial barrister, and a mother to four young children. She was elected as a Melbourne City Councillor in 2020 and elected as Deputy Lord Mayor in 2024. She has portfolio responsibilities for planning, tourism, and events. She is particularly passionate about making Melbourne a magnet for global headquarters and small businesses, and the easiest city to do business in. She loves listening to residents and businesses in Melbourne and fighting for the issues that matter to them. She was also the candidate for the Federal parliamentary seat of Aston.As a Barrister, she has appeared for and advised some of Australia’s largest companies and the government. She has also acted in a number of Royal Commissions. She is the daughter of Indian migrants, and her most important job is being a mother to four young children. Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Being your own cheerleader.Education is a great equalizer.More women and mothers to lead.Build systems that support caregivers Designing cities that people want to live inThe quiet responsibility children of migrants carry.Choosing law as a way to serve, legal representation shouldn't be reserved for the privileged.Harnessing imposter syndrome as fuel, turning doubt into preparation, clarity, and better outcomes.Calling out subtle power plays, staying steady when more experienced voices try to shake your confidence.Campaigns are deeply personal and uniquely challenging.Dealing with public criticism and personal attacks and staying focused on purpose, not noise.Redefining balance, choosing joy over perfection, presence over pressure.Focusing fully on the task at hand, whether in court, council, or at home.Letting go of the myth of perfection—and choosing storytime or bath time over spotless kitchens.Why politics is just another battleground, focusing on issues, not personal attacks.Leadership doesn’t require permission—just conviction and courage.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

 Adirupa (Adi) is Group Chief Executive of Common Purpose. She has been with the organization since 2001 and has held a variety of roles over the years, including CEO of Common Purpose Asia-Pacific, during which time she started a global hub out of Singapore and grew it to be a major player in the leadership field in Asia-Pacific. Adi has a passion for developing talent and connecting people from different backgrounds. She has extensive knowledge and experience working across different countries, cities, and cultures to help leaders learn to cross boundaries in order to tackle complex problems. Her TEDx talk speaks to her passion for cross-boundary leadership - Adirupa Sengupta: Cultural Collisions: do we fight or flex? | TED Talk Over the years, Adi has driven some key partnerships for Common Purpose including the American Express Foundation, BNP Paribas, GE, DBS, FWD, the UK Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office, the ASEAN Foundation, and RMIT University to deliver leadership programmes for different generations across the world - these include the SG100 Young Leaders Programme (with the National Youth Council of Singapore), CSCLeaders (with The HRH Duke of Edinburgh Commonwealth Study Conferences (UK Fund)) and the ASEAN Leaders programme (with the ASEAN Foundation). Adi is based in the UK but travels and works all over the world. She grew up in India, where she completed her Bachelor’s degree before reading for an MPhil in International Relations at St. John’s College, Cambridge.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Stepping onto the TEDx stage.Taking a leap of faith, trusting the promise of an idea.Leadership demands data, but often moves with instinct.Leadership also means knowing when to let others rise.Acknowledging someone else's truth helps build trust.Engaging with difference is not a liability; it’s a strength.A feisty grandmother who refused to let her settle for less.Giving up on people’s potential inevitably leads to suboptimal outcomes.Our greatest strengths can also turn into blind spots if left unchecked.Real leadership is knowing when to persevere and when to walk away.Sometimes, hope can cloud judgment, and stepping back is the wiser choice.You don’t have to give up on people, but sometimes, you do need to step off the journey with them.Avoiding difficult conversations, however well-intentioned, blurs lines of accountability.Complacency creeps in when we stop questioning; leadership calls for curiosity over comfort.Navigating the familiar and the unfamiliar is a core leadership skill.Lessons from the startup world: people don’t just buy ideas—they buy people.When you are unsuccessful, all sorts of weak thoughts come to your mind.Leadership is about becoming the version of yourself you know you need to be. It's about letting go.When cultures collide, it’s not a breakdown, it’s a breakthrough waiting to happen.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Nishtha Mehta is the founder of CollabCentral, a platform built to move people from working in silos to co-creating meaningful outcomes—because collaboration, when done well, is a force for real change. She is an Innovative Leadership Coach and Change Facilitator with over 22 years of experience across China, India, Europe, and the U.S.Based in Shanghai, Nishtha works with global organizations and mission-driven founders to enable collaborative leadership and innovation across borders. She helps leaders move from stuck to unstuck, from resistance to collaboration, and from managing to truly leading—bringing clarity, commitment, and growth to every stage of their journey.She has built a life and career in China with courage, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:You give trust to receive trust. Taking Responsibility for mistakes.Giving Children Choices Builds Responsibility.Starting with How, Not ‘Not Possible’.Working with the Best Was Never Optional.Giving Advice Is Easy. Listening Takes Effort.In China, But Playing on a Global Field.Seeing Career as a portfolio of choices .Redefining Growth, Choosing learning over labels.Building Capabilities for What’s Next, Staying Relevant.Collaboration as a Value Proposition: The Power of the Ecosystem.The Bigger the Risk, the Stronger the Drive.Navigating Complexity While Doing Business in China.China offered more than opportunity; it offered a space that felt safe.Food Wasn’t Just a Meal, It Was a Cultural Bridge.China Wasn’t Accidental, It Was Intentional, Stepping Into the Unknown, Taking Chances.Choosing to Rebuild, Not Retreat, Leading with Strength, Living the Values.It’s okay when a challenge comes, you cry, you accept it, and keep going. You’re here for a reason.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

General Masiello retired as a three-star general of the U. S. Air Force in 2017. She was the Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency, where she led a team of nearly 12,000 civilians and military personnel and oversaw worldwide contracts totaling more than $2 trillion. A former assistant professor at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Gen. Masiello held a variety of systems acquisition roles during her 36-year tenure with the US Air Force, including principal contracting officer for surveillance and reconnaissance systems, weapon systems, and test ranges. Prior to her retirement, she served as Director of the Defense Contract Management Agency and Deputy Assistant Secretary (Contracting), Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition.  She is currently President of Wendy Mas Consulting LLC and serves as a director on a variety of boards to include KBR, Inc., StandardAero, EURPAC Services, Tlingit Haida Tribal Business Corporation, and MRIGlobal.  Her non-profit work includes director on the Procurement Round Table, director on the ReBuilding Together National board, and member of the Air Force Studies Board.Key Themes Emerging from Our Conversation:The quiet power of women.It's okay to ask for something.The business side of service in the Air Force.People feed off a leader’s energy, stepping up matters.From teaching to buying satellites and leading aircraft teams.Leadership comes with moments of self-doubt and loneliness.As an introvert, stepping into the spotlight is a stretch.Leaders opened doors, often seeing potential before she did.It was not about being a woman; it was about being different.Stayed for the people, their passion, integrity, and shared sense of purpose.Childhood air shows and military life quietly shaped a sense of service.Seeking mentors vs being noticed, trusted, and given opportunities.One unexpected comment sparked a 36-year journey of purpose, service, and discovery.Facing the oath of office, the reality of what it could demand hit hard, but the instinct to protect gave conviction. Finding the voice others listened to and using that partnership to drive solutions.A learned behavior: observing what worked, adapting, and repeating until people listened.Leadership isn’t always loud; sometimes it’s quietly connecting with the one standing alone.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Sabeena Narula Singh is the first woman to serve as Chief Architect of the Uttar Pradesh Public Works Department (PWD). Born in the small township of Talwara, Punjab, Sabeena’s early life was shaped by simplicity, focus, and quiet ambition. After ranking second in the Punjab board exams, she was selected on merit to study at Chandigarh College of Architecture—one of the most prestigious architecture schools in India.Before moving to Lucknow, she spent her formative professional years learning in reputed design practices. In 1992, Guru and she co-founded Guru Sabeena & Associates with a shared vision of redefining architecture in the city. They were even featured as the “Upcoming Architect Couple of the City” in local media.Over three decades, Sabeena has led the design of transformative public projects across Uttar Pradesh—from multi-specialty hospitals and jail complexes to cybercrime units and court buildings. One of her most defining contributions is the redesign of correctional facilities for up to 5,000 inmates, where she prioritized humane, functional environments in response to the conditions she witnessed on site.Her journey is one of grit, love, and an unshakeable belief that even in the darkest of times, we can choose to build—be it a building, a family, or a life.In 2025, her lifetime of contributions was recognized with the Fraternity of Architects’ Lifetime Achievement Award at the Lucknow Architecture Festival 2.0. Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Self-care wasn’t a priority until it had to be.Finding her voice in a patriarchal city, letting the work speak.Breaking ground as UP’s first woman Chief Architect at PWD.With faith as her anchor, she met every challenge with quiet courage.A project of pride—reshaping UP’s jails with empathy and intent.Her sons, her calm, her strength, her greatest support system.There’s more strength inside you than you realize. Keep showing up. Father’s last question became her quiet vow: keep going, no matter what.Rooted in a small township and shaped by a culture of simplicity and encouragement, learning through everyday experiences.Found incredible strength in her mother-in-law—her closest companion and loudest supporter.Making tough choices between passion and career in a protective culture where questioning wasn’t the norm.From a small-town girl to a self-assured architecture student, the transition was steep but full of learning, laughter, and lasting bonds.A mentor’s influence. Small details matter more than big roles. The design begins with care.Showing up without excuses, earning trust one project at a time.Quietly took on the roles they once shared while her partner remained present but unable to walk alongside. Asking why, she surrendered to Grace and transformed chemo rooms into picnic spots and healing circles.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Diane Goyette is a Child Development Specialist, Master Registered Level Trainer, Child Care Health Consultant, and keynote speaker with over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. She has taught in public schools, university labs, faith-based programs, and childcare centers, and has trained countless educators through her work as a professor, trainer, and founder of Early Childhood Specialties.Diane’s work blends professional expertise with deeply personal insight. As parent of Corinne, an artist, author, and advocate with mental health special needs. Diane’s parenting journey reshaped her understanding of emotional development and classroom behavior. What began as quiet struggles at home became the foundation for a mission grounded in empathy, regulation, and real-life partnership.What Diane never imagined and now treasures is the joy of partnering with Corinne in the very field she has long served. Together, they co-lead conferences and workshops, offering both a parent’s perspective and a lived experience that resonates deeply with educators. For Diane, this collaboration has become a purpose she never saw coming.Diane has now developed the 4 C’s Framework for Emotional Support, a practical, research-backed model that helps educators and caregivers respond to children with empathy, clarity, and compassion. Diane has also embraced philanthropy as an extension of her mission, supporting early childhood education through both immediate and legacy gifts ensuring that her commitment to uplifting the field continues to grow and give back for years to come.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Resenting the Struggles, Not Her Daughter.The Steadiness of a Supportive Partner.Discovering and Nurturing her daughter’s unique strengths.Sensory sensitivities shaped her daughter’s daily life.Language of the Diagnosis, Brain Disorders over Disabilities.Reconciling Knowledge with Reality, accepting that lived experience.An Unexpected Collaboration, Finding joy in working alongside her daughter.From Struggles to Compassion, from Early Parenting Challenges to Deeper Empathy.The Breakthrough of Acceptance, letting go of the need to change.Realizing that focusing on the struggles kept her from seeing her daughter’s strengths.Bringing Together Passion and Experience, merging professional knowledge with personal lessons.The 4 C’s Framework – A research-backed, experience-driven model shifting focus from correction to connection.Owning Her Differences, Corinne’s hardest but most healing steps.On a Mission to Champion Early Childhood Educators.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Rachna Singh, former Indian Revenue Service officer and acclaimed author of Phoenix and Flames, Penny Panache, and Raghu Rai: Waiting for the Divine, shares her journey of reinvention. She discusses the leap from government service to literature, the emotional toll of grief, and how writing became both refuge and rebellion. As the founder of The Wise Owl literary magazine, Rachna has interviewed luminaries like Raghu Rai and Daisy Rockwell—conversations that continue to shape her creative path. Her story offers powerful insight into resilience, authorship, and making space for women’s voices in every sphere. With humor, candor, and deep emotional clarity, she reflects on grief, identity, gender bias, and creative rebirth. Her experiences navigating bureaucracy, parenting through adversity, and redefining ambition challenge societal expectations and quietly dismantle inherited systems. This conversation is a study in courage, craft, and personal evolution.🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli:Website: www.enmapopli.comEmail: enmapopli@gmail.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/enmapopliInstagram: instagram.com/enmapopliFacebook: facebook.com/enma.popliTwitter: twitter.com/enmapopli

Dr. Jennifer Shepard is a globally recognized HR strategist and organizational psychologist with over two decades of experience across the U.S., the Middle East, and Europe. With a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology, she spent over eight years at Saudi Aramco, leading enterprise-wide performance and talent initiatives and advising senior leadership on aligning people strategy with business goals.She’s a sought-after speaker and facilitator, having delivered keynote talks at the Kuwait Diversity Summit and LEWAS Symposium and served as a guest lecturer at the University of Sydney Business School. As a neurodiverse leader, Jennifer brings a rare combination of analytical depth and empathetic insight to every engagement.Now based in Rome, she is the Founder and CEO of Igniting Inclusion Consulting, where she helps organizations build inclusive, future-ready HR and leadership ecosystems.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Growing up feeling different.Safe spaces that made growth possible.Navigating childhood bullying, social disconnection, and the pressure to fit in.Discovering the impact of a unique way of thinking.Receiving an ADHD diagnosis brought clarity to why the world felt so different.From self-doubt to self-acceptance, uniqueness isn’t a flaw but a source of strength.The emotional toll of masking is often at the cost of authenticity and exhaustion.Learning to navigate without judgment, embracing the nuance of culture.Adapting across cultures, honouring differences, staying connected to a sense of self.Navigating ADHD and a learning disability, pursuing a PhD and high-performance roles.Finding the right fit, how non-traditional learning paths created space for growth.Challenging the “superpower” myth – an honest look at the brilliance, chaos, and quiet cost of navigating the world with an ADHD mind.Push and pull of emotional regulation in ADHD: complexity, misconceptions, and quiet strength behind thinking differently.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Dr. Barbara Wallace is a Princeton graduate and licensed clinical psychologist who made history as the first African American woman to earn tenure at Teachers College, Columbia University—later rising to Full Professor of Health Education. She is the Founding Director of the Research Group on Disparities in Health and has mentored over 145 diverse doctoral scholars while pioneering online education and dissertation bootcamps.A Fellow of the American Psychological Association in both Addictive Behaviors and Ethnic Minority Issues, Dr. Wallace has authored seven books and over 80 publications. Her widely cited book Toward Equity in Health is used in graduate curricula, and her HIV/AIDS Peer Education Training Manual has been adopted by community health organizations.For the past 25 years, she has also served as Queen Mother in Ghana—channeling her scholarship into purpose-driven work, advancing education and health equity, and building a legacy of service that continues to uplift communities across continents.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Leadership Through Service, showing up for others.Using inquiry, to spark reflection and shift norms.Uplifting others to extend impact across generations.True Legacy lies in what others are empowered to do next.Building Community, making space when none is given.Letting Go of Ego, being open to new ways of learning.Conferences, spaces where magical connections can happen.Courage with Care, speaking up when you can, protecting those who can’t.Reframing Recognition, seeing honors as a responsibility, not a reward.Strong Role Models, shaped by values of perseverance, dignity, and service.Spiritual Journey, the quiet force behind clarity, courage, and groundedness.Installment as Queen Mother, a deeply spiritual process accepted with humility.Only One in the Room, carrying weight of representation to open doors for others.Creating Belonging, cultivating spaces of support, connection, and shared purpose.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Baljeet Kaur, an accomplished mountaineer from Solan, Himachal Pradesh, has etched her name in history with remarkable achievements. As the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Pumori Peak (7161m) and Mount Dhaulagiri Peak (8167m) in Nepal, Baljeet set a precedent. In 2022, she accomplished an unprecedented feat by becoming the first Indian to summit seven peaks above 8000m, achieving five of them within a remarkable 30 days.Beyond her mountaineering skills, Baljeet excels in a variety of sports, demonstrating her skill in marathons, rock climbing, skiing, theatre, kabaddi, volleyball, and hockey. Her commitment to fitness is highlighted by a notable World Record — completing the longest relay marathon run against depression in 2022, covering an astounding 9490 km.Baljeet's mountaineering expertise is further underscored by the successful ascents of iconic peaks like Mount Everest and Mount Trishul. Her unwavering determination shines through in impressive world records, including scaling three peaks above 8000m in just seven days and achieving the unprecedented feat of ascending Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse in a remarkable 25 hours and 20 minutes.In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Baljeet was honored with the Gold Medal by the Indian Mountaineering Foundation in 2023.  Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Daring to Dream Big .Mental resilience in challenges.Being one's own advocate and supporter.Self-awareness and listening to one's body.Preparedness and being ready for opportunities.Mountaineering was a calling; mountains chose her.Advocated for paving the way for others in mountaineering.Defying impossibility, embracing audacious goals amidstnaysayers.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

UN SDG Changemaker Srishti Bakshi walked 3,800 kilometers across India to spotlight gender inequality, women’s safety, and the cultural codes that shape them. What began as a personal reckoning with privilege became a movement powered by storytelling, community, and action. Her journey is captured in the award-winning documentary Women of My Billion (WOMB), produced by Priyanka Chopra Jonas and directed by Ajitesh Sharma, featured at global film festivals and UN events. 🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli: Website: www.enmapopli.com Email: enmapopli@gmail.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/enmapopli Instagram: instagram.com/enmapopli Facebook: facebook.com/enma.popli Twitter: twitter.com/enmapopli

Kim Kirkconnell, Vice President and Head of Global Digital Supply Chain and Finance at Kimberly-Clark—a Fortune 500 company and the parent of iconic brands like Kleenex®, Huggies®, Scott®, Kotex®, WypAll®, KleenGard®, and Kimtech®—shares a compelling journey shaped by bold decisions, career pivots, and leadership resilience. From her early days in academia to pioneering expert systems in manufacturing, Kim reflects on the impact of mentorship, motherhood, and mindset. Her insights offer aspiring women leaders a playbook on how to lead authentically, speak up with conviction, and transform vulnerability into strength. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating leadership while staying true to self.🎙️ Learn more about Atalanta Diaries and connect with host Enma Popli: Website: www.enmapopli.com Email: enmapopli@gmail.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/enmapopli Instagram: instagram.com/enmapopli Facebook: facebook.com/enma.popli Twitter: twitter.com/enmapopli

Dr Monalisa Sur is a  Professor in the department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine and an associate member of Department of Oncology, Juravinski Cancer Centre and Hospital in Ontario, Canada. She is a Practising Diagnostic Anatomical Pathologist with expertise in Gynaecological Oncologic Pathology and Malignant Hematopathology and is the Chair of the Mentorship Committee in McMaster University and the Anatomical Pathology Specialty Chair and Exam Board Member at Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.  In her role as Country Advisor and Co-Chair of Policy, Advocacy and Communications for the International Committee of the Royal College of Pathologists of U.K (R.C. Path), Monalisa collaborated with leaders in informatics to bring Pathology within the reach of many training programs in third world countries. She has over 120 publications in National and International medical journals. Among many laurels, Monalisa has been honoured with the leadership in Education Award from the Canadian Association of Pathologists in 2016, the Clinical Teaching Award nominated by the resident trainees in the Anatomical Pathology Program from the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, McMaster University and the Distinguished Service Award in Pathology for her contributions to the field of Diagnostic Pathology in 2022.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Loving what you do.Having your own identity .Not losing the big picture while parenting .Adapting to your surroundings and welcoming change.Realizing your strengths and weaknesses and capitalizing on them.Can't do everything to perfection, learning from your imperfections .The importance of an equal partnership.Connect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli’s website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/

Instead of slowing down at 60, Dona Kay Rule charged ahead into professional rodeo, proving that audacity and a growth mindset are key ingredients for achieving greatness at any age. Dona Kay Rule is a cowgirl, wife, mother and grandmother and now she is among the top barrel racers in the world and has qualified for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo (NFR) four times. Dona Kay travels with her horse Valor and Rosie. It’s hard to say who is more famous, Valor, Dona Kay, or Rodeo Rosie, a miniature Australian Shepherd.The year gone by has been Dona’s best rodeo season so far, even though it hasn’t been the easiest. At the 2021 NFR she was struggling with hip pain and soon after setting a new arena record at 13.96 seconds she made the decision to have surgery. Within 7 weeks of a total hip replacement, Dona loaded up her great horse, High Valor, and headed to Canada, won the 2nd at the Calgary stampede and proceeded to lock in the No. 2 position in the WPRA World Standings. This trio has put smiles on the faces of rodeo fans across North America since she qualified for her first Wrangler NFR in 2019.Key themes emerging out of our conversation:Leadership lessons from horsemanshipBuilding trust and team loyalty Vulnerability and understanding what’s importantBeing deliberate and visualizingRecognize your callingSuccess doesn't necessarily have to do with you.Doing it right when nobody's lookingConnect with Enma Popli on Linkedin: >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/enmapopli/Visit Enma Popli's website>> http://www.enmapopli.com/