MediaCast from MediaBrief.com

Pavan R Chawla

MediaCast, the podcast series from MediaBrief.com, features Founder-Editor Pavan R Chawla in insightful conversations with accomplished young business- and vertical leaders and professionals including Chief Marketing Officers and Business heads  who are creating engagements to empower enterprise and society. 

  1. FEB 11

    Ep 26 Mediacast | Ajey Maharaj of Fortis Healthcare on Trust, Transparency, and 'Patient First' Care

    Send a text This, the 26th  episode of Mediacast focuses on the critical intersection of trust, transparency, and reputation in the Indian healthcare sector, through a conversation between Ajey Maharaj, Head of Corporate Communications and PR at Fortis Healthcare Ltd, and Pavan R Chawla, show host and Founder-Editor of Mediabrief.com. Ajey Maharaj explores how rising patient awareness and the integration of AI are reshaping decision-making, while explaining why the foundational 'Patient First' philosophy is essential for sustaining long-term credibility in a high-stakes industry. He details the strategic evolution of reputation management, noting that the traditional 24-hour news cycle has been replaced by a 30-minute digital window. In this environment, Ajey highlights why absolute transparency and ethical communication are the only effective tools for safeguarding a brand. By leveraging clinical excellence and evidence-based data—published on international platforms like ICHOM—Ajey Maharaj demonstrates how Fortis builds trust across its 33-hospital network and a diverse international patient base. The conversation also delves into the human side of healthcare, where Ajey explains that despite technological advancements, the physical reassurance of a doctor often accounts for 50% of the healing process. He also answers a question about the evolving role of PR partners at the client-C-suite table, arguing that they must move beyond being vendors to become a strategic, extended arm of the management team. This involves providing proactive counsel on government relations, policy shifts, and meaningful storytelling. Ajey Maharaj further reflects on the impact of purpose-driven awareness campaigns, such as the 'DIY' breast cancer initiative with the Indian judiciary and national 'Basic Life Skills' training for first responders. These initiatives illustrate his belief that healthcare communications should empower the public while reinforcing the brand's commitment to community welfare. Finally, Ajey defines the ultimate ROI of trust: the moment a patient can depend entirely on their provider, leading to the referrals and reputation that sustain an enterprise. We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    21 min
  2. Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia of Taj Mahal New Delhi on 'Taj-ness': The Architecture of Modern Hospitality | Pavan R Chawla | MediaCast

    JAN 28

    Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia of Taj Mahal New Delhi on 'Taj-ness': The Architecture of Modern Hospitality | Pavan R Chawla | MediaCast

    Send us a text How does a legacy hospitality brand from India stay relevant while guarding a century of trust? This episode of  MediaCast from MediaBrief.com features Dr. Anmol Ahluwalia, Area Director – Operations and General Manager, Taj Mahal, New Delhi, in conversation with show host and Mediabrief founder-editor Pavan R Chawla.  Dr. Anmol decodes the unique philosophy of 'Taj-ness'—the unique blend of historical legacy and modern global standards that continues to help create and evolve modern hospitality and luxury.  Here's a masterclass in hospitality leadership, brand stewardship, and luxury hotel management. We explore how Taj Hotels continues to define modern Indian hospitality through the lens of IHCL’s Paathya framework, ensuring that a legacy established in 1903 remains the gold standard for the modern global traveler. From the strategic positioning of the SeleQtions portfolio to the enduring allure of culinary icons like Machan, House of Ming, and Varq, we speak of the architecture of trust, crisis leadership during national disruptions and the pandemic, and why integrity and a 'people-first' approach are the ultimate drivers of brand equity. The heart of this episode lies in the TAJ Philosophy, and Dr. Anmol breaks down the TAJ acronym of  Trust, Awareness, and Joy and explains it is a North Star for both employees and the millions of guests who have wlked through their doors. Key Topics Discussed: The Architecture of Taj-ness: Moving beyond tactical service to create an emotional connection that defines the brand's core identity.Legacy vs. Relevance: How historic hospitality institutions like the Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, balance their storied past with the high-tech, high-touch expectations of today’s luxury traveler.Inclusive Luxury & 'Abilism': A deep dive into Paathya, IHCL’s ESG framework. Dr. Anmol explains the shift from 'disability' to 'ability', highlighting initiatives like sign-language inductions, Braille manuals, and the Blind Bake Cafe.Sustainable Hospitality: How IHCL integrates responsible operations—from EV mobility to 'Green Meetings'—directly into the guest experience without compromisin We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    19 min
  3. Ep 24 | Mediacast: Gaurav Sharma, CMO of Campus Activewear, on building a Bharat brand for India’s youth

    JAN 5

    Ep 24 | Mediacast: Gaurav Sharma, CMO of Campus Activewear, on building a Bharat brand for India’s youth

    Send us a text In this, the 24th episode of Mediacast, host Pavan R Chawla -- also Founder-Editor of Mediabrief.com. -- speaks with Gaurav Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer of Campus Activewear Ltd, one of India’s largest sports and athleisure footwear brands. An accomplished and respected young marketing veteran, Gaurav shares sharp insights into how India’s activewear and street casual ecosystem is evolving—driven by youth aspiration, cultural confidence, and a fast-maturing consumer who is moving from a replacement-buying mindset to a repertoire mindset. The conversation explores how Campus, as a proud Brand from Bharat, stays deeply relevant through world-class quality, trend-led design, sharp storytelling, always-on engagement, and Bharat-led pricing that enables meaningful accessibility at scale. Gaurav also reflects on trust, reputation, leadership learning, authenticity, the evolving role of creators, and what truly matters to young India today—not just as consumers, but as people. This episode blends brand thinking, cultural understanding, consumer insight, and business clarity—grounded in real India, real consumers, and responsible brand leadership. Listen to this chat with Gaurav Sharma, Chief Marketing Officer, Campus Activewear Ltd, for rich, thought-provoking perspectives on youth culture, modern marketing, cultural resonance, trust, brand purpose, and what it truly takes to build an Indian brand that millions relate to. Campus. Solid. Category-inspiring. Mediacast is a podcast series by Mediabrief.com, featuring conversations with leaders shaping media, marketing, brands, and business in India. 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms.  We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    25 min
  4. Brand Engineer Dr Ashish Kaul on reimagining business through Indian stories with Folklore India

    09/08/2025

    Brand Engineer Dr Ashish Kaul on reimagining business through Indian stories with Folklore India

    Send us a text This episode of  the MEDIACAST Podcast from Mediabrief.com features Dr Ashish Kaul, Co-Founder and Chief Business Officer of Folklore Entertainment India. Ashish is a strategic thinker, brand engineer and a respected author and communications professional, and is in conversation with Pavan R Chawla, Founder-Editor of Mediabrief.com. Ashish explores the urgent need for brands to rise above the sameness in the marketplace. He argues that brands cannot be treated like instant noodles and warns that in today’s hyper-competitive environment, mediocrity is being normalized. Too many companies are rushing to market, hoping to get lucky instead of investing the time and imagination needed to create originality. He discusses the use of tools like Canva and AI generators, which were meant to democratize creativity but are often used as shortcuts. This, he warns, accelerates monotony and strips brands of originality unless leaders bring real thought and intent.  Ashish also examines mimicry in branding. From fintech apps that look alike to quick-service restaurants using near-identical colors, he explains why imitation may help brands gain quick recognition but can hollow out credibility. He asks whether mimicry in fast food chains, such as copying the look of global chicken QSR giants, reflects smart positioning or lazy branding. On Performance marketing, Ashish reflects on CEOs who lean heavily on it and questions whether some are mistaking tactical wins for the deeper outcomes that strategic brand leadership delivers. He urges companies to see performance marketing not as a replacement but part of a broader vision. Most importantly, Ashish highlights the originality available to Indian businesses if they embrace cultural strengths. He notes that many brands shy away from Indian design traditions and typography due to an inferiority complex, choosing instead to imitate global palettes. By rediscovering Indianness and anchoring identities in storytelling traditions, he believes brands can achieve authenticity and differentiation. Ashish challenges shortcuts and quick fixes, urging a return to originality, cultural authenticity, and patience in building brands that matter. Available now on Mediabrief.com, YouTube, and top global and Indian podcast platforms. We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    36 min
  5. Mediacast Podcast with Dr Nishanth Dongari: Driving India’s EV future with sustainable innovation

    02/25/2025

    Mediacast Podcast with Dr Nishanth Dongari: Driving India’s EV future with sustainable innovation

    Send us a text Delighted to share that this MediaCast episode features an insightful conversation with Dr. Nishanth Dongari, Founder and Managing Director of PURE EV, pioneering sustainable electric mobility with innovations in battery technology and electric vehicles in India. He is in conversation with Pavan R Chawla, Founder-Editor of Mediabrief.com. Dr Dongari shares his journey in the EV sector and commitment to sustainability-driven innovation and explores how PURE EV is reshaping the Indian EV landscape by focusing on reliability, mileage, and consumer trust. An IIT Bombay alumnus, Dr Dongari reflects on his early career in defence projects and how those experiences shaped his belief in purposeful engineering. This vision led to founding PURE EV in 2018, with a mission to make electric mobility viable for India's transportation needs. This episode covers: The genesis of PURE EV - Dr. Dongari discusses how he and co-founder Rohit built a brand rooted in sustainability and technological advancement. Post-Pandemic growth - How the company navigated uncertainties and scaled operations amid increasing interest in electric mobility. Branding and consumer trust - The company's approach emphasizing durability, real-world mileage, and after-sales support. Operational capacity - An inside look at the manufacturing facility in Telangana, current models, and expansion plans. Challenges in India's EV sector - Issues like after-sales service, financing options, and the support framework needed. Sustainability vision - Dr. Dongari's personal motivation for clean mobility solutions and their environmental impact. So here’s an in-depth in-depth look at India’s evolving EV market, highlighting PURE EV’s role in bridging the gap between electric mobility, renewable energy, and sustainability, and all that it is doing to help spread the good word and experience in 2-wheeler electric vehicle driving and ownership. That has been possible due to  Dr. Dongari’s  commitment to transparency, trust, and customer engagement. With that powertrain embedded in PURE EV's DNA,  Dr Dongari and  his team are reinforcing PURE EV’s reputation as a game-changer in India’s electric two-wheeler industry. Tune in to benefit from the passion, insights and commitment of Dr Nishanth Dongari, Founder an We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    59 min
  6. Mediacast: K Sudarshan, CMD, on EMA Partners India Ltd’s historic IPO (as the first exec search firm to get listed)

    01/17/2025

    Mediacast: K Sudarshan, CMD, on EMA Partners India Ltd’s historic IPO (as the first exec search firm to get listed)

    Send us a text In this episode of Mediacast, K Sudarshan, Chairman and Managing Director of EMA Partners India Ltd, discusses a significant milestone: the first-ever IPO by an executive search firm in India. The IPO opens for public subscription today, January 17, 2025, marking a notable moment in the executive search sector’s evolution in India. Sudarshan is in conversation with MediaBrief.com Founder-Editor Pavan R Chawla. Sudarshan shares details about the IPO’s structure, the capital it aims to raise, and plans to reinvest proceeds to strengthen EMA Partners’ leadership team and technology infrastructure. The firm’s strategic focus includes leveraging AI-driven solutions to enhance recruitment processes and operational effectiveness. Sudarshan also offers insights into leadership hiring trends, demand for C-suite executives, and EMA’s distinctive approach to fostering long-term relationships. Reflecting on the firm’s position in the competitive executive search landscape, he underscores their commitment to collaboration and innovation. This episode provides a factual overview of EMA Partners India Ltd’s business goals, the Indian capital market’s dynamics, and Sudarshan’s entrepreneurial journey. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not financial or investment advice. Please consult a qualified financial expert before making investment decisions. We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    31 min
  7. Kimi Guglani - Marketing Global Cybersecurity giant Trend Micro across India and SAARC

    12/10/2024

    Kimi Guglani - Marketing Global Cybersecurity giant Trend Micro across India and SAARC

    Send us a text In this Mediacast episode, Kimi Guglani, Director of Marketing for India and SAARC at Trend Micro, is in conversation with show host Pavan R Chawla, and shares invaluable insights on marketing in cybersecurity. She emphasizes adaptability, customer insights, and leveraging next-gen technologies like AI and data analytics for impactful, data-driven strategies. Kimi discusses her career journey from Panipat to marketing leadership roles across Dassault Systems, Winmagic, and now nearly six years with Trend Micro. She highlights the company’s 30+ years of global cybersecurity expertise, tailored solutions for industries like banking, healthcare, and government, and its dynamic campaigns like the Risk to Resilience World Tour and Hashtag Trending Tuesdays. Key takeaways include: Cybersecurity Solutions: Trend Micro’s approach to addressing threats like ransomware and malware through innovation and research.Customer Engagement: Personalizing marketing to align with buyer journeys across sectors.Reputation Management: Transparent communication, thought leadership, and employee-driven brand advocacy.Internal Culture: Empowering employees as brand ambassadors to enhance credibility.Join us as Kimi explains how Trend Micro remains a leader in the ever-evolving digital landscape, offering practical advice on marketing, innovation, and relationship-building for sustained success in cybersecurity. We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    39 min
  8. Baskar Subramanian on how Amagi is transforming the media landscape through CTV, FAST, and more

    10/17/2024

    Baskar Subramanian on how Amagi is transforming the media landscape through CTV, FAST, and more

    Send us a text This episode of our Mediacast podcast series features Baskar Subramanian , a distinguished Indian media visionary and co-founder and CEO of Amagi, the leading media technology company that is redefining content distribution and monetization. In conversation with Pavan R Chawla , Baskar discusses Amagi's role in transforming the media landscape through connected television (CTV) and free ad-supported streaming services (FAST), enabling efficient audience engagement. Baskar  discusses Amagi’s innovative solutions, such as the Zero Slate model, which optimizes ad placements by reducing repetition. He emphasizes the growing connected television (CTV) market in India and the use of data analytics to drive targeted campaigns.  Baskar also reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting adaptability and innovation as key drivers in the evolving media industry. He explains Amagi’s core value proposition in enabling content owners to efficiently produce, distribute, and monetize channels across multiple platforms, reshaping media distribution globally. So, we give you Baskar Subramanian, Co-Founder and CEO of Amagi, who shares a wealth of knowledge for anyone involved in marketing, media, or content creation. Baskar’s insights encapsulate the transformative power of connected technologies and the strategic opportunities they present to brands looking to thrive in a competitive landscape. Amagi brings them all together to deliver enormous value for broadcasters, streamers, viewers, and the critical audience of brands and advertisers seeking to empower and grow their businesses. Thank you for your time. We have two podcast series: MediaCast, and MVP - The Master's Voice Podcast; both, published by MediaBrief.com. To pitch someone for either series, do this: First, follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Instagram. Listen to, comment on, like, share, repost 3 episodes from each series so we know you've heard them and know the content profile for spokesperson-pitch-fit. Subscribe to the podcast - Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Amazon Prime. Next, write to us at pavan [at] mediabrief dot com and alliances [at] mediabrief dot com, and share links (from 1 above) to your profiles that are following us, plus links of your shares and reports of the particular episodes from your social media platforms. Thanks for your time.

    52 min

About

MediaCast, the podcast series from MediaBrief.com, features Founder-Editor Pavan R Chawla in insightful conversations with accomplished young business- and vertical leaders and professionals including Chief Marketing Officers and Business heads  who are creating engagements to empower enterprise and society.