Why Empathy Is the Secret to Great Leadership | Nand Kishore Chaudhary

Can empathy build a successful business?In this episode of the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast, Mallek Walid sits down with Nand Kishore Chaudhary, Founder & Chairman of Jaipur Rugs, to explore how compassion, purpose, and unconditional love became the foundation of one of India's most respected social enterprises.Known as the "Gandhi of the Carpet Industry," Nand shares the philosophy behind empowering more than 40,000 artisans, why empathy creates stronger leaders, balancing family and business, hiring people based on purpose rather than resumes, and how businesses can create lasting social impact while remaining profitable.This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, entrepreneurship, culture, and building organizations that put people first.Chapters00:00 Why empathy is the foundation of leadership00:54 Meet Nand Kishore Chaudhary01:39 Why he's called the "Gandhi of the Carpet Industry"03:32 From selling shoes to building Jaipur Rugs05:07 Empowering artisans through entrepreneurship06:17 Building a family business with purpose07:41 Balancing family and business08:57 Leading with kindness without compromising standards11:12 How to handle employees who want to leave13:03 The "Search for Divine Souls" hiring philosophy15:07 Nand's advice for every entrepreneur15:56 Closing remarksSubscribe for more conversations with entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers on the SEF Backstage Pass Podcast.This episode was produced in partnership with Poddster.Follow SEF:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharjahefTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sharjahefLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sharjah-entrepreneurship-festivalWebsite: https://sharjahef.com