Ready Set Do

Saurav is twenty-six and lives in Delhi. For five years he's worked fully remote for companies in Israel and the Czech Republic, and he gets flown out to developer conferences across three continents.The part that stopped me cold: he's never once clicked "apply" on a job portal. Not once.So how does a kid from a government school in Delhi end up speaking on stages in Nigeria, Prague, and San Francisco? That's the whole episode.The job is DevRel — developer relations, or developer advocate if you want the fancier title. Most Indian devs have never heard of it. Meanwhile companies across Europe and the US are scrambling to fill these roles, and plenty of them pay in USD. (Yes, from India. Yes, fully remote.)Saurav walked me through his actual playbook. How he built public proof through his content and community work until hiring managers came chasing him instead of the other way around. How he got companies to invent a role for him when they weren't even hiring.We also got into the stuff nobody warns you about. The DevRel interview has a coding round most people don't see coming, and Saurav explains how to walk in ready. He breaks down what this remote tech job looks like on a normal Tuesday, not the conference-stage highlight reel.Then there's the AI question. Everyone assumes AI is coming for these jobs. Saurav makes the opposite case — demand for good developer advocates is climbing, and he explains why.If you're an Indian developer staring at LeetCode and wondering whether there's another door in, this one's for you. Saurav started exactly where you are. He learned Python, did the work in public, and built a remote career that pays globally without a single resume submission.Worth your forty minutes? I think so. 🎧If real career paths with no fluff are your thing, subscribe and stick around. New episodes every week.Saurav's links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sauain/Apify: https://apify.comPodcast Website: readysetdopodcast.comTimestamps:00:00 The Rise of Remote Work and Developer Advocacy03:09 Building Developer Content at Apify06:09 Saurav's Path From Software Developer to DevRel09:39 Learning Python and Breaking Into Tech13:09 Landing Remote Roles Without Applying17:09 Getting Hired Through Public Work21:09 Making Companies Create Opportunities for You25:09 What DevRel Actually Involves Day to Day29:09 DevRel Interviews, Coding Rounds, and Community Proof33:09 Remote Work, Travel, and Getting Paid Globally37:09 How AI Is Changing DevRel41:09 Advice for Indian Developers Starting Out

Shriya left India for Germany to do a master's in Human-Computer Interaction. Her tuition bill came to zero.(Read that again. Zero — not "discounted," actually free.)If you've been stress-googling "masters abroad" at 2am, stuck in the loop most Indian students hit after a B.Tech, this is the conversation you needed. US debt, Canada's wait times, or the rumor that Germany is some kind of cheat code — we sort out which parts hold up.She walks through why Germany won out over the US and Canada, and how the German public university system actually works. A free masters in Germany isn't a trick. Public universities charge no tuition to international students, full stop.The real masters in Germany cost is rent, a blocked account for your German student visa, and the slow work of building a life in a town where you might not know a soul.Shriya also explains what HCI even is. Most people file human computer interaction masters work under UX and move on, but the field is wider — AR, VR, data visualization, research roles that don't sit neatly on a job board. For one project she turned survey data into comics (yes, comics).Then there's the part nobody markets to you. The German language requirement quietly decides who gets hired after graduation, no matter how sharp your portfolio is. We get into that honestly, plus how she funded independent research as a student and what an HCI degree opens up beyond a standard UX role.And the human stuff: safety, the loneliness of a small German town, and learning to read a culture that says what it means and little more.So if you're weighing Germany vs USA masters, sizing up the best country for a master's as an Indian student, or just want a straight answer on a UX masters in Germany before you sign away two years — start here.Timestamps:00:00 Shreya's Journey from CS to HCI04:04 Understanding HCI and Its Curriculum07:04 Why Germany Made Sense for Grad School10:49 How HCI Programs Are Structured in Germany12:57 AR, VR, and Visualization Projects in HCI16:49 Comicification: Turning Surveys Into Comics23:41 Career Opportunities After an HCI Degree27:19 Grants, Research Funding, and Student Opportunities31:49 German Language Requirements for Jobs36:34 Navigating Safety, Loneliness, and Social Life in Germany42:34 German Culture, Communication, and Stereotypes50:49 Final Reflections and Advice for HCI StudentsFind ShriyaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shriy-singh/Ready Set Do podcast: www.readysetdopodcast.com

Six thousand followers. That's the number that should not work.Most people would look at Alisha Gupta's Instagram and assume she's stuck. Too small for brand deals. Too niche to get booked. The kind of account you scroll past on your way to someone with a verified checkmark.She's spoken at Harvard. She books out university stages across the country. Brands pay her to post. And she did all of it while holding down a full-time job in AI.So how does someone get paid as a creator without a big audience and without ever going viral? That's the whole episode.Alisha built Beauty and Balance from a single Instagram page into something companies want their name attached to. In this conversation she breaks down why engagement beats follower count every single time, and how brands actually pick who they work with (hint: it's not the number you think).We get into the post that opened the door to Harvard, and the exact system she used to turn one yes into fifteen more stages. If you've ever wondered how to get sponsorships with a small following or how to get booked to speak, she lays out the mechanics plainly.Then she flips the script. She runs her Power of And exercise live on me, the same one she teaches at universities, so you can map your own strengths against your passions and actually figure out your next move tonight. (Yes, I'm the guinea pig. It's a little uncomfortable. That's kind of the point.)If you're a student, a recent grad, or anyone trying to build a real personal brand on the side without quitting your day job, start here. 🎯Chapters:00:00:00 Alisha Gupta's 6K-follower playbook00:03:10 Why your niche has to be obvious fast00:08:40 The origin of Beauty and Balance00:12:30 Starting small and listening to the community00:15:40 First events and proving demand00:20:00 Fear, cringe, and being judged online00:25:10 Turning criticism into creative momentum00:30:05 How Harvard found her00:34:55 Designing talks for the actual room00:38:40 What to do when you fall off00:44:45 Create like the room is full00:50:00 Turning one yes into many more00:52:20 The Beauty and Balance curriculum00:55:00 Naman becomes the live example01:00:05 Mapping passions and what grounds you01:05:00 Connecting strengths, passions, and creativity01:10:05 Self-understanding as the real win01:13:10 Final advice: give yourself room to explore01:15:00 Where to find Alisha and Beauty and BalanceFind Alisha: https://www.instagram.com/alisha_g9/More from Ready Set Do: readysetdopodcast.com

Most people treat LinkedIn like a résumé site. Daniel Greenberg thinks that is exactly why they stay invisible.Daniel has racked up 8 million impressions on LinkedIn and co-hosts Connection Accepted, a show about communication and online influence. So when he says the feed now behaves more like TikTok than a digital CV, I paid attention.Here is the part nobody wants to hear: posting on LinkedIn feels awkward at first, and that awkwardness is the price of entry. Daniel walks through how he actually started, what kept him going, and why the first few posts matter less than the hundredth.We get into AI writing tools too. They make you faster, sure. But faster at producing forgettable content? Daniel and I both agree most AI-generated posts read like they were written by a polite robot trying to win an award (we have all scrolled past that guy).The bigger idea is that communication beats algorithm hacks. You can chase reach all day, but if your one message does not stick, the impressions do not turn into anything. Daniel breaks down how to make a single point land and how to test new formats without abandoning what you actually care about.Then there is the podcasting problem. These episodes eat hours. So how do you know the time is worth it? Daniel uses real listener feedback as the scoreboard, not vanity metrics, and he showed me how he turns raw podcast transcripts into LinkedIn content and search-friendly material that gets discovered through ChatGPT.The last stretch might be my favorite. Daniel explains how consistent content quietly creates warm leads, so opportunities come to you instead of you cold-pitching strangers and hoping. (Imagine that.)If you want to grow on LinkedIn, build a personal brand, sharpen your communication, or create career and business opportunities without begging for them, this one will shift how you see the platform in 2026. 🎯Listen to the full episode of Ready Set Do with Naman Pandey.Guest: Daniel Greenberg, LinkedIn creator and co-host of Ideas.Host: Naman PandeyTimestamps:00:00 LinkedIn: The Next TikTok?04:59 How to Start Posting on LinkedIn10:37 AI Writing Tools: Productivity vs Quality15:01 Why Major Creators Are Moving to LinkedIn20:08 Making One Message Stick25:10 Experimenting With Formats Without Losing the Mission30:15 Podcasting's Time-Investment Problem35:17 Using Real Feedback to Measure Content40:21 Turning Podcast Episodes Into LinkedIn Content45:19 How Content Creates Warm Leads

Picture this. You spend a few weekends building a small web app to track garbage piles in your city. You post about it once on LinkedIn. You go to sleep.You wake up to 250,000 users and your local government quietly using your tool to clean the streets.That's Jyothish's actual 2025.The app is Namma Kasa. It does one thing — lets Bangalore residents drop a pin on a map when they spot uncollected trash, then routes it to the people who can actually pick it up. No login walls, no gamification, no pretending it's a "platform." Just a map and a civic problem.Jyothish is a solo developer and indian product designer who shipped at version 0.1 instead of polishing for six months. The polish came after the users did (and yes, that order matters more than the build-in-public crowd lets on).The Bangalore garbage app went viral on LinkedIn with a 5-word hook. BBMP marshals started using it without a single pitch meeting. Investors slid into his DMs. He turned them all down.In this Ready Set Do conversation, Naman pulls apart how it actually went down — the exact LinkedIn post that broke it open, the mindset behind shipping an MVP in india before it feels ready, how civic technology gets adopted when nobody is forcing a partnership deck, and why he's anti-VC on principle for this one.If you've got a half-built side project sitting on your laptop right now (yes, that one), and you've been told you need a FAANG resume before anyone takes your work seriously — this is the one to play.Civic tech india doesn't need permission. It needs people who ship.⏱ Chapters:00:00 The Viral Journey Begins03:30 Designing a Map-First Civic Reporting Journey06:40 The Mechanics of Reporting Garbage09:45 Going Viral, Hitting Limits, and Coming Back Online12:30 Accountability, Visibility, and Reaching Authorities15:01 Scaling and Future Plans18:54 Product Design Lessons for Civic Tech23:45 Shipping Imperfectly and Learning from Feedback28:30 Keeping Nammakasa Citizen-Led32:52 Building Ideas Without Overthinking the Outcome34:52 Final Reflections: Keep Experimenting and Keep GoingConnect with Jyothish:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jyothish-vm/Namma Kasa (Bangalore): nammakasa.inSubscribe for weekly conversations with people figuring out what careers and building actually look like in the AI era — career advice india 2026, indie hacker india stories, bootstrapped app journeys, and indian developer side projects worth paying attention to.

Two years ago, Anas lost his full-time UK job. He went back to Upwork — the platform he'd already used to make over $80K while studying — and within months landed an 18-month Swedish contract that generated over $5M in client revenue.His unfair advantage? A 60-second intro video that gets him hired in 24 hours.In this episode of Ready Set Do, I sit with Anas, a Top Rated Plus Upwork freelancer (roughly the top 3% on the platform), to walk through his exact playbook for freelancing on Upwork in 2026.We cover how to start freelancing on Upwork with zero reviews, how to write Upwork proposals that actually get opened, how to price freelance work across countries without underselling yourself, and how to escape the "Upwork is saturated" trap that keeps most beginners stuck.Anas is a Moroccan-born industrial engineer who pivoted into data science, freelanced his way through grad school in the UK, and rebuilt his income on Upwork after a layoff. So he's lived both sides — the broke student grinding for first reviews, and the senior freelancer competing against AI and offshore pricing.If you're trying to figure out how to get clients on Upwork, build a freelance data science career, or future-proof yourself against AI eating junior work — this is the full breakdown.A few things we get into:→ The Upwork proposal mistake 90% of beginners make (and the niche-down fix)→ Why milestones beat hourly contracts on bigger projects→ How to filter bad clients before you ever get on a call→ The LinkedIn + YouTube combo that pre-sells you before the proposal lands→ Where Anas thinks "Chief AI Operator" roles are headed nextWhether you're sending your first Upwork proposal this week or you've been freelancing for years and feel the AI pressure closing in, Anas gives you the tactical playbook and the bigger story behind it.(Quick heads-up: I learned more about freelance pricing in 25 minutes of this conversation than in any Upwork course I've seen.)Subscribe to Ready Set Do for more honest career conversations with people who've actually done it — international students, immigrant founders, freelancers, PMs, and engineers building unconventional paths into tech.🔗 ABOUT ANASLinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/riadanas/YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@UC2L6md1QyYAMRAoar_9ZFawReady Set Do podcast: readysetdopodcast.comChapters:00:00 The Biggest Misconception About Freelancing01:55 From Industrial Engineering to Data Science03:15 Saturation, AI Tools, and the Changing Job Market05:00 Starting on Upwork Before Feeling Fully Ready06:42 Niching Down and Writing Targeted Proposals09:47 Getting First Reviews and Building Social Proof11:01 Filtering Clients and Setting Clear Project Boundaries14:32 Milestones, Hourly Work, and Project Structure19:19 Pricing, Undercharging, and Negotiating Rates24:02 Re-Entering Upwork and Landing a Larger Client28:47 Building Trust with LinkedIn, YouTube, and Video Proof35:28 AI's Impact on Freelance Data Work and Future Roles38:13 AI Agents, Chief AI Operators, and Guardrails

Here's the uncomfortable thing nobody at career services will tell you: "I use Claude every day" stopped being a resume line about six months ago. The people hiring at Amazon, Google, and the frontier AI labs already assume you do. So what actually gets you hired in 2026?I sat down with Surya Kari, a Senior Generative AI Data Scientist at Amazon, to find out.Surya works on Amazon's white-glove GenAI team. His days are spent shipping with Fortune 500 customers and the frontier model labs you read about on Twitter. He's in the room when hiring decisions get made. And his honest read on early-career AI hiring is way more specific than the LinkedIn-thinkpiece version.We start with the thing I keep seeing destroy promising careers: using Claude (or any AI tool) like glorified autocomplete. Surya calls this the fastest way to plateau in your twenties. The fix isn't more tools — it's depth. The kind of moat that doesn't melt the next time a frontier model ships.Then we get into agents. Surya doesn't think agentic AI is actually production-ready yet (and yes, he works at Amazon, so he's seen the receipts). We talk about what's still broken, what the hype is missing, and what "agents" will probably mean by the time you graduate.His own story is pretty wild too. He was running a Canadian startup competing against Amazon Go before he ended up running GenAI deals at Amazon itself. The arc from analyst to startup founder to senior AI scientist is full of stuff that won't show up on a tidy career-advice carousel.The conversation I'm proudest of comes near the end. Surya grew up in India, studied in Canada, works in the US — and he's watched how each region is building AI from the inside. The contrast between how the East and the West think about AI right now is sharper than I expected. His take on India treating AI as public infrastructure is the kind of thing you don't hear in the usual big tech hiring discourse.If you're a CS student or new grad trying to figure out where to bet your career in the generative AI era, this one's for you. Surya tells you exactly what he'd do today if he were starting over.Subscribe for weekly conversations with the people figuring out what work actually looks like in the AI era.Connect with Surya:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suryakari/⏱ Chapters:00:00 A Day in the Life of a Generative AI Data Scientist01:17 Understanding Customer Personas in Generative AI04:17 Upskilling in a Rapidly Evolving Field06:09 The Contrast of Experience in AI Tools09:33 Navigating Production Code and Testing12:15 The Hype Around AI Agents16:28 The Future of AI Agents and Their Limitations20:56 Surya's Journey: From Analyst to AI Expert23:48 Innovations in Retail Technology24:09 Transitioning to Edge Computing and AI26:36 Upskilling in Data Science and AI31:39 Cultural Differences in AI Development36:10 AI as Public Infrastructure in India

How do you go from running tuberculosis programs in rural Bihar to studying at Oxford and eventually working with WHO Africa? There is no clean answer — and that is sort of the point.In this episode, I sit down with Dyuti Sen to talk about what a public health career actually looks like when you do not start as a doctor, do not have a linear plan, and refuse to pretend the journey was smooth.Dyuti studied economics, then entered the development sector through a social leadership fellowship in India. That fellowship dropped her into Dalsinghsarai in Bihar — not a posting you would find on a glossy career brochure. She spent five years there working on tuberculosis, community health delivery, and the enormous gap between what policy says on paper and what happens when a patient in a remote village needs treatment. She calls those years her real master's degree, and after hearing the details, you will understand why.We get into what public health work looks like day to day — the fieldwork, the project management, the bureaucracy. Why "free medicine" does not automatically mean people can access it. Why community health workers carry deep practical expertise that often gets overlooked. And why the distance between a well-designed health policy and its execution on the ground is where the real work lives.Then we talk about her Oxford journey. How she shortlisted master's programs, why scholarships were non-negotiable, what shifted after getting into International Health and Tropical Medicine, and how she later navigated the confusing world of WHO and UN applications. If you have ever stared at a UN job portal and thought "how does anyone actually get hired here?" — Dyuti walks through it with real specifics.This conversation is for anyone interested in global health careers, public health in India, international development pathways, WHO jobs, Oxford scholarships, or what it takes to build a meaningful international career from a non-medical background. No fluff, no fairy tale — just the real version of the path.Guest: Dyuti SenHost: Naman PandeyDisclaimer: Views expressed in this conversation are personal and do not represent WHO or any affiliated institution.Chapters:00:00 Dyuti's journey into public health03:52 Experiences in Bihar: a unique perspective06:39 Adapting to rural life and community dynamics09:14 A day in the life: from fieldwork to project management12:11 Challenges in public health: insights from the ground13:58 The importance of community health workers16:58 Lessons learned: the reality of public health work20:01 Battling tuberculosis in Bihar28:24 Navigating the application process for graduate studies36:09 Navigating scholarship applications and mindset39:19 India vs. the West: contrasting public health perspectives48:48 Journey to WHO: career path and lessons01:01:15 Understanding WHO's role in global health01:06:15 Future aspirations in public health

Twenty apps. Thirteen days. Some already making money.That's what Avi Pilcer actually shipped while most of us were still picking a domain name. And the wild part? He didn't do it alone. He built an autonomous system called System Zero that does the heavy lifting for him.If you've been told "AI is making it easier to build" but you still freeze at "what should I build, how do I ship it, who's going to use it?" — this episode unjams the whole pipeline.Avi's path is not a normal founder origin story. He went from a struggling engineering student to an electric violinist in China (yes, really) to leading AI innovation at Motorola — all before "deep learning" was on most people's vocabulary list.Now he runs a framework-agnostic orchestration system that ships apps, buys Google Ads, writes SEO blogs, and nurtures email lists. All of it runs 24/7. None of it needs him babysitting.Host Naman Pandey gets into the parts nobody actually explains:Why "meta thinking" is the one skill that still matters when AI handles the code and the copy.How an automated AI process picks which apps to build — so you stop drowning in a Notion doc full of half-baked ideas.A live demo of Fleet AI launching a business in real time (this part will probably make you close your laptop and rethink your week).The "prune and purge" method for killing dead apps fast, because shipping is only half the game. The other half is knowing when to walk away.And why Avi thinks money and traditional jobs are on borrowed time — plus what to actually do about it before that clock runs out.If you're an indie hacker or a solopreneur who keeps refreshing Twitter looking for permission to start — this is the permission. 🚀Built for the Peter Levels crowd and the Claude Code curious. Anyone tired of vibe coding their way into half-finished AI apps will find a real playbook here.Whether you're chasing your first profitable agentic AI workflow or trying to wire up autonomous AI agents that genuinely run without you, Avi hands over the full stack.This one belongs in the "watch twice, take notes" pile.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Building 20 Apps in 13 Days13:18 – Navigating AI Tools for Beginners19:19 – Demo of Apps26:45 – System Zero32:07 – Autonomous Operations and Self-Improvement36:11 – Integrating Multiple Projects and Use Cases37:59 – Distribution Strategies for App Success39:03 – Cost Optimization and Business Viability41:03 – The Future of Software Engineering in an AI World51:03 – Exploring System Zero: The Autonomous App BuilderSubscribe to Ready Set Do for more raw conversations with the people building what comes next.

Picture this: it's 2023, ChatGPT just dropped, every Fortune 500 suddenly needs an "AI strategy," and the job postings want 5 years of experience in a technology that's barely 18 months old. How does anyone actually get hired in that mess?Sowmya Podila figured it out. She's now a Senior Data Scientist on Target's centralized Generative AI team — basically the internal startup that decides which AI use cases get built, killed, or scaled across the entire company. Before Target, she was deep in the chaos: interviewing at Google and other Fortune 500s during the wildest hiring wave applied AI has ever seen.We pull back the curtain on what enterprise AI actually looks like from the inside. Not the LinkedIn version. The real one.She walks through how she prepped for GenAI interviews when nobody on Earth had three years of GenAI experience, why she picked Target over Google (the answer is more interesting than you'd think), and what Fortune 500 hiring managers are actually screening for in 2026 once the hype settled.Here's the part nobody tells you: knowing when NOT to use AI is the most valuable skill on her team right now. Every PM wants an LLM in their product. Most of those ideas should be a SQL query and a dashboard. Sowmya breaks down how her team plays gatekeeper — and why that judgment call is what gets you hired, promoted, and trusted with bigger budgets.We also get into the agentic AI question everyone's dancing around. Can AI agents actually run a Fortune 500 company? (Spoiler: no, and the reasons are way less sexy than Twitter would have you believe — it's data plumbing, not model capability.) She talks through building a multi-agent simulator at Target, why company size completely changes the AI adoption playbook, and the messy reality of getting clean data out of systems built in 2008.Then we go big picture. Utopian future vs. dystopian future. Will AI take your job? Sowmya gives an honest answer that doesn't pander in either direction, which is rare these days.If you're trying to break into applied AI, data science, or ML engineering at a large company — or you're already in and trying to figure out what to bet your career on next — this one's for you. We cut through the noise so you know what actually matters vs. what's just LinkedIn theater.Connect with Sowmya:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sowmyapodila/Podcast site: www.readysetdopodcast.comTimestamps00:00 - AI Implementation Landscape in Fortune 500 Companies04:21 - The Evolution of AI Strategies in Enterprises07:20 - Interview Insights: Navigating the AI Job Market10:19 - The Current Landscape of AI in Enterprises13:28 - Understanding the Role of AI in Business Decisions16:24 - The Future of AI Agents in Enterprises28:01 - Building a Multi-Agent Simulator31:15 - Challenges in AI Data Utilization33:33 - The Impact of Company Size on AI Adoption40:02 - The Future of AI: Utopian vs. Dystopian Views45:45 - The Importance of Content Creation in AI Awareness

Hari Prasad Renganathan got rejected from the H1B lottery three times. Most people in that situation spiral. They scramble for a second master's, beg their company for an internal transfer, or start mentally preparing to go back home.Hari texted 10 YC startups, got callbacks from four of them, landed an offer as a Senior AI Engineer, and moved to London. The UK work visa took three weeks. No lottery.But here's the thing — that's just the final chapter of a pattern that's been repeating his entire career. Every time Hari hit a wall, he did the thing nobody else was willing to do.He applied to Columbia with a mechanical engineering degree from Tamil Nadu. No CS background. His GRE score was so average he deliberately withheld it from his application. He wrote an SOP that broke every template the admissions consultants swear by. He got in.After Columbia, he couldn't land an interview for four months. When a senior data scientist on his team quit, Hari walked up to the decision maker and said — and I'm quoting him here — "I'll be much cheaper than that guy." He got the full-time offer.Then he launched My Real Product, a community workshop where he helped data scientists and AI engineers stop building cookie-cutter Kaggle projects and start building actual products with real users. He put up a LinkedIn post expecting 20 people. 470 showed up.We also get into the AI conversation. Hari has a take on the whole "AI won't replace you, but people using AI will" thing. He disagrees. So do I, actually. He breaks it down into four layers of AI replacement and where you need to be if you want to be the last person standing. Whether you agree or not, it's the most specific framework I've heard anyone lay out on this topic.This conversation is for you if you're an international student navigating the US visa system, if you're trying to break into data science or AI without a traditional CS background, if you've been following every template and wondering why nothing is working, or if you just want to hear what happens when someone refuses to take no for an answer at every single turn.Timestamps, links, and ways to connect with Hari are all below.If this episode helped you think differently about even one thing, share it with somebody who needs to hear it.Site: readysetdopodcast.comHari: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hariprasad20/Timestamps:00:00 Introduction & Connection03:23 AI, Personal Branding, and LinkedIn Presence05:29 From Mechanical Engineering to Data Science10:11 Navigating the Columbia Application Process14:56 Life at Columbia University19:43 Transitioning from Student to Professional23:26 Entrepreneurship and Building MyRealProduct26:26 Problem Solving with Data Science29:38 Building a Data Science Community33:12 Rejection from H-1B Lottery and Exploring Career Paths45:43 The Future of AI and Its Impact

Two weeks into my first semester in the U.S., I remember sitting at my desk refreshing LinkedIn like it was a slot machine. Apply. Refresh. Apply. Refresh. Zero replies.At some point you start asking yourself the obvious question: is this just how it works here… or am I doing it wrong?This episode is the answer I wish I had back then.I sat down with Aryan Vaidya — a Purdue MEM (Master of Engineering Management) student who pulled off something most people spend years chasing. He went from being a Data Engineer at Shell in India to landing an AI Product Manager internship in the U.S. by his second semester. No built-in network. No shortcuts. Just a very intentional strategy.And here’s the part that’ll probably annoy you (it annoyed me): a lot of the things people tell you to do… just don’t work the way they claim.Career fairs? Overcrowded.Generic applications? Ignored.“Wait your turn”? Doesn’t apply here.So what does work?Aryan breaks down why cold applying still works in 2026 — if you actually do it right. Not blasting 200 resumes. Not tweaking one bullet point and hoping for the best. He treated every application like a product problem. Who is this for? What do they care about? Why should they pick you?That shift alone changes everything.We go deep into his PM resume framework — what he calls the “So What?” test. Every line on your resume needs to answer that question. Not what you did. Not what tools you used. But why it mattered. (If your bullet can’t survive that test, it’s dead weight.)Then there’s the part most people avoid: reaching out directly.Instead of waiting for recruiter replies, Aryan messaged founders. Straight up. No overthinking. No long essays. Just clear intent and relevance. That’s how he landed his AI PM internship at a startup, and it completely changed his trajectory.We also talk about a move that sounds insane on paper — he dropped his initial coursework to double down on breaking into product. Risky? Yes. Random? Not really. It was a calculated bet on what would actually move the needle.So zoom out for a second.If you’re an international student in the U.S., trying to land a product management internship, or thinking about a career pivot from engineering to PM — what’s your actual strategy right now?Because “apply more” isn’t a strategy.This conversation is.You’ll walk away with a clear system for:Breaking into Product Management roles in the U.S. without a networkBuilding a high-converting PM resume that stands outUsing cold outreach and LinkedIn messaging to create opportunitiesPositioning yourself as a strong candidate even without prior PM experienceNo fluff. No recycled advice. Just what’s working right now.If you’ve been stuck refreshing that job portal (you know exactly what I mean), this one will hit differently.Watch the full episode and start playing the game the way it’s actually played.Timestamps:00:00 The Purdue MEM to PM Pipeline04:12 Career Journey and Transition to Product Management07:06 First Semester Experience at Purdue09:58 Networking and Job Application Strategies12:54 Resume Building and Interview Preparation16:08 Navigating the Startup Environment18:58 Insights from the AI PM Role21:58 Final Thoughts and Advice for Future Students

Two years ago, I was lying in an ER bed, scared enough to get brutally honest with myself.And the thing that bothered me most was not some giant life philosophy. It was embarrassingly specific. I had still not started the YouTube channel and podcast I had been talking about for way too long.That night became the reason Ready, Set, Do exists.Now, exactly two years after uploading the first episode on April 4, 2024, the show has hit 100 episodes. And this felt like the right time to say what I actually think about podcasting, not the polished creator-economy version people usually give you.Because the truth is, podcasting is hard in a very unglamorous way.The ROI math makes no sense for a long time. Discovery is brutal. The algorithm does not care how thoughtful your conversation was. A guest’s pedigree will often beat a better episode. A great thumbnail can hurt you if it attracts the wrong click. And if your audio is bad, none of the rest of it matters.In this 100th episode of Ready, Set, Do, I break down the 10 biggest lessons I learned from starting a podcast, growing a YouTube interview show, and trying to survive the first 100 reps without losing the plot.We get into why your guest’s family may be your best marketing engine, why “ex-Microsoft” or “IIT” can outperform raw insight on YouTube, why high CTR with low retention is a trap, and why podcast audio quality is still the one thing you should never cheap out on. I also talk about a branding mistake I made early with the “not-experts” framing, why episode 7 was the one where I actually found my voice, and why I have badly neglected solo podcasting even after 100 episodes.This is also a bigger conversation about building anything from scratch.What happens when the thing you are making is a little hard to categorize? What happens when your show is genre-agnostic by design, but platforms want clean boxes? What do you do when 95% of your watch time comes from non-subscribers, and every upload is really an audition, not a reunion?That is the real thread underneath this episode.So whether you are figuring out how to start a podcast, thinking about starting a YouTube channel, trying to improve your video podcast setup, learning interview podcast tips, or just wrestling with the early messy phase of making anything on the internet, this one is for you.No fake guru energy. No motivational poster fluff. Just the stuff I wish someone had told me before I started recording.Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.www.readysetdopodcast.comTimestamps:00:00 A Life-Changing Checkup03:00 The Birth of a Podcast04:38 Lessons from 100 Episodes05:35 Lesson 106:50 Lesson 208:53 Lesson 311:06 Lesson 412:34 Lesson 515:32 Lesson 618:10 Lesson 719:21 Lesson 821:37 Lesson 924:15 Lesson 10Relevant topics: how to start a podcast, podcasting for beginners, YouTube podcast tips, 100 podcast episodes, podcasting lessons, brutal truth about podcasting, video podcast setup, content creator advice, how to grow a podcast on YouTube, podcast audio quality, solo podcasting, creator economy, starting a YouTube channel, overcoming fear of failure, Ready Set Do podcast, taking action, interview podcast tips.

Everyone's hyping autonomous AI agents. Your corporate IT department is quietly building a blacklist.That gap — between the hype and the reality inside enterprise walls — is exactly what this episode is about. Naveen Chatlapalli, a three-time UiPath MVP and seasoned .NET developer, has watched the automation industry reshape itself in real time. He's seen RPA go from a boardroom buzzword to a genuine enterprise backbone. And now he's watching Agentic AI arrive with all the confidence of someone who didn't read the security brief.So is traditional RPA actually dead? Short answer: not even close. Longer answer: complicated, and the complications are the interesting part.Naveen walks through how he got into UiPath before most people knew what robotic process automation was, what it takes to build a career in a field that keeps reinventing itself, and why the jump from rule-based automation to autonomous AI agents is less of an upgrade and more of a trust exercise nobody's prepared for.Then things get uncomfortable — in the best way.Open-source agent frameworks like OpenClaw sound great in a demo. In production, the enterprise AI security picture gets ugly fast. Naveen breaks down what prompt injection means in an enterprise context (hint: not a niche concern for someone else's team), how AI data exfiltration risks are being underestimated, and why major corporations are pausing agentic AI deployment while the vendor ecosystem scrambles to catch up.Claude Cowork, Anthropic's autonomous desktop agent, gets the same honest treatment. The capability is real. The AI compliance and enterprise trust story are still being written.Cost-effective AI solutions, emerging startups filling the trust gap, and the broader domino effect of enterprise adoption all come up too. This episode covers the full arc — from what Naveen's career trajectory tells us about where automation engineering is heading, to the personal habits that help him stay current in a field that moves faster than any job description can track.If you're an RPA developer wondering whether your skills still matter, a tech leader evaluating agentic workflows, or just someone trying to separate signal from noise in the AI agent conversation — this one's worth your full hour.👉 Follow Naveen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/1aifanatic/00:00 The Rise of Agentic AI04:22 Evolution of AI in Customer Service07:12 The Future of Work and Job Evolution10:11 Naveen's Journey to UiPath13:09 Understanding .NET and RPA16:04 Building a Career in RPA19:00 Agentic AI vs. Traditional RPA21:50 Trusting Agentic AI in Enterprises25:02 The Domino Effect of Agentic AI Adoption28:02 Open Source Contributions and Frameworks34:51 Security Concerns in OpenClaw38:42 Navigating Risks and Best Practices39:47 Emerging Startups and Innovations44:39 Cost-Effective AI Solutions49:15 Enterprise Trust and Adoption52:22 Personal Growth and Reflection57:18 Staying Updated in a Fast-Paced World

Most people grinding through a tough job market send 300 applications and wait. Deep Suchak bought a one-way ticket to San Francisco.No offer. No contacts. No couch lined up past the first week. Just a read on where the opportunities actually were — and a conviction that showing up in person would do what a perfectly formatted resume never could.In this episode of Ready Set Do, Deep walks me through the whole story. The decision to leave, the first freezing weeks of uncertainty, the cold office walk-ins, and the moment the strategy actually started working. (And yes, there were plenty of moments where it really looked like it wouldn't.)Here's what makes his story worth paying close attention to right now: the job market in 2026 is brutal for recent grads. Remote-first hiring has made proximity feel irrelevant. Most career advice tells you to optimize your LinkedIn headline and apply through the portals. Spray and pray. Hope the ATS doesn't eat your file.Deep went the other direction entirely.Deep calls it proximity strategy — the idea that physical presence in the right city, combined with genuine cold outreach, creates a shortcut that no algorithm can replicate. It sounds almost too straightforward. And yet the results speak for themselves.We get into the full mechanics of how he pitched himself into rooms, how he approached networking when he knew absolutely nobody in the city, and how he mentally handled the long stretches where nothing seemed to be moving. There's a section on the GTM Engineer title that's genuinely clarifying if you've been seeing that term everywhere and still aren't entirely sure what it looks like day-to-day. We also dig into SEO strategy for early-stage startups — which came out of his actual work, not as a side tangent.What I keep coming back to after this conversation: the job search tips that actually work in 2026 are not the ones being taught in career centers. Cold outreach for jobs, done with a real point of view and a willingness to physically show up, still works. Relocating for a job before you have it locked down still works. The candidates getting hired right now are treating the search itself like a growth problem — not a waiting game.Deep solved his. And he's generous enough to share exactly how he did it.If you're a recent grad, early in your career, or just exhausted from sending applications into the void — this one's for you.🎙️ Ready Set Do | Host: Naman Pandey | readysetdopodcast.com—00:00 Navigating the Job Market: Strategies and Challenges02:17 The Power of Networking: Building Connections05:06 The First Month: Adapting and Overcoming08:05 The Interview Process: Preparing for Success11:07 Pitching Ideas: The Art of Growth Strategy13:58 The Role of a GTM Engineer: Demystifying the Title17:00 Reflections on Risk and Resilience19:47 The Importance of Persistence: Never Giving Up30:40 Implementable Steps for GTM Engineering34:44 SEO Strategies for Startups

Here's the thing nobody tells you when you start a business from your laptop in Kolkata: the company setup is the easy part. It's the tax side that'll keep you up at night. (Ask me how I know.)In this episode, we unpack the entire Business Anywhere model — what it actually does, who it's for, and why so many location-independent entrepreneurs are using a US LLC as the backbone of their international business setup.If you're a non-US citizen running a foreign-owned US LLC, you already know the structure is powerful. Zero state income tax in certain states, pass-through taxation, credibility with US clients and payment processors. But here's the question most people skip right past: do you actually understand your global tax obligations?We break down the difference between residency-based taxation and citizenship-based taxation — two systems that sound similar but work in completely different ways. Where you live, where your company is registered, and what passport you hold all change the math. And if you're a digital nomad bouncing between countries every few months, that math gets complicated fast.This is where most people get stuck, so we get specific. We walk through real-life examples of legal tax optimization — actual scenarios, not hypotheticals — and talk through how offshore holding companies work in practice. When do they make sense? When are they overkill? We cover tax loopholes that are genuinely on the books and how to use them responsibly. No grey areas, no shady workarounds.We also spend time on something that doesn't get enough airtime: the unique headaches US citizens face with international taxation. Citizenship-based taxation means the IRS follows you everywhere, and the compliance burden is no joke. If that's your situation, we map out a clearer path forward.And if you've been thinking about forming a US LLC from abroad — or you already run one and want to tighten your digital nomad tax strategy — we cover what you need to know about non-resident US LLC tax implications, wealth protection, and global tax compliance.Whether you're just exploring the location-independent lifestyle or you're deep in it and need better tax planning, press play.BusinessAnywhere: https://businessanywhere.io/Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Business Anywhere02:39 Catering to Location Independent Entrepreneurs04:42 The Rise of Digital Nomadism10:49 Benefits of US Company Registration for Non-US Entrepreneurs15:44 Understanding Tax Implications for Digital Nomads24:51 Tax Obligations for Non-US Residents27:07 Digital Nomad Tax Strategies28:50 Navigating Tax Regimes in Different Countries30:28 Real-Life Examples of Tax Optimization35:19 The Role of Offshore Holding Companies37:38 Exploiting Tax Loopholes Legally39:56 The Complexity of US Taxation for Citizens42:15 Residency-Based vs Citizenship-Based Taxation44:03 Future Developments in Business Anywhere48:20 Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Simplified Processes

Do you really need a massive following to make a massive impact (and income)?If you're an entrepreneur, coach, or creator, you've probably felt the pressure to go viral. You're told you need 10,000 followers, perfectly polished Instagram reels, and a big budget just to be taken seriously.But what if all that "vanity visibility" is actually distracting you from building a real business?Welcome to The Ready Set Do Podcast. In this episode, I sit down with Christine Blosdale, a literal media veteran with over 25 years of experience. She's worked with giants like America Online and Microsoft, and she's not here to sugarcoat things. In fact, she live-audits my personal brand using her Expert Authority Scorecard—and let’s just say, my score of 41 out of 100 was a wake-up call.Christine breaks down exactly how to transition from being just another face in the feed to a recognized, sought-after expert. This isn't about chasing likes; it's about building a solid foundation of trust.Here's a sneak peek at what we cover in this episode:The Big Mistake of "Helping Everyone": Why having a bio that says "I help everyone do everything" is a fast track to being ignored. We talk about the importance of getting incredibly specific about who you serve and what problem you solve.The Power of the "Who Cares?" Filter: How to stop sounding like a generic corporate brochure and start speaking directly to your ideal client's pain points. We explore a real-life example of transforming a "clinical gut health doctor" into "The Gut Health Expert Who Cares."The "Zero Budget" Blueprint: How to establish your authority and get booked on podcasts without spending a dime on ads. It's about leveraging the knowledge you already have, not buying expensive gear.Overcoming the Imposter Syndrome Trap: What to do when you feel like you aren't "expert enough" to share your message. Christine shares practical advice for pushing past the fear of what other people think.The "Seen, Trusted, Paid" Pipeline: The exact step-by-step framework for turning your expertise into a sustainable business.Christine also shares the one common trap that causes most new podcasters and creators to quit before they ever see success (hint: it usually happens around episode seven).Whether you're just starting out or you've been grinding away without seeing results, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you get out of your own way. We're talking about real strategies to build trust, connect with your audience, and ultimately, get paid for your expertise.Ready to see how your own brand measures up? Listen in and take the Expert Authority Scorecard test right alongside me.[Insert Link to Christine's Scorecard here][Insert Link to your Website/Socials here]Timestamps:00:00 Understanding Expert Authority vs. Vanity Visibility02:56 Is What You Know WORTH Sharing?05:13 Learning from Naman's "Failure"08:01 Creating a Unique Title for Your Business10:09 How to Differentiate Yourself & Stand Out12:28 The Role of Passion in Building Authority16:06 Can one build a following WITHOUT any expertise?18:10 Step ONE of Building Authority Online20:29 Learning from Mistakes and Growing22:20 Focusing on the Audience's Needs24:22 Embracing the Creator Mindset26:35 Building Your Personal Brand29:30 Navigating Client Relationships and Burnout34:33 Identifying and Overcoming Client Challenges35:38 Crafting Your Expert Authority Toolbox48:24 Evaluating Your Expert Authority

Beyond the Bot: Why Your AI Marketing is Failing (and the Journalist’s Fix)In the noise-saturated landscape of 2026, the barrier to entry for content has never been lower, but the barrier to trust has never been higher. Everyone has access to the same LLMs, the same prompts, and the same "perfect" prose. The result? A digital environment filled with "brain rot"—content that is grammatically flawless but intellectually invisible.In this episode of Ready Set Do, we sit down with Joshua Altman, CEO of Beltway Media and a former digital media producer for The Hill in Washington, D.C. Joshua spent years in the high-pressure newsrooms of the nation’s capital, covering the White House, Congress, and government agencies. Now, he’s taking those journalistic principles and applying them to the chaotic world of tech marketing.Joshua emphasizes that true content success is 99% pre-production. In the newsroom, you don't just "write"; you plan, you budget, you scout, and you script. If you haven't planned the narrative before you hit record or start typing, you’re going to spend ten times the effort trying to fix it in post-production.One of the most tactical takeaways from the conversation involves the word "you." In the race to be "personable" and "empathetic," many brands have become too casual, sabotaging their own authority.By selectively using "you"—perhaps only in the final call to action—you create a "color pop" effect where the personal connection carries weight because it wasn't overused.Joshua’s stance on AI is refreshing for 2026: AI is a tool, not the end in itself. He suggests that AI is exceptionally good at research, data synthesis, and creating detailed outlines. However, it is "exceptionally bad" at the final product.The reason? AI is too perfect. Humans signal authenticity through "intentional mistakes" and strategic inefficiency. We want to know a person was behind the screen. If your prose is too polished, too symmetrical, and too "formulaic," the human brain flags it as bot-generated and tunes it out. JFor many founders, the biggest hurdle isn't a lack of ideas—it's a lack of time. They are experts in their tech, but not in communicating that expertise. This is where Joshua’s "Fractional CCO" model comes in.Instead of hiring a full-time marketing lead who might not have enough to do, or a part-time writer who doesn't understand the business, a Fractional CCO embeds themselves into the leadership team. They attend the product meetings, understand the roadmap, and translate "chip engineering" into "investor confidence."If you want to improve your writing in a world dominated by bots, Joshua’s advice is simple: Read good stuff.Diversify your intake: Read The New York Times, The Atlantic, and The Economist to see how professional editors handle short and long-form narratives.Practice prose: Writing is a muscle. You can’t expect to write a viral white paper if you haven't practiced the basic "chords" of storytelling.Be Inefficient: Don't be afraid to take the long way around a story. It’s those human tangents that build the trust AI can't replicate.Ready to stop being invisible? You can find Joshua Altman at [email protected] or explore the free strategy guides at beltway.media.Timestamps:00:00 Background + Intro04:03 Transitioning from Journalism to Tech 08:22 The Blueprint for Effective Writing 13:33 Generating Valuable Content Ideas 19:04 Case Studies and Client Engagements 24:50 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn 29:01 The Role of Fractional Communications Officers 30:38 Planning Content for Efficiency 32:01 Onboarding and Understanding Company Voice 36:46 Integrating into the Team 44:37 AI's Role in Content Creation 50:28 Improving Writing Skills Through Practice

Every year, hundreds of thousands of international students and tech workers face the same terrifying math: there are 85,000 H-1B seats and over 400,000 applications. The odds are not in your favor.But what if you didn’t have to play the lottery at all?In a recent episode of the Ready Set Do Podcast, we sat down with Harsh, an AI Architect who "speed-ran" his way from an international student (F-1) to a Director-level role and an O-1 Visa approval in just three years.Here is how he engineered his career to bypass the H-1B trap—and how you can too.The biggest misconception stopping tech workers from applying for the O-1A (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability) is the belief that you need to be a famous researcher.Harsh explains that AI tools and public forums often perpetuate the idea that "if you have five publications or ten publications, you’re automatically eligible," making the visa feel inaccessible.The reality? "O-1 isn't magic, it’s evidence," says Harsh. You don't need to be famous; you just need to prove your work is rare and impactful in your specific domain.The USCIS requires you to meet 3 out of 8 criteria. Harsh didn't have a PhD or academic citations. Instead, he built a case around his industry impact in "AI/ML in Healthcare".Here are the three pillars of his petition:Harsh realized he needed tangible proof of his expertise. At Optum, his team revamped a slow healthcare search system into a "Google-like" experience for finding doctors.The Evidence: They pulled a patent out of the project, which is now used by multiple subsidiaries.The Lesson: You don't need academic papers. Patents and internal technology that disrupt your company's competitors count as "Original Contributions".To satisfy the "Critical Role" criteria, Harsh strategically took on high-risk projects. He led a team to solve a patient attrition problem costing the company $11.3 billion annually.The Evidence: He delivered the solution in four months, managed the budget, and showcased the technology at an investor conference.The Lesson: Don't just do your job. Ask for projects that have high visibility and direct impact on the company's bottom line.By rapidly ascending from an intern to a Lead and eventually a Principal/Director level, Harsh naturally fell into the high salary bracket. While he notes that "high salary" can be subjective based on geography, combining rapid promotions with a strong salary history strengthens the narrative of being "extraordinary".Harsh’s O-1 success was directly tied to his aggressive career growth. He went from an intern at Autodesk to a Director-level role at SuperSet in under three years.His secret? "Behave that you are in the role that you’re aiming for," Harsh advises. From day one, he focused on making those around him smarter and taking on the "hard problems" others refused, such as the 4-month deadline project.Harsh applied for the O-1 immediately after his first H-1B rejection in 2023. He didn't wait for a second or third try.If you are an engineer stuck in the lottery cycle, stop hoping for luck. Start building your evidence. As Harsh proved, the O-1 isn't reserved for scientists—it's available to anyone willing to engineer their career as carefully as they engineer their code.Harsh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hmacmaheshwari/Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background01:09 Introduction and Background02:00 The O1 Visa Journey Begins04:04 Understanding O1 Visa Criteria07:12 Building a Strong Profile for O110:59 The Role of Legal Representation12:46 Challenges in the Application Process18:26 Comparing O1 and H1B Visas22:25 Final Thoughts on O1 Visa Benefits26:06 Understanding the O1 Visa Benefits28:26 Harsh's Career Journey: From Intern to Senior Engineer34:13 The Importance of Mentorship and Team Culture45:34 Taking Risks: Managing High-Stakes Projects49:50 Connecting with Harsh: Final Thoughts and Advice

What happens when a Marvel writer loses $500,000 on his first tech deal? In this episode of Ready Set Do, I sit down with Victor—a legally blind, albino filmmaker and founder who is disrupting the AI space. We dive into the first few steps of his transition from Hollywood to tech, his unique philosophy on modular AI, and how he's building 'Magic Bookifier' to remove obstacles for neurodivergent writers.Ready Set Do Podcast, Victor Varnado, Marvel Writer, Legally Blind, Albino, AI Founder, Future of AI, Magic Bookifier, Neurodivergent, Startup Failure, $500k Loss, Career Pivot, First Steps, Tech Industry, Hollywood, Jimmy Kimmel, Love & Hip Hop, Tech Startup, Modular AI, AI Coach, Supreme Robot, Innovation, ResilienceTimestamps:00:00 Intro + Background01:19 Navigating Life as a Legally Blind Person03:50 The Journey into Comedy and Writing06:43 Career Trajectory: From Stand-Up to Production08:54 Innovative Projects: Video Games and Writing Assistants12:15 Understanding Neurodivergence14:20 Building Software for Neurodivergent Individuals17:15 The Intersection of Writing and Tech18:06 Lessons from Tech Ventures and Mistakes22:21 The Evolution of AI and Its Applications25:24 The Modular Approach to AI Development27:09 Navigating the Tech Landscape: Pre and Post-AI Era30:43 Pivoting from Tech to Entertainment: First Steps31:49 Creating Engaging Content: The Importance of Quality33:53 The Journey of Filmmaking: From Concept to Production36:29 Overcoming Creative Blocks: The Path to Improvement39:03 The Learning Curve: Embracing the Process40:22 Celebrity Encounters: Stories from the Industry41:59 AI's Impact on Hollywood: A New Era43:05 Supreme Robot: Vision and Future Projects

Is Beast Philanthropy a Scam? The Reality Behind the Viral VideoWhen the world’s biggest YouTuber hands over a check, the internet asks one question: Is it real?Joining us on Ready Set Do is Shafkat Alam, the Joint Secretary of Tiljala Shed and the man who stood face-to-face with MrBeast’s team in the heart of Kolkata’s slums. What he reveals in this episode might dismantle everything you think you know about "internet charity."But the MrBeast story is just the hook. The truth—the real story—is much harder to swallow.The "Garbage" of SocietyShafkat isn't just an administrator; he is a lifeline for a community that society has actively decided to ignore. He works with the "waste pickers"—the families who live alongside the railway tracks and canals, earning their survival by sifting through the trash the rest of us discard.Shafkat shares a gut-wrenching insight early in our conversation: "People consider them dirt and garbage because they deal with dirt and garbage."This isn't a story about pity. It is a story about dignity. It is about fighting a social stigma so potent that even other slum dwellers refuse to associate with these families.Why Kids Choose Trash Over SchoolWe like to believe that if you offer a poor child an education, they will run towards it with open arms. Shafkat corrects this naive assumption with a brutal economic reality.In this episode, we explore the "Rag Picker’s Dilemma." Why would a child sit in a classroom for zero rupees when they can earn ₹50 a day collecting bottles? When survival is on the line, education feels like a luxury they cannot afford. Shafkat walks us through the incredible, strategic patience required to convince a family to choose the long-term promise of a degree over the short-term necessity of dinner.What You Will Learn in This Episode:The Beast Philanthropy Verdict: Did the money actually arrive? Did they keep their promises after the cameras turned off? Shafkat gives us the unvarnished "aftermath" report.The "Trickle Up" Effect: How a $100 conditional grant (not a loan) changed the economic destiny of hundreds of families in the 80s, and why the model still works today.The Vocational Shift: Why traditional college isn't the only answer, and how skills like tailoring, driving, and even video editing are becoming the new escape routes from poverty.The Gen Z Reality Check: Shafkat offers sobering advice to young people wasting their prime years chasing government jobs that may never come. His message? Get focused. Get skills. Get moving.A Challenge to the ListenerWe end on a powerful note about "The Ice Cream Rule." You don't need to be a billionaire philanthropist to make a dent in the universe. You don't need a foundation. You just need to look at the person standing next to you.Connect with Shafkat & Support the Mission:The work isn't done. Tiljala Shed supports thousands of children, and they need allies.Website & Donations: https://www.tished.orgGlobalGiving: Search for "Tiljala Shed" to find specific projects.About Ready Set Do:We don't interview experts on pedestals. We talk to the people just two steps ahead of us. We believe the only way to learn is to do. Subscribe for weekly episodes that bridge the gap between ambition and action.Timestamps:00:00 Intro & Background 02:15 Is Beast Philanthropy Real or a Scam? 05:12 Is It Okay to Advertise Philanthropy? 07:20 Understanding Tiljala Shed's Mission 09:21 The Impact of Education on Waste Picker Children 11:40 Innovative Approaches to Poverty Alleviation 13:52 Girl Child Education & Financial Inclusion 15:16 Do Children Refuse to Go to School? 17:30 Vocational Training and Career Paths 21:51 Challenges AFTER Kids Start School 25:44 Emerging Opportunities in the Creator Economy 30:09 Advice for the Next Generation (Gen Z) 34:17 Transitioning Children from Work to School 38:58 Building a Supportive Community for Change

How do you build a community of 600,000 people who want to be alone?In this episode, we sit down with Amanda Black, the founder of The Female Traveler Network, to reveal how she turned a simple travel blog into a global empire and a safe haven for half a million women.If you have ever felt the urge to travel solo but were stopped by the fear of loneliness or safety concerns, this conversation is your permission slip to go. Amanda breaks down the reality of life on the road, dismantling the "stranger danger" myth and replacing it with her powerful theory of "Shared Firsts"—the psychological secret to turning strangers into best friends in under 24 hours.Beyond the travel tips, this is a masterclass in community building. We dig deep into the business mechanics of how Amanda monetized an online group without selling out, pivoting from content creation to running high-demand global group tours. Whether you are an aspiring digital nomad, a female entrepreneur, or someone just looking for the courage to book that first ticket, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Inside this episode, we explore:The "Shared Firsts" Strategy: The specific psychological trigger that creates instant, deep bonds between strangers and how Amanda uses it to curate the perfect group dynamic.The 5 Levels of Solo Travel: A diagnostic guide to understanding where you are in your journey, from "nervous planner" to "adventure pro," and how to level up.From Blog to Empire: The step-by-step evolution of The Female Traveler Network. Learn how Amanda recognized a gap in the market and scaled it into a sustainable business model.The Truth About Loneliness: Why being alone doesn't mean being lonely, and how solo travel often leads to more connection than traveling with friends.Safety & Logistics: Practical, real-world advice for women navigating foreign countries, dealing with anxiety, and planning logistics for safety.Monetizing Community: How to build a brand that people trust with their lives (literally) and the ethics of selling to a community you love.About the Guest:Amanda Black is a travel expert, entrepreneur, and the founder of The Solo Female Traveler Network, one of the largest online communities for women who explore the world. She specializes in empowering women to step out of their comfort zones and finds the intersection between solo independence and communal belonging.Connect with Amanda & The Solo Female Traveler Network:Website: https://thesolofemaletravelernetwork.com/contact-us/Keywords:Solo Female Travel, Community Building, Amanda Black, Female Entrepreneurship, Travel Business, Digital Nomad, Group Travel, Shared Firsts, Overcoming Anxiety, Travel Safety, Women in Business, Startup Story, Monetization Strategy.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background01:45 The Birth of a Community04:18 Challenges Faced by Solo Female Travelers07:27 The Joys and Surprises of Solo Travel10:32 Creating Connections Through Shared Firsts13:16 The Logistics of Planning Group Tours18:16 Levels of Solo Travel Experience22:59 The Evolution of a Traveler25:12 Navigating Solo Travel Challenges27:58 Overcoming Loneliness on the Road30:33 Building Online Communities35:12 Monetizing Community Engagement39:27 The Transformative Power of Travel42:24 Encouragement for Aspiring Travelers

Everyone is obsessed with the viral videos of robots folding laundry. Almost no one is talking about the absolute nightmare of actually building the hardware.In this episode, we sit down with Ritwik, the supply chain lead at 1X Technologies—the company behind NEO, the humanoid robot currently going toe-to-toe with Tesla Optimus.If you’ve ever wondered what happens after the prototype works, this is it. We are going deep into the unglamorous, high-stakes world of Supply Chain Management and the "Zero to One" reality of mass-producing androids.The "First Steps" Focus:Aligned with the core mission of this podcast, we don't just talk about the destination. We break down the First Steps required to get there. This episode is a masterclass in two specific types of beginnings:The Ultimate Career Pivot: How do you go from running a farming business in Jabalpur, India, to managing deep-tech logistics in the US? We dissect Ritwik’s exact journey—the first decision to pursue an MS in Supply Chain, the first cold emails, and how he cracked the interview process for a top-tier hardware startup.The Manufacturing "Firsts": How do you build a supply chain for a product that doesn't exist yet? We explore the "Chicken and Egg" problem of training AI data, the first major hurdles of scaling from 10 robots to 1 million, and how to navigate the legal red tape that comes with shipping humanoids globally.What We Cover in This Deep Dive:1X NEO vs. Tesla Optimus: The real competitive landscape of humanoid robotics.Supply Chain Hell: Why hardware—not AI—is the biggest bottleneck to having a robot in your home.The Reality of "Scaling": Moving from R&D prototypes to mass manufacturing without going bankrupt.Privacy & Safety: Addressing the real concerns of inviting an autonomous bipedal robot into your living room.Negotiation Secrets: How to build relationships with suppliers when you have no leverage.The Human Element: Why the most automated industries still rely heavily on human intuition and connection.Whether you are an aspiring engineer, a supply chain professional looking for interview hacks, or just a tech optimist waiting for your personal butler, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the future of labor.Key Topics: 1X Neo, Humanoid Robots, Supply Chain Management, Hardware Manufacturing, Deep Tech Careers, Ritwik 1X, Career Pivots, Logistics, AI Hardware, Mass Manufacturing, Startups, Future of Work.Tune in to learn the blueprint for building the impossible.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background01:16 The Excitement of Working at 1X (NEO)02:57 From Agriculture to Deep Tech: Ritwik's First Steps06:23 Navigating the First Major Crisis: Supply Chains in Lockdown08:05 The First Steps to an MS in Supply Chain in the U.S.11:43 Basics of Supply Chain Management (Where to Start)14:41 Early Career Opportunities in Hardware & Logistics17:37 The First Step to Getting Hired: Interview Insights20:43 The Launch of NEO: Expectations vs Reality24:55 Privacy & Safety: The Reality of Home Robots26:19 Do Humans Form Emotional Connections with AI?28:56 The "Chicken and Egg" Problem of Training Data31:57 The Hell of Scaling: From Prototype to Manufacturing33:57 The Overlooked Human Element in Tech37:49 The Art of Negotiation: Building First Relationships41:46 Advice for Aspiring Professionals: Your First Moves45:44 Navigating Legalities & Red Tape in Supply Chains49:45 Future Predictions: When Will You Own a Robot?

Episode Title: Why He Rejected the US for IIT Kharagpur: The AI Career BlueprintDescription:Is the "American Dream" still the only path to success for Indian engineers?In a world where the standard advice is to "get a GRE score and leave," Aayush Sugandh did the unthinkable: he stayed. Despite having the profile to go abroad, he chose to double down on India, pursuing his MTech at IIT Kharagpur.But this isn't just a story about a degree. It’s a masterclass on ROI. Aayush breaks down the math of saving ₹50 Lakhs by studying domestically, the reality of the "IIT tag" for Tier-2 and Tier-3 college graduates, and how to build a career launchpad that survives the coming AI wave.If you are an engineering student confused between the GATE exam and the GRE, or a professional wondering if you need a Master’s degree to pivot into Artificial Intelligence, this episode is your blueprint. We discuss the subjective bias against non-IITians, the grind of the IIT coursework, and the exact roadmap to becoming an AI/ML expert in 2025.In this episode, we cover:The "MS in US" Myth: Why staying in India might be the financially smarter move in the current economy.Tier-2 & Tier-3 Struggles: How to overcome the "subjective bias" of recruiters and break into top-tier tech roles.The AI Roadmap: A step-by-step guide to preparing for a career in Machine Learning and AI, even if you are from a Civil or Ocean Engineering background.IIT Kharagpur Reality Check: The truth about networking, placements, and the intense academic pressure inside India's premier institutes.Join the conversation:Are you Team MS or Team MTech? Let us know in the comments!⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 - Understanding the Value of a Master's Degree04:15 - The Importance of Networking and Learning06:20 - When a Master's Degree Might Not Be Necessary09:42 - The Trade-offs of Job Switching vs. Further Education12:53 - The Role of Self-Learning in Today's Education15:51 - Choosing Between Domestic (MTech) and International (MS) Education21:24 - Exploring Educational Choices and IIT Kharagpur22:59 - The Hustle of the IIT Kharagpur Experience27:22 - Coursework and Learning Dynamics at IIT Kharagpur29:17 - Room for Improvement in the IIT Curriculum32:05 - Building a Strong Foundation in AI and ML39:08 - Preparing for AI and ML Careers (The Blueprint)42:51 - The Importance of Proactivity and Enthusiasm43:12 - AI's Impact on Rural India46:18 - The Implications of Free AI ServicesAbout the Guest:Aayush Sugandh is an IIT Kharagpur alumnus and an AI practitioner who has navigated the transition from a traditional engineering background to the cutting edge of Artificial Intelligence. He advocates for "Economical Excellence"—finding high-value education without the crippling debt of international student loans.https://www.linkedin.com/in/aayush-sugandh-785181190/Connect with us:readysetdopodcast.comKeywords:IIT Kharagpur, MTech vs MS, Study Abroad, GATE Exam 2025, Artificial Intelligence Career, Machine Learning Roadmap, Engineering in India, Higher Education ROI, Tier 2 College to IIT, Tech Careers, Data Science path.

If you think running a nonprofit fundraising event is just about booking a venue, finding a caterer, and collecting auction items, you’re in for a rude awakening. The landscape has shifted beneath our feet. The days of relying on the same 200 people in a ballroom with paper bid sheets are fading fast, and organizations that refuse to adapt are seeing their revenue plateau.In this episode, I sat down with Roger Devine, the Chief Marketer at SchoolAuction.net. We stripped away the fluff to talk about what actually moves the needle in modern fundraising. We aren’t just talking about party planning; we’re talking about the infrastructure, legal compliance, and marketing engines that power successful organizations.The "Boring" Stuff That Kills EventsWe started the conversation by tackling the topic nobody wants to talk about: Legal Considerations (05:35). Roger pointed out a massive blind spot for many mid-sized organizations. When you start running raffles, online auctions across state lines, or hybrid events, you aren't just hosting a party—you are engaging in regulated commerce. We discussed the specific legal pitfalls (11:47) that catch organizers off guard and how to ensure your fundraising support scope is actually compliant. It’s not sexy, but getting this wrong can shut you down.The Tech Stack: Friction is the EnemyOne of the biggest takeaways from our chat was the Evolution of Fundraising Software (20:44). Roger and I dove deep into the user experience. In 2024 and beyond, your donors expect the same seamless experience they get from Amazon or Uber. If your check-in process is clunky or your mobile bidding software crashes, you lose money.We explored the Role of Technology (14:43) not just as a tool for collecting money, but as a way to optimize the guest experience (17:43). The goal? Reduce friction. The easier it is to give, the more people will give. Roger shared insights on how the industry adapted to the pandemic with virtual auctions (26:33) and, more importantly, how we are managing the messy shift back to in-person events (29:33).Stop Preaching to the ChoirPerhaps the most valuable section of this episode was our deep dive into Marketing Strategy (34:30). Too many nonprofits rely entirely on their existing mailing list. They go back to the same well year after year until it runs dry.Legal Compliance: Understand the scope of your fundraising support to avoid regulatory "traps."Guest Experience: Use technology to remove friction, not add to it. If it’s hard to donate, you’ve failed.Hybrid Reality: The "Gala" isn't dead, but it looks different. Learn how to balance in-person energy with digital reach.Inbound Growth: Stop relying solely on your current donor list. Use PPC and inbound marketing to widen the funnel.Mentioned in this episode:SchoolAuction.net: The platform helping nonprofits streamline their events.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Fundraising Organizations04:25 Types of Fundraising Events07:15 Legal Considerations in Fundraising10:25 Understanding the Scope of Fundraising Support13:27 Common Pitfalls in Fundraising Events16:23 The Role of Technology in Fundraising19:23 Optimizing Guest Experience in Fundraising Events22:24 Evolution of Fundraising Software26:01 Evolution of Online Auctions28:13 Adapting to the Pandemic: Virtual Auctions31:13 The Shift Back to In-Person Events32:44 Educating Mid-Sized Organizations36:10 The Importance of Inbound Marketing37:07 Navigating Changes in Marketing Strategies43:03 The Future of Pay-Per-Click Advertising44:02 Getting Started with Event Fundraising

Laid Off on OPT? How He Stopped the Clock & Got Hired in 40 Days (The Blueprint)Description:Getting laid off is a punch to the gut. Getting laid off on an F1 Visa with the 90-day unemployment clock ticking? That is a full-blown emergency.If you are currently staring at a termination letter and wondering if you have to pack your bags, STOP. DO NOT PANIC.In this episode, we are tearing down the "OPT Layoff Survival Guide." I’m joined by Aman, who faced the exact nightmare scenario: losing his job while on OPT. Instead of letting the 90-day limit push him out of the US, he engineered a strategy to legally pause the unemployment clock and landed a killer new job offer in just 40 days.This isn’t generic "stay positive" advice. This is a tactical, step-by-step masterclass on how to save your visa status and your career.🔥 WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE:The "Stop the Clock" Strategy: The exact, legal methods you can use immediately to pause your unemployment days so you don't run out of time.The Sponsorship Trap: How to answer the dreaded "Do you need sponsorship now or in the future?" question without getting automatically rejected.The 40-Day Sprint: The daily schedule Aman used to network, apply, and interview like a machine.Mock Interview Mastery: Why you are failing interviews (and how one specific change in prep can double your offer rate).Negotiating Power: Yes, you can still negotiate your salary even if you are desperate for a visa.Whether you are on Post-Completion OPT, STEM OPT, or just worried about the current job market for international students, this conversation is the playbook you need right now.🎧 EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00Intro & Highlights01:27Finding out he was laid off (The initial panic)04:23Navigating the 90-Day Unemployment Constraint07:27THE STRATEGY: How to Pause the Clock on OPT10:18Formulating a 40-Day Comeback Plan13:09Building a "War Room" Support System15:00Networking & Application Strategy (Quality vs. Quantity)17:01Finding Hope when rejections pile up18:44How to communicate with Hiring Managers about your status26:47Self-Awareness: Why you aren't getting callbacks28:05Mock Interviews: The secret to passing final rounds29:10Navigating Sponsorship Challenges in 202430:25Understanding the Employer’s Perspective on H1B31:45Addressing the Layoff during the interview (The Script)31:58Negotiating Job Offers: Is it worth the risk?33:37Why Mock Interviews are non-negotiable34:57Deep insights from the actual interview process37:42Finding value in your personal story40:40The emotional toll of the job search42:11Reflecting on growth & future opportunities43:56Final advice for navigating career challenges🚀 ABOUT THE SHOW:We break down the barriers for international students and professionals in the US. From visa hacks to interview mastery, we give you the raw, unfiltered truth about building a career in America.Keywords: OPT Layoff, F1 Visa, 90 Day Unemployment Rule, STEM OPT, International Student Job Search, H1B Sponsorship, Tech Layoffs, Career Advice, Mock Interviews, Visa Status.

Are you afraid to hit "post" on LinkedIn? Do you worry that your employer might judge you, or that you don't have anything valuable to say?In this episode, we sit down with two of the biggest Indian Study Abroad creators on LinkedIn: Sohan Sethi and Sai Kumar Bysani. These two haven't just built followers; they’ve built empires, careers, and life-changing opportunities solely through the power of writing online.We deep dive into their exact journey—from zero followers to becoming the go-to voices in the Study Abroad niche. We cover the "scary" stuff: dealing with hate comments, navigating corporate policies while building a personal brand, and the transition they are now making from text-based LinkedIn posts to visual storytelling on Instagram.If you want to unlock the power of personal branding in 2025, this conversation is your blueprint.The "Cold Start" Problem: How to write your first post when you have zero audience.LinkedIn vs. Reality: How writing online creates offline opportunities (jobs, speaking gigs, and income).The Corporate Trap: How to handle employer perceptions and "moonlighting" concerns.The Strategy: How to build a content process so you never run out of ideas.The Pivot: Why top LinkedIn creators are now aggressively moving to Instagram.00:00 - Intro: Meeting the Giants of LinkedIn02:20 - Why Start? The Hidden Motivations Behind Content Creation05:17 - Going Viral: How Community Engagement Changes the Game08:01 - "Will I Get Fired?" Navigating Employer & Corporate Concerns11:12 - The ROI of Writing: Real World Value of Content14:14 - The Blueprint: Building a Sustainable Content Strategy16:09 - Life-Changing Rewards: What Happens When You Commit?19:09 - Skill Stacking: How Content Makes You Better at Your Job21:39 - Scaling Up: The Importance of Delegation & Teams29:07 - Process Deep Dive: How Sohan & Sai Actually Write31:23 - Data-Driven: Analyzing Audience Engagement & Trends32:46 - The Dark Side: Dealing with Hate Comments & Trolls36:22 - The Creator Journey: Highs, Lows, and Burnout38:27 - The Pivot: Expanding from LinkedIn to Instagram Reels43:27 - Overcoming the "Cringe" Factor & Other Challenges46:40 - The Secret Sauce: Consistency & Relatability52:29 - Final Advice for Aspiring CreatorsFollow Sohan Sethi:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sohansethi/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sohansethi/Follow Sai Kumar Bysani:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saibysani18/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datawithsai/Subscribe to your favorite new podcast! We interview top performers to focus on the FIRST few steps of their strategies for success.Subscribe for more insights on Career Growth, Study Abroad, and Personal Branding!

Are you an NRI, student, or expat living in the USA who feels sluggish, bloated, or heavier despite "eating healthy"?You are not alone. Millions of Indians move abroad and immediately switch to a diet of salads, cold sandwiches, and protein bars, thinking they are making better choices. Yet, the "Freshman 15" turns into the "expat 20," and gut health issues skyrocket.In this deep-dive episode, we uncover the uncomfortable truth: The American definition of "healthy" might be destroying your gut.We explore the concept of Diaspora Nutrition—the bridge between where you live and where you come from. This isn't just about nostalgia; it's about biology. We discuss why your body craves the warm, cooked, spice-rich foods of your ancestors and how the hyper-processed nature of the US food supply chain (even the "organic" stuff) differs vastly from what you grew up with.We cover everything from the science of the Indian gut to the logistics of finding authentic ingredients in an American city.If you are tired of feeling lethargic and want to reclaim your energy without giving up the foods you love, this episode is your blueprint.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The "Healthy" Food Trap: Why substituting dal-chawal for cold salads might be wrecking your digestion.Sourcing Secrets: How to find authentic, chemical-free Indian ingredients in the US (beyond just the local Patel Brothers).The Cost of Nutrition: Breaking down the math—why investing in quality food now is cheaper than healthcare costs later.Meal Prep for Busy Professionals: Practical, time-saving tips to cook traditional meals while managing a 9-to-5 or grad school schedule.Community & Culture: Why food is about more than calories—it's about identity and community building in a foreign land.Join the Conversation:Are you team "Salad" or team "Sabzi"? Let us know in the Q&A below! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate us 5 stars and share this with a friend who is struggling with their diet in the US.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Background(03:08) Understanding Traditional Indian Nutrition(10:21) The Journey of Diaspora Nutrition(16:52) Sourcing Authentic Indian Foods in the USA(24:09) Health Benefits of Sourcing Local Foods(24:55) Cost and Value of Quality Nutrition(26:52) Nutritional Choices and Their Impact(29:02) Success Stories in Nutrition(33:37) Cultural Relevance in Dietary Practices(37:02) Bridging Traditional and Modern Nutrition(40:15) Meal Prep Tips for Busy Individuals(45:56) Vision for Diaspora Nutrition(47:26) Overcoming Challenges in Building a Community

Most people take trips to relax. Beaches. Cocktails. Photos for Instagram. This conversation is not about that kind of trip. This is about the kind of travel that changes what you think a vacation is for. It is about showing up in a small community somewhere in the world and leaving it a little better than you found it. That idea sits at the center of GlobeAware, a nonprofit that builds one week volunteer programs where anyone can contribute to real projects run by local communities.My guest today is Kimberly-Haley Coleman, the founder of GlobeAware. Two decades ago she built an organization around a simple question. What if everyday people could experience a new country in an honest way and also serve the people who live there. Not as a savior. Not as a tourist with a camera. Just as a fellow human who is ready to help.In this episode Kimberly opens up about how GlobeAware started and what it takes to keep an organization like this alive. We get into the practical side of things. How do you choose projects that matter. How do you avoid the trap of voluntourism. What happens when volunteers show up and do not know the culture. What about safety, logistics, and the fact that people are literally paying to do work. We speak about her favorite projects from across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. We talk about the program in India where volunteers work shoulder to shoulder with local women. They cook, fix, build, teach, and play with children. That connection is the whole point. You arrive as a stranger and in seven days you feel like part of a family.There is also a real business challenge here. Running a volunteer organization is not a feel good hobby. There are coordinators on the ground. There are safety rules. There are governments to work with. There is the constant pressure to maintain dignity in the communities you serve. Kimberly shares how she has stayed committed even when it was hard to find funding or when people misunderstood the mission.If you have ever wondered how to travel with purpose, this will help. If you have thought about taking a week off and giving your time to something bigger, you will hear the truth about what that looks like. It is not glamorous. It can be uncomfortable. It is also deeply joyful. That is why so many volunteers return home feeling different. They learn that a break from routine does not have to be a break from meaning. It can be the most meaningful trip of your life.Search terms people use to find interviews like this include volunteer abroad, ethical volunteering, meaningful travel, volunteer vacation, GlobeAware review, and community service trips. If you found this episode because of one of those searches, welcome. My goal is that you learn something real, feel something real, and maybe take action after listening.Listen in. Consider where you might go next. Not to escape. To serve. To connect. To feel alive in a new place while making someone else’s life a little easier. That is what this conversation is about.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + background01:51 GlobeAware and Its Mission03:25 The Essence of Meaningful Volunteering07:14 Kimberly's Journey to Globaware09:59 Project Examples and Community Engagement12:58 Challenges in Managing a Volunteer Organization15:34 Is it fun or like man vs wild?19:49 Volunteer Experience and Safety Concerns23:15 Cultural Sensitivity and Practical Advice for Volunteers26:20 Balancing Work and Free Time in Volunteer Programs28:48 Global Reach: Exploring Project Locations30:14 Adapting to Local Needs: Projects in India32:28 Recruitment Strategies for Volunteer Leaders35:01 The Future of Globaware: Expanding Awareness38:57 Finding Joy in Service and Everyday Life

In this episode of Ready Set Do, my guest is Umang Chaudhary, a Machine Learning Engineer at TikTok and former Applied Scientist at Amazon. Umang’s story is one of momentum — a reminder that you don’t need decades of experience to reach the top tiers of tech. What matters more is the mindset: continuously learning, adapting fast, and being ready to leap when opportunity strikes.We dive deep into how Umang built his way into machine learning roles in Big Tech without prior ML experience, and the exact principles that helped him accelerate his career both internally at Amazon and externally to TikTok. His path shows that success in tech isn’t about luck — it’s about strategic preparation, deliberate skill-building, and understanding where the industry is heading next.Umang breaks down his early struggles, from navigating graduate school in the U.S. to handling the uncertainty of job hunting as an international student. He explains how to find leverage in every stage of your journey — whether that’s converting an internship into a full-time offer, pitching yourself for roles outside your comfort zone, or developing credibility in a field as competitive as machine learning.We also talk about the hidden truth of career acceleration: the importance of consistency over intensity. Umang shares how he prepared for months before landing interviews, why most people give up too early, and what separates those who get rejected once from those who eventually break into elite teams. His advice on managing rejections, reframing failures, and staying mentally sharp during transitions is refreshingly real and actionable.Another major insight from this episode is Umang’s perspective on risk and adaptability inside Big Tech. At Amazon, he learned how scientific rigor meets business impact — and how every algorithm, no matter how elegant, must tie back to measurable outcomes. Moving to TikTok introduced a whole new dimension of risk management, scale, and data culture. We discuss how these environments differ, what machine learning looks like behind the scenes in companies like TikTok, and how engineers can future-proof their skill sets as AI continues to evolve.For anyone eyeing a transition from software development to machine learning, this conversation is a masterclass in how to position yourself for that leap. Umang breaks down what kind of projects actually stand out on a resume, how to build a real portfolio even without official ML job titles, and how to think like an applied scientist before you even become one.Whether you’re a student preparing for your first ML interview, a software engineer exploring a move into AI, or a professional stuck wondering what your “next big jump” could be — this episode will give you a framework to act, not just plan.It’s a story about breaking inertia, not waiting for permission, and redefining what “ready” really means.🎧 Listen now to learn how Umang built his way from Amazon to TikTok, how he approaches learning as a lifelong system, and how you can apply the same principles to build a faster, more intentional career in tech.Follow Umang on Instagram: @umangabroadExplore all links and episodes: readysetdopodcast.comTimestamps:00:00 Intro + Background04:36 Controversial Opinions on Moving to the US07:03 Opportunities in the US for Future Students10:55 Master's Journey and Lessons Learned16:15 Internship Experience at Amazon25:31 Transitioning Roles at Amazon and Career Growth30:36 Navigating the TikTok Interview Process32:27 Prioritizing Preparation for Interviews35:03 Learning from Rejection: The Journey to Success37:12 The Importance of Consistent Preparation39:41 Motivation Behind Career Transitions41:23 Understanding TikTok's Role in Risk Management43:20 Future Aspirations and Mentorship in ML

In this episode I talk with Hrohaan Malhotra, a Data Scientist at Wells Fargo who actually landed his role through a career fair. If that sounds lucky, it isn’t. Hrohaan rewired the usual career-fair playbook: he didn’t show up to collect business cards — he showed up to build one great, memorable interaction. That single idea changed everything.Here’s the distilled playbook we unpacked — practical, no-fluff, and proven.Start with a 30–60 second elevator pitch that does one job: communicate your unique value. Treat the pitch like a headline for your future self — name, current focus, one concrete win, and the role you want. Practice it until it sounds like a normal sentence, not a scripted announcement. Career centers and recruiters recommend short, targeted pitches that tie your skills to employer needs. Center for Career DevelopmentResearch before you show up. Don’t wander booth-to-booth. Make a short list of companies you actually want to talk to, learn one recent thing about each, and tailor your opening line. Recruiters notice curiosity that’s informed, not generic. Harvard career services calls this deliberate preparation a game-changer. careerservices.fas.harvard.eduWhen a recruiter seems uninterested, don’t freeze or plead. Use the signal. If they’re distracted, ask one smart, specific question about their team’s current priorities or a recent announcement — that tiny pivot can flip boredom into engagement. And if it doesn’t, move on quickly and follow up later by email with a short note and a one-line reminder of what you discussed — timely follow-up often outperforms a long on-floor conversation. Remote-First Coaching+1Charisma matters — but not in the fake, theatrical sense. Warmth, confidence, and curiosity make you memorable. Show energy, listen actively, and mirror small signals (eye contact, brief smiles). Research shows charisma helps form quick rapport and increases the chance a recruiter keeps your name after the fair. PMCIf you’re an international student: be prepared and transparent about your visa status. Employers legally evaluate work authorization, so learn your options, bring clear answers, and use campus career services to surface employers who sponsor. NACE and university career centers offer practical guidance so you’re not blindsiding recruiters or yourself. Default+1Finally — the tactic Hrohaan swears by: convert means creating one memorable reason for the recruiter to follow up. It could be a specific project you’d add value to, a concise idea to improve a product, or a thoughtful question that only someone with your background would ask. Leave them with one clear next step: a time to talk again, a referral name, or a direct ask to apply to a particular opening. Small clarity, big results.If you want the full conversation (real examples, exact phrases Hrohaan used, and the “rizz” moment that seals the deal), tune in to the episode. You’ll walk away with concrete lines to practice, and a mindset that treats career fairs like conversion labs — one focused, prepared interaction at a time.Listen, try one tactic at your next fair, and tell me how it goes. Full episode and links at readysetdopodcast.com.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Background(01:55) How Hrohaan Got his Job at a Career Fair(04:31) Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch(07:19) How To CONVERT At A Career Fair(11:05) When Recruiters Aren't Interested in Talking To You(16:25) Rizz Will Get You Very Far(20:56) Re-defining Success Criteria for Career Fairs(26:13) Navigating Conversations and Selling Yourself(29:05) Advice for Intl Students

Moving abroad for studies often gets reduced to a checklist: applications, visas, internships, and landing that first good job. In this episode of Ready Set Do I sit down with Bhushan Chougule, a graduate student at Purdue University studying Engineering Management, to talk about what most study-abroad advice misses — the small, human things that actually make your time overseas feel like living instead of surviving.We start with the practical moves: how to move to a new city for an internship or job without burning cash, how to scout housing that balances convenience and safety, and simple rent-optimization tactics that make a real difference to your monthly budget. Bhushan and I dig into cost-of-living trade-offs and everyday money hacks — from grocery strategies to budgeting apps — that compound into meaningful savings over a semester. We also cover safety in a non-alarmist way: neighborhood research, campus resources, transit awareness, and routines that keep you secure while giving you freedom.Beyond logistics, the episode is about people. We talk about building social connections from scratch — how to find activities, meet people beyond class groups, and make genuine friendships that last. Bhushan shares candid stories about embracing solo dining, showing up to events alone, and how those small, awkward choices open doors to a city’s social life. We dig into the importance of intent when socializing: being curious, generous, and consistent beats clever networking hacks every time.Work culture differences come up honestly — the practical expectations around punctuality, initiative, and feedback that often separate success in India from success in the US. Bhushan’s perspective as a Purdue student makes these contrasts real and actionable: how to adapt quickly without losing your identity, how to ask the right questions at work, and how to translate academic experience into career currency.Dating, relationships, and boundaries are part of the conversation too. We talk consent culture, online dating norms, and how to balance romance with personal growth while you’re focused on studies. Mental health and homesickness are treated with empathy; we discuss campus counseling, peer groups, and tiny habits that rebuild routine and resilience when home feels far away.Quick housing tips: find reliable roommates, when to sublet, landlord questions that matter, and why transit proximity saves money. Bhushan points to campus boards, local groups, and budgeting apps. We cover part-time work and mental health resources.If you’re moving abroad, this episode gives practical moves you can use. Visit readysetdopodcast.comAll links and resources are on readysetdopodcast.com — tune in, share with a friend who’s planning a move, and try one small habit from the episode this week. Small decisions — the routes you take, the people you show up for, the questions you ask — shape the quality of your time abroad far more than any single internship or paycheck.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:07 Navigating the International Student Experience05:08 Housing Strategies for International Students08:09 Rent Optimization and Cost of Living11:19 Safety Considerations in New Environments14:04 Building Social Connections in a New City17:12 Work Culture Differences India vs US26:12 Building Connections in a New City29:43 Finding Activities to Meet People31:48 The Importance of Intent in Socializing33:55 Embracing Solo Dining Experiences38:15 Navigating Dating and Relationships41:53 The Value of Diverse Connections47:35 Genuine Conversations and Building Friendships

If you want a ruthless, recruiter-grade breakdown of how to actually get hired in 2025, press play. This episode features Shreya Mehta — professional growth coach and former recruiter at Microsoft, Amazon, and TikTok — and she does something rare: she publicly evaluates (nay, lovingly roasts) my podcast producer Deep’s LinkedIn profile and uses that teardown to teach every listener the exact moves that win interviews and offers.Why this episode mattersMost job-search advice is vague. Shreya gives tactical, field-tested playbooks recruiters use to judge candidates in sixty seconds. From application strategy to interview answers, from ATS hacks to sponsorship questions — this is the kind of inside view you won’t find in generic career blogs. If you’re job hunting, switching industries, or nervous about sponsorship, these are the specific changes that move your profile from “meh” to “hireable.”What you’ll get (real, usable takeaways)• A recruiter’s POV on LinkedIn: what to keep, what to delete, and how to build a headline and about section that actually convert views into messages.• Resume tailoring that passes ATS and wins human readers: format rules, keyword placement, and what recruiters actually scan for.• Networking that works: scripts for outreach, timing, and how to turn a cold message into a coffee chat.• Application strategy: how to pick roles to apply to, when to use referrals, and when “easy apply” is sabotaging you.• Sponsorship advice: how to answer “Do you require sponsorship?” without tanking your chances.• Interview prep: high-impact answers, de-risking techniques, and the tiny habits that remove interview anxiety.• Live diagnosis: Deep’s profile teardown — watch us fix errors in real time and model the changes for your own profile.Who this episode is forEarly-career professionals, mid-career pivoters, international applicants who need sponsorship, and anyone who’s tired of ghosting and wants predictable results. If you’re applying for roles at FAANG, startups, or corporate teams, these frameworks scale.How to use this episodeListen with your LinkedIn and resume open. Pause after each section and implement one change immediately. Pick one outreach script and send three messages today. Run a two-week experiment: apply to five roles using these techniques and track responses.Quick promiseDo this work, and you’ll see a measurable difference in recruiter replies, interview invites, and the quality of interviews you get. The job market is unforgiving — but predictable. This episode hands you the predictability.If this helped, subscribe to Ready Set Do, leave a rating, and tell me which profile you want us to roast next. Ship the micro-changes. Get the offer. Then DM me — I want to hear your wins.00:00 — Intro + Background01:45 — Avoid these Pitfalls that most job-seekers make04:55 — NON-generic advice for struggling job-seekers08:23 — Effective Networking Strategies11:01 — Understanding Recruiter Dynamics14:25 — Building a Strong LinkedIn Profile16:43 — Live LinkedIn Profile Review21:51 — How to write a good about me26:36 — The Importance of Portfolios and Featured Sections29:38 — Maximizing LinkedIn Skills and Experience Sections33:19 — The Role of Education in Job Applications37:11 — Understanding the Recruitment Process and ATS41:23 — Stop making these resume mistakes!!43:15 — Does easy apply work?44:37 — Navigating Sponsorship Questions48:15 — Preparing for Screening Calls54:48 — The Role of Career Coaches in Job Search58:30 — The Fulfillment of Mentorship

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"You need experience to get the job, but you need the job to get experience."It is the classic Product Management "Death Loop." If you are a doctor, a teacher, a marketer, or a salesperson, you are constantly told that you don't have the "technical DNA" to be a Product Manager. You are told to go get an MBA, learn to code, or start at the bottom of a support desk.But Jackie Henning didn't do any of that.She made one of the most difficult career pivots imaginable: From the Medical Field to Product Management.In this episode, we sit down with Jackie (currently a Product Manager at Cylinder) to decode exactly how she translated her clinical background into a high-growth tech career. This isn't theoretical advice from a Silicon Valley veteran who has been in tech for 20 years. This is a tactical playbook from someone who just did it—and remembers exactly how hard it was to get that first "Yes."If you are trying to break into HealthTech, EdTech, or just "Tech" in general without a Computer Science degree, this conversation is your reality check. Jackie reveals why your "non-traditional" background is actually your biggest competitive advantage—if you know how to frame it correctly.The "Medicine to Tech" Translation LayerMost career switchers fail because they try to hide their past. Jackie explains why you need to do the opposite. We discuss how "Patient Empathy" translates to "User Research," and how "Clinical Triaging" is actually just "Feature Prioritization" in disguise. You will learn how to rewrite your resume so that a Hiring Manager sees a "Product Thinker," not just a "Former Doctor/Nurse."The "Threshold Concept"One of the biggest mental blocks for pivoters is the feeling of being an imposter. Jackie introduces the "Threshold Concept"—a mental model to help you identify when you have learned enough to take action, versus when you are just procrastinating with more tutorials. We discuss how to move from "learning about PM" to "doing PM work" before you even have the job title.HealthTech vs. General PMNot all PM roles are created equal. If you are targeting regulated industries like Healthcare or Finance, the rules are different. Jackie breaks down the nuances of being a PM in HealthTech: the slower feedback loops, the massive importance of "Stakeholder Management" (dealing with doctors, regulators, and legal teams), and why "Move Fast and Break Things" is terrible advice when patient lives are at stake.Micro-Experiments & The PortfolioHow do you prove you can do the job without a job? You run experiments. Jackie shares examples of "Micro-Projects" you can do in your current non-tech role to build a portfolio. Whether it’s optimizing a hospital workflow or improving a sales process, we show you how to document these wins to prove you have "Product Sense."Connect with Jackie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-henning/About the Podcast:We explore the real stories behind high-agency individuals—from medical professionals to tech leaders—who are just a few steps ahead in the journey. We don't sell you "lottery ticket" success stories; we show you the practical first steps so you can find your own way forward.#ProductManagement #JackieHenning #HealthTech #CareerPivot #NonTechToTech #MedicineToTech #Cylinder #ProductManager #ResumeTips #StakeholderManagement #CareerAdvice #HighAgency #WomenInProductTimestamps:00:00 — Intro + Background02:16 — Breaking into Product Management: Misconceptions and Realities04:51 — Jackie’s Journey: From Medicine to Product Management07:49 — The Evolution of Product Management: Learning by Doing10:54 — Health Tech vs. General Product Management13:51 — Navigating Stakeholder Relationships in Health Tech16:43 — Advice for Aspiring Product Managers: The Threshold Concept

This episode is a goldmine for builders: my guest is VJ Swaminathan, a serial entrepreneur you probably already know from Pathfinders and Authentic Hustle. VJ does something rare on this show — he literally pops the hood on his AI recruiting product, Recruitt.ai, and walks us through the exact tool stack, architecture decisions, and development trade-offs that got him from idea to demo. If you’re building voice-powered AI, hiring tech, or just curious how modern recruitment tooling is assembled, this conversation will save you months of guesswork.Why listen? Because VJ doesn’t do vague platitudes. He shows the demo, explains where voice helps (and where it doesn’t), and breaks down the metrics that matter when you’re trying to make hiring both faster and fairer. We get into practical topics like: how voice naturally fits into candidate screening, how analytics shape recruiter workflows, and which parts of the pipeline you should optimize first to move the needle without overengineering.I love this episode because it’s both tactical and inspiring. VJ shares the actual stack — the APIs, model choices, orchestration patterns, and third-party tools — plus why he made those choices. He talks through latency, cost, and user experience trade-offs; how to instrument the system for recruiting analytics; and how to iterate on an MVP that actually gets adoption inside hiring teams. If you’ve ever wanted a blueprint for a voice-first product or wondered how to stitch together modern LLMs, speech-to-text, and recruitment systems, this is the blueprint.Beyond tech, VJ’s energy is contagious. You’ll pick up mindset hacks for staying productive, approaches to rapid experimentation, and a founder’s lens on building for long-term product-market fit. We also talk about staying current in the fast-moving AI landscape — how to evaluate new model releases, when to swap providers, and how to protect your product from brittle dependencies.Resources: if you want more of VJ’s thinking, I’ve been on his show — check my Pathfinders episode here: https://youtu.be/Lh2JnM9Xxt8?si=P9nNqeWnI34b6WeC — and show his podcasts some love.Who this episode is for: founders building voice-enabled products, engineers exploring AI stacks, recruiting leaders curious about automation, and anyone who likes practical, no-fluff product conversations. Expect concrete takeaways you can apply the next day.If you like deep-dive founder conversations, hit subscribe, leave a rating, and tell me what product you want us to break down next. Press play, take notes, and if you build something inspired by this episode, ping me — I want to see it.Timestamps:00:00 — Intro + Background03:59 — Recruitt AI Demo and Its Applications07:51 — AI in Recruitment: Efficiency and Analytics14:17 — Building the AI System: Tools and Technologies19:26 — Staying Updated in the Fast-Paced AI Landscape

Why Astrology is More Than Fortune-Telling — A Raw Conversation with Poonam DuttaWhat happens when you put a professional astrologer and spiritual scientist in the hot seat and ask the hard questions? In this episode of the Ready Set Do Podcast I sit down with Poonam Dutta — an expert in the Vedas, Sanatan Dharma, and Vedic astrology — for a multi-faceted, super-raw conversation that cuts past clichés and goes straight to the reasoning behind belief.We start by unpacking what it means to call astrology a “science.” Poonam walks us through the logic, observational roots, and traditions that, to her, make it a disciplined way of understanding human patterns. From there we move into birth charts — not as mystical black boxes, but as layered maps that point to strengths, blind spots, and life timing. If you’ve ever wondered whether your chart is destiny or data, this episode gives you practical thinking, not platitudes.We don’t shy away from controversy. I pressed Poonam on common myths around Hinduism — including how the caste system originated and how historical practice diverged from spiritual intent. We contrast Eastern and Western approaches to astrology, showing how context, language, and culture shape interpretation. You’ll get thoughtful, no-spin answers about daily sun-sign horoscopes too — why they persist, what they can (and can’t) tell you, and how to read them with nuance rather than superstition.This conversation also explores the cosmic connection in Vedic thought and whether Hinduism could exist without astrology — a question that surprised me with its depth and subtlety. Poonam’s perspective is at once scholarly and immediate: she blends scripture, lived practice, and a scientist’s insistence on clarity. My favorite moment? When she debunked the endless stream of daily predictions and explained the real value (and limits) of sun-sign forecasting. Don’t skip that one.If you’re curious about Vedic astrology, spiritual frameworks, or want an honest, critical take on traditions everyone talks about but few explain well — this episode is for you. It’s part myth-busting, part primer, and wholly human.Listen, reflect, and decide for yourself. Full episode and links at readysetdopodcast.com.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction + Background 02:25 What is a Spiritual Scientist? 04:07 Is Astrology Real? 09:32 The Role of Birth Charts in Determining Potential 11:32 Contrasting Eastern and Western Astrology 14:54 Daily Predictions: Truth or Myth? 18:15 Can Hinduism Exist Without Astrology? 21:12 The Cosmic Connection in Vedic Astrology 24:42 Understanding Sanatana Dharma 28:05 The Caste System and Its Misinterpretations 34:36 Astrology Predictions for 2025 and Shocking Anecdotes 38:39 How to Practice Sanatana Dharma 39:00 Outro + Conclusion

How do you break into one of the most competitive tech careers, navigate interviews at Amazon, and prepare for a future shaped by AI—all while still in school? This episode is packed with insights for aspiring Technical Program Managers (TPMs), international students, and anyone eyeing top-tier roles in tech.We kick things off with the day-to-day life of a Technical Program Manager—what the role actually looks like beyond the buzzwords. From managing complex projects to aligning cross-functional teams, you’ll get a realistic picture of what makes TPMs so critical inside companies like Amazon.The conversation then shifts to the skills that define TPM success: communication, stakeholder management, and the ability to turn ambiguity into structured execution. Meri emphasizes what students can start doing from their very first semester to build an edge, including the kinds of projects, internships, and habits that recruiters actually value.We also talk strategy around academics—choosing electives, writing scholarship essays, and even knowing when it’s okay to drop a course—because success isn’t just about grinding; it’s about smart decision-making that sets you up long term.The episode gets tactical with job hunting in 2025 and beyond. How do you stand out when applications are skyrocketing? We explore the nuances of shortlisting, what Amazon (and other FAANGs) really look for, and how unconventional paths—like starting as a Business Analyst—can still land you in TPM roles.A highlight of the discussion is the Amazon loop interview process. We break down behavioral questions, the infamous Bar Raiser round, and practical hacks to stay calm under pressure. You’ll hear why rushing to answer is a mistake, how to pace yourself, and how to prepare stories that resonate with interviewers.We then pivot to how AI is transforming technical roles. Far from replacing humans, AI is becoming a tool TPMs can leverage—whether it’s automating repetitive tasks or augmenting decision-making. Understanding this shift could be the single biggest differentiator for future TPMs.Threaded throughout is a bigger theme: adaptability. From facing rejections to reframing career pivots, the episode shows how resilience and perspective can turn setbacks into stepping stones.This episode is a must-listen for:Students aiming for Amazon, Microsoft, or other big tech TPM rolesInternational students navigating scholarships, electives, and career prep abroadEarly professionals curious about career pivots into program managementTech aspirants who want to understand how AI will reshape their rolesIf you’ve ever wondered how to get from classroom to career, crack Amazon’s toughest interviews, or position yourself for long-term success as a Technical Program Manager, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and an actionable roadmap.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:11 A Day in the Life of a Technical Program Manager05:44 Key Skills for Success in TPM Roles09:06 Start doing this from the FIRST semester for TPM roles11:10 How to write scholarship essay12:14 Choosing the right electives16:04 its okay to bail on electives17:46 How to get shortlisted for jobs in 202523:28 Journey to Amazon: Business Analyst turned TPM?27:36 Loop Interview Process + Hacks29:05 How to Answer Behavioral Questions30:55 The Loop Interview Experience32:20 Navigating The Bar Raiser37:12 How to Prepare for Loop Interviews39:41 Do NOT rush to start answering41:41 Rejected for Analyst, but offered TPM?44:40 Leveraging AI in Tech Roles

What does it take to create the largest gathering ever for skilled Indian immigrants in the United States? In this episode, we sit down with the visionary behind the Open Atlas Summit 2025, a groundbreaking event designed to connect, empower, and celebrate the Indian professional diaspora in America.We start with the origin story—how the idea for the Open Atlas Summit was born, and the gap it aims to fill in the immigrant professional community. From there, our guest walks us through the intricate planning and logistics required to make an event of this scale a reality. You’ll hear firsthand what it’s like to secure high-profile keynote speakers, the strategies behind attracting the right voices, and how to align them with the summit’s mission.But this isn’t just about big names—it’s about audience engagement. We explore why crafting an interactive, participatory experience is critical for creating lasting impact, and how innovative programming is being woven into the summit to keep attendees involved from start to finish.The conversation dives into one of the most ambitious parts of the summit: the job fair. We unpack the challenges of designing a job fair that truly serves skilled immigrants, including how to get employers on board, ensure meaningful connections, and navigate visa-related complexities.Behind the scenes, there’s also a story of team building and volunteer coordination. Our guest shares how she’s assembling a network of passionate contributors—both on the ground and virtually—who believe in the mission and are willing to put in the hours to make it happen.The summit’s marketing strategy gets a spotlight too, with a discussion on the role of influencers and content creators in amplifying the event’s reach. Learn how strategic partnerships with digital voices can translate into real-world turnout and engagement.We also highlight the innovative features and experiences planned for attendees—elements designed to make this summit more than just a conference, but an unforgettable milestone in the community’s history. Think immersive networking opportunities, skill-building workshops, and cultural showcases that celebrate identity alongside professional growth.Of course, none of this happens without financial backing. We dive into the sponsorship model, the realities of fundraising, and the balance between maintaining event integrity and satisfying sponsor expectations.The conversation closes on a powerful note about community and shared experiences—why this summit is more than an event, but a platform to build connections that will last long after 2025. It’s about creating a space where skilled Indian immigrants can see themselves, their value, and their future reflected on a global stage.This episode is perfect for:Skilled immigrants in the US looking for opportunities and communityEvent organizers curious about large-scale conference planningEmployers seeking to connect with top Indian talent in AmericaAnyone interested in the intersection of culture, career, and community buildingTimestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:07 The Genesis of Open Atlas Summit 202504:48 Planning and Logistics of the Event07:51 Securing Keynote Speakers10:40 The Importance of Audience Engagement13:38 Navigating the Job Fair Challenge16:34 Building a Supportive Team22:26 Event Planning and Volunteer Coordination24:16 The Role of Influencers and Creators26:10 Innovative Conference Features and Experiences30:11 Financial Insights and Sponsorships34:01 The Value of Community and Shared ExperiencesAsk ChatGPT

Agentic AI isn’t just hype—it’s the future of how intelligent systems will work. In this episode, we dive deep with Meri, an engineer and educator at the forefront of this next-gen paradigm. If you’ve ever wondered how to actually build agentic AI applications—beyond the flashy demos—this is your starting point.Join Meri's Agentic AI workshop: https://maven.com/agent-lab/agent-engineering-bootcamp?promoCode=EARLY30Meri kicks off with a refreshing and opinionated take on the current state of AI development. From the over-polished social media demos to the often-misunderstood definition of "agentic," she lays down the truth with clarity and conviction. This episode cuts through the noise, grounding the concept of agentic systems in the real-world practice of software engineering, automation, and modular design.We explore how to get started with agentic AI even if you're not at a top-tier research lab. What tools are accessible? What architecture patterns actually scale? And how do you structure projects that simulate autonomy without falling into the trap of overengineering? Meri breaks it all down, with an emphasis on practical projects that help you learn by doing.Whether you’re fresh out of a bootcamp or already working in data or ML, this conversation is a goldmine. We talk about success stories of those who transitioned from traditional software or data analytics into the AI field, and how agentic thinking reshaped their path. You'll also hear Meri’s honest take on AI coding assistants, how to use them effectively, and when not to.We also go under the hood on how Meri’s cohort-based programs are structured—from time investment to project outcomes—and why graduates succeed when they focus on long-term thinking, not just flashy outputs. She shares hard truths about career development, the common mistakes people make when trying to break into AI, and what truly matters in your portfolio.But this isn't just about starting. It’s about sustainability and adaptability. Meri openly talks about her lack of interest in GenAI fads, and instead champions a deeper vision—where multi-modal AI combined with agentic principles unlocks entirely new levels of autonomy, creativity, and problem-solving.The episode wraps with sharp insights into the importance of adaptability in AI careers, especially in a rapidly changing ecosystem. Whether you're chasing your first AI project or planning to build tools that simulate human agency, this conversation gives you frameworks, mindset shifts, and technical direction to start strong—and keep evolving.This episode is perfect for:Engineers and developers wanting to get into AIBootcamp grads looking for practical project ideasData professionals transitioning into intelligent automationBuilders tired of GenAI fluff, and ready to create durable systemsAnyone curious about agentic AI, multi-modal models, and real-world applications of intelligent agentsTimestamps:00:00 Intro + Background 02:28 Meri's Hot Take on AI Development 04:27 Real-World AI Engineering vs. Social Media Demos 06:23 Understanding Agentic AI 09:09 Getting Started with Agentic AI Development 11:02 The Importance of Practical Projects 14:14 Break Into Data: Success Stories and Bootcamp Insights 17:08 The Role of AI Coding Assistants 19:26 Cohort Structure and Time Investment 21:41 Project Outcomes and Graduate Success 23:04 Common Pitfalls in Career Development 26:58 Meri does not care about GenAI 30:35 Multi-modal AI x Agentic AI = MAGIC 33:37 The Importance of Adaptability in AI Careers

How does studying in Europe prepare you for launching one of the most innovative companies in a country as complex as India? In this dynamic episode, we sit down with Supra, a global strategy professional who helped expand Tesla into new markets, including India. From landing a role at Tesla in the Netherlands to navigating the multifaceted challenge of launching in India, Supra brings a front-row perspective on transformation, compliance, and cultural agility.We begin with Supra’s journey as an international student in Europe—what sparked the move, how he adapted, and the raw truth behind studying and job-hunting abroad. Spoiler alert: language barriers can be brutal. But buried in that struggle is also a cheat code that Supra reveals for standing out and thriving in the EU job market after your master’s degree.The conversation then shifts into high gear as we talk about his time at Tesla—how he cracked the role, what “transformation” really means at a company like Tesla, and how he got involved with strategic planning for Tesla’s India entry. Supra breaks down the hidden challenges: navigating India’s compliance ecosystem, dealing with air quality concerns, and balancing global flexibility with local constraints. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to operationalize a global brand in a country with entirely different regulations, expectations, and realities—this section is gold.We also dig deep into the cultural dynamics that influence the success or failure of international expansions. From the difference in work cultures between the EU and the US to how Tesla had to adapt its internal processes for the Indian market, Supra gives a masterclass on the human side of strategy.The episode is also a blueprint for international students. Supra doesn’t just share his success—he shares his systems. Whether you’re considering a European master’s, dreaming of working at Tesla, or looking to launch operations in emerging markets, Supra’s final advice offers clarity and confidence. His closing thoughts are especially valuable for students navigating unfamiliar geographies, unsure whether their degree will translate into real impact.This episode is perfect for:International students navigating European education and job marketsProfessionals interested in Tesla, electric vehicles, and emerging market expansionEntrepreneurs and operators launching tech products in IndiaAnyone exploring cultural agility, compliance, and transformation in businessTune in for insights that connect the classroom to corporate boardrooms—and European strategy rooms to Indian launchpads.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background01:58 Journey to Europe: An International Student's Tale 07:31 Naman's B-school experience abroad 12:16 Navigating Finding Jobs in Europe – Languages suck 17:20 The cheatcode to excelling in EU after your MS 22:13 Cracking Tesla role in the Netherlands 24:21 What exactly is transformation? 27:30 Planning for Tesla launch in India 28:51 Navigating Indian Compliance 29:49 Air Quality Challenges in India 33:30 Flexibility in Work Culture 35:30 Tesla Launch: How Culture Dictates Success 38:35 Work culture in EU vs USA 40:43 The Impact of Tesla's Launch in India 43:21 Collaboration Across Cultures 46:05 Supra's tip for international students

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Gurasis Singh, the host of My Thick Accent podcast, to explore the layered experience of being an immigrant navigating identity, voice, and belonging in a new country. Gurasis opens up about his early days in Canada—where his accent often made him feel invisible or misunderstood—and how those challenges shaped his self-perception and personal growth.We talk candidly about the emotional toll of being judged for how you sound. From microaggressions to internalized self-doubt, Gurasis shares relatable stories of adapting to a new culture while resisting the pressure to completely change who he is. This leads us to a critical question: Should you change your accent to fit in? Gurasis offers a grounded and honest take on this dilemma—one faced by millions of immigrants worldwide.The episode also traces the origin story of his podcast My Thick Accent—a show born out of a need to reclaim identity and spotlight voices often pushed to the margins. We discuss the podcast's mission, the feedback it's received, and how it’s become a space for healing, empathy, and celebrating accents as a part of one's heritage—not something to fix.Gurasis reflects on the importance of community and conversations in reshaping public narratives. We discuss how his show challenges preconceived notions and helps listeners find representation and strength in shared stories. These conversations have not only impacted listeners but have also been transformative for Gurasis himself, as he continues to evolve alongside his platform.For aspiring podcasters and creators, this episode is filled with raw insights on the challenges of growing and scaling a podcast. Gurasis opens up about the behind-the-scenes work—from content burnout and guest management to figuring out the right format and staying true to your voice. He also shares how social media has been a double-edged sword—powerful for growth, yet overwhelming in its demands.We talk about what it means to trust your gut in content creation, how to navigate tricky guest dynamics, and the art of balancing consistency with experimentation. Gurasis offers real talk about dealing with self-doubt as a creator, why it’s okay to evolve your format, and how to sustain your momentum when you're building something that truly matters.The episode ends with heartfelt advice for new immigrants—a reflection that ties together everything we’ve discussed: the courage to be yourself, the strength in your story, and the quiet power of owning your accent, your voice, and your space.If you've ever felt like an outsider, struggled with your accent, or wondered how to amplify underrepresented stories—this episode will resonate deeply. And if you're building something from scratch—be it a podcast, a personal brand, or a new life in a new country—Gurasis’s journey will leave you inspired.Timestamps:Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:18 Gurasis's anecdotes re: his accent in canada04:23 Dealing with feeling invisible due to accent07:23 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Identity10:23 Should your change your accent to fit in?13:14 The Birth of 'My Thick Accent' Podcast16:19 Breaking Stereotypes and Preconceived Notions19:24 The Role of Community and Conversations in Change22:09 Listener Impact and Personal Anecdotes25:15 Challenges with growing and scaling a podcast31:16 The Power of Social Media32:11 Navigating Podcast Guest Dynamics32:11 The Challenges of Content Creation32:11 Trusting Your Gut in Podcasting33:38 Evolving Podcast Formats and Seasons39:03 Advice for New Immigrants

In this insightful episode, we dive deep into the world of Mechatronics Engineering with Shivam, a passionate engineer who stumbled into this interdisciplinary field by accident—but never looked back. Whether you're a student exploring engineering specializations or a tech enthusiast curious about how mechanical systems, electronics, and software come together, this conversation is a must-watch.Shivam shares how a combination of curiosity and unexpected academic choices led him to pursue Mechatronics—a field that blends mechanical engineering, electronics, and computer science into one powerful domain. We break down what mechatronics really means, how it compares to traditional engineering branches like mechanical or electrical, and why it's gaining so much global relevance.We also dive into Shivam's academic journey at NYU (New York University), where he pursued his Master’s in Mechatronics. He opens up about the challenges of studying abroad as an international student, how NYU’s curriculum blends theory and hands-on practice, and the broader academic culture that shaped his technical and professional growth.Job prospects for Mechatronics engineers are evolving fast, and Shivam gives us a comprehensive look at the kinds of roles available in today’s job market—from robotics and automation to product development and AI integration. He shares practical advice on how to prepare for job interviews, what employers are really looking for, and how to stand out in a competitive hiring landscape.We also explore the impact of AI on mechatronics, including how intelligent systems are transforming the field and creating demand for hybrid skill sets. Shivam explains how machine learning and embedded systems are increasingly embedded into the design of modern robotic systems, and why adaptability is the most valuable skill you can develop.For those wondering what life looks like on the job, Shivam walks us through a typical day in the life of a Mechatronics Engineer. From design meetings to hands-on testing, he illustrates how diverse and dynamic this career path can be. He also emphasizes the importance of real-world experience—internships, projects, and even personal tinkering—as the true differentiator in the field.Of course, no engineering journey is complete without setbacks. Shivam candidly shares some of the challenges and failures he's encountered, and how they shaped his problem-solving mindset. These moments offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating uncertainty or hitting roadblocks on their technical journey.We wrap up the episode with actionable, thoughtful advice for aspiring engineers. Whether you're still in high school choosing your path, already in university, or thinking about grad school abroad, Shivam’s perspective offers clarity and motivation.This episode will resonate with:Students curious about mechatronics and roboticsInternational students exploring engineering programs abroadEngineers navigating career transitionsAnyone fascinated by the intersection of hardware, software, and intelligenceDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations that explore the real stories behind cutting-edge careers. Your next big decision might just start here.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:07 How Shivam accidentally got into Mechatronics04:04 What is mechatronics?07:01 Experience at NYU10:01 Job Prospects in Mechatronics15:51 Interview Process and Expectations22:03 AI's Impact on Mechatronics24:23 A Day in the Life of a Mechatronics Engineer27:56 The Importance of Hands-On Experience30:39 Challenges and Failures in Engineering34:28 Advice for Aspiring Engineers

In this episode my guests are Nirmal Budhathoki and Karun Thankachan. Nirmal is a Sr Data & Applied Scientist at Microsoft & Karun is a Sr Data Scientist at Walmart. We go over the incredible life-changing job-landing advice these two have shared with 1000s of mentees around the application process, what to expect, and how to prepare for ML interviews. Also, they've teamed up to write the book Decoding ML Interviews, which is an incredible one-stop shop for 100 expertly curated machine learning questions, and of course, their solutions.Check out Decoding ML Interviews: https://onlyoneoutlier.gumroad.com/l/decodingMLIn the high-stakes world of machine learning interviews, success hinges on more than technical know-how—it’s about showing how you think, adapt, and learn. In this episode of Ready Set Do, I sit down with Nirmal Budhathoki, Senior Data & Applied Scientist at Microsoft, and Karun Thankachan, Senior Data Scientist at Walmart. Between them, they’ve mentored thousands of candidates and distilled their insights into the book Decoding ML Interviews, a one-stop guide to 100 expertly curated machine learning questions and solutions.From the first minute, Nirmal and Karun reframed interviews as collaborative problem-solving sessions rather than adversarial tests. They stress that interviewers want to see your analytical process—how you break down a question, communicate trade-offs, and arrive at a solution. Adopting this mindset transforms nervousness into curiosity and helps you engage your interviewer in a genuine dialogue.A balanced study plan is key. Divide preparation into three pillars: foundational theory (probability, statistics, linear algebra), algorithmic coding (data structures, dynamic programming, graph algorithms), and system design (end-to-end ML pipelines and scalability). By rotating focus among these areas each week, you mirror the multi-stage format used by top tech companies.Platforms like LeetCode remain indispensable for coding practice. Karun recommends a progressive roadmap: start with easy array and string problems, advance to medium-level tree and two-pointer challenges, then tackle dynamic programming and graph questions. Aim for consistency—solving three to five problems weekly and revisiting past questions to reinforce patterns.Real-world projects set you apart. Nirmal advises building end-to-end ML applications—whether in NLP, computer vision, or time series forecasting. Document your journey on GitHub or your personal blog, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your narrative. Quantify impact with metrics like accuracy improvements or latency reductions to make your achievements tangible.Why does Decoding ML Interviews stand out? It categorizes questions into probability, ML theory, coding, system design, and behavioral case studies, each with in-depth walkthroughs. The living code notebooks on GitHub ensure examples stay current, and planned annual updates keep pace with emerging techniques like transformers and diffusion models.Timestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:11 Structure of Machine Learning Interviews06:40 Leetcode for Technical Screens10:03 Building a Strong ML Foundation as a Student15:24 Relevance of Projects in Interviews21:06 Types of Qs in Decoding ML Interviews26:20 Some FAQs in ML Interviews and Their Solutions30:37 Future-Proofing the Book33:30 The Importance of Code Examples35:04 Nirmal & Karun Pick Their Fav ML Questions38:55 Leveraging AI for Interview Preparation42:08 Creative Approaches to Using AI Tools45:44 The Value of Mock Interviews48:21 Why You Should Get the Book

In this episode featured not-Guru is Jackie Henning. Jackie is a Product Manager at Cylinder and thru her content, has helped hundreds of aspiring PMs break into Product Management. We go over the exact steps anyone willing to break into PM can take, whether you're a student or a working professional - including actionable tools and resources to facilitate your transition.Think product management is a velvet-roped lounge guarded by Stanford MBAs and ex-consultants with polished slide decks? Surprise—it’s more like an indie music venue with a bouncer who only checks whether you’ve actually played a set. In this episode I hand you a four-step, field-tested blueprint for cracking the product-management code without prior experience, corporate pedigree, or a single day in “Associate PM” purgatory.Before recruiters even skim your résumé, they’re hunting for one signal: Have you built and shipped something that solved a real problem? We unpack the mental flip—from “I want a PM title” to “I solve user pain on deadline”—that separates career tourists from true builders. Think of this as the moment Neo sees the Matrix. After the switch flips, networking feels less like begging and more like swapping war stories.Still juggling lectures, labs, or a 9-to-5 that smells nothing like product? Good. Campus hackathons, low-code Chrome extensions, and weekend API mashups are your new resume bullets. We dig into why a scrappy side-project—even one cobbled together in Notion and Figma—outshines a spotless GPA, and how to spin that story so talent partners at Meta, Microsoft, or the hot new SaaS startup have to call you back.Generative AI isn’t coming for your job; it’s coming for your excuses. We walk through the exact toolkit—ChatGPT for lightning-fast PRDs, Maze for no-code user tests, Chisel for backlog triage, plus a sprinkle of Zapier and Midjourney for polished mockups—that compresses a month of product grunt work into a single Saturday sprint. Master the stack and you become a one-person product squad, ready for whatever 2025 (and the next algorithm update) throws at you.We roast the rookie moves that tank otherwise promising candidates: resume buzzword-soup, writing “passionate about innovation” without evidence, and attaching a 42-slide deck no one asked for. We even tackle the awkward truth about AI-generated specs: if ChatGPT can spit out your entire product brief, you’ve written the wrong brief.Finally, we gaze past the hype cycle. Will LLMs draft every user story? Probably. Will that kill the PM craft? Only if your entire value prop is formatting JIRA tickets. We explore the human skills—storytelling, prioritization under chaos, ethical decision-making—that no model can replicate, and why doubling down on them now will future-proof your career.Whether you’re an engineering undergrad itching to ship something real, a marketing analyst tired of “report-monkey” purgatory, or a side-hustler angling for your first full-time PM role, this episode is your practical, no-fluff guide to breaking into product management without prior experience—and thriving as AI rewires the playbook.All my links: readysetdopodcast.comJackie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelinehenning/Timestamps:(00:00) Background + Intro(02:25) Jackie's Hot Take on Breaking Into PM(05:26) Advice for Aspiring PMs – The Threshold Concept(08:20) Gaining Product Experience as a Student(10:41) Why Hands-On Experience Matters(13:13) Building Your Own Product(15:56) Leveraging AI Tools for Product Development(22:47) Common Pitfalls in Product Management(25:15) The Future of PM in the Age of AI(33:40) Outro + Gratitude

In this episode my guest is Subhabrata Debnath. Subho is a co-founder and CTO at Neuralgarage, whose proprietary solution VisualDub provides state-of-the-art LipSync using AI while maintaining exceptionally high visual fidelity. With the hit feature Kesari 2, Neuralgarage also earned the world's first visual dubbing credits.All my links: readysetdopodcast.comNeuralGarage: visualdub.inSubho: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sdebnath1989/Cut-through AI dubbing, on-device visual translation, and an Indian startup that just might rewrite the language of cinema—that’s the story of NeuralGarage and its flagship product VisualDub, a generative-AI engine that turns raw footage into studio-quality, lip-synced video in any language while keeping user data safely on the device. Over the past year the Bengaluru team has raised venture funding, won the media-tech category at SXSW, and landed more than fifty enterprise clients, positioning itself as the most exciting AI startup in India for film and advertising localization.The competitive landscape is heating up. Hollywood’s Flawless AI popularized the term visual dubbing after showing Robert De Niro flawlessly mouth German without a reshoot, while European players push “studio grade” dubbing as a service. Yet few rivals combine edge privacy, near-real-time turnaround, and emerging-market price points. That combination is why global brands—from soft-drink giants to sneaker makers—are already running regional ad campaigns through VisualDub, rolling out Hindi, Spanish, and Thai cuts in hours rather than weeks.Beyond film and streaming, the technology is already reshaping marketing strategy. Agencies now A/B-test entire voice tracks by region, swapping humor in Mexico for straight facts in Japan and watching engagement metrics climb. Ed-tech platforms are experimenting with lecture translation, and gaming studios are exploring real-time NPC dialogue localization. These use cases create a surge in demand for AI-savvy hardware engineers, speech scientists, and MLOps specialists—roles that remain chronically understaffed in India’s fast-growing deep-tech ecosystem.NeuralGarage’s path from seed round to SXSW spotlight also shows how Indian founders can out-innovate better-funded Western peers by combining frugal engineering with sharp storytelling. The company’s advice to would-be AI builders is straightforward: curate your training data before you worry about model parameters, own a single vertical use case rather than chasing generic hype, and ship a field-tested product as fast as possible—because real customer feedback is the only benchmark that counts.Timestamps:(00:00) Intro + Background(02:14) The Reality of AI Startups(05:08) The Evolution of AI Solutions(07:26) What is NeuralGarage(09:14) Competitive Landscape in Dubbing Technology(14:16) The Technical Challenges of NeuralGarage(16:28) How VisualDub Actually Works(19:52) Unexpected Developmental Hurdles(22:21) When the Whole Operation Almost Collapsed—And How They Fixed It(25:08) Over 50 Brands Using VisualDub(28:23) Transforming Marketing Strategies with Technology(30:18) Is It Even Acting Anymore after Visual Dubbing?(33:58) Navigating the Bollywood Landscape(37:07) Building a Startup in the Media Industry(41:00) Experiencing SXSW: A Global Stage(46:07) Comparing Founders: India vs. the West(49:33) Advice for AI Innovators(51:05) Future Endeavors of NeuralGarage

Why do 99% of robot vacuums still get stuck on cables, smear dog poop, and require you to "pre-clean" your house before they run? We were promised the Jetsons, but we got dumb bumper cars that eat your phone charger.In this episode, we sit down with Anshuman Kumar, the Head of Hardware at Matic Robots, to uncover how they built the first robot vacuum that actually works like a human.Anshuman isn't just a vacuum guy. He is an ex-Tesla Engineer who worked on the traction inverters for the Model S and Model 3. He took the same "First Principles" engineering mindset used to build self-driving cars and applied it to the most annoying appliance in your home.If you are a hardware engineer, a product designer, or just a tech enthusiast tired of cleaning your floors, this conversation is a masterclass in Product Design & Engineering.We break down the "Counterintuitive" design choices that make Matic different. Why is it Square instead of round? Why is it Tall when everyone else is trying to go slim? And why did they choose Cameras (Computer Vision) over LiDAR, even though it’s infinitely harder to build?In this video, we cover:The "Dumb Disc" Problem:Most robot vacuums today are commodity hardware wrapped in marketing. Anshuman explains why the industry settled on the "Puck" shape (hint: it’s cheap to manufacture, not good at cleaning) and why Matic broke the mold to prioritize physics over convention.Tesla Tech in Your Living Room:Matic isn't just a vacuum; it's an autonomous vehicle for your home. We discuss how they leveraged Occupancy Networks (similar to Tesla FSD) to allow the robot to "see" and understand the difference between a toy, a shoe, and a spill—processing everything locally on the device without ever sending video to the cloud.Hardware is Hard (But Worth It):We dive deep into the supply chain wars. How do you build a consumer hardware startup in a world dominated by massive incumbents like iRobot and Roborock? Anshuman shares the gritty reality of prototyping, tooling, and manufacturing a complex electromechanical device from scratch.Privacy as a Feature:With cameras inside your home, privacy is the #1 concern. We discuss the engineering challenges of doing Edge Computing (On-Device AI) so that no data ever leaves your house. This isn't just a policy; it's a hardware constraint that forces better engineering.Quiet vs. Loud:Why do we associate "Loudness" with "Power"? Anshuman explains the psycho-acoustics of cleaning and how they designed Matic to be whisper-quiet while still out-cleaning industrial vacuums.This is not a sponsored review. This is a technical deep dive into what it takes to reinvent a product category that has been stagnant for 20 years.Connect with Anshuman:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anshuman-kumar/Check out Matic: https://maticrobots.com/#RobotVacuum #MaticRobots #HardwareEngineering #ProductDesign #TeslaAlumni #ComputerVision #Robotics #SmartHome #ConsumerTech #EngineeringPodcast #DeepTech #StartupJourneyTimestamps:00:00 Intro + Background02:08 Wired Magazine Review03:40 What makes Matic different?05:54 Design Philosophy and Customer Experience08:19 Current robot vacuums suck10:36 How Matic sees better than all other robots14:04 Leveraging semantics in the robot's vision17:04 Matic can remember and even plan cleanings19:01 Privacy and Data Processing20:59 On-Device Computing and User Experience23:26 AI capabilities25:09 Software and Hardware Integration27:25 Counterintuitive Design Choices in Matic's Robot #131:21 Counter intuitive choice #233:54 Counter intuitive design choice #337:00 Counter intuitive design #439:18 Why is it so tall?41:23 Being a quiet robot can be a sin43:13 Prototyping & manufacturing Process46:50 Anshuman's day in the life at Matic49:27 Opportunities in Hardware Engineering for students

In this episode, our featured not-expert is Varun Negandhi — founder of Beyond Grad, where he has coached 1,000+ experienced professionals into top-tier roles worldwide.Varun shares exclusive interview-coaching insights from his 21-Day Interview Mastery cohorts. We cover practical frameworks for every interview-question type and the psychology of endearing yourself to any interviewer, no matter the industry, role, or career stage.All my linksreadysetdopodcast.comResourcesVarun on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vnegandhi/Beyond Grad: https://beyondgrad.comTimestamps00:00 Intro + Background02:11 The ONLY interview question you can prepare for and nail every time04:24 Naman answers “Tell Me About Yourself”06:26 Varun critiques (roasts) Naman’s response09:53 The Three-Act Structure for “Tell Me About Yourself”13:31 How to communicate the “fit” even when it isn’t obvious16:06 Beginner frameworks for answering behavioral questions20:28 Can you just “wing” behavioral questions?23:15 The simply GENIUS framework for answering behavioral questions27:26 Common interview pitfalls: navigating experience and anxiety32:46 Why conclusions for ALL your responses are so underrated35:10 Is my Indian accent holding me back in interviews?39:19 Leveraging AI for interview preparation43:25 Psychological tricks to endear yourself to interviewers48:55 Battling anxiety before and during interviews52:20 Overcoming overwhelm: the journey to interview mastery

In this episode, our featured not-expert is Farah Fallah Toosi.This is a special crossover between the podcast and my YouTube series Build Your Own App, where we spotlight cutting-edge AI tools for everyday creators. Farah and I walk through multiple ways to build a fully customizable personal portfolio site that helps you stand out to recruiters. You’ll see a complete start-to-end demo using Lovable (host your site for free!), a quick tour of Webflow, back-end options, and a side-by-side comparison of today’s most prominent AI site-building tools (mid-May 2025).All my socialsreadysetdopodcast.comFarah on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/farahenley/Timestamps00:00 Intro + Background02:54 Why a portfolio site is a must-have to get hired05:42 Overview of AI tools14:48 Intro to Lovable20:25 Generating the first version of the portfolio site30:31 Making updates and deploying33:57 Webflow overview37:05 Comparative analysis of AI tools (May 2025)43:12 Outro + subscribe for more vibe-coding demos!

In this episode featured not-expert is ... it's me. In this episode, my nephew, Akshansh who has been a featured not-expert on this show in the past asks me questions about how he can walk a path similar to the one I walked when I started my Masters from the US about 5 years ago from Purdue University before moving to Chicago for work, where I've been living for the past 3 years now.All my links/socials: campsite.bio/readysetdoTimestamps:00:00 Introduction + Background03:44 Key Components of a Strong Student Profile05:47 GRE is optional but take it anyway?06:45 Understanding GPA and Its Importance09:28 What is a safe tier 2 college GPA?11:06 Why Study Abroad? Benefits and ROI14:45 Differences in Educational Approaches17:27 Why Naman went for MS in US and not MBA/GATE20:56 Play games you're good at25:22 How eng students can figure out which course is best for them32:06 You can never run away from tech if you pick MS in USA37:11 Passion is overrated, optimize for practicality39:43 Is America still the premier study abroad destination?44:06 Crafting a Standout Application49:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections