Shows
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E7: Saying No Without Guilt: Set Boundaries at Work and HomeWhy is the word “no” so hard to say—even when we’re overwhelmed, out of time, or just not up for it?In this episode of Small Talk: Work, Play, Build, hosts Subha and Hasita dive into the uncomfortable but essential skill of saying no—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.From people-pleasing at the office to emotional labour at home, we explore how cultural conditioning, guilt, and the “good girl” myth keep us stuck in cycles of yes. You’ll hear real talk on navigating client boundaries, setting expectations with loved ones, and using alternativ...2025-05-0933 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E6: Why Engineering is the New Cool - Aerospace, Space Missions & Women on the Shop FloorWhat does it take to put a bolt on Mars? Or build an aerospace legacy from scratch?In this episode of Small Talk: Work, Play, Build, we’re joined by Ankit Patel, Group CEO of the Ankit Group—a man whose company manufactures the fasteners that literally hold India’s spacecrafts together. From telephone screws in the 70s to parts that flew with Mangalyaan and Chandrayaan, this is a story of legacy, ambition, and deep manufacturing roots. And intentional focus on enabling women in engineering. We talk about building for aerospace in India, the leadership mindset needed to scale, and wh...2025-04-251h 23Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E5: Will AI Take Your Job? Truths You Need to Hear!There’s a lot of noise right now about AI replacing humans. But how much of that is fear… and how much is fact?We recorded this episode in March 2025, at a time when Google was laying off employees from its developer relations team — while also posting jobs for AI content specialists. Talk about mixed signals.Subha and Hasita unpack the headlines, connect the dots, and offer a no-BS take on how to stay employable in an AI-first world.You’ll walk away with:• Clarity on what today’s hiring managers truly value• A renewed belief in your human edge• Practical way...2025-04-1135 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E4: Success Metrics Are Changing - Are You Keeping Up?How to Escape the Success Trap (Before It’s Too Late!)Success used to mean climbing the corporate ladder, securing promotions, and chasing ever-growing paychecks. But in 2025, are these metrics still relevant?With economic shifts, evolving workplaces, and changing personal priorities, how we define success is undergoing a transformation. At the time of this recording, layoffs continue to loom large, hybrid work is reshaping expectations, and younger professionals are redefining what it means to “make it.”Are you keeping up with the changing tides? Or are outdated success metrics holding you back?In this episode, Subha and Hasita...2025-03-2835 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E3: Why Workplaces Need a New Playbook with Maya John - Small Talk Work| Play | BuildWho really decides how we work? The employees, the leaders, or just the loudest voice in the room?Post-pandemic, companies are still trying to figure out where and how work should happen. Should employees return to office full-time? Is hybrid the perfect middle ground, or just a logistical nightmare? And what about the generational shift—why does it feel like Gen Z and millennial managers are working in entirely different realities?In this episode, Subha and Hasita chat with Maya John, Chief People Officer at Verse Innovation, who brings ov...2025-03-141h 14Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E2: Building a Business at the Bottom of the Ocean - Small Talk Work| Play| BuildSome people run marathons. Some paint. Some DJ at weddings. And some, like Hasita, spend enough time underwater to log 100+ dives within two years.In this episode, Subha and Hasita talk about the growing movement of people reclaiming their time outside of work—not just for vacations, but for pursuits that shape who they are. From balancing client expectations to redefining career success, they unpack what it means to be multi-dimensional in a world that still largely rewards singular focus.Would your workplace support you taking a Friday off to go diving? Or would it ra...2025-02-2837 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS7E1: The Death of DEI after working 70 hours a week - Small Talk Work|Play|BuildIf everyone pursues a 90-hour workweek, who’s going to stare at the wives?As 2025 rolls in, one wonders when a conversation about work has become a conversation about genders once again. At the time of recording this episode in January 2025, the US Presidential Inauguration had just taken place. Mark Zuckerberg went on The Joe Rogan Experience and said, “I think having a culture that celebrates the aggression a bit more has its own merits that are really positive” while referencing the need for a more masculine workplace. And just in case we think, “Oh, well, th...2025-02-1434 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildTrailer - Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildWelcome toSmall Talk: Work, Play, Build!Now in its sixth season, the Small Talk podcast has won multiple accolades and a steady fanbase over the past five years. Your hosts,Subha Chandrasekaran andHasita Krishna have experience creating podcasts that have consistently ranked in the Top 5 of their respective categories- because we’re committed to giving the most nuanced individuals and their stories a calm, engaging, and fun platform to share their stories.Over the years, we've had the privilege of hosting senior business leaders, founders, and creatives, exploring the intersections of work, and passion, and bu...2025-02-1303 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildVisibility Matters: How Sharing Achievements Fuels GrowthVisibility isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Think about leaders like Kamala Harris. Her rise to prominence hasn’t just been about the work she does behind the scenes, but about how visible she’s made that work now. Harris has skillfully crafted a presence that not only highlights her achievements but also adds credibility to her role.
In this episode of Small Talk for Rainkraft, Hasita and I dive into the importance of being seen in the workplace and how women, in particular, can balance performance with self-promotion. Whether you’re leading a team or climbi...2024-09-1321 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildGain Visibility at Work or be the Turkish Olympic Shooter!Do we just show up to the Olympics and shoot our shot?
Ironically, all the visibility Yusuf Dikeç gained as he grabbed a silver medal in Olympic Shooting was for looking like he just woke up and decided to walk into the Olympic arena. But, this wasnt his first rodeo! It was his 5th. He first participated in the Olympics in Beijing representing Turkey in 2008.
So can we also take our shots quietly in the corner and let our work be seen when it is seen?
Join Coach Subha Chandrasekaran a...2024-08-1521 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildTaking the First Step from Idea to ActionJoin Coach Subha Chandrasekaran as she introduces this season's focus on the non-linear nature of career growth. Whether you're a mid-management professional, a leader in transition, or someone early in your career looking to accelerate your growth, this season is designed to provide you with actionable insights and inspiration.
In this conversation, Subha and Hasita discuss the challenges of turning ideas into action and the importance of using tools and frameworks to clarify thinking and problem-solving. They highlight the value of tools like the five whys, SWOT analysis, and the blue ocean strategy in...2024-07-2422 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildThe Bridge Every Vision NeedsJoin Coach Subha Chandrasekaran as she introduces this season's focus on the non-linear nature of career growth. Whether you're a mid-management professional, a leader in transition, or someone early in your career looking to accelerate your growth, this season is designed to provide you with actionable insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Subha and Hasita's conversation revolves around the importance of clear communication and understanding between stakeholders, internal and external. It highlights the need for effective expectation management and articulating the 'how' of a project. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of strategic thinking and aligning...2024-07-1020 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildThe Strategic Pivot: Seeing the Big PictureJoin Coach Subha Chandrasekaran as she introduces this season's focus on the non-linear nature of career growth. Whether you're a mid-management professional, a leader in transition, or someone early in your career looking to accelerate your growth, this season is designed to provide you with actionable insights and inspiration.
In this episode, Subha and Hasita discuss the importance of strategic thinking and big picture vision in professional life. They draw inspiration from Roger Federer's commencement speech and emphasize that strategic thinking is a skill that can be developed over time. They encourage listeners to create time for...2024-06-2619 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildTrailer: Careers are Curvy - a Small Talk productionWelcome to a new season of "Small Talk for Rainkraft," where we embrace the theme "Careers are Curvy."
Join Coach Subha Chandrasekaran as she introduces this season's focus on the non-linear nature of career growth. Whether you're a mid-management professional, a leader in transition, or someone early in your career looking to accelerate your growth, this season is designed to provide you with actionable insights and inspiration.
In our upcoming episodes, we'll delve into essential topics such as big picture thinking, tactical leadership, navigating career transitions, and building resilience. Tune in for...2024-06-1702 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildCareer Lift-Off: Best Moments from Small Talk in 2023Hey, Smalltalkers! As we wrap up 2023 on 'Small Talk with Rainkraft- Career Lifting Conversations,' we see that we've delved into intentional conversations about careers, transitions, and the ever-evolving workplace. From discussing layoffs to embracing failure, comfort zones, and practical tips, we've covered it all.
As we step into 2024, I hope these insights on crisis management, mentorship, and job search strategies serve you well. Thank you for hanging out with us and reliving the best of Season 5.
Stay tuned for more engaging conversations and valuable insights. Keep Small Talking!2024-01-0821 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildChoosing How to Shape Your YearJoin Subha and Hasita as they reflect on the transformative experiences of the past year. Hasita shares her journey into deep-sea diving and the profound impact it had on her life choices. Subha delves into the importance of focus, sharing insights from her own introspective journey. Together, they explore the evolving nature of work, breaking free from traditional structures, and embracing the endless possibilities that lie ahead. A candid and inspiring conversation to wrap up the year!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Introduction
(01:10) Reflecting on 2023
(02:44) Subha's Reflections on Focus and Choices
(04:22) Subha's Insights on Distractions and Productivity
(05:44) Lessons from Social Media Wisdom...2023-12-2516 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildJob Search Strategies for Mid-Career ProfessionalsExplore the mid-career curve with Subha and Hasita as they discuss the challenges of leaving a familiar job or just jumping into the job market. Delve into the complexities of navigating change, crafting a compelling resume, and articulating career goals. Join this exploration of career transitions, offering practical advice for those contemplating a change in their professional lives.
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Introduction
(00:53) Challenges of Mid-Career Transition
(02:39) The Importance Of Clarity
(07:00) Crafting a Resume for Transition
(12:51) Navigating The Discomfort That Comes With Being In The Job Market
(14:58) The Significance Of Clearly Articulating What You Want
(16:59) The Role Of Headhunters
(18:20) The Parallels B...2023-12-1121 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildBrewing Flexibility: Decoding Coffee Badging at the WorkplaceSubha and Hasita explore the nuances of the evolving workplace dynamics amidst the return-to-office mandates. They delve into the concept of coffee badging, where employees meet in the office for a cup of coffee to signal their presence. The conversation navigates through the challenges faced by employees and companies in adapting to new work models, questioning the need for rigid return-to-office policies. As they discuss the importance of intentional communication, flexibility, and individual responsibility, they aim to uncover a path toward a positive and inclusive shift in the modern workplace.
IN THIS EPISODE
2023-11-2720 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildRedefining Failure and Embracing GrowthJoin Subha and Hasita, as they engage in this conversation about the complexities of failure. They discuss the impact of social media on our view of success and failure and explore the three types of failures – preventable, complex, and intelligent. The duo challenges the conventional wisdom of 'fail fast,' emphasising the power of language in mitigating the impact of failures. With anecdotes from workplace dynamics to personal experiences, they delve into the layers of fear, resilience, and the importance of creating spaces for feedback in the journey towards growth and success. Tune in now!
...2023-11-1321 min
The Damn Good PodcastS03E07: Understanding the role of a Head of Brand*Hasita apologizes for the audio quality on this one- the Flu is an unpredictable game-changer, and we hope this does not severely impact what you take away from the episode!*Episode DescriptionIs branding more than just marketing?Delve into the world of brands as we analyze the core of branding, from emotional connection to custodian challenges. Discover the interplay between consumers, employees, and vendors, unraveling the craft of impactful branding. Understand that branding goes beyond marketing, shaping our perception of the world. Join us and unlock the secrets of brand custodianship!2023-11-0225 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildHow to Influence with Impact - Answer the ‘So What?!’Have you ever found yourself in a meeting wondering, "What's the point of all this?" If so, you're not alone. In today's episode, we dive deep into the world of meetings and ask a fundamental question: Are meetings wasted opportunities? We discuss the power of asking "WIIFM" (What's In It For Me), a crucial concept in understanding the motivations of meeting participants. We explore how setting clear agendas and pre-empting concerns can transform meetings into productive and engaging interactions. Tune in now!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Are meetings wasted opportunities?
(04:50) WIIFM...2023-10-3019 min
The Damn Good PodcastS03E06: What really is the role of a Head of Content?Are content heads prepared for the challenges posed by AI, ChatGPT, and shifting search engine policies? In this episode, Hasita Krishna and Subha Chandrasekaran delve into the complexities of content management in the modern landscape. Join them to discover strategies for making your content stand out and how creative collaboration can enhance your efforts in an ever-noisier world.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) Lawsuits on OpenAI(02:54) What does a content head do in this situation?(05:12) Hierarchies and expertise(08:32) How much of the info is real?(10:51) The biggest...2023-10-1824 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildCrisis Management: Who are you in a crisis?Join Subha Chandrasekaran and Hasita Krishna in this week's episode as they reflect on navigating a family health crisis and how it revealed different roles within their family. They discuss the traits of crisis leaders, effective communication in tumultuous times, and whether you can build for crisis leadership. Whether you're a natural leader or a skilled follower, there's something valuable in understanding your role amid chaos. Tune in now!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Looking back at the crisis with fondness
(05:03) Self-preservation is a powerful instinct
(06:49) How are start-ups prepared to handle crises?
(09:48) Can you build for becoming a leader in a...2023-10-1620 min
The Damn Good PodcastS03E05: Clarity in Purpose is Clarity in BrandingHow do you create a brand that's not just visually stunning but also drives profitability while focusing on social impact? Join us on a journey with Siddharth Purohit, co-founder of Aazol, a direct-to-consumer food company. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of clarity and how it can free up valuable time, the importance of controlling costs, and the challenges of entering the retail space. There are some conversations that affirm our actions and choices, and for us, it was this one. This is also the first time Hasita has put her dream...2023-10-0535 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildWhat makes a great mentor, and how can you find one?What makes a great mentor, and how can you find one? Join Subha Chandrasekaran and Hasita Krishna as they delve into the power of mentorship in career growth. Discover the secrets of finding the right mentors, building trust, and creating a supportive ecosystem for your professional development. From navigating confusion to becoming a mentor yourself, this show explores the transformative potential of mentorship in every phase of your career. Tune in and learn from the experts!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) How to find a good mentor?
(07:18) Is there value in planning out your career?2023-10-0221 min
The Damn Good PodcastContent Marketing: Expectations vs. RealityEver wondered if social media is evolving faster than you can keep up? Join Subha Chandrasekaran and Hasita Krishna on the "Damn Good Marketing" podcast as they explore the ever-changing world of content creation. Is marketing changing, or are business owners overwhelmed by the pace of change? From the allure of AI to the pitfalls of over-marketing, they discuss the challenges faced by businesses today. Tune in for insights on simplifying content creation, achieving marketing sanity, and finding your brand's true voice in the modern marketing landscape.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) What is a thread?2023-09-2025 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildSilo-Busting Strategies: Building a Collaborative WorkplaceHave you ever wondered what happens when the pressure to innovate or succeed collides with organizational silos? Join us as we unravel the intriguing dynamics of invention, high performance and collaboration in this episode of Small Talk with RainKraft. I'm Subha Chandrasekaran, a career growth coach. Can breaking down silos lead to breakthroughs? Discover the keys to fostering collaboration, aligning priorities, and unleashing the true potential of your organization in this episode!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) Everyone's under pressure to invent something
(02:41) What do silos at a workplace look like?
2023-09-1822 min
The Damn Good PodcastShould I Start a Podcast?Thinking of Starting a Podcast? The allure of this shiny new toy has captivated everyone, but it is serious business. Join Subha Chandrasekaran and Hasita Krishna as they dive into podcasting, sharing their experiences, insights, and unexpected discoveries. From the challenges of finding the right niche and keeping up with the demands of consistent content to deciphering podcast metrics and managing distribution, they reveal the realities behind the scenes. Explore the question: Is starting a podcast the right move for you? Get ready to uncover the truth about the podcasting journey!In This Episode2023-09-0828 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildInsights and Strategies to Navigate Career TransitionsAre you feeling like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole in your career? Join us as we delve into the Art of Career Transitions in this episode of Small Talk with RainKraft. I'm Subha Chandrasekaran, a career growth coach. Let's decode the challenges, opportunities, and strategies behind making those leaps in your professional journey. Tune in to gain insights, find courage, and embrace the possibilities!
IN THIS EPISODE
(00:00) You might feel at a crossroads
(02:42) Triggers - some obvious and some not so much
(07:51) How...2023-09-0425 min
The Damn Good PodcastS03E02: Who Approved That Ad?In the latest episode of the Damn Good Marketing Podcast, hosts Subha and Hasita are joined by Manisha Kapoor, Secretary General of the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI), who reveals the importance of self-regulation in the advertising industry. They delve into the role of ASCI in monitoring and maintaining trustworthy advertising, emphasizing the connection between honest advertising, consumer trust, and brand integrity. Most importantly, they discuss what campaign regulations, falling trust, and too much information, mean for a small business today and how to cut through the noise.Tune in!In This...2023-08-2333 min
The Damn Good PodcastS03E01 | What Did ChatGPT Do To Digital Marketing?ChatGPT: Unleashing Creativity or Taking Over Jobs? Or both, perhaps?Join Subha and Hasita as they explore the impact of generative AI tools like ChatGPT on content creation and marketing processes, and whether it is a game-changer or just a shortcut for writers and marketers alike. The pen may be mightier than the sword, but both are just tools, after all.Discover the exciting possibilities and challenges of embracing this innovative technology in this episode of The Damn Good Marketing Podcast. Tune in!In This Episode00:00| When ChatGPT doesn’t know wh...2023-08-0923 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildThe Best Career-lifting Conversations of the Season | Highlights of Small Talk Season 4 | Career Growth PodcastIn this exciting season finale of Small Talk with Rainkraft, we've compiled the best moments from Season 4, featuring Subha and Hasita, as they share their expert tips for career growth.
From handling layoffs to managing difficult bosses, this episode covers it all. Plus, discover innovative strategies for goal setting and cultivating executive presence. With actionable advice and engaging discussions, you'll be equipped to accelerate your career growth and achieve your goals.
Join us as we dive into the highlights of Season 4, featuring a range of valuable insights to help you navigate your professional journey. Whether...2023-04-2428 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E11 - How to ‘elevator pitch’ a good story about yourselfYou may not judge a book by its cover. But you will judge it by the book blurb - the short description at the back of the book. Similarly, your pitch is your own blurb. It is the world’s first impression of you. Make it your best version till the next version comes along!
In This Episode | Discussion Points
(00:00) What to pitch
(02:14) Your 10-second story
(03:57) Disappointment of a wrong pitch
(06:27) Make your pitches catchy
(07:44) Pitch according to place
(11:00) Pitch according to time
(12:27) Pitch according to the audience
(14:40) Practice your pitch
Small Talk With RainKraft is a top 10 show in India...2023-04-0319 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E10 - Why Startups Need a People StrategyIn the beginning, startups have nothing but an idea - and a team of true believers who hope to bring it to reality. Everything is riding on the success of that team. And yet ‘HR’ is the last thing that any startup thinks about, perhaps it implies bureaucracy. So here are some reasons to think otherwise and a few steps that startups should undertake early on, to improve individual performance and lengthen the odds of success.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
(00:34) Why the people function should be a priority
(03:24) It becomes a pressing need after about 10 people
(04:50) Early employees cannot keep...2023-03-2021 min
The Damn Good PodcastS2E10 | How can I be more creative with my marketing ideas?Do you have to be a mad genius to be creative? Or get inspired somehow? Or is it something within reach of all of us, something that can actually be executed reliably and within deadlines? For this season’s final episode, we discuss creativity in all its glory. In This Episode (02:43) How can we be creative? (04:10) Do you always have to be inspired? (07:40) How can a single person be consistently creative? (08:30) 70% of ads aren’t memorable - how do you ensure yours don’t flop...2023-03-1525 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E9 - How to enhance your career by cultivating Executive PresenceYou know how some people can walk into a room and behave as though they own it? Well, in this episode we discuss how you, too, could become one among them, by developing the elusive Executive Presence.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
(03:55) What is Executive Presence and why do you need it?
(06:43) Deconstructing executive presence.
(13:08) How to make changes to develop executive presence.
(15:37) How authenticity and experience can contribute
(19:18) Dealing with critique.
Small Talk With RainKraft is a top 10 show in India. If you’re serious about your professional future, do follow the show for ac...2023-03-0623 min
The Damn Good PodcastS2E9 | How can I use LinkedIn for lead generation? | Varnika Pasari, Founder, TicTactic | Performance Marketing, Paid AdsHave you been frustrated with your lead-generation efforts on LinkedIn? In today’s episode, we share with you tips and a formula you can apply to attract and nurture quality leads at a reasonable cost. Watch out for the bonus tactic on how a certain type of LinkedIn ad could be run for almost the same price as Google ads!(If you keep track of how many times Hasita says 'if I'm not wrong' in this episode accurately, please DM her on LinkedIn with your answer for some cool podcast merch!)In This Ep...2023-03-0130 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E8 - Dealing with difficult bosses, clients, and colleaguesSpending long hours with difficult people and forcing yourself to put up with them isn't healthy or sustainable. How can you better understand what is happening in such interactions? How do you know when a ‘bad’ boss isn't really just someone with a different working style - and how do you align your styles for better outcomes? And what do you do when the relationship is truly toxic?
In This Episode | Discussion Points
(01:20) It’s quite common to have a bad boss
(02:50) Recognise your workplace behaviour patterns
(05:35) Is it a bad boss or an incompatible work style...2023-02-2021 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E7 - It's not always about the money!“I gave her a raise, yet she left.” Dual careers and an increased appreciation for work-life integration sparked during the pandemic have made employees think about work more broadly than just a pay packet. This makes it tougher to retain the good folks and the need of the hour is more honest conversations about what really excites the person in your team.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
(03:10) Money is not the only motivator
(05:54) Understanding the personal relationship we each have with money
(10:50) Adapting to changing work-related desires
(16:20) Charting a roadmap for the employee's career
(19:50) Communicating needs more...2023-02-0624 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E6 - What To Do When Your Manager Needs ManagingSo you’ve expanded your team, and yet you find yourself having to defer important things to handle day-to-day questions? The answer might lie less in behaviour and more in process. Whether you're a new manager of managers or an experienced one looking to improve your skills, this episode will provide valuable tips and strategies to help you lead your team to success. And feel comfortable while you do so.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
[02:37] Setting up processes.
[04:14] Avoiding micromanagement.
[06:43] Why modelling behaviour alone will not enable delegation.
[08:56] The value of HR expertise.
[10:10] How to help you...2023-01-2318 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E5 - “Where do you see yourself in five years?”"Where do you see yourself in five years?" is THE dreaded interview question. And you know what, it's okay not to have answers! Your career path is exactly that—a path. One that deserves exploring. In this episode, Subha and Hasita discuss the evolution of career paths and how they’re not all that linear these days.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
[00:30] Adapting your career to a rapidly changing world
[03:37] Upskilling for an ‘unknown’ future
[05:53] Building a complementary (but interesting) skillset on your own terms
[09:55] Opening yourself up to a wide range of career experiences
[17:42] Reflecting on your...2023-01-0921 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildHoliday Crossover: Damn Good StorytellingIt’s the holiday season! And that means it’s time for something special! This week, we’re excited to bring you the first-ever crossover episode with our sister podcast The Damn Good Marketing Podcast. In this episode, Subha and Hasita discuss a topic dear to both their hearts: the power of storytelling and its ability to make life, career, and media all the more enriching.
We talk about
How celebrities use storytelling to shape their narratives
Branding as a way to position yourself in the professional world
Finding a point of view to anchor your story
...2022-12-2824 min
The Damn Good PodcastHoliday Crossover: Small Talk About StorytellingThis week, we’re excited to bring you the first-ever crossover episode with our sister podcast Small Talk with RainKraft- a podcast for those who feel passionately about growing their career. In this episode, Hasita and Subha discuss a topic dear to both their hearts: the power of storytelling and its ability to make life, career, and media all the more enriching.In This Episode01:27 How celebrities use storytelling to shape their narratives05:15 Branding as a way to position yourself in the professional world07:50 Finding a point of view to anchor your story10:10 Stepping out of...2022-12-2823 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E4 - Can we do goal setting differently this year?Every year around this time, we take stock of our achievements versus the goals we had set. But are we going about it the right way? Are we disappointing ourselves by being too narrowly focused on specific aspects of life, ignoring other achievements? Are we reaching for the unattainable? Should we do things differently this time around?
We talk about
The downsides of being too narrowly focused and how to expand our goal set
How to set goals
Rewarding ourselves for achieving goals
Setting SMARTER goals
Foreshadowing failure is as important as visualising success
Don’t tr...2022-12-2622 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E3 - How not to take a layoff personallyWinter is coming (sorry, we know this is so passé), and this season it seems to come with a wave of mass layoffs. It’s quite terrifying because of how untimely and arbitrary they are. Layoffs are just business, not personal. We all know this. But when you get laid off unexpectedly, and it throws a curveball in your career, how can you help but not take it personally? In this episode, Subha and Hasita share their thoughts on how not to take layoffs personally.
In This Episode | Discussion Points
[02:32] Why layoffs are so jarring despite bei...2022-12-1222 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E2 - Why do I struggle to delegate? Here's a mindful approach for every busy professionalDo you find yourself doing a lot yet feeling like the work never ends? Are you still doing things that you mastered a few years ago or in your previous role? On most days, we’re rushing to tasks that need immediate attention rather than thinking about the bigger picture. And this often affects the way founders, senior professionals and leaders delegate to teammates.
Every performance coach and professional probably has a piece of content on delegation, and yet the to struggle to climb the mountain when it comes to delegating work is real. Why does it fee...2022-11-2821 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS4E1 - Your career doesn't need the pressure of being your passion!Your career and your passion can be two very different things!
Welcome back to Season 4! We're starting with one piece of career advice that can derail the best of us! We've often heard that if you make a career out of your passion, you'd never have to work a day in your life.
But then again, we've also heard it said- find your passion, and let it slowly kill you! If those two in tandem sound ominous, that's because they are.
We talk about
being in it for the long haul
how no...2022-11-1720 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildBonus - Serena and Sebastian and Identity ClaritySome events just have us making a mad dash to the podcast studio! Not just because we want to talk about them but because we have already been talking about them! Our first bonus episode this season was on the infamous Adam Neumann and his story, seen through WeCrashed on Apple TV. Well, he's back, asking for more money and getting it too! We also ended the season talking about quitting and why it shouldn't get such a bad rep. Serena Williams and Sebastian Vettel seem to think so too. They lead the way in identity-based growth, a must...2022-08-2118 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E21 - It's OK to Quit, Right?For far too long, in the corporate world, we’ve glorified what now seems like the wrong ideals. “Keep at it”, “do or die”, “there is no trying”,… and the list goes on.
But what about the virtues of stepping away, taking a break, or just knowing when we’ve outgrown something. One of the worst things we can do to our careers is to keep at things which don’t agree with us anymore. Using the post-pandemic world as a reference point, we’re using the last episode of season 3 to discuss what it means to know when to stop....2022-07-2621 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E20- Small Talk with Neeraj Kakkar- Drinks, memories, and selling a story at scaleAs the CEO of Hector Beverages, Neeraj Kakkar has created one of the most iconic beverage brands to come out of India in recent times- Paper Boat.
If you’ve substituted the making of aamras and panakam this past summer with Paper Boat’s beverages, this episode tells us the story behind building and scaling a business.
What does the true journey of an entrepreneur look like? It isn't always gold and glitter. The courage to follow an idea, be willing to learn from the consumer and deliver what the market wants while staying true to yo...2022-07-1937 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E19 - The Challenge of Building and Changing CareersFor many of us, there’s a fundamental challenge in identifying the difference between a job and a career. Should we commit to one field and become the best in it? Should we go wide and learn as much as possible? When is a good time to switch careers? And most importantly, when we’re ready to switch, just what do we do?
In this episode, we address all of these questions about planning how to live out your work-life for the next few decades. Give it a listen!
Things we mention:
1. Cal Newp...2022-07-1122 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E18 - Being a multipotentialite and curating your digital presence - with Nandita IyerWhen you don't define yourself just by your professional qualifications or limit yourself to one job/one hobby, the possibilities are endless. Author, much-loved food blogger, columnist, and a medical doctor by training - these are just some of the many hats Nandita Iyer wears in the digital realm. Known by many as Saffrontrail, Nandita follows every passion with just the right amount of love and intensity so that it stays a passion and doesn't turn into a chore. How does she keep up with herself? What makes her tick? How does she decide what to share and what...2022-07-0434 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildBonus Episode - WeCrashed, Work Cultures, and where the best-laid plans go awryHave you had a chance to watch WeCrashed on Apple TV+ yet? If not, we’d strongly recommend that you do, definitely for Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway (and Apple’s insane production quality). Also because the story of the rise and fall and eventual consolidation of WeWork has a lot of lessons for us in culture, vision, founder personas, and when a dream begins to turn into a nightmare.
This bonus episode of Small Talk with RainKraft is inspired by our weekend binge sessions. Would you like to see more like this? Do tell us!
Thi...2022-06-2717 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E16 - Do you know how to say No?The ability to turn down things we’ve outgrown, things we don’t want to be doing, and things we never wanted to do but got cajoled into, is one of the most underrated skills of our century. We are, after all, saddled with information at every turn, and saying ‘no’ feels like a lost opportunity with many ramifications.
In this episode, we discuss healthy ways to say no without sabotaging our careers and work-life and talk about the many stunts we pulled because we just couldn’t utter the magic word.
Hosts:
Subha Chan...2022-06-2018 min
The Damn Good PodcastAm I building a business, or building a website?!We hear your frustration!If you want to find out how successful a marketing team will be in the future, get them all to agree on how to go about building a website. Because of its front-facing significance, and its dynamic nature, and its role in reflecting evolving company goals, and its complexity in mapping.....and the list goes on, but we can count on the fingers of one hand the number of website projects that went precisely how everyone hoped they would.But, if there were a mythical 'right way' to build...2022-06-1530 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E15 - Creating Organisational Resilience by Being a Perpetual Learner - with Srideep KesavanTo turn around one business is a big deal in itself, but what do you do when you find yourself in situations where you need to turn several businesses around throughout your career?
Srideep Kesavan, CEO of Heritage Foods with career-defining stints at Coca-Cola and Olam International, is no stranger to growing a business in the face of adversity, and his secret superpower is learning- from every opportunity, every situation, and every person he meets.
In this episode, we talk about the core of what marketing really is, the not-so-unique consumer/employee/human, what business...2022-06-1332 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E14 - Are you a new face at the old workplace?You know the saying, one person's Google Meet is another person's poison. Some of us have started working with new companies during the pandemic and are only now beginning to see our colleagues in a real-world environment. Maybe we enjoy the luncheons and drinks; maybe we don't. Perhaps, it is hard to keep the luncheons going as a new Zoom meeting beckons. So much for the hybrid life.
What should you do as a new face in these situations? Whether you're a manager, a director, or an executive, there are some ways to make the first few d...2022-06-0618 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E13 - Why does a voice inside my head keep telling me I'm not good enough?We all have fears and many times these fears save us from doing something dangerous. Some fears turn into limiting beliefs - negative judgments about ourselves that we hold to be true. Hold so strongly that we say no to good opportunities because we believe that we aren't capable and hence decide not to give something a try. Are you saying yes to a new role at work? Are you saying yes to trying something that tests your abilities? Or is something holding you back? As a people manager, are you able to spot the signs and get your...2022-05-2317 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E12 - Getting Smart About Artificial Intelligence - with Kashyap KompellaEverywhere you look there is talk of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how it will change all our lives. For the better or is there danger lurking behind the hype? And do we really understand what AI means in the many apps and tools we use? Are science-fiction movies defining our expectations or will the Metaverse really be our next holiday destination? All this and more, from the basics and made as simple and relatable as you will ever hear, from AI Industry Analyst Kashyap Kompella! As CEO of RPA2AI Research and through various books and columns and teaching...2022-05-1651 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E11 - Going from Zoom to the RoomHybrid work has a particular penchant for being trickier than it sounds. Do we over-communicate when we aren’t all around each other? Can we leave a notification be and let it do its job? How do we talk to each other when one person is virtually available and the other wants to be in an actual room? These are some questions we try and answer in this episode.
Subha Chandrasekaran is an ICF certified leadership coach with over 21 years of experience (corporate & entrepreneurial) leading people and businesses to explore their potential. Hasita is a marketing strategist who...2022-05-0919 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E10 - Building a Sustainable Business, One Toy At a Time - with Meeta Sharma GuptaWhen Meeta Sharma Gupta returned to India with her two young boys and struggled to find sustainable playthings, shumee toys was born. One toy at a time, Meeta works closely with artisans across India and her young team of product designers to create new and innovative wooden toys and kids products that align with her vision of making playtime 90% child and 10% toy.
Today her venture is a brand that moms and kids love, largely because of how Meeta has grown the business. Her leadership style and entrepreneurial journey is insightful for every budding business owner and people m...2022-05-0234 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E9 - Why is giving and receiving feedback so difficult?We don’t always know what does or doesn’t maketh a person, but feedback certainly breaketh us. Why do we hate giving and receiving feedback so much? Why do we take it so personally each and every time? In this episode, we pick up everyone’s least favourite F word, and see how we can make it a little bit less painful and a little more productive for everyone.
Subha Chandrasekaran is an ICF certified leadership coach with over 21 years of experience (corporate & entrepreneurial) leading people and businesses to explore their potential. Hasita is a marketing strategi...2022-04-2517 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E8 - How to slow down and still grow your business with Shailaja VishwanathWhether you are building a professional brand or your personal brand, it can feel quite overwhelming to be on multiple platforms and create content and generate visibility. Yet, more and more people are discovering that you don't have to be everywhere all the time and business happens in the deep pauses too. Can you stay true to doing more of the work you enjoy while also staying away from the daily hustle? Shailaja Vishwanath, Content Strategist & Business Coach for Solopreneurs, has been doing just that. At last count she even exited platforms like Instagram and Pinterest where she had...2022-04-1845 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E7 - How to recognise and deal with burnoutA conversation on burnout is both relevant and necessary today. Where does the individual locus of control on burnout end, and what aspect of burnout becomes an organisation’s responsibility?
More importantly, what is and isn’t burnout? How can you tell if this is just a tough couple of weeks, or if there might be something more significant going on? And assuming that what you’re experiencing is indeed burnout, how can you ask for and find help from your organisation?
Things referred to in the episode:
1. WHO's take on burnout
2. De...2022-04-1119 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E6 - How to hit your goals out of the park - with Yash MishraAcross generations, across diverse contexts, we’re all human. We need support, and help, and a nudge in the right direction to help us achieve our full potential. In this episode, Yash, Founder, SuperBeings, talks about his two-year journey discovering powerful concepts in positive psychology, neuroscience and best practices in motivation. We talk about how behavioural nudges can help us become better, and lead the way for organisational learning and touch upon growth, hybrid work, Buddhism, positive psychology and how HERO skills can create superbeings!
Books and things that come up in the podcast:
1. Drive: The...2022-04-0441 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E5 - How many thoughts does it take to become a Thought Leader?Who am I? That’s a question that can be answered on the spiritual, philosophical, metaphysical, and practical levels. We are the product of what we do over and over again. We are also the sum total of our choices, the products of our pasts, and so much more.
In this episode, Subha and Hasita talk about deciphering your interests, your identity, and the ultimate digital-age goal of becoming a thought-leader! Today, with the opportunity to be creators and change-makers in our own right, how we define our identity and how we differentiate this from passing interests is...2022-03-2818 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E4 - Law in the times of Social Justice - with Jayna KothariWhat is it like to WFH when you are a skilled courtroom litigator? Is the profession what it’s made out to be in John Grisham novels and Good Wife episodes? Jayna Kothari is a senior advocate in the Karnataka High Court and the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India. Jayna’s research and practice interests include constitutional law, gender and sexuality law, disability rights and discrimination law. She had argued in the Supreme Court in the constitutional challenges to Section 377 and adultery which were both decriminalized. She also argued the Independent Thought case in which the Supreme Court recogniz...2022-03-2130 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E3 - How to focus when you’re chronically distractedWhen was the last time one Insta reel led to another and 20min later you are wondering why you are watching kitchen remodelling videos? When was the last time just a glance at the latest ping on your phone didn't lead to checking messages on four other Whatsapp groups? When was the last time you had a video conversation where you did nothing but watch the speaker and listen, without a silent toggle to another tab?
In this episode, Subha and Hasita talk about why focus tools and techniques fail so often and think about guilt-free ways...2022-03-1418 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E2 - How Positivity can be your Superpower - with Sonia SainiIntentionality is everything. Do you believe this to be true? We certainly do, after meeting Sonia. In this episode, Subha sits down with fellow coach Sonia Saini to understand how to drive change in individuals, with a clear focus on empathy and positivity. Sonia generously shares her views and personal stories about the power of positivity (her superpower!) and how each of us can refocus our minds to give us joy and satisfaction in whatever we choose to do.
To connect with Sonia, please find her here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sosaini/. The amazing work she doe...2022-03-0732 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS3E1 - How to be Curious and not JudgementalSmall Talk with RainKraft is a pandemic project that outgrew its pandemic status early this year. Let's now look ahead to learning and growing with optimism. Subha and Hasita invite guests for conversations that will inspire you to know more about a person or an idea or the work people do. Challenge yourself to listen with an open mind and take away a whole lot (or just a little bit) that will get you thinking about your life, the work you do and what you can do to be better every day.
Subha Chandrasekaran is an ICF...2022-02-2818 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2E10 - With The Best of IntentionsEnding the year and a season, on a high! For the last episode of season 2, we talk about the things that were and the year that will be. Give it a listen for hope, good vibes, and a ton of recommendations, approved by the team at RainKraft.
Links of the recommendations we threw at you!
1. Escape to DeviVilla Estate in Coorg this holiday season or any season! Vishal and Aparna will make you feel so at home in the jungle.
2. The Dutch House on Audible, written by Ann Patchett and narrated by Tom H...2021-12-1016 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2E9 - Building A Team Without Hunting for Mini Versions of You!What do our teams look like today? How are they different from before the pandemic? In this episode, Subha and Hasita cover the nuances of growth, building a team, and learning to let go too. Hiring better also means knowing the difference between getting someone onboard for the long term vs dipping into the gig economy to get work done.
Subha is an executive/leadership/career coach at RainKraft, and works with individuals to tap into their full potential, form mindful work patterns, and help them thrive at the workplace. Hasita is That Content Girl, a B2B...2021-09-2819 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2 E8 - Where do you draw the line? Drawing boundaries in a virtual world.Welcome to Small Talk with RainKraft, where Subha and Hasita discuss the workplace's most pressing challenges, and how to resolve them. Have you ever juggled conflicting expectations in a new environment? Do you struggle with boundaries in the hybrid work world? How do you stay professional when the workplace is also the dining table or bedroom corner?
We face the exact same challenges and work towards finding a solution every day, and this podcast is a way for us to give back to India's diverse workforce, of which we are a part.
Subha is an...2021-08-2724 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2 E7 - Connecting the Dots with Kartik HosanagarA truly inspiring and insightful conversation with Kartik Hosanagar, a multipotentialite with careers in academia, entrepreneurship, angel-investing and now jumpstarting a new venture in movie-making. We talk about numerous things that hold true for professionals in any sphere of work. Kartik generously shares the guiding principles that have shaped his work and life - from the stereotypical career choices we make as young adults to breaking free of our own beliefs to using the Ikigai circles to life in academia and how his passion for film-making enhances his teaching to what every professional today needs to hear and practice...2021-07-2228 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildNotes to Self - Ep 3 - It's ok to not be okAn honest and brave Notes to Self, where Hasita shares her personal mental health journey. A journey that takes courage, compassion, and commitment, to know and understand that it's ok to not be ok. And in knowing that, you will be ok.
________________
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at www.rainkraft.in/podcast
Get links to the podcast on your favourite streaming service for podcasts.
We are @rainkraft on Instagram and @rainkraftin on Twitter and /Rainkraft on Facebook.
Follow us as we guide your business a...2021-05-0704 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildNotes to Self - Ep 2 - Letting grief remind me of his legacyIt is a truly challenging time for most families around the world and India especially. Everywhere you look there is a loved one in need of something that should be so fundamentally easy to get your hands on. It is also a time for personal grief. Grief that I, Subha Chandrasekaran, am channeling into a tribute for a man I loved oh so much.
______________________
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at www.rainkraft.in/podcast
Get links to the podcast on your favourite streaming service for podcasts.
W...2021-04-3005 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildNotes to Self - Ep 1 - Why the CIA missed 9/11 and building teams that don't always agree.When building teams or solving a problem, what's the best set of people to have? Are you really looking at diversity from all angles?
Notes to Self, by Subha Chandrasekaran, explores the notion of Cognitive Diversity and the work of Matthew Syed, an Olympian with an interesting new career.
Give it a listen?
Hear from from Matthew Syed at https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/matthew-syed/id925357185?i=1000450217415
His latest book Rebel Ideas is available at https://amzn.to/3gadcAW
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at...2021-04-1207 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2E3 - Communication zen and the art of asking questionsRoyal dramas, Oprah’s ability to ask the right questions, and why we need to ask more and listen more in a world that’s connected, probably more than it needs to be. In this episode of Small Talk with RainKraft, Subha Chandrasekaran (Founder, RainKraft) and Hasita Krishna (That Content Girl) discuss what it means to ask the right questions, how to do this well every single time, and more that’s on their mind.
Give it a listen?
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at www.rainkraft.in/podcast
Get lin...2021-04-0514 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2E2 - Going impromptu, in the spirit of Clubhouse!How would we fare if we were asked to give a speech this very moment? In this episode of Small Talk with RainKraft, Subha Chandrasekaran (Founder, RainKraft) and Hasita Krishna (That Content Girl) find out and you can too. It's all things Clubhouse, elevator pitches, serendipity and beating FOMO in life.
Give it a listen?
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at www.rainkraft.in/podcast
Get links to the podcast on your favourite streaming service for podcasts.
We are @rainkraft on Instagram and @rainkraftin on Twitter...2021-02-2713 min
Small Talk: Work | Play | BuildS2E1 - Own Your ProductivityAfter 'Pandemic', this word is the next P-shaped villain of 2020. Productivity has been thrown around like party confetti, raining down on us and yet dampening our spirits. Don't let it define how you think of your self, at work or otherwise. Own what works for you! Listen in to know just how to do that. So let's get Season 2 going!
Catch all our podcast episodes on life, work and more at www.rainkraft.in/podcast
Get links to the podcast on your favourite streaming service for podcasts.
We are @rainkraft on Instagram and...2021-01-3109 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E8 - Five Years Of RainKraft, and what we got rightGoing on a trip down memory lane, a few life lessons that hold everyone in good stead, but mostly just us talking to you about 2020, and our hopes for the future.
Hope you can take some time off to wrap up this year and maybe even find a few minutes to catch up on or re-listen to Small Talk!
Our LinkedIn profiles if you want to drop us a note!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/subhachandrasekaran/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasita/
See you soon in Season 2! 2020-12-2112 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E7 - Hiring Virtually: Lessons from dunnhumby India with Manoj MadhusudananWe welcome our first podcast guest Manoj Madhusudanan, Head of dunnhumby India, to talk about managing a virtual workforce, especially aspects of virtual hiring such as onboarding virtually, getting people on the same page, and building a people-driven culture at work. There are some amazing insights here from Manoj so tune in!2020-11-3023 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E6 - Content Marketing 101 for Small Businesses and SolopreneursEvery business owner wants to focus on the core work and marketing today feels like a heavy distraction. So many social platforms to choose from, ideas to be detailed, creatives and content to be put out... and finally, no one seems to be seeing it. Let's start from the very beginning and simplify this for you. You'll also hear from a couple of creative folks who make business happen for other Small Businesses and Solopreneurs. 2020-11-1716 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E5 - How to make LinkedIn worth your whileThe network was supposed to keep things professional. As it starts to look and feel more like Facebook and Twitter got together, here's how you can still keep connecting to the good side of LinkedIn, as a corporate cubicle-dweller or an independent soul.2020-10-2612 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E4 - Getting Hiring & New Gigs Right In A Virtual WorldRemember Super Mario and its million levels? Hiring a new employee or starting a new gig can feel much like jumping through virtual hoops, but here's how to make it worth your while.
2020-10-0911 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E3 - What is really wrong with so many resumes today?In good times and pandemics, the job hunt is a challenging effort. But the document that's supposed to help us get land a job, is betraying us. Here's how to fix it.2020-09-2510 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E2 - Are you tired of playing Meeting-Meeting?An ode to the many Zoom calls we've muted ourselves on. But also real tips to make meetings less painful and more productive.2020-09-2509 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E1- Starting Off with Small Talk!Welcome to Small Talk with RainKraft where Subha and Hasita discuss what’s top of the mind in our industry and work-life currently. Expect raindrops, listicles, and other things we love about the business of growing together.
To get warmed up, we start our podcast season with a podcast about podcasts! We didn't plan it this way but we just got chatting and turns out we have quite a few ideas and recommendations in this space.2020-09-0908 minSmall Talk: Work | Play | BuildS1E0 - The Small Talk About RainKraftPutting names, titles, reasons and other fancy stuff to the disembodied voices you'll now be hearing on your way to work or on the couch that's now office.
More about us and the work we do at www.rainkraft.in!2020-09-0802 min