IIT Podcast with Somenath

Somenath

🌟 Welcome to IIT Podcast: Real Lives, Real Stories! 🌟 Dive deep into the incredible journeys of IIT alumni as they share their stories from life before, during, and after IIT. Each episode is a candid conversation that brings out the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of being an IITian. 🎙️ What to Expect: Life Before IIT 🏫: Learn how these brilliant minds prepared for IIT. Life at IIT 🎓: Roller-coaster journey - late-night study sessions, coding, friendships Beyond IIT 🌏: Career choices, Entrepreneurship, Adventures, Life Lessons! Tune in every week for a unique IIT story!

  1. AI: Why Your "Safe Job" Will Disappear in 10 Years | Peter Boeckel, Design Futurist | S2E02

    10/25/2025

    AI: Why Your "Safe Job" Will Disappear in 10 Years | Peter Boeckel, Design Futurist | S2E02

    🚨 Is the house of traditional education on fire? 🔥 Join us for a mind-bending conversation with Peter Boeckel, a Global Design Leader (ex-Peloton, Steelcase, Philips) and Futurist, who is currently teaching Industrial Design at IIT Hyderabad! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Peter Boeckel -LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterboeckel/Website & Newsletter: https://peterboeckel.com/newsletterListen to Peter's Podcast -Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/design-office-hours-with-peter-boeckel/id1812963001Spotify: https://spotify.link/C7fpnTNRxXb-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Links for Books Recommended by Peter - 1. Life 3.0 - https://amzn.to/4nYS9Bx2. The Nvidia Way - https://amzn.to/4nVd74g-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Peter shares his incredible journey—from being born in Germany to leading design teams in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York, and San Francisco , including work in cutting-edge surgical robotics. He gives us the blunt truth about the future of work, the changing role of designers, and the incredible drive he sees in the Indian education system.🤯 The Future is Unstable: AI, Jobs, and EducationThe Hard Truth: Peter states bluntly that many jobs will simply "go away," and most current education systems "will not be here within the next five years, 10." The Destabilization: The technological revolution is accelerating so fast you will see its effects "within a quarter of a lifetime," destabilizing social and employment systems. Smarter than a Teenager: We discuss how AI models are already achieving top marks in exams like the IIT JEE, underscoring the urgency for change. The New Skill: The solution isn't more skills, it's a shift: "The future of design here lies more retooling design towards entrepreneurship." 🌎 Global Design & IIT IndiaDesigning in Different Cultures: Peter breaks down how corporate culture and innovation differ across Asia, Europe, and the US. Medical Device Challenges: Get an insider's look at the complexity of designing for high-stakes environments like surgical robotics and the challenges of working in a highly regulated, risk-averse industry. Cultural Insight from IIT: Peter shares his observation on the "afterburner" effect he sees in India—a generation "hungry" to excel because they see a clear path to a vastly better life. 💡 Chapters:00:00 Intro - Peter Boeckel02:11 Peter's Global Journey06:58 Designing in Diff Cultures - US, Europe, Asia09:10 Evolving Thought Processes in Design Leadership13:02 Challenges in Medical Device Design18:51 The Impact of AI on Design23:44 The Role of Education in Design27:16 New Career Opportunities - Not Just Doctors and Engineers29:33 Teaching Industrial Design at IIT Hyderabad32:48 The Future of Education in an AI World44:02 Preparing for an Unpredictable Future50:46 Cultural Insights from Teaching in India54:07 Recommended Reads for Designers56:24 Rapid Fire Round: Design Preferences and Trends59:09 Outro#ai #futureofwork #designthinking #iithyderabad #peterboeckel #industrialdesign #careertips #aifuture #entrepreneurship #designeducation #india

    1 hr
  2. From Super 30 to Filo CEO: Imbesat Ahmad's REMARKABLE EdTech Journey | S2E01

    10/22/2025

    From Super 30 to Filo CEO: Imbesat Ahmad's REMARKABLE EdTech Journey | S2E01

    Dive into an epic tale of grit, genius, and global impact! 🌟 Join host Somenath Mondal as he chats with Imbesat Ahmad, CEO & Founder of Filo—the world's first instant tutoring app revolutionizing education for millions! 🎓💡 From a rain-soaked bike ride to crack Super 30's cutthroat IIT prep in Bihar, to ditching fancy clothes for survival pajamas and no-fridge-water marathons... this is raw resilience! 🏍️🌧️💪Relive the highs and heartbreaks:Super 30 Prep: Waking at dawn, battling doubts, and forging lifelong bonds! ☀️👊Daily Routine: Simple meals, stolen clothes scares, and that "shut down distractions" mindset! 🍲🚫Managing Distractions: Cracking social media traps & "I'm already behind" fears in today's wild world! 📱😩Life at IIT KGP: Campus chaos, roommate hacks, GTR disasters, and coffee-fueled comebacks! ☕🚴‍♂️😂Mental Health Real Talk: Tackling IIT suicides, comparison's thief, and building unbreakable bonds! 🛡️❤️Entrepreneurship Fire: Launching RISE in Kashmir's shadows, turning dropouts into NIT stars! 🏔️⭐Founding Filo: Scaling to 50+ countries with 80K daily classes & AI tutors that feel human! 🤖🌍Rapid Fire: Physics obsessions, fave profs, and KGP lingo that still slays! ⚡🎤Imbesat's journey screams: If it's right, toughness is temporary—impact is forever! 🔥 Whether you're grinding JEE, battling burnout, or dreaming big in edtech, this episode's your fuel. What's your Super 30 moment? Drop it below! 👇 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more IIT inspo! 🔔✨#IITJourney #Super30 #FiloEdTech #EntrepreneurshipStory #IITKGP #MentalHealthMatters #EdTechRevolution #InspirationalJourney #JEEPrep #StartupSuccess #AIinEducation #BiharToBillion #ResilienceRocks #StudentLifeHacksChapters:00:00 Intro - Imbesat Ahmad02:53 Life before IIT. - Super 30 Prep04:37 Super 30 Daily Routine08:56 What is Super 3016:42 Managing Distractions20:32 The Reality of Competition in Education26:54 Choosing Integrated Physics Course28:37 Life at IIT KGP42:27 My first interaction with Imbesat in KGP44:30 The Importance of Volunteering and Leadership47:20 Building Bonds in Hostel Life48:59 Addressing Mental Health and Suicides in Campuses01:00:45 Placement Season01:06:02 Life after IIT01:06:20 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Starting RISE01:13:57 Founding Filo01:19:45 Innovating in Education with Philo01:21:00 Leveraging AI and Innovating at FILO01:27:28 Rapid Fire01:28:17 Outro

    1h 30m
  3. Why I QUIT My Engineering Career After IIT Kharagpur | Shashwat Agrawal | Ep 24

    08/25/2025

    Why I QUIT My Engineering Career After IIT Kharagpur | Shashwat Agrawal | Ep 24

    From scoring less than 70% in school to pursuing a Finance PhD in Boston, USA! 🤯 This episode of the IIT Podcast is a masterclass in transformation, resilience, and chasing your true passion against all odds.Join your host Somenath as he sits down with his college friend, Shashwat Agrawal, an IIT Kharagpur alumnus who carved a unique path from Mechanical Engineering to the high-stakes world of finance and academia. Shashwat shares his incredible journey, from being an average student more interested in sports to cracking the IIT-JEE and thriving in the competitive environment of Kota.In this deep-dive conversation, we explore:🧠 The Underdog Story: How Shashwat went from never scoring above 70% to getting into the top batch at one of Kota's best coaching institutes.🏭 The Kota Factory Reality: His real-life experience preparing for the IIT-JEE in Kota and the friendships he forged under pressure.🔄 The Big Department Change: The bold decision to switch from Civil to Mechanical Engineering at IIT Kharagpur and how he managed it.💼 From Engineering to Finance: Why he chose not to pursue a core engineering job and instead pivoted to a career in finance and consulting with firms like American Express.💡A Life-Changing Realization: The powerful story of how the COVID-19 lockdown forced him to look inwards, learn to cook, and ultimately decide to leave a lucrative corporate job for a PhD.🇺🇸 The Reality of Studying in the USA: The untold truths about life abroad, from the harsh -27°C weather to the challenges of being truly independent.🤖 AI's Impact on Jobs: A stark warning about how AI is changing the job market and a shocking statistic about graduate vs. non-graduate unemployment you NEED to hear.This episode is packed with invaluable advice for IIT aspirants, current students, and anyone thinking about a major career change or studying abroad.Meet Our Guest: Shashwat Agrawal 🎓Shashwat is an alumnus of IIT Kharagpur (Mechanical Engineering) and is currently a PhD Candidate in Finance in Boston, USA.🔗 Connect with Shashwat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shashwat-a-b5088357/Timestamps / Chapters ⏱️00:00 Teasers01:16 Intro - Shashwat Agarwall04:06 Life before IIT08:05 Kota Journey - Bansal Classes11:31 JEE Exam Prep Strategies13:21 Advice for JEE Aspirants16:19 IIT Result Day20:12 Life at IIT21:25 Balancing Sports and Studies24:54 Civil + Mech Coursework27:37 Focus on CGPA28:49 Internships and Real-World Experience29:57 Placement Journey33:18 Life After IIT: Entering the Corporate World34:56 Amex Journey36:00 Advice for Career in Finance39:03 Pursuing PhD in Finance44:00 Life as a PhD Student in Boston48:54 Career Paths After a PhD52:10 Culture Changes in US53:41 Advice for PhD Aspirants56:32 Different ways to get into PhDs in US58:41 AI Impact on Finance01:05:34 AI Impact on PhD Applications01:07:32 Rapid Fire01:09:14 OutroAbout The Podcast 🎙️The IIT Podcast with Somenath brings you inspiring and insightful stories from IIT alumni across various industries and corners of the globe. If you enjoy our content, please LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more!#IIT #IITKharagpur #Podcast #IITMotivation #LifeatIIT #IITJEE #JEEAdvanced #KotaFactory #Motivation #Career #CareerChange #Engineering #Finance #PhD #StudyAbroad #USA #Boston #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #JobSearch #FinanceCareer #IITKGP #StudentLife #SuccessStory #SomenathMondal #ShashwatAgrawal

    1h 11m
  4. IIT Bombay to HARVARD - Stopping at Nothing | Anushree Singh | Ep 23

    07/29/2025

    IIT Bombay to HARVARD - Stopping at Nothing | Anushree Singh | Ep 23

    Anushree Singh, an IIT Bombay and Harvard Business School alumna, joins me on the podcast to share her incredible journey and provide actionable insights for students and young professionals. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Anushree's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anushree-sin/Aditi and Saumaric's Episode - https://youtu.be/EaXu_3c7AZM--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this episode, Anushree discusses:Life before IIT: Get a glimpse into her rigorous preparation for IIT JEE at Bansal classes in Kota, including her unique and highly disciplined "stopwatch method" for studying. She shares the challenges and culture shock of moving to Kota and adapting to its competitive environment. Life at IIT Bombay: Learn about her experiences with academics in the Civil Department and her vibrant involvement in extracurricular activities like sports (athletics, basketball) and music. She talks about the unique campus culture and events like Mood Indigo. Career in Consulting: Anushree shares her journey into consulting, explaining what the day-to-day life entails, including extensive travel and working on diverse projects across various sectors like automotive, fashion, and government. MBA Abroad and Harvard Business School: Discover her intentional decision to pursue an MBA abroad, the preparation process, and her enriching experience at Harvard Business School. She highlights the unique learning environment, diverse student body, and the "boardroom discussion" style of classes. Work-Life Balance: India vs. US: Anushree offers a comparative perspective on working in India and the US, discussing work-life balance and community aspects. This episode provides valuable insights for:- Students preparing for competitive exams like IIT JEE. - IIT students and others interested in a career in consulting. - MBA or higher studies aspirants looking to study in the US. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful episodes! #IITJEE #KotaFactory #BansalClasses #IITBombay #HarvardBusinessSchool #MBAAbroad #ConsultingCareer #StudyMotivation #ExamPrep #StudentLife #CampusLife #WorkLifeBalance #CareerGuidance #AnushreeSingh #IITPodcast #SomenathMondal #HigherEducation #CompetitiveExams #StudentSuccess #LifeatIIT #HarvardLife #CareerTransition #EducationAbroad #Motivation #Discipline #StudyTips #IndianEducation #USeducation #MBAAdmission #CareerPath #BeyondIIT--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters:00:00 Teasers00:59 Thank you for Support02:18 Intro to my Team - IIT Podcast02:53 Intro - Anushree Singh04:20 Life Before IIT06:41 Kota Chapter09:36 IIT Prep in Kota - The Rigour13:08 The Stop watch Study method15:57 How to Deal with Distractions18:14 IIT Exam Day20:20 Exam day Strategy23:43 IIT Result Day26:01 Choosing IIT Bombay27:36 Life at IIT - First impressions of IIT Bombay29:49 Cultural Shocks and New Beginnings31:37 Exploring Campus Life: Clubs and Activities32:25 Love for Bombay36:25 Coursework39:09 Navigating the Placement Process44:20 Life after IIT - Consulting Career?46:50 Pursuing Further Education: The Harvard Experience47:24 Why Harvard?50:57 Advice for MBA Aspirants52:37 Harvard Experience58:02 Harvard Professors - How do they Teach?01:01:33 The Classroom Experience: Learning at HBS01:02:50 Current Work01:06:05 Social Life and Networking at HBS01:07:31 Day to Day Job - Growth Strategy01:10:30 Rapid Fire01:12:32 Outro01:14:00 Song Performance - Falling In Love with You

    1h 15m
  5. Future of Engineering & IIT JEE in AI World: Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director of IIT KGP | Part 2

    07/12/2025

    Future of Engineering & IIT JEE in AI World: Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director of IIT KGP | Part 2

    Previous Video -    • Prof Suman Chakraborty (Director IIT Khara...  Welcome back to Part 2 of our deep-dive podcast with Professor Suman Chakraborty, the new Director of IIT Kharagpur. In this episode, we continue our discussion on crucial topics including AI, education, and his vision for the institution. If you missed Part 1, we covered his strategic direction and immediate administration priorities , enhancing research facilities , mental health initiatives and his plans to engage mothers on campus , and whether AI is a blessing or a curse.The AI Revolution and the Future of WorkProfessor Chakraborty weighs in on the increasing capabilities of AI models in the software domain and the push toward physical frontiers like humanoid robots and self-driven taxis. He emphasizes that the entire world is being transformed by technology, particularly AI. He argues that students should focus on a "cocktail" of core knowledge and advanced technologies like AI, emphasizing "cyber physical systems". He also notes the importance of semiconductor research as the "next buzz after the quantum boom," stressing India's need to focus on hardware innovation.Rethinking Education and JEE in the AI EraWe tackle the evolving role of the JEE exam, especially after AI models demonstrated the capability to top the exam. Professor Chakraborty argues that the JEE is an elimination exam and suggests a change is needed: reducing the JEE syllabus and focusing on deeper foundations rather than just formula cracking. He asserts that modern teaching methodologies must change, moving away from rote learning and focusing on context and analytical insight.The Future of B.Tech and IIT Kharagpur's PrioritiesProfessor Chakraborty discusses the value of the traditional four-year B.Tech course in the AI era. He supports the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP) and its provision for different exit routes , allowing students to leave with a diploma or certificate if they have sufficient knowledge for the working world. He also touches on administrative priorities such as addressing student mental health and introducing a "Dean, campus and community development" position to tackle campus issues like the canine problem.We conclude with a rapid-fire session, where he shares why he believes IIT Kharagpur is the "dreamest institute in the world" and his immediate plans to connect with young alumni.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters:00:00 - Intro and Recap of Previous Conversation02:14 - What streams to choose for AI?09:55 - Double Major 15:14 - Semiconductor Research and Energy Solutions21:28 - Open Challenge - "AC" Issue25:05 - Revisiting the JEE Exam Structure36:17 - The Future of Engineering Education39:42 - Crowdsourced Questions - Teaching Methodology47:10 - CGPA Calculation Change48:37 - Deregistration - Is it needed?51:37 - Canine Problem in KGP54:01 - Rapid Fire01:02:48 - Outro#IITKharagpur #SumanChakraborty #EngineeringEducation #AIandJobs #IITJEE #FutureOfEducation #IndianAcademia #Semiconductors #NEP2020 #AIInEducation #FutureOfWork #SemiconductorResearch #CleanEnergy #SolarPower #ElectricVehicles #NEP2020 #IndianEducation #IITJEEPreparation #StudentMentalHealth #HigherEducationLeadership #CampusLife #CyberPhysicalSystems #InnovationInIndia #ClimateAction #GlobalChallenges #TeachingMethods #AlumniConnect #KGP #IndianResearch

    1h 4m
  6. Prof Suman Chakraborty (Director IIT Kharagpur) thoughts on RESEARCH, AI and Mental Health | Part 1

    07/02/2025

    Prof Suman Chakraborty (Director IIT Kharagpur) thoughts on RESEARCH, AI and Mental Health | Part 1

    Driving Innovation & Impact: A Conversation with Prof. Suman Chakraborty, New Director of IIT Kharagpur 🇮🇳 We dive deep into a 1-hour conversation covering some 🔥 topics: 🗳️ Immediate Administration Priorities 🔬 State of Research at KGP & India 🌍 Opportunities for India to Lead Globally 💙 Mental Health Improvements on Campus🤖 Is AI a Blessing or Curse? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Youtube Video Episode - https://youtu.be/4ivvkpPn9wk Prof Suman's YT Channel -    / @sumanchakrabortymicrofluid8051   National Teachers Award -    • Shri Suman Chakraborty, Professor, IIT, Kh...  Infosys Award -    • Suman Chakraborty – Infosys Prize Laureate...  TeDX Talk -    • Doing Wonders in Medical Technology with a...  Previous Podcast -    • Prof. Suman Chakraborty | Director, IIT Kh...  LinkedIn -   / suman-chakraborty-415ab3236   ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Description: Join us for an insightful and inspiring 58-minute podcast with the visionary new Director of IIT Kharagpur, Professor Suman Chakraborty! In this wide-ranging conversation, we delve into his immediate administrative priorities and long-term vision for one of India's premier technological institutions.Professor Chakraborty, renowned for his pioneering work in microfluidics and affordable diagnostic technologies like COVIRAP, shares his unique perspective on the future of Research in India, highlighting exciting opportunities for the nation to emerge as a global leader. We explore critical topics concerning Mental Health and Well-Being on campus, with Professor Chakraborty outlining his commitment to fostering a nurturing environment, including innovative plans to engage mothers within the campus community.A true advocate for responsible technological advancement, he articulates his compelling vision for Human-Centric AI and its evolving role in engineering education and societal impact. He also candidly addresses some pressing concerns and opportunities for PhD, B.Tech, and M.Tech students, offering invaluable insights for aspiring engineers and researchers.This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of higher education, technological innovation, and India's journey towards global leadership in science and engineering.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters:00:00 Teasers01:08 Intro - Prof. Suman Chakraborty03:46 Strategic Direction & Priorities of Administration07:27 Enhancing Research Facilities for Students16:16 Improving Campus Culture21:34 Cultural Perceptions and Opportunities in Research26:22 How India has lagged Behind29:12 Opportunities in Indian Research31:56 Changing Perceptions of IIT KGP40:55 Cultural Transformation and Mental Health45:29 AI: Blessing or Curse?51:35 Smart Admin System52:52 The Future of Jobs in an AI World57:23 Outro ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- #IITKharagpur #SumanChakraborty #EngineeringEducation #ResearchInIndia #HumanCentricAI #MentalHealth #Innovation #Podcast #HigherEducation #IITKGP #IndianEducation #TechEducation #STEM #AcademicExcellence #UniversityLife #CampusInnovation #AlumniNetwork #ProfessorLife #Researcher #ScienceAndTech #AcademicResearch #IndianResearchers #FutureOfEngineering #ThoughtLeader #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #AIEthics #TechForGood #DeepTech #FutureTech #DigitalTransformation #DisruptiveInnovation #EmergingTech #Wellbeing #Mindfulness #MentalWellness #HumanFactors #SocialImpact #EthicalAI #TechEthics #Podcasting #EdTechPodcast #SciencePodcast #TechPodcast #ListenNow #PodcastLife #NewEpisode #India #Education #Technology #Science #Learning #Inspiration #Knowledge #Impact #FutureReady

    58 min
  7. IITian to MARATHON Runner, Learn about His Story | Amarjeet Mehto | Ep 22

    06/27/2025

    IITian to MARATHON Runner, Learn about His Story | Amarjeet Mehto | Ep 22

    🏃‍♂️ From IIT Kharagpur to 100 Marathons – The Inspiring Journey of Amarjeet Mehto 📘🔥------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Amarjeet's Insta -   / amarjeetmehto  Amarjeet's LinkedIn -   / amarjeetmehto  Ambedkar Website - https://treasureofambedkar.com/------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Amazon Link to Ambedkar's Book - https://amzn.to/4lstEuL------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------In this power-packed episode, I talk to my junior and friend Amarjeet Mehto, who rose from a humble background in rural Uttar Pradesh to study Mechanical Engineering at IIT Kharagpur.Today, he’s chasing an extraordinary mission — to run 100 marathons in 100 months! 🏅 But this isn’t just about fitness. Amarjeet is also a passionate follower of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and he’s using running as a way to spread awareness and inspire others with Ambedkar’s ideals.This episode is about grit, purpose, and running for change.👉 Like, Share & Subscribe for more such inspiring stories! 🔔#IITKharagpur #MarathonRunner #100Marathons100Months #Ambedkarite #SocialAwareness #InspiringJourney #PodcastIndia #UPToIIT #RunningForChange------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Chapters:0:00 Teaser0:57 Introduction - Amarjeet Mehto3:18 Life Before IIT - Preparing for JEE7:52 IIT Results and Expectations11:39 Life at IIT - Extra Curricular Activities15:15 How He Started Running18:02 General Championships at IIT20:16 Running for Elections24:24 Coursework in Mechanical Department26:07 Placement Season - Demonetization Hits29:45 Life after IIT - Startup Journey32:38 What is Career in Operations39:33 Getting into MARATHON Running47:26 International Marathons51:48 Visa Challenges for International Marathons57:00 B. R. Ambedkar and Spreading Awareness1:05:25 Rapid Fire1:09:07 Outro---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    1h 11m

About

🌟 Welcome to IIT Podcast: Real Lives, Real Stories! 🌟 Dive deep into the incredible journeys of IIT alumni as they share their stories from life before, during, and after IIT. Each episode is a candid conversation that brings out the highs, lows, and unforgettable moments of being an IITian. 🎙️ What to Expect: Life Before IIT 🏫: Learn how these brilliant minds prepared for IIT. Life at IIT 🎓: Roller-coaster journey - late-night study sessions, coding, friendships Beyond IIT 🌏: Career choices, Entrepreneurship, Adventures, Life Lessons! Tune in every week for a unique IIT story!