Welcome to our episode of ‘Reach Minds: Thoughts for Your Life’s Journey’ podcast.

In today’s episode we're diving deep into the power of finding your voice and creating your own safe space. We'll explore how resilience, self-belief, and those unexpected moments of serendipity can truly transform our lives and empower us to make courageous choices. Imagine a life marked by significant challenges yet defined by unwavering strength. A life where a chance encounter on a plane could spark a profound transformation. That's exactly what happened to our guest today.

Joining me is Sangita Marda Agarwal, a woman whose story is a testament to the human spirit. Eight years ago, on a flight back from Heathrow, Sangita picked up Sheryl Sandberg's "Lean In." Little did she know that book would ignite a passion that has shaped her life ever since. But before we delve into her incredible work with Lean In, we need to understand the remarkable journey that brought her here.

About Sangita Marda Agarwal

Sangita is a sunrise lover and a storyteller. Her story begins 57 years ago when she was adopted by a remarkable couple. Adopting a female child was in those days. She enjoyed a privileged upbringing, lots of love and a solid education. But life took a devastating turn when she lost her parents at just 21. Soon after, she found herself in a marriage marked by domestic abuse for 8 long years.

Trapped by financial dependence which crushed her self-confidence and self esteem. But amidst the darkness, glimmers of hope emerged. Acts of kindness from other women, and a chance opportunity to join a door-to-door book sales training program, became a lifeline. Despite the hardships of being a single mother, Sangita rose through the ranks, achieving director-level success, and ultimately, gaining the financial independence she needed to create a safe haven for her two daughters.

Beyond her personal journey, Sangita boasts an impressive 29-year career in sales, marketing, and communication across three major companies. Today, she serves as a fractional CCO, providing expert consultancy. For the past eight years, she's dedicated herself to voluntarily building and running the Lean In Mumbai Network, after relocating from Kolkata to Mumbai with her daughters and her second husband. Sangita's story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we possess the strength to reclaim our voices and build safe spaces, not just for ourselves, but for others.

In this Podcast, We Pose the Following on Building Resilience and Self-belief

• Sangita, your story is one of remarkable resilience. When did you first become aware of your own strength and self-belief?
• In those incredibly challenging times you faced, what kept you going? What was your anchor?
• Tell us about that moment at the airport. How did Sheryl Sandberg's book, 'Lean In,' speak to you so profoundly?
• "You've been running the Lean In network for eight years. For those who might not be familiar, can you tell us what the network does and its mission?
• In the Indian context, what are some of the key themes you're seeing and hearing around women's empowerment?"
• What tips or resources would you offer to someone who is facing personal challenges and wants to begin their journey of self-discovery and empowerment?"

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

1. Books: The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
2. Lean In - For joining or starting a Lean In Circle from wherever you are in the world.
3. Movies - Queen ( Hindi)
4. The Mel Robinson Podcast

Work with me : If you are interested in working with me connect with me on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, www.nitasharma.com.

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