Ctrl Alt Thrive Podcast

Navneet Kaur

𝗖𝘁𝗿𝗹 + 𝗔𝗹𝘁 + 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲, formerly known as The FemTech India, is a media vertical by TechThrive, a global business tech podcast and community that connects tech founders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, policymakers, and government bodies driving the future of innovation.With listeners in over 90 countries and a cross-platform reach of 1.2 million+, Ctrl + Alt + Thrive is the #1 podcast and a rising force in the global tech ecosystem. Founded by Navneet Kaur and produced by TechThrive in collaboration with UNESCO Women for Ethical AI, this podcast is dedicated to exploring the ethical development of artificial intelligence through the lens of inclusion and gender justice. By amplifying the voices of women leaders across technology, policy, academia, and activism, spotlights those shaping a more equitable, inclusive future in tech.Whether you're building, leading, or investing in the future of technology, this is your space to learn, unlearn, and thrive. t’s more than a podcast it’s a movement to redefine who leads, who builds, and who benefits in the next era of tech.

  1. 04/12/2025

    AI Dreams & Futures: Gen Z’s Take on Building Ethical AI

    In this episode, in partnership with UNESCO #W4EAI, I sit down with young AI innovators Pranav Sridhar, AI engineer at IIT Madras & Sarvam AI, and design experts Anuhya Mahesh and Aditya Sonwane from Srishti School of Art, Design Bangalore. As winners of a hackathon focused on anti-harassment technology, they share their journey of building AI tools that make a real impact, their hopes and concerns for an AI-powered future, and the ethical and environmental challenges they navigate as the next generation of tech creators. What you’ll hear in this episode: The story behind their winning hackathon project: what it does, why it matters, and how it tackles harassment and bystander behavior.Personal reflections from the team on how gender, perspective, and empathy shaped their approach to technology.A deep dive into AI’s role in understanding human emotions can machines ever really step into sensitive human spaces?Gen Z’s hopes and concerns about an AI-driven future from excitement about innovation to anxieties about jobs, trust, and societal impact.Ethical and environmental considerations in AI development, and how young creators navigate these trade-offs.A rapid-fire round where the team defines ethical AI, shares lessons learned, and envisions the AI future they want to see for their communities.Tune in to hear how the next generation is shaping AI not just as engineers or programmers, but as thoughtful, ethical, and deeply human creators. ©️2025 TechThrive Ventures. All rights reserved. Watch full episode on YouTube  Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/ UNESCO ethical AI recommendations - ⁠https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000381137⁠ • Pranav Sridhar - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranav-sridhar-b32743258/ • Anuhya Mahesh - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuhya-mahesh/ • Aditya Sonwane - https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditya-sonwane-85aa3021b/ Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    47 min
  2. 27/10/2025

    How FlexiBees Is Using AI to Redefine the Future of Work for Women I Rashmi Rammohan

    In this episode, I’m joined by Rashmi Rammohan, Co-founder and COO of FlexiBees, an AI-powered platform connecting experienced women professionals with flexible, on-demand work opportunities across life stages. Rashmi brings over a decade of experience from P&G Asia in consumer insights and digital media, and has played a pivotal role in building FlexiBees’ vetting process, go-to-market strategy, and product from the ground up. Her story offers a rare, inside look at what it takes to build an AI-driven company that truly centers women in the workforce.  In this conversation, we dive into: The story behind FlexiBees and how AI powers its mission. Why retaining women in the workforce, especially in AI, is criticalThe opportunities and challenges of building an AI-first companyHow to tackle algorithmic bias and gender sensitivity in tech.What does ethics AI mean to you and how does that translate in your services and products?The future of AI + human collaboration  and what it means for women in emerging markets.If you’re passionate about the future of work, gender equity in AI, and building tech that uplifts, this episode will inspire you to reimagine what’s possible when purpose meets innovation.  Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/  Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only. Views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not constitute professional, legal, or financial advice, nor endorsements of any company or product mentioned. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and make informed decisions. ©️2025 TechThrive Ventures. All rights reserved. Flexibees - https://flexibees.com Rashmi Rammohan  - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashmirammohan/-- Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    42 min
  3. 10/10/2025

    Sahana Gopal on Female Athletes, Science, & Building Made-in-India Equipment For The World I UNRACK

    In this episode, I sit down with Sahana Gopal, the founder of UNRACK, a Made-in-India strength training equipment brand built for the world.  Shana has worked with Olympic medal-winning athletes in the UK to develop one of the largest femtech databases on female physiology, She is redefining how women train, recover, and perform. In this episode, Shana and I dive into: How Sahana turned sports science into a global fitness brandThe gap UNRACK is solving in the women’s strength training spaceThe challenges (and opportunities) of building Made-in-India fitness hardwareThe science behind female athletic performance and recoveryThe monetization sweet spot: premium smart gear or mass-market affordabilityWhat the future of women’s fitness looks like  from Olympic podiums to home gymsWe also get personal: ⚡What it’s like training elite athletes under pressure  ⚡What “strength” means beyond the gym ⚡The trends reshaping how women move, lift, and lead If you’re curious about sports science, female-focused fitness, or what it takes to turn research and passion into a thriving global startup, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how UNRACK is empowering women, redefining strength training, and turning a niche idea into a billion-dollar potential. Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guest and host and do not constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult a qualified expert before making health or fitness decisions. Unrack - https://unrack.fit/ Shana Gopal - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahanagopal/ Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    47 min
  4. Startup Law in India - Incorporation, Fundraising & Compliance | Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co

    21/09/2025

    Startup Law in India - Incorporation, Fundraising & Compliance | Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co

    In this episode, I sit down with legal experts from Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co, one of India’s most respected full-service law firms. My guests are Bhargava K.S., Partner with 17+ years of experience in venture capital, private equity, and fund formation, and Mithila Hari, Principal Associate with deep expertise in VC/PE deals and strategic advisory. Together, we unpack the legal playbook every founder must know  from choosing the right structure at incorporation to safeguarding IP, raising capital, and preparing for exits. Here’s what we cover: Choosing between LLP, Pvt. Ltd, or Non-Profit structuresCommon mistakes founders make when starting upLegal must-haves for fundraising and negotiating with investorsProtecting IP, confidential information, and trade secretsStructuring offer letters, NDAs, and stock options for early hiresStaying compliant with data privacy laws (GDPR, CCPA)Preparing for due diligence and smoother acquisitionsRegulatory considerations for global companies entering IndiaReal stories of startups navigating legal challengesIf you’re a founder, investor, or anyone navigating the startup ecosystem, this episode is packed with legal strategies to help you scale smarter and avoid costly pitfalls. Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and not legal, financial, or investment advice. Views shared are personal and may not reflect affiliated organizations. Please consult qualified professionals before making business, legal, or financial decisions. No client or advisory relationship is created by listening. Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co -  https://www.amsshardul.com/ Bhargava K.S. - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhargava-k-s-49698a19/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Mithila Hari - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mithila-hari-698321120/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    39 min
  5. Half of India’s Tech workforce are women, but only 20% lead - Shreya Krishnan explains why!

    31/08/2025

    Half of India’s Tech workforce are women, but only 20% lead - Shreya Krishnan explains why!

    In today’s episode, I’m joined by Shreya Krishnan—Managing Director of AnitaB.org India, certified therapist, CSR leader, TEDx speaker, poet, and dancer in 37 styles. Shreya is also Ms. Universal Empowerment 2024 and Mrs. India Universe 2017, blending creativity, leadership, and impact like no one else. At AnitaB.org, a nonprofit powering the future of tech, Shreya and her team help tech communities get skilled, hired, promoted, paid, and funded, while challenging bias, opening doors, and putting people at the center of progress. In this episode, we explore: Shreya’s journey into AI, ethics, and gender equity.How her book Words Matter encourages girls to redefine dignity & the phrase every girl should hear.Applying a gender lens in tech leadership amid only 28% women in global tech leadership roles in 2025.How leaders can bridge the digital divide ethically, especially for Gen Z and the 2.6 billion people still offline. Examples of ethical AI initiatives at AnitaB.org that advance gender equity.Turning diversity into leadership equity, especially in AI governance and product design.Strategies for mental well-being in AI-driven organizations, addressing the invisible labor often carried by gender-diverse teams.AI allyship: How to ensure algorithms don’t reinforce gender or racial biases as AI drives more decision-making.The importance of inclusive leadership pipelines in climate, health, and fintech.We also challenge myths about women in tech, explore the meaning of ethical AI in the South Asia context, and discuss what it takes to own the narrative in 2025 and beyond. If you’re passionate about tech, ethics, inclusion, and leadership, this conversation is must listen.  🎙️ Brought to you by TechThrive, in collaboration with UNESCO - Women for Ethical AI Network South Asian Chapter.  Watch full episode on YouTube  Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/ Connect with Shreya - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shreya-krishnan-3190098/ AnitaB.org - https://anitab.org UNESCO ethical AI recommendations - ⁠https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000381137⁠ (W4EAI) South Asian Chapter - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-for-ethical-ai-w4eai-south-asian-chapter/posts/?feedView=all⁠   Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    54 min
  6. This Harvard Grad Invented a Headband for Period Headaches – Emilė Radytė

    07/08/2025

    This Harvard Grad Invented a Headband for Period Headaches – Emilė Radytė

    🎙️ This episode is brought to you by TechThrive, in collaboration with FemTech India.  I sit down with Emilė Radytė  a Lithuanian-born neuroscientist, Harvard and Oxford graduate, and founder of Samphire Neuroscience. Emilė is pioneering a new wave in women’s health with Nettle the world's first wearable brain-stimulation device designed to relieve menstrual pain and PMS. Backed by the NHS and recognized by Forbes, Nettle is part of a growing wave of wellness tech reshaping the future of healthcare. In this episode, Emilė and I dive into: Her journey from neuroscience to launching a healthtech startup.How Nettle works  and how it’s different from traditional pain relief methods. Botox for period migraines - myth or solution.The real impact of PMS on productivity.The rise of wellness tech and why women are investing in their own health more than ever Why PMS and menstrual pain demand better solutions and how brain stimulation offers new hope. Her biggest challenges merging science with startup life.Why women’s health has been historically overlooked and how that’s changing. What does ethical innovation mean in women’s health tech. Natural approaches to managing period-related headachesAnd her advice to young women ready to change the world with science and innovationWhether you're curious about FemTech, building or investing in health innovation, passionate about neuroscience, or simply looking for inspiration from a founder redefining the future of women’s health  this episode is for you.  Watch full episode on YouTube  Newsletter - https://techthrivenewsletter.beehiiv.com/ DISCLAIMER: The content presented in this podcast is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It's always advisable to consult with your doctor or qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance.  Connect with Emile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eradyte/ Samphire Neuroscience - https://samphireneuro.com Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    32 min
  7. How India is shaping the Future of AI – Preeti Banzal on Central Policy, Government of India

    23/07/2025

    How India is shaping the Future of AI – Preeti Banzal on Central Policy, Government of India

    I sit down with Dr. Preeti Banzal, Adviser and Scientist G in the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India. With over 30 years of leadership across telecom policy, disaster communication, AI ethics, and quantum technology, Dr. Banzal has been a driving force behind India’s tech-policy and innovation ecosystem. In this conversation, she offers a rare, insider’s perspective on how India is navigating the complex ethical terrain of artificial intelligence while building one of the most inclusive and values-driven AI ecosystems in the world. Highlights include: Highlights :  What ethical AI means in the Indian context and how to actually get it rightHow can policy frameworks tackle gender bias in AI systems?Why India could offer a “third way” in global AI governance balancing innovation, rights, and trustWhat ethical challenges will AI face in emerging economies over the next decade. How can we design AI ecosystems from day one to protect marginalized communities. What the next decade of AI in India could look like and the voices we must not leave behind. India’s emerging AI infrastructure and free national resources (like Bhashini & IndiaAI).Her message to a 15-year-old girl dreaming of a STEM career. How India is balancing AI growth with job preservation in rural and informal sectors. Whether you're a policymaker, technologist, VC, founder, or a student exploring your path, this conversation is a must-listen. This is a must-listen conversation on tech, AI, equity, and the future of innovation in India.   🎙️ Brought to you by TechThrive, in collaboration with UNESCO - Women for Ethical AI Network South Asian Chapter.  UNESCO ethical AI recommendations - ⁠https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000381137⁠ (W4EAI) South Asian Chapter - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-for-ethical-ai-w4eai-south-asian-chapter/posts/?feedView=all⁠  India’s AI  national free resources :  India AI Portal –open data sets to free AI courses.Bhashini / Anuvadini – NLP tools to bring AI to every Indian language.Futuriskills Prime – Free upskilling programs under the National AI Mission.AI Kosh – Open-source repositories for developers and startups. Support the show Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    49 min
  8. What Is Ethical AI? UNESCO - Eunsong Kim & Dr. Bhavani Rao Share the Blueprint.

    01/07/2025

    What Is Ethical AI? UNESCO - Eunsong Kim & Dr. Bhavani Rao Share the Blueprint.

    Welcome to the very first episode of Ctrl.Alt.thrive where technology meets purpose and impact. I’m your host, Navneet Kaur, and I’m thrilled to launch this newly rebranded podcast, now aligned with a powerful new mission: promoting ethical, inclusive technology through our collaboration with the UNESCO Women for Ethical AI Network – South Asian Chapter. Ctrl.Alt.thrive is more than  a new name—it’s a new direction. Together, we’ll explore how technology can truly thrivewhen it’s built ethically, inclusively, and with every voice in mind. In this episode, I’m joined by two trailblazers leading the charge in ethical AI and gender equity across South Asia: Eunsong Kim, Chief of the Social and Human Sciences Sector at UNESCO’s South Asia Regional Office, where she champions inclusive AI, youth empowerment, and gender-transformative governance across six countries.Dr. Bhavani Rao R, Dean of the School of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, UNESCO Chair on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment, and Chair of the South Asian Chapter of the Women for Ethical AI Network.Together, we unpack critical questions: What does "ethics in AI" really mean on the ground?How do we move beyond gender representation to real decision-making power in tech?What are the urgent actions needed to close the AI gender gap across South Asia?The mission and impact of the Women for Ethical AI Network in South Asia.How can immersive technologies like AI and VR transform women’s lives and communities?Turning global AI ethics frameworks into local, actionable policies.And why involving men and boys in this journey is not optional but essential.What is the UNESCO Women for Ethical AI Network South Asian Chapter? We also explore the challenges and opportunities in translating UNESCO’s Global Recommendations on the Ethics of AI into culturally relevant, actionable strategies and what a truly inclusive AI ecosystem might look like by 2028, as the industry’s value surges past $1 trillion. Whether you’re a student, policymaker, tech leader, or simply passionate about responsible innovation, this episode offers insight and inspiration and a clear call to action for every one of us. Tune in and discover how we can make AI not only smarter, but fairer and more inclusive for all.  🎙️ Brought to you by TechThrive, in collaboration with UNESCO - Women for Ethical AI Network South Asian Chapter.  UNESCO ethical AI recommendations - ⁠https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000381137⁠ (W4EAI) South Asian Chapter - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-for-ethical-ai-w4eai-south-asian-chapter/posts/?feedView=all⁠  Connect with us Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/ctrl.alt.thrive.podcast/⁠⁠ Youtube :⁠⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@Ctrlaltthrive/videos Connect with Navneet Linkedin : ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneet-kaur-80109b227/⁠⁠ Instagram : ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/nav_neeetkaur/⁠

    52 min

About

𝗖𝘁𝗿𝗹 + 𝗔𝗹𝘁 + 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲, formerly known as The FemTech India, is a media vertical by TechThrive, a global business tech podcast and community that connects tech founders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, policymakers, and government bodies driving the future of innovation.With listeners in over 90 countries and a cross-platform reach of 1.2 million+, Ctrl + Alt + Thrive is the #1 podcast and a rising force in the global tech ecosystem. Founded by Navneet Kaur and produced by TechThrive in collaboration with UNESCO Women for Ethical AI, this podcast is dedicated to exploring the ethical development of artificial intelligence through the lens of inclusion and gender justice. By amplifying the voices of women leaders across technology, policy, academia, and activism, spotlights those shaping a more equitable, inclusive future in tech.Whether you're building, leading, or investing in the future of technology, this is your space to learn, unlearn, and thrive. t’s more than a podcast it’s a movement to redefine who leads, who builds, and who benefits in the next era of tech.