Uncomfortable Pivots

In this deeply personal Season Finale of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with her husband, Akshay Jawharker. While many know Akshay as a Product Management leader, a rock climber, and a coffee lover, this episode strips away the resume to reveal the man underneath.Akshay opens up about the "subtle yet internal" moments that fundamentally changed him, including the profound impact of losing his father. This isn’t just about pivots, it’s a raw exploration of moving from anxiety and insecurity toward a place of internal calm.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about career change, creative evolution, and the courage to follow your voice.🔔Let your subscription echo the melody of change! Subscribe and witness the passion for empowering the underprivileged through the universal language of dance and music.https://www.youtube.com/@FluteTheory/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅Important Links to Follow🔗Linkshttps://ffm.bio/madhurimurli ✅ Stay Connected With Me.👉Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/flutetheory/?_rdc=1&_rdr 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory/?hl=en 👉Threads: https://www.threads.net/@flutetheory 👉Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory 👉Website: https://flutetheory.com/ ✅ For Business Inquiries: [email protected] =============================✅ Recommended Playlists👉 Dance & Singing - Showcase/Competitions - By Madhuri Murlihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelD8jbJAnQ&list=PLGBdyooTcfVQhSAj2WsuMuCzvBKqrVC2I&pp=iAQB 👉 Workshophttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6N7n3lj0qI&list=PLGBdyooTcfVTUjptj6em4FVomJwHgMqaO&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Darkhast | Dance with Live Singing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe5gPf5xarQ 👉 Full Audio Interview - Off the Cuff with Namrita on Bolly 92.3FM featuring Madhuri Murli https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9alEGscrl0 👉 Tera Mera Pyaar | Cover Song by Madhuri Murli & Saattwik Dikshit | Ft. Bidan Sinha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N55US0055I0 👉 Sukoon | Original Composition | Madhuri Murli | Flute Theory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCt4wQE6sV4 👉 What is Flute Theory? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLfOTGgSlcI =============================✅ About Flute Theory.Flute Theory’s mission is to empower the underprivileged, one dance and one song at a time.Madhuri Murli is the artistic vision behind Flute Theory. Madhuri is an Artist. She is the singer, songwriter, composer, choreographer, and creative director of 7 original songs and music videos from concept to launch. All songs are available on Spotify, Saavn, YouTube, Apple Music, and other leading music and media platforms.Flute Theory is a philanthropic initiative in which Madhuri partners with non-profits worldwide, donates time teaching dance to her students for stage performances in Bollywood Fusion and dance with live singing, and has her students donate to partnering non-profits in exchange.For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: [email protected] 🔔Join Flute Theory - where every rhythm and melody supports the underprivileged. Subscribe for an uplifting journey of music, and dance:https://www.youtube.com/@FluteTheory/?sub_confirmation=1 =================================ADD HASHTAG HERE⚠️DISCLAIMER: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of Flute Theory. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © Flute Theory

In this episode of The Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Jabeen Merchant, an accomplished Indian film editor whose work spans across the mainstream film industry.Jabeen built her career in one of the most demanding creative industries, shaping stories behind the scenes through the craft of film editing. In this conversation, she reflects on her pivotal career shift—moving from the world of Journalism to the high-stakes environment of Film Editing—and the discipline required to thrive in the industry.With years of experience in cinema and storytelling, Jabeen offers a unique perspective on the "invisible art" that brings films to life. She shares insights into the creative decisions that shape powerful narratives, the collaborative nature of filmmaking, and how editors play a crucial role in establishing the emotional rhythm of a story.🔔Let your subscription echo the melody of change! Subscribe and witness the passion for empowering the underprivileged through the universal language of dance and music.https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅Important Links to Follow🔗Linkshttps://ffm.bio/madhurimurli ✅ Stay Connected With Me.👉Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/flutetheory/?_rdc=1&_rdr 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory/?hl=en 👉Threads: https://www.threads.net/@flutetheory 👉Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory 👉Website: https://flutetheory.com/ ✅ For Business Inquiries: [email protected] ✅ Recommended Playlists👉 Dance & Singing - Showcase/Competitions - By Madhuri Murlihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelD8jbJAnQ&list=PLGBdyooTcfVQhSAj2WsuMuCzvBKqrVC2I&pp=iAQB 👉 Workshophttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6N7n3lj0qI&list=PLGBdyooTcfVTUjptj6em4FVomJwHgMqaO&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Darkhast | Dance with Live Singing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe5gPf5xarQ 👉 Full Audio Interview - Off the Cuff with Namrita on Bolly 92.3FM featuring Madhuri Murli https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9alEGscrl0 👉 Tera Mera Pyaar | Cover Song by Madhuri Murli & Saattwik Dikshit | Ft. Bidan Sinha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N55US0055I0 👉 Sukoon | Original Composition | Madhuri Murli | Flute Theory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCt4wQE6sV4 👉 What is Flute Theory? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLfOTGgSlcI ✅ About Flute Theory.Flute Theory’s mission is to empower the underprivileged, one dance and one song at a time.Madhuri Murli is the artistic vision behind Flute Theory. Madhuri is an Artist. She is the singer, songwriter, composer, choreographer, and creative director of 7 original songs and music videos from concept to launch. All songs are available on Spotify, Saavn, YouTube, Apple Music, and other leading music and media platforms.Flute Theory is a philanthropic initiative in which Madhuri partners with non-profits worldwide, donates time teaching dance to her students for stage performances in Bollywood Fusion and dance with live singing, and has her students donate to partnering non-profits in exchange.For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: [email protected] 🔔Join Flute Theory - where every rhythm and melody supports the underprivileged. Subscribe for an uplifting journey of music, and dance:https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 ⚠️DISCLAIMER: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of Flute Theory. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © Flute Theory

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Amey Londhe, a musician whose career path began almost by accident but eventually became his calling.Amey shares how he found himself choosing music over the conventional 9-to-5 path, and how what started as an unexpected opportunity slowly evolved into a profession. He reflects on the moments of uncertainty, the risks of pursuing a creative career, and the pivots that shaped his journey.The conversation explores how sometimes our true paths are discovered rather than planned. From embracing curiosity to trusting instinct, Amey talks about the challenges and rewards of building a life around music and creativity.🔔Let your subscription echo the melody of change! Subscribe and witness the passion for empowering the underprivileged through the universal language of dance and music.https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅Important Links to Follow🔗Linkshttps://ffm.bio/madhurimurli ✅ Stay Connected With Me.👉Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/flutetheory/?_rdc=1&_rdr 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory/?hl=en 👉Threads: https://www.threads.net/@flutetheory 👉Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory 👉Website: https://flutetheory.com/ ✅ For Business Inquiries: [email protected] =============================✅ Recommended Playlists👉 Dance & Singing - Showcase/Competitions - By Madhuri Murlihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelD8jbJAnQ&list=PLGBdyooTcfVQhSAj2WsuMuCzvBKqrVC2I&pp=iAQB 👉 Workshophttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6N7n3lj0qI&list=PLGBdyooTcfVTUjptj6em4FVomJwHgMqaO&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Darkhast | Dance with Live Singing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe5gPf5xarQ 👉 Full Audio Interview - Off the Cuff with Namrita on Bolly 92.3FM featuring Madhuri Murli https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9alEGscrl0 👉 Tera Mera Pyaar | Cover Song by Madhuri Murli & Saattwik Dikshit | Ft. Bidan Sinha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N55US0055I0 👉 Sukoon | Original Composition | Madhuri Murli | Flute Theory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCt4wQE6sV4 👉 What is Flute Theory? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLfOTGgSlcI =============================✅ About Flute Theory.Flute Theory’s mission is to empower the underprivileged, one dance and one song at a time.Madhuri Murli is the artistic vision behind Flute Theory. Madhuri is an Artist. She is the singer, songwriter, composer, choreographer, and creative director of 7 original songs and music videos from concept to launch. All songs are available on Spotify, Saavn, YouTube, Apple Music, and other leading music and media platforms.Flute Theory is a philanthropic initiative in which Madhuri partners with non-profits worldwide, donates time teaching dance to her students for stage performances in Bollywood Fusion and dance with live singing, and has her students donate to partnering non-profits in exchange.For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: [email protected] 🔔Join Flute Theory - where every rhythm and melody supports the underprivileged. Subscribe for an uplifting journey of music, and dance:https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 =================================⚠️DISCLAIMER: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of Flute Theory. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © Flute Theory

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Christine Biancheria, whose journey spans psychology, law, personal loss, and a deep commitment to social impact.Christine began her academic path studying psychology before pursuing a law degree and building a successful legal career. But one of the most defining moments in her life came with the loss of her law partner — a deeply personal turning point that reshaped her perspective on work, purpose, and community.Her journey eventually led her to India, where she connected with Friends of Aseema. What started as a visit soon became a long-term commitment, and today Christine serves as the President of the organization, helping support educational opportunities for underserved children.In this conversation, Christine reflects on the unexpected pivots that shaped her life — from navigating grief to discovering purpose through service. It’s a story about how personal loss can open the door to meaningful work, and how following that path can create impact far beyond what we originally imagined.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about career change, purpose, and the journeys that redefine who we are.

In this episode, Adobe Vice President Mala Sharma joins Madhuri Murlikrishnan to discuss her 20-year journey from India to Silicon Valley. She reflects on the resilience needed to thrive in tech and how she turned a corporate career into a global mission for creative equity.The turning point was a "Moon Moment" at a Mumbai street school. After watching a young student create something extraordinary on her iPad using Adobe Express, Mala saw firsthand how technology can empower the underserved. This spark changed her life and her career trajectory forever.This conversation is a masterclass in how a single moment of empathy can scale into global impact, showing that the most successful careers are those fueled by the courage to make a real difference.🔔Let your subscription echo the melody of change! Subscribe and witness the passion for empowering the underprivileged through the universal language of dance and music.https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅Important Links to Follow🔗Linkshttps://ffm.bio/madhurimurli ✅ Stay Connected With Me.👉Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/flutetheory/?_rdc=1&_rdr 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory/?hl=en 👉Threads: https://www.threads.net/@flutetheory 👉Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory 👉Website: https://flutetheory.com/ ✅ For Business Inquiries: [email protected] =============================✅ Recommended Playlists👉 Dance & Singing - Showcase/Competitions - By Madhuri Murlihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NelD8jbJAnQ&list=PLGBdyooTcfVQhSAj2WsuMuCzvBKqrVC2I&pp=iAQB 👉 Workshophttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6N7n3lj0qI&list=PLGBdyooTcfVTUjptj6em4FVomJwHgMqaO&pp=iAQB ✅ Other Videos You Might Be Interested In Watching: 👉 Darkhast | Dance with Live Singing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oe5gPf5xarQ 👉 Full Audio Interview - Off the Cuff with Namrita on Bolly 92.3FM featuring Madhuri Murli https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b9alEGscrl0 👉 Tera Mera Pyaar | Cover Song by Madhuri Murli & Saattwik Dikshit | Ft. Bidan Sinha https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N55US0055I0 👉 Sukoon | Original Composition | Madhuri Murli | Flute Theory https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCt4wQE6sV4 👉 What is Flute Theory? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLfOTGgSlcI =============================✅ About Flute Theory.Flute Theory’s mission is to empower the underprivileged, one dance and one song at a time.Madhuri Murli is the artistic vision behind Flute Theory. Madhuri is an Artist. She is the singer, songwriter, composer, choreographer, and creative director of 7 original songs and music videos from concept to launch. All songs are available on Spotify, Saavn, YouTube, Apple Music, and other leading music and media platforms.Flute Theory is a philanthropic initiative in which Madhuri partners with non-profits worldwide, donates time teaching dance to her students for stage performances in Bollywood Fusion and dance with live singing, and has her students donate to partnering non-profits in exchange.For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: [email protected] 🔔Join Flute Theory - where every rhythm and melody supports the underprivileged. Subscribe for an uplifting journey of music, and dance:https://www.youtube.com/@flutetheory/?sub_confirmation=1 =================================⚠️DISCLAIMER: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of Flute Theory. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © Flute Theory

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Siddarth Nayar, whose career path reflects a deep curiosity and a willingness to explore beyond traditional boundaries.Although he studied law, Siddarth’s professional journey has taken him across multiple industries, including technology, HR, and other fields — each step driven less by titles and more by a desire to learn and understand different perspectives.In this conversation, Siddarth reflects on the value of curiosity in shaping a career, the fear of failure that often accompanies unconventional paths, and the pressure to fit into predefined boxes. He also shares thoughtful perspectives on topics like ADHD and dyslexia, discussing how different ways of thinking and learning challenge traditional ideas of success.This episode explores what it means to question labels, embrace uncertainty, and build a life guided by curiosity rather than convention.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about career journeys, identity, and the courage to follow your own path.0:00 – Introduction1:55 – Introducing Siddarth Nayar7:25 – Shifting your mindset to become a lifelong learner10:30 – Rethinking the true meaning of success11:30 – Three Ikigai questions you should ask yourself today14:30 – What are you willing to suffer for?22:35 – Siddarth’s advice to the audience25:15 – Closing thoughts and thank you for watching___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Jas Kohli — the co-writer, editor, and director of the acclaimed movie 12th Fail — to explore the creative journey behind one of India’s most compelling true-story films.Jas takes us through the twists and turns of his career in film and storytelling — from early beginnings to becoming a filmmaker who knows how to craft narratives that resonate deeply with audiences. He shares how his professional path wasn’t always linear, what it took to navigate pivotal moments, and how every decision — even the uncomfortable ones — shaped the storyteller he became.This conversation goes beyond filmmaking: we dive into creative identity, the art of collaboration, the resilience required to stay true to your vision, and the lessons learned while bringing 12th Fail to life. Jas also reflects on the mindset needed to push boundaries, embrace uncertainty, and continue evolving as a creator.If you’re curious about what it really takes to tell stories that matter — and how pivots, failures, and intuition play a role in shaping a creative life — this episode will leave you inspired.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about career change, creative evolution, and the courage to follow your voice.0:00 – Introduction to the Podcast2:29 – Introducing Jas Kohli3:25 – The fear of stepping into the unknown6:17 – Starting a new journey and facing uncertainty13:05 – Challenging expectations along the way19:07 – Questioning the labels that define you26:45 – Choosing yourself over the need for acceptance37:00 – Learning to reassure and believe in yourself40:06 – His next pivot and what lies ahead45:00 – The importance of following curiosity50:24 – Jas Kohli’s advice to the audience52:00 – Closing thoughts, thank you for watching___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Farah Yasmeen Shaikh, an internationally acclaimed Kathak artist, educator, podcaster, and Founder & Artistic Director of Noorani Dance.Farah’s journey is one of deep devotion and courageous evolution. She spent nearly 20 years training under her guru, the legendary Pandit Chitresh Das, immersing herself in the discipline, tradition, and philosophy of Kathak. But one of her most defining pivots came when she stepped into her own voice, founding Noorani Dance and shaping a space that reflects both her lineage and her individual artistic identity.Beyond performance and teaching, Farah has expanded her impact through her podcast, where she creates space for artists and creative voices to be seen, heard, and empowered. Through these conversations, she continues her mission of preserving tradition while supporting the evolution and wellbeing of the artistic community.This episode explores what it means to dedicate your life to an art form, the courage it takes to step out of your guru’s shadow and into your own leadership, and how artistic practice can become both a personal and collective path toward meaning.Farah’s story is a powerful reminder that honoring tradition doesn’t mean standing still — sometimes it means having the courage to carry it forward in your own way.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about identity, purpose, and the courage to evolve.0:00 – Introduction2:00 – Farah Yasmeen Shaikh’s Kathak journey and artistic roots5:30 – Stepping into the unknown and embracing uncertainty10:50 – Challenging expectations and staying true to her path18:20 – Finding and defining her own artistic identity25:35 – The role of diversity and inclusivity in the arts33:25 – What it means to truly feel seen as an artist38:40 – Farah’s advice for artists and those finding their voice41:50 – Closing thoughts and thank you for watching ___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Kristy Junio, a marketing executive, tech leader, dance instructor, and now an executive coach, whose career path proves that growth rarely follows a straight line.Kristy began her journey in the tech industry, building a strong foundation as a marketing leader.But along the way, she made bold moves, stepping away from stability, exploring different industries, and repeatedly choosing the unknown over comfort. Each pivot brought new lessons about identity, courage, and what it truly means to build a career that feels aligned.From the discipline she learned as a dancer to the resilience she developed in tech leadership, and now guiding others through executive coaching, Kristy shares how every chapter shaped her perspective on work and life.This conversation dives into career pivots, stepping into uncertainty, lessons from multiple professions, and trusting yourself when the next step isn’t obvious. It’s for anyone questioning their path or wondering if it’s too late to start again.Because sometimes the most meaningful careers aren’t planned, they’re discovered.0:00 – Introduction2:02 – Kristy Junio’s career journey and early influences4:01 – Lessons learned across industries and roles6:50 – Navigating uncertainty and stepping into the unknown11:40 – Challenging expectations and redefining success15:55 – Choosing authenticity over external validation21:50 – Why she transitioned into executive coaching27:50 – The turning point that changed her life33:20 – Kristy’s words of affirmation and advice for you35:50 – Closing thoughts and thank you for watching___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Naitik Shah, a marathon runner who turned personal loss into purpose.After losing his mother to cancer, Naitik made a quiet promise to keep her memory alive through action. What began as grief slowly transformed into a mission: running marathons across the world to raise funds and awareness for cancer care. Today, he has completed 15 marathons globally, each race dedicated to supporting patients and families fighting the disease.This conversation explores resilience, discipline, purpose, and how endurance sports became both healing and service for Naitik. It’s about channeling pain into impact, honoring loved ones through meaningful action, and proving that sometimes the strongest tributes aren’t words, they’re miles.If you’ve ever wondered how to transform loss into something bigger than yourself, this episode will deeply resonate.00:00 - Introduction to the episode 02:15 - Naitik Shah’s inspiring life journey06:27 - How his marathon journey began10:08 - The deeper motivation behind running18:57 - Choosing a path less travelled22:52 - His very first marathon experience31:55 - Running marathons across the world34:00 - What success truly means to him40:38 - Thank you for watching___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Mary Sheehan, Senior Manager of product marketing leader at Adobe and creator of Propel Yourself, a growing platform.While Mary continues to thrive as a product marketing leader, her most meaningful pivot has been reclaiming agency as a working mother and building a community that empowers women to do the same. In this conversation, she shares how motherhood reshaped her definition of leadership, pushed her to confront the fear of failure, and inspired her to create a space where working moms can navigate career growth with intention and self-trust.This episode explores community building, and the inner work required to lead, not from exhaustion or expectation, but from clarity. It’s a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t disappear with motherhood; it evolves.A thoughtful listen for working mothers, leaders, and anyone seeking to build a career that aligns with who they are becoming.0:00 - Introduction to the episode 2:22 - About Mary Sheehan3:44 - About Propel Yourself community9:30 - What it is to be a mother of one vs. two16:08 - Mary Sheehan role models 22:57 - Balancing authenticity with being accepted25:30 - Turning point in her journey29:00 - Giving internal permission32:39 - Closing and opening chapters 36:00 - End of the podcast___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this deeply personal episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Natasha Masand, a Principal Scientist at Gilead, about a life pivot that reshaped everything - grief.Natasha grew up in Mumbai, India, before moving to the US to pursue her master’s degree in Los Angeles. While building a demanding scientific career, she and her family faced one of life’s most difficult moments: losing her father to cancer. In this conversation, Natasha opens up about navigating loss, supporting her family through uncertainty, and learning to carry grief without letting it define her.This episode explores how profound loss can become a turning point, not by erasing pain, but by transforming it into purpose. Natasha shares how she chose to channel grief into something meaningful, finding strength, resilience, and clarity in the midst of heartbreak.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about life’s hardest transitions, identity, and becoming who we are through change.0:00 - Introduction to the episode2:46 - Natasha's life journey 5:45 - The turning point in her life10:33 - Hitting rock bottom in life13:40 - Evolving and changing from grief 18:30 - How Natasha mapped her career and professional journey 22:10 - Why grieving is important 28:50 - New generation dealing with changes32:00 - Advice to someone who's supporting a grieving person40:33 - One lesson on courage and change 43:00 - End of the episode___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan talks with Stefan Martyres, who transitioned from a high-pressure corporate role at The Times of India to become the founder and CEO of Social Aviator, a fast-growing entrepreneurial venture which was a key organizer and digital partner for the Miss World 2025 pageant held in India, in 2024.Stefan opens up about what it really takes to leave the stability of a traditional media career and step into the unpredictability of entrepreneurship. From navigating the fear of leaving a recognizable brand behind to building a business from scratch, he shares the mindset shifts, hard lessons, and moments of clarity that shaped his journey.This conversation touches on corporate burnout, creative freedom, leadership evolution, and what it means to redefine success on your own terms. If you’re wrestling with the question of whether to stay in your comfort zone or take a leap toward something more aligned with your purpose, this episode will inspire you to think bigger, and act bolder.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest, human conversations about identity, career change, and finding fulfillment beyond conventional paths.0:00 - Introduction of Stefan Martyres3:35 - Working together at Cancer Patients Aid Association (CPAA)6:00 - What fears came up while transitioning into unknown11:48 - Convincing people about the shift 14:11 - The story behind the name Social Aviator15:00 - Identity that defines us 20:27 - Getting out of the comfort zone24:40 - Being accepted vs. being authentic33:13 - Choosing not so popular path in life39:48 - Miss World Festival46:36 - Lessons to the audience49:00 - End of the podcast___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Marcus Kosena, whose journey spans global careers, major pivots, and a shift from corporate consulting to personal and leadership coaching.Marcus began his career in management consulting at Accenture and then moved on to Slalom consulting where he spent over 16 years as a senior leader making an intentional pivot into executive and leadership coaching. Along the way, he made a life-changing move from the US to Taiwan, offering a unique perspective on identity, career evolution, and redefining success across cultures.This conversation explores career transitions, leadership growth, relocating countries, and what it really takes to reinvent yourself, professionally and personally. It’s a thoughtful episode for anyone considering a career pivot, a geographic move, or a deeper shift toward purpose-led work.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or feeling called to grow beyond familiar paths, this episode will give you perspective, reassurance, and direction.Subscribe to Uncomfortable Pivots for honest conversations about career shifts, identity, leadership, and reinvention.0:00 - Introducing Marcus Kosena4:40 - Fears in the journey of stepping into unknown10:30 - Being defined by one identity15:50 - Resilience and making mistakes 17:20 - Consulting to coaching - Marcus Kosena's career pivot 20:25 - Challenging the belief systems 27:40 - The change of moving countries37:00 - Dealing with exhaustion ___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.© Flute Theory

In this episode of Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan speaks with Jackee Chang, an engineering leader at Adobe and Documentary Filmmaker who chose to embrace both careers.Jackee shares what it’s really like to face the fear of the unknown, navigate self-doubt, and move through the challenges that come with choosing an unconventional path. The conversation explores identity beyond job titles, learning to be comfortable with yourself, and making career pivots with clarity rather than impulse.This episode is an honest reflection for anyone questioning who they are without their designation, or wondering how to pivot careers in a way that feels intentional and grounded.If you’re standing at the edge of change and trying to make sense of your next move, this conversation will resonate deeply. 0:00 – Introduction 1:27 – Introducing Jackee Chang 3:45 – Dealing with the fear of stepping into the unknown 9:45 – Challenges in the journey 16:00 – Being comfortable with yourself 21:50 – How to strip yourself away from the titles 26:26 – The right way to pivot in your career 33:30 – The moment that stuck with me – Jackee Chang 40:50 – End of the podcast___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.© Flute Theory

In the very first episode of The Uncomfortable Pivots, host Madhuri Murlikrishnan sits down with Patrick Palmer, who spent years at Adobe before making a bold pivot into music with School of Rock.Patrick opens up about what it really feels like to walk away from a stable corporate career, step into uncertainty, and listen to the quiet internal voice that asks for more. This conversation explores fulfillment beyond titles, redefining success on your own terms, and the courage it takes to choose a path that feels true, even when it doesn’t make logical sense.From corporate life and diversity programs to creativity, belief, and purpose, this episode is an honest reflection on what happens when you choose discomfort in pursuit of meaning.If you’re questioning your next step or wondering whether it’s too late to start again, this episode is for you.0:00 – Introduction1:34 – Introducing Patrick Palmer2:54 – Switching from a corporate job6:44 – Stepping onto the unknown14:31 – Choosing to believe the internal voice19:00 – Finding fulfillment26:50 – How should we measure success?32:00 – Diversity programs38:00 – Patrick’s message to the listeners47:00 – End of the podcast___Follow for more:IG: https://www.instagram.com/flutetheory?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qrTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@flutetheory?_r=1&_t=ZP-91koiypxKznLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flutetheory/___✅ About Flute Theory.The Uncomfortable Pivots is a podcast about the moments that change us — the pauses, the doubts, and the decisions we make when staying comfortable no longer feels right.Hosted by Madhuri Murlikrishnan and inspired by her book The Prize in the Price of Getting Uncomfortable, this channel features honest conversations around career pivots, identity shifts, purpose, and personal reinvention. Each episode dives into real stories of people who chose growth over familiarity and clarity over comfort.If you’re navigating change, questioning what’s next, or quietly feeling stuck in the middle, this space is for you. Subscribe for thoughtful, human conversations that help you move forward — even when the path feels uncertain.