Work in Progress with Sim & Ko

Simran Girish and Komal Mirani

Imagine a thoughtfully curated dinner party where you get to handpick the most fascinating minds to share a conversation with—that's exactly what you can expect here. Welcome to “Work in Progress with Sim & Ko”, a podcast that features frank, funny and meaningful conversations with people that inspire us. Whether they're redefining accessibility, revolutionising climate technology, or pushing the boundaries of motorsport racing, our guests have something in store for everyone. Through these conversations we have captured how each guest has gotten to where they are, where they think they’re still going and ultimately what makes them a work in progress.

  1. Movement, Mindset, Nutrition & Community: A Deep Dive into Coach Mishti Khatri’s Fitness Journey From Learning to Leading

    APR 30

    Movement, Mindset, Nutrition & Community: A Deep Dive into Coach Mishti Khatri’s Fitness Journey From Learning to Leading

    In this episode, we sit down with Nike Running Coach and Sport Nutritionist Mishti Khatri to unpack her transformative journey through fitness, coaching, and her mission to empower women through movement. Alongside her coaching career, Mishti is a dedicated researcher currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Nutrition. She holds an MSc in the same field and is certified by both the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the International Fitness and Aerobics Academy (IFAA). From her early days in fitness to becoming a coach and nutritionist, Mishti shares the insights that have shaped her approach to both personal and community-based growth. Topics Covered: I. Background & Becoming How Mishti’s relationship with fitness evolved through school and collegeThe pivotal shift from outcome-driven training to movement as identityHow Mishti’s shift from self-training to coaching shaped her growth and leadership.II. Training & Coaching Blending her roles as coach, nutritionist, and academicThe most powerful mindset shifts she’s witnessed in her clientsCoaching through self-doubt, injury, and imposter syndromeWhy mental health is inseparable from physical trainingWhat her current training week looks like — and how it’s evolvedWhy gym anxiety is so common, and how we can shift that cultureIII. Running Her personal journey with running — from marathons to run clubsHow India’s running culture is shifting, and where it’s headedA behind-the-scenes look at Nike’s After Dark Tour: a bold moment reclaiming women’s running with grit, celebration, and sisterhoodCoaching one of the biggest women-led running communities in IndiaAdvice for new runners and the biggest myths about marathon prepMishti’s personal approach to long runs and recovery ritualsIV. Nutrition & Fueling the Female Athlete How her relationship with food has grown alongside her fitnessCommon myths around performance nutrition — especially for womenSpeaking to women in India about fueling enough, not shrinkingHer food philosophy: consistency without guilt or rigidityHer take on supplements like collagen, creatine, and moreV. Women in Sport: Power, Progress & Perspective The state of women in fitness in India todayHow we can create more entry points for young girls to moveGendered challenges in sport — both globally and locallySupporting women to lead (not just participate) in sport ecosystemsWhat it takes to create safe, inclusive spaces in fitnessVI. Mindset, Motivation & Mental Strength The role of breath, rhythm, and mindset when the miles get heavyWhat movement has taught her about resilience — in sport and lifeVII. Legacy & Looking Ahead The impact Mishti hopes to leave behind — as a coach, an athlete, and a womanWhat continues to make her a work in progress

    1h 28m
  2. What Makes You, You? The Puzzle of Personality Through Science and Play with Dr. Sanna Balsari-Palsule

    APR 11

    What Makes You, You? The Puzzle of Personality Through Science and Play with Dr. Sanna Balsari-Palsule

    In a world obsessed with self-discovery and self-optimization, personality has become a billion-dollar obsession. From dating apps to hiring decisions, courtroom strategies to TikTok therapy-speak, we’re constantly trying to decode ourselves—and each other. But how well do we really understand what makes us us? This week, we sit down with Dr. Sanna Balsari Palsule—psychologist, behavioral scientist, and co-creator of a wildly original game called Who Are You? that helps people reflect on their inner lives. With a background in personality psychology and a mind deeply attuned to the nuances of human behavior, Sanna guides us through the surprising history of personology, the rise of personality testing as a cultural phenomenon, and what the science actually says about traits like introversion, extroversion, and everything in between. We explore why the most popular personality tests are often the least accurate, how personality is both shaped and distorted by culture and social media, and whether “authenticity” is now just another form of performance. Can you fake it till you become it? Do we have different personalities online and offline? Is your workplace self the real you—or just a highly adapted version? And when people say they want to “change,” what are they really trying to change? We also dive into the psychological and physical toll of pretending to be someone you’re not, and ask: Can personality actually evolve over time, or is who you are mostly fixed? And what does it take to shift? This is an episode for anyone who’s ever taken a personality test, second-guessed who they are, or wondered if change is possible—or even desirable. Recommended for listeners curious about: The science and myth of personalityIdentity in the age of social mediaAuthenticity and self-expressionBehavioral psychology and everyday lifeAbout Dr. Sanna Linnea Balsari-Palsule: She is a psychologist, researcher, and creator whose work reshapes how we understand personality in an age obsessed with self-optimization. With a background in cognitive science and a Ph.D. in personality psychology, her research interrogates how identity is formed, performed, and reimagined—online, at work, and in our most intimate relationships. She is the creator of Who Are You, an award-winning card game that invites players to reflect on the tensions between authenticity, aspiration, and adaptation in modern life. Her insights have been featured in The Atlantic, BBC News, Refinery29, Psychology Today, and Fast Company, where she speaks to a generation fluent in therapy-speak but still searching for grounded ways to make sense of themselves. Whether she’s exploring the curated selves of social media or the psychological cost of work personas, Dr. Balsari-Palsule offers a rare combination of intellectual rigor and deep empathy—inviting us to consider not just who we are, but who we’re becoming.

    1h 13m

  3. MAR 20

    Brewing a New Legacy: How Kerehaklu’s Pranoy Thipaiah is Rethinking Coffee, Culture, and Climate

    Indian specialty coffee is at a turning point—gaining global recognition, yet deeply rooted in tradition. In this episode, we sit down with Pranoy Thipaiah, fifth-generation steward of Kerehaklu Estate, to explore how coffee, climate, and culture are evolving in India’s Western Ghats. At his 250-acre estate, coffee plants grow under ancient fig trees, local microbes fuel experimental fermentations, and leopards roam the same paths as farmers. But Pranoy’s work goes beyond cultivation—it’s about balancing ecology with innovation, protecting biodiversity, and challenging industry norms. We dive into: The global perception of Indian coffee—and the myths that need breakingThe future of farming in a changing climate—and how Kerehaklu is leading by exampleWhat India can learn from global coffee cultures—from Colombia to AustraliaThe challenges of legacy, colonial narratives, and global trade inequalitiesThe business of coffee—building a brand that blends storytelling with sustainabilityPranoy also shares his perspective as a consultant, educator, and entrepreneur, offering insight into what it takes to grow not just great coffee, but a movement. This is a conversation about coffee’s future, India’s role in the global market, and what it means to build a truly sustainable coffee culture.

    53 min

  4. FEB 27

    Algorithmic Lives, Digital Tribes: Tulsi Mehrotra Menon on Work, Identity, and the Human-Machine Future

    In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Tulsi Mehrotra Menon, a Cultural and Digital Anthropologist, to unravel the intricate relationships between work, identity, and technology in today's ever-evolving world. Born and raised in Bangalore, Tulsi brings a unique anthropological lens to the corporate sphere, helping brands move beyond surface-level strategies to truly understand the human motivations and cultural contexts that shape consumer behavior. We dive into: The Anthropology of Business: How Tulsi applies cultural insights to brand and business strategies, pushing for a shift from brand-centric to human-centric approaches.The Multitudes of Identity: Exploring how selfhood is constructed in 2025—and what it might look like in 2050—as work, technology, and personal expression intersect.Human vs. Machine: What does the future of work hold as AI and algorithms increasingly influence our choices, relationships, and identities?The Authenticity Paradox: In an era of curated personas and performative authenticity, how do we distinguish what’s real—and what does this mean for brands trying to connect with their audiences?Cultural Glasses and the Three C’s Model: Understanding people's behaviors through the lens of context, conditions, and choices—and how this model helps resolve everyday conflicts and inform better business decisions.The Evolution of Connection: From fandoms to online communities, how are tribes forming in India versus the rest of the world—and what lessons can brands learn?Women and Work: Balancing unpaid caregiving with personal ambition—how can workplaces create unconventional spaces for women to explore their multidimensional identities?Leading for the Future: What leadership looks like in a world shifting from linear career paths and CV-based hiring to skill-driven, imagination-fueled environments.Whether you're a brand strategist, business leader, or someone simply curious about how human behavior evolves, this episode offers fresh insights and a bold reimagining of the future. Listen now and step into the fascinating world of digital tribes and algorithmic lives with Tulsi Mehrotra Menon.

    1h 13m

  5. FEB 3

    Smart Protein, Smarter Future: How Alternative Proteins Can Transform Food, Climate, and Health – with Devika Suresh

    The way we produce and consume protein is changing. With the global demand for meat at an all-time high and set to double by 2050, the need for sustainable alternatives has never been more urgent. Alternative proteins—whether plant-based, cultivated, or fermentation-derived—offer a way to feed more people with fewer resources, reduce environmental impact, and build a more resilient food system. In this episode, we explore the future of food with Devika Suresh, a champion for alternative proteins in India. Passionate about the intersection of technology and sustainability, Devika has been instrumental in advancing smart protein education, research, and innovation. She works to build pathways for young Indians to shape this growing industry and drive meaningful change in how we think about food. What to Expect in This Episode: The Basics of Smart Protein: What exactly is alternative or smart protein, and why should anyone care? Devika breaks down the essentials and explains the impact on food security, climate change, and planetary health.India's Path to Net Zero: Can India realistically achieve its 2047 Net Zero target, and how have policies like BioE3 contributed to the positive momentum?The Bioeconomy Movement: With terms like "Bioeconomy" gaining traction globally, Devika explains what this means for India and the world.Consumer Perceptions: We tackle common misconceptions around alternative proteins and explore strategies to shift the narrative from niche to mainstream.Cultural Nuances and Market Dynamics: Why is India strategically positioned to lead in this sector? Devika discusses cultural factors, market drivers, and setbacks, and how to avoid another "organic" déjà vu.Regulatory Landscape: How has the FSSAI’s framework supported this industry, and what lessons can be drawn from other countries?The Role of Big Brands: With major corporations entering the space, why is mass acceptance still a challenge, and when can we expect a shift in consumer attitudes towards taste, price, and process?Future Predictions: What innovations and products could be game changers in the next 10-20 years? We also explore Devika's vision for the future—what food we want on our plates by 2050, and how India can play a pivotal role in feeding a growing global population sustainably. Tune in to hear her insights, predictions, and her passion for reshaping the future of food. Whether you're curious about sustainable eating or looking to understand the business of alternative proteins, this episode offers a compelling look at the intersection of food, technology, and climate action.

    59 min

  6. 09/01/2024

    Building Boundaries & Breaking Barriers with Neha Vyaso and Kanak Garg, Bollywood's First Intimacy Directors | Founders, Brave Spaces

    For episode 9, we had the pleasure of speaking with Neha Vyaso and Kanak Garg – Founders of Brave Spaces • Intimacy Coordinators • Actors • Creators. Titled 'Building Boundaries & Breaking Barriers' - this is one of our most powerful, heartfelt and intense episodes. We uncover a wide range of topics, as highlighted below: What is the story behind brave spaces?What does an intimacy coordinate facilitate? What does a day in your work look like?What does creating a 'Culture of consent', mean? Does it exist in India?How are brave spaces created?What are the values that guide you?How is a workshop conducted?How can we think of gender, sexuality and sex in an inclusive, simplistic manner?Why are pronouns so confusing for everyone?Is social media helping or dividing?Why is everyone so scared about cancel culture?How can we create brave and not just safe spaces?What is the future you imagine for a more inclusive tomorrow? Barriers are things that are holding you back from living a wholesome life - being the human you are. Boundaries must empower you - knowing about your boundaries, knowing what works for you, what doesn’t and understanding that those boundaries also evolve.” Tune in to this episode to hear more such empowering and insightful snippets and of course, to hear - what makes them a work in progress?

    1h 21m

  7. 08/10/2024

    India's FinTech Story: On Driving Financial Inclusion with Mikhil Innani | Managing Director & CEO at Apollo Finvest

    Mikhil Innani is the Managing Director at Apollo Finvest, a public listed internet first transactional NBFC. He has 8+ years experience of building products from scratch to an unprecedented scale of 100+ million monthly active users. He is currently building the "AWS for Lending" platform which helps fintech's start lending in a matter of hours Prior to Apollo Finvest, Mikhil headed consumer products at Hotstar (India’s largest OTT platform) and CouponDunia (Acquired by Times Internet) and co-founded PharmEasy (India’s largest, series C funded, online medicine delivery startup) Mikhil holds a Master's degree in Information Systems from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor's degree from Mumbai University

    1h 7m

  8. 07/20/2024

    Revolutionising Women's Healthcare: Achitha Jacob | Founder, Proactive For Her

    Vaginismus! STI's! Puberty! PCOS! and all things Sexual, Menstrual and Mental Health! In this episode, we speak with Achitha Jacob, the founder of Proactive for Her. A health-tech startup that's revolutionising women’s healthcare and creating a safe space for care without judgement. Episode Structure: Introducing 'Proactive For Her'Achithas’ personal journey–her background, experiences, reason and passion for founding PFH as well as her learnings from the founding team, market and consumers.Stories and personal experiences from consumers/friends/strangers that have greatly impacted the way Proactive For Her is set-up, communicates and delivers.Shifting focus on the health-tech, fem-tech and sexual wellness market in India and globally.Achithas' journey on running an early stage startup: the advice, most important hacks, PoV on hiring vs managing and more!Diving deep into mental, physical health in the workplace and otherwiseCreating safe spaces: how can we empower and educate more women and also men? How can we have better conversations about gender, sex and sexuality? How can we allow for more diverse, inclusive spaces?How is PFH a “Work in Progress”? What are people/things/books/talks that have inspired Achitha?About Achitha and Proactive For Her: Proactive For Her is an omni-channel women’s health clinic offering judgement-free, personalised, and confidential healthcare solutions. They address the health concerns of Indian women across their lifetime – from puberty to menopause and beyond. Their services are available online, at home, and at their Bangalore clinics. Be it spreading awareness about annual check-ups to include pap smears and cancer screening, cervical cancer vaccination (HPV vaccination), STI/STD screening or helping women take that leap of faith and book their first gynaecology consultation, they want to empower every Indian woman to take charge of her own health and wellness journey. Proactive has helped 50,000+ women learn more about their sexual and menstrual health and access quality medical care. Young and old(er) women love that Proactive is able to provide them a safe space to address their sexual, menstrual & reproductive health concerns. They have done extensive work on extremely niche and taboo topics like vaginismus, a condition which is not very well understood in India. An alumnus of IIT-Bombay, Achitha dropped out of Harvard Business School to build Proactive For Her. She has previously worked with Fortune 500 healthcare companies and healthcare startups.

    51 min
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About

Imagine a thoughtfully curated dinner party where you get to handpick the most fascinating minds to share a conversation with—that's exactly what you can expect here. Welcome to “Work in Progress with Sim & Ko”, a podcast that features frank, funny and meaningful conversations with people that inspire us. Whether they're redefining accessibility, revolutionising climate technology, or pushing the boundaries of motorsport racing, our guests have something in store for everyone. Through these conversations we have captured how each guest has gotten to where they are, where they think they’re still going and ultimately what makes them a work in progress.

Information

  • Creator
    Simran Girish and Komal Mirani
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © WorkinProgresswithSim&Ko
  • Show Website
    Work in Progress with Sim & Ko