The Passion Institute Podcast

Hosted by Shivani Gupta

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

199

Latest episode

May 2025

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Passion Institute podcast, where impact starts with passion. I’m Shivani Gupta, here to share stories and strategies from the brightest minds in business.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 7, 2025Episode 19928 min

Episode 199: Amplifying Your Influence with Jane Anderson

In this inspiring episode, we are joined by Jane Anderson - international speaker, author, and one of the world’s leading personal brand experts. With over 20 years of experience and having helped nearly 200,000 people elevate their influence and impact, Jane shares her insights on leadership, purpose, and the power of staying aligned with your vision.This conversation dives into what it really means to lead with clarity and authenticity, how passion can show up in unexpected ways, and why surrounding yourself with the right people is essential for success—especially in today’s fast-changing world.key takeaways:Clarity is magnetic. When leaders are clear about their message, it builds trust and inspires action.Passion doesn’t always look like excitement. It often feels like flow, ease, and a natural sense of energy.Support is a strategy. The right guidance at the right moment can help leaders avoid burnout and stay focused on what matters most.This is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their business and lead with greater purpose and intention.

April 30, 2025Episode 19811 min

Episode 198: Engaging People When Your Teams Are Growing with Shivani Gupta

In this episode, I’m talking about the challenge so many growing businesses face, scaling a team while holding onto the values, purpose, and culture that made your business special in the first place. Whether you're hiring your 5th or 50th team member, it's not just about headcount, it's about hiring intentionally and leading in a way that keeps your culture strong.💡 Key Takeaways:Hire with Intention: Don’t just fill roles—hire people who align with your values and can grow with your culture.Lead with Purpose: Your EVP matters. It’s the story you tell through your actions, not just your job ads.Create Structure That Breathes: Systemise to scale, but leave room for empathy, connection, and human leadership.

April 23, 2025Episode 19723 min

Episode 197: The Other Side of Medicine with Dominique Lee

In this powerful episode of "The Passion Institute" podcast, we sit down with Dominique Lee - a compassionate changemaker and medical advocate who's transforming the culture of healthcare from the inside out.Dominique opens up about her mission to make hospitals and healthcare less lonely for both doctors and medical staff – especially those early in their careers who often feel unseen. We explore how her own journey through burnout and reflection led her to redefine what leadership, care, and recognition truly look like in high-pressure environments.🔑 3 Key TakeawaysPersonal transformation often begins when we hit a breaking point—and choose to grow from it.You don’t need a title to be a change-maker—compassion and action speak louder.Recognising people not just for their achievements, but for who they are, builds a more inclusive and human workplace.This episode is a reminder that no matter the industry, creating a culture of care starts with how we choose to show up for each other. Tune in now and be inspired to bring more humanity into your work – one conversation at a time.

April 17, 2025Episode 19623 min

Episode 196: Moving Humanity Forward Through AI with Dr Mark van Rijmenam, CSP

In this episode of the Passion Institute Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Mark van Rijmenam, also known as The Digital Speaker. Mark is a globally recognized #1 futurist, author, and founder of "Futurwise". He works with leaders and organisations around the world to help them understand the impact of emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and the metaverse.Our conversation dives deep into what it takes to lead with passion and purpose in a fast-changing world. Mark shares insights from his unique journey—from cycling across Australia to becoming a global voice on emerging tech—and how passion has remained at the core of everything he does.We explore:How to embrace change and uncertainty with curiosityThe intersection of passion, purpose, and technologyHow leaders can harness AI without losing their human touchThis episode is a must-listen for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and curious minds ready to shape what comes next.Tune in now to discover how to lead with vision and stay ahead of the curve.

April 10, 2025Episode 19523 min

Episode 195: Unlock the Culture of Connection with Cristy Burne

Curiosity isn’t just for kids — it’s the key to unlocking your boldest, most brilliant life.In this episode of the Passion Institute podcast, I sit down with the energetic and endlessly curious Cristy Burne — scientist, author of 15 books, adventurer, and all-round powerhouse. With four degrees, five countries under her belt, and experience performing in not one but two science circuses, Cristy brings science, storytelling, and joy to everything she does. We talk about turning passion into purpose, embracing failure, and why lifelong learning keeps you future-ready. You’re going to love this conversation — it's inspiring, fun, and full of practical gems.Key Takeaways:✅ Curiosity fuels creativity – Stay curious, stay open.✅ Failure is feedback – Learn, play, grow.✅ Soft skills matter – They’re your edge in a changing world.

April 4, 2025Episode 20311 min

Episode 194: Managing Toxic People in the Workplace with Shivani Gupta

"Toxicity is a choice. So is passion."In this episode, I dive deep into one of the toughest—and most necessary—conversations for any workplace: how to manage toxic people. Whether it's the manipulator, the credit stealer, or the energy vampire, toxic behavior doesn’t just affect morale—it can kill productivity, passion, and culture. I’ll break down how to identify it, deal with it, and most importantly, create a high-performing, psychologically safe workplace where people want to show up and contribute.Key Takeaways:🚫 Avoiding one toxic worker can be twice as valuable as hiring a star performer—the ripple effect of negativity is real.🔍 Learn how to spot the signs early—from micromanagers to manipulators, recognition is your first step to resolution.❤️ Create passion-driven cultures—replace toxicity with purpose, feedback, psychological safety, and zero tolerance.This one’s for every leader, manager, and team member who’s ready to stand up for a healthier, stronger workplace.

March 26, 2025Episode 1939 min

Episode 193: Why Self-Awareness is the #1 Thing to Look for in an Interview with Shivani Gupta

What’s the #1 trait to look for when hiring? It’s not just skills or experience—it’s self-awareness. Studies show that while 95% of people think they’re self-aware, only 10-15% actually are. So how do we spot true self-awareness in an interview? In this episode, I break down why self-awareness is a game-changer for hiring, leadership, and building high-performing teams.Key Takeaways:✅ Self-aware employees learn faster, adapt quicker, and make better decisions.✅ Self-aware employees inspire others, foster better communication, and reduce workplace conflict.✅ Ask the right interview questions to identify self-awareness and build a stronger team.Tune in and discover how to hire and develop the best talent for long-term success! 🎧✨

March 19, 2025Episode 19213 min

Episode 192: Tough Love for Leaders with Shivani Gupta

In this episode, I dive into the power of leading with tough love—finding the balance between being firm and compassionate as a leader. In my book "Tough Love for Leaders", I share how you can communicate effectively, inspire your team, and create a culture where both accountability and care thrive.I’ll walk you through the three key principles: Bolo (speaking up), Prashantsha (praising great behaviors), and Vinodha (bringing joy), so you can lead with clarity, confidence, and connection.Key Takeaways:✅ Tough doesn’t mean mean—it’s about balancing head and heart in leadership.✅ Great leaders are great communicators—learn how to speak your truth, give praise, and create a positive culture.✅ Only 13% of people are passionate about their work—discover how you can change that as a leader.If you’re ready to transform your leadership style, let’s dive in! 🎧Want to go deeper? Grab my book Tough Love for Leaders here: https://www.askshivani.com/offers/bKE5cHZj/checkout#passioninstitute #askshivani #BusinessCoaching #podcast

March 13, 2025Episode 19110 min

Episode 191: Making Difficult Conversations Easier with Shivani Gupta

The hardest conversations often lead to the biggest breakthroughs.Have you ever avoided a tough conversation, only to watch the problem get worse? In this episode, we dive deep into the art of handling difficult discussions with confidence and clarity. Whether it’s a challenging workplace chat, a leadership moment, or a personal disagreement, mastering these conversations is a game-changer.We’ll explore:✅ Why avoiding tough conversations leads to bigger issues✅ How to approach them with curiosity instead of fear✅ The power of clarity and compassion in communication✅ Practical strategies to stay calm, listen better, and create real understandingIf you want to lead, grow, and strengthen relationships—this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now! 🎧

March 9, 2025Episode 19026 min

Episode 190: People Are Your Product with Jamie Kritharas

Building a business is like music—find your rhythm and own the stage.What happens when a globally touring DJ transitions into a business leader? Meet Jamie Kritharas, the founder of Defiant, an agency revolutionising marketing by blending creativity with performance.In this episode, Jamie shares his unconventional path—from sharing the stage with Calvin Harris and Martin Garrix to building a business that has propelled over 300 companies forward. Key Takeaways:✅ The power of passion and how it fuels success✅ Navigating career highs and lows—from music industry burnout to entrepreneurial breakthroughs✅ Hiring passionate people and creating a performance-driven cultureAlso, Jamie has a free group where you can join the Scaling Secrets Mastermind! 🚀 Get expert insights on growing brands to $100M+, live Q&As, and bonus masterclasses—all for free.Join here: https://www.skool.com/scaling-secrets-lite-7611Learn more about Jamie Kritharas:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-kritharas/Website: https://defiantdigital.com.au/