LeaderVoices with Sadhna Bokhiria

Sadhna Bokhiria

LeaderVoices is a show about leaders, and their infinite ability to change the world. Each episode in LeaderVoices, we dig into stories and sparks from "for-purpose" leaders, coaches, comedians, luminaries, and everyday heroes from around the globe. Tales of impact and failing forward, of aspirations and innovations — and the infinite and inspiring ways that social purpose leaders lead and make the world a better place. This show is brought to you by the American Express Leadership Academy alumni Network and leaderstories.org. LeaderVoices is audio engineered by Ravi Lad and produced by Kree Pandey and team at OTVO Digital. Special thanks to Caitlin Johnson and Michael Chang.

  1. 09/30/2025

    Episode 25: The Human Office: Designing for People with Adi Hod

    Episode Summary In this episode, Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria is joined by Adi Hod, a Facilities and Real Estate Professional, to explore how our work environments shape the way we live, collaborate, and thrive. Adi's path—from sports management internships and real estate services to leading workplace experience for a cutting-edge biotech company—reveals how intentional design and operations can transform an office from a place people go, to a place people want to be. Together, Adi and Sadhna unpack the lessons of the post-COVID workplace, the power of culture-driven design, and why the future of work requires leaders to see space as strategy. About the Guest Adi Hod is a young professional in the Greater Boston area with over a decade of experience in property and facilities management, workplace services, and real estate operations. A graduate of San Jose State University (2014), Adi has worked across industries—from sports venues and software companies to biotech—always with a focus on creating meaningful in-person experiences for employees and guests. Adi combines operational expertise with human-centered leadership to design environments where people can thrive. He is also a newly minted facilities manager through IFMA (International Facilities Management Association). Episode Highlights An Unexpected Path: From sports management and fraternity housing to CBRE and workplace leadership in biotech. Lessons from Tech & Biotech: How different industries shaped Adi's perspective on what employees really need. The Office Reimagined: Why the hybrid era demands spaces that spark creativity, not just provide desks. Culture in Action: How the design and operation of a workplace reflects a company's values. Leadership Beyond Facilities: Seeing workplace experience as a driver of belonging, retention, and innovation. Key Quotes "Everybody sees me as the problem solver, the fixer. But it's more than that—it's about creating a space where people actually want to come in and contribute." — Adi Hod "The office isn't just about work—it's where culture is lived." — Adi Hod "The way we design our spaces reflects the way we design our leadership." — Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria Takeaways for Leaders See space as culture: Your office tells your team what you value. Post-COVID is different: Hybrid work means you must create a workplace worth the commute. Empathy = Strategy: A people-first workplace drives both performance and belonging. Invest in experience: Workplace management is not overhead—it's leadership.

    41 min

  2. 09/09/2025

    Episode 24: Credibility in a Clickbait World: The Human Side of Pharma Tech with Michael Bani

    Title: Credibility in a Clickbait World: The Human Side of Pharma Tech  with Michael Bani Guest: Michael Bani, Co-founder & CTO of Omnicon Instruments | International Editor at Pharma Now Host: Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria     Episode Summary In this episode of LeaderVoices, Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria is joined by Michael Bani—a dynamic force at the crossroads of pharmaceutical tech, editorial storytelling, and innovation. As the Co-founder and CTO of Omnicon Instruments and International Editor at Pharma Now, Michael brings a unique lens to the rapidly evolving world of life sciences. Together, they explore what it really means to build trust, scale influence, and drive progress in an industry that's often slow to change. Michael shares how Pharma Now grew a global community of over 100,000 engaged readers and viewers in just one year—not by chasing trends, but by staying rooted in expert insight, meaningful relationships, and human-first storytelling. This conversation touches on everything from AI and drug discovery to the cleanroom tech that often goes unnoticed, but underpins so much of pharma's innovation. Michael also offers a thoughtful look at the ethical complexities emerging alongside AI, and why showing up, listening, and asking the right questions still matter in a digital-first world. They also dive into: Why pharma media needs to move beyond "vanilla content" How Pharma Now built a global expert network for real-time insights The often-overlooked role of software and infrastructure in cleanroom innovation Navigating the promises and pitfalls of AI in healthcare Why credibility is built in conversations—not in campaigns Whether you're a pharma leader, media geek, or tech futurist—this episode will leave you rethinking what "thought leadership" in healthcare should actually mean. Episode Highlights 00:02 — Michael's dual roles at Omnicon and Pharma Now 05:10 — Creating content that's useful, human, and actually worth reading 08:50 — From tech to editorial: lessons learned from working across worlds 12:34 — The gaps in pharma tech—and where opportunities lie 16:20 — AI in drug development: excitement meets ethical responsibility 20:45 — Building community through presence, not performance 24:15 — The power of showing up (and shaking hands) Connect with Michael LinkedIn Pharma Now About LeaderVoices LeaderVoices brings you conversations with the boldest thinkers and doers in healthcare, science, and beyond. Hosted by Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria. Subscribe and never miss an episode.

    55 min

  3. 06/17/2025

    Episode 23. One Doctor's Leap from Medicine to Market Moving Innovation

    How do you lead with clarity in systems built on complexity? In this episode of LeaderVoices, Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria welcomes Dr. Anupam Agarwal—a physician executive, biotech investor, and board leader whose career bridges medicine, global pharma, and venture capital. With over 19 years in the pharmaceutical industry—across GSK, Pfizer, and Gilead—and more than a decade in academic and clinical practice, Anupam brings a rare, multidimensional lens to the future of healthcare. Now serving as the incoming president of the Harvard Club of San Francisco and a member of the Cardiovascular Science Research Consortium, he continues to shape the next era of science and strategy. This conversation unpacks: The mindset shift from practicing medicine to leading in industry How to navigate the ethical tensions of pharma leadership Why cardiovascular innovation is at an inflection point What biotech investors look for beyond the pitch deck And how curiosity, humility, and systems thinking have shaped Anupam's journey Why This Episode Matters Whether you're in healthcare, leadership, or venture—this episode is a front-row seat to how science, business, and purpose can align. Anupam doesn't just talk about innovation—he's lived it. And his reflections offer a masterclass in how to lead when lives, ethics, and billion-dollar decisions are on the line. Top Takeaways Clinical credibility matters in boardrooms. It earns trust and keeps the patient in the picture. The best investors aren't just looking for IP—they're looking for mission clarity and people who can navigate ambiguity. Ethical leadership in pharma means holding tension between innovation, access, and sustainability. In cardiovascular science, we're on the brink of a new chapter—but it'll take public-private synergy to get there. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome + Guest intro 04:15 – Leaving the clinic: why Anupam transitioned into industry 08:42 – GSK, Pfizer, Gilead: lessons in leadership from global pharma 14:20 – The ethics of speed and scale in drug development 21:30 – Cardiovascular breakthroughs and unmet needs 29:10 – What makes a biotech venture backable in 2025 35:40 – Advice to early-career physician leaders 41:12 – Closing reflections: staying grounded in curiosity Connect with Dr. Anupam Agarwal LinkedIn 👉 Subscribe + leave us a review if this episode moved you. It helps more people discover the voices shaping tomorrow's leadership.

    44 min

  4. 05/13/2025

    Episode 22: Nomad on Two Wheels: Living a Story Most People Are Too Afraid to Write

    Episode Summary: What happens when you trade a nine-to-five life for a motorcycle and the open road? Quintin Bynum is living the answer. In this unforgettable conversation, Quintin shares how he left Boston with a bike and a dream — and how that dream turned into a two-year, multi-continent odyssey across mountains, jungles, deserts, and war zones. From crashing on remote cliffs to preparing for the world's toughest enduro race, Quintin's story is about more than motorcycles — it's about breaking through fear, dismantling myths about the world, and discovering who you become when you chase freedom without a backup plan This episode will make you want to pack your bags, rethink everything you know about "safety," and start writing a bolder story for your life. Major Topics Discussed: The childhood moment that planted the seed for a life of adventure How Quintin combined his love of motorcycles and travel into one global mission Why preparing for a dream took four years of planning — and how he did it The deep culture of motorcycle communities around the world What it's really like to crash a fully loaded bike in the jungles of Nigeria Inside look at Red Bull Romaniacs: the world's most grueling enduro race How reverse culture shock hits after traveling to 55+ countries The biggest lies we believe about "dangerous" places (and what travel teaches instead) How nature, vast landscapes, and solitude change your brain — literally The art of surviving (and thriving) when you don't speak the language Why true growth only happens when you throw yourself into the unknown How kindness and connection show up in every corner of the world How Quintin manages visas, logistics, and sanity traveling across Africa Top 6 favorite countries Quintin would recommend in a heartbeat Advice for anyone stuck in fear, waiting for "the perfect time" to start GoFundMe (Support his race journey!): Nomad on Two Wheels GoFundMe Follow Quintin's Journey: Instagram: @NomadOnTwoWheels YouTube: Nomad on Two Wheels Facebook: M. Quintin Bynum

    55 min

  5. 04/08/2025

    Episode 21: Talent Talks: Recruiting for Pharma and Biotech

    Join Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria as she sits down with Jamie Riley, a seasoned veteran in the pharmaceutical recruitment industry and the founder of Pharma Search Partners. With a career spanning over two decades, Jamie shares his transformative journey from a military career to reshaping recruitment in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors. This episode dives into the evolution of the recruitment landscape, the impact of technology and cultural shifts, and Jamie's unique philosophy that prioritizes the human element in hiring practices. -- Guest: Jamie Riley, Founder of Pharma Search Partners Host: Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria Overview: In this engaging episode of LeaderVoices, host Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria sits down with Jamie Riley, a pioneering figure in pharmaceutical recruitment. With decades of experience, Jamie discusses his journey from military service to launching his own recruitment firm, Pharma Search Partners. This conversation delves into the evolution of the recruitment industry, the influence of technology, and the shifting expectations of the workforce. Episode Highlights: Jamie's Transition from Military to Recruitment: Explore Jamie's unique entry into the recruitment industry after his military career and how his leadership skills translated into his new role. The Evolution of Recruitment Practices: Jamie talks about the significant changes in recruitment practices from the early 2000s to the present, highlighting the shift from transactional to more relational and ethical approaches. Challenges of Remote Work and Automation: Insights into the impact of remote work on productivity and the challenges posed by automation in the recruitment process. Global Recruitment Challenges: Jamie discusses navigating the complexities of recruiting in different cultural and regulatory environments across the globe. Personal Philosophy and Future Endeavors: Learn about Jamie's personal recruitment philosophy that prioritizes the well-being of both candidates and clients, and his plans to launch a new company aimed at equipping candidates with essential job-seeking skills.

    54 min

  6. 03/11/2025

    Episode 20: Jailhouse Jitters: Lockdown, Leadership, and the National Guard - Inside the New York Prison Strike

    Join Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria on this inspiring episode of LeaderVoices as she dives deep with Adam Ramirez, a retired Deputy Superintendent for Security with over 34 years of experience in the New York State Department of Corrections. Adam shares insights into leading in one of the most challenging environments—maximum-security prisons. He sheds light on the current strike involving corrections officers, the HALT Act, officer safety, leadership in crisis, and the future of corrections. We unpack the human side of prison leadership, how policies shape safety and discipline, and what it really means to lead under intense pressure. This is a raw and eye-opening conversation you won't want to miss. Watch Full Video Here: https://youtu.be/2gbbU6la4X4    Timestamps & Key Topics: [00:00] Introduction Welcome to LeaderVoices Introducing Adam Ramirez and his 34-year career in corrections [02:34] The New York Prison Strike: What's Happening? 40 out of 42 prisons were on strike—why? The role of the National Guard in filling corrections officer positions The legal risks officers face for striking under the Taylor Law [05:47] Safety Concerns Inside the Prisons Reports of 26 officers collapsing from suspected drug exposure How fentanyl and other substances are making their way into facilities Why the CDC hasn't been allowed to test the substances affecting officers [11:02] The HALT Act & Its Impact on Corrections The Humane Alternatives to Long-Term (HALT) Solitary Confinement Act Misconceptions about "solitary confinement" vs. Special Housing Units (SHU) Why limiting disciplinary segregation to 15 days is causing safety issues [22:48] A Broken System: Officer Burnout & Leadership Failures The life expectancy of corrections officers is just 59 years High rates of suicide, heart attacks, and stress-related illnesses What leadership inside prisons really looks like and how **Adam trained his team

    1h 29m

  7. 02/25/2025

    Episode 19: The Human Side of Science: Innovation in Neurodegenerative Research

    In this episode of LeaderVoices, host Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria sits down with Dr. Winnie Pak, Head of Strategy at Elevated Clinical, to dive deep into the world of clinical trials, neurodegenerative diseases, and the power of purpose-driven science. Dr. Pak shares her personal journey into neuroscience, the urgent need for early detection in Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative conditions, and the importance of building trust in clinical research. She also reveals lifestyle modifications that can reduce the risk of dementia by 45%, discusses the ethical complexities of genetic testing, and breaks down how the healthcare system must evolve to meet the needs of an aging population. If you've ever wondered how clinical trials really work, why early diagnosis is crucial, and what simple steps you can take today to safeguard your brain health—this is the episode for you. 🎧 It's a conversation filled with purpose, science, and a touch of heart. Tune in for an episode that bridges professional expertise with deeply human stories.   Show Notes & Timestamps: 📌 [00:03] Introduction – Host Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria introduces the episode and guest. 📌 [00:47] Meet Dr. Winnie Pak – Her background in neuroscience and passion for neurodegenerative research. 📌 [02:05] The Personal Story Behind Her Work – How her grandmother's battle with Alzheimer's shaped her career. 📌 [03:09] The Evolution of Alzheimer's Diagnosis – From assumptions to cutting-edge diagnostic tools. 📌 [04:15] Why Trust in Clinical Trials Matters – Overcoming patient skepticism and physician buy-in. 📌 [06:52] Purpose-Driven Science – Stripping back corporate motives to focus on the bigger picture. 📌 [09:44] The Urgency of Early Detection – Why waiting for symptoms is not an option. 📌 [11:47] The Emotional Weight of Diagnosis – Stigma, self-awareness, and the tough conversations. 📌 [13:53] Is Dementia a Part of Normal Aging? – The myths and medical realities. 📌 [16:55] The Role of Music, Photos, and Memory Therapy – How sensory experiences can trigger past memories. 📌 [19:38] Personalized Risk & Clinical Trials – Understanding the genetic and lifestyle factors. 📌 [22:00] The Coming Healthcare Crisis – Why the system is unprepared for an aging population. 📌 [27:19] The Lancet Report on Brain Health – 14 science-backed lifestyle factors that reduce dementia risk by 45%. 📌 [29:01] The Power of Lifelong Learning – How keeping your brain engaged can slow decline. 📌 [31:48] The Blue Zones Connection – What the world's healthiest, longest-living people have in common. 📌 [34:32] How Small Changes Make a Big Difference – Practical steps to take control of your brain health. 📌 [37:56] Closing Thoughts – Dr. Pak's final insights and future outlook for the field.

    40 min

  8. 02/04/2025

    Episode 18: Designing Destiny: Sahil Bloom on The 5 Types of Wealth

    Join Dr. Sadhna Bokhiria on this inspiring episode of LeaderVoices as she dives deep with Sahil Bloom. Sahil is an inspirational writer and content creator captivating millions through his insights and bi-weekly newsletter, The Curiosity Chronicle, a successful entrepreneur, owner of SRB Holdings, and managing partner of SRB Ventures, an early-stage investment fund.  Sahil shares the profound impact of choosing to live by design over default, a central theme of his upcoming book, "The 5 Types of Wealth." Discover Sahil's personal journey of breaking societal norms, influenced by his multicultural background and parents' unconventional love story. He challenges listeners to rethink conventional paths to happiness and success, advocating for a life built around genuine passions and values. Sahil discusses the importance of asking the right questions to unlock personal definitions of success and delves into the five types of wealth that go beyond financial gains—emphasizing time, social, mental, and physical wealth. With stories of real people who have embraced a life of design, Sahil offers actionable insights and the motivation to take small steps towards big changes. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a call to action to live intentionally, make meaningful choices, and redefine what it means to be wealthy in all aspects of life.   Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction to LeaderVoices and today's guest, Sahil Bloom 0:48 - Sahil's background and multifaceted career 1:30 - The concept of living by design in "The 5 Types of Wealth" 3:17 - Sahil's personal story of cultural diversity and choosing his own path 5:59 - The significance of asking the right questions in life 7:15 - Highlights from Sahil's research for his book 9:31 - Actionable insights from "The 5 Types of Wealth" 11:46 - Exploring the five types of wealth 13:42 - The concept of the Liferaiser and setting personal standards 16:35 - High leverage systems for achieving goals 18:11 - The impact of time wealth on life's quality 21:15 - The power of surrounding yourself with the right people 23:59 - Status signaling and playing the right status games 26:03 - The myth of waking up at 5am and guaranteed success 27:20 - Sahil discusses the Harvard Study of Adult Development 30:19 - The concept of the couple bubble in relationships 32:20 - Redefining purpose in work and life 35:30 - The Feynman Technique for learning 37:24 - Visualizing physical wealth at an 80th birthday party 39:30 - Transition into financial wealth and the story of the fisherman and the banker 41:57 - Defining "enough" and the pursuit of meaningful success 45:33 - The finite nature of time with loved ones 47:17 - Closing remarks and where to follow Sahil Bloom Key Quotes: "You will never feel successful unless you create your own definition of success." - Sahil Bloom "The greatest journeys in life come not from finding the right answers, but from asking the right questions." - Sahil Bloom Resources Mentioned: The Curiosity Chronicle (Sahil's bi-weekly newsletter) The 5 Types of Wealth (Sahil's book)

    48 min
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About

LeaderVoices is a show about leaders, and their infinite ability to change the world. Each episode in LeaderVoices, we dig into stories and sparks from "for-purpose" leaders, coaches, comedians, luminaries, and everyday heroes from around the globe. Tales of impact and failing forward, of aspirations and innovations — and the infinite and inspiring ways that social purpose leaders lead and make the world a better place. This show is brought to you by the American Express Leadership Academy alumni Network and leaderstories.org. LeaderVoices is audio engineered by Ravi Lad and produced by Kree Pandey and team at OTVO Digital. Special thanks to Caitlin Johnson and Michael Chang.

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