The Guiding Voice

SummaryIn this inspiring and deeply practical conversation, Dave Seymour shares his remarkable journey from firefighter to fund leader, drawing powerful parallels between confronting fear in emergency service and navigating high‑stakes decisions in business. Going beyond real estate or entrepreneurship, the discussion explores the mindset shifts, systems thinking, and leadership discipline required to turn mission into execution—especially in an AI‑driven world. For entrepreneurs, founders, leaders, and aspiring investors, this episode is a masterclass in choosing systems over hustle and using fear as a catalyst for sustainable growth.TakeawaysFirefighters are trained to run toward danger, not away from it—a mindset that translates powerfully to business.Fear is inevitable in entrepreneurship, but it should inform preparation, not dominate decisions.Courage is a critical performance skill and can be trained and developed over time.Facing challenges head‑on accelerates both personal and professional growth.The ability to confront fear often separates high performers from the rest.Success requires a mindset shift—from avoiding risk to engaging it with discipline.Training and mental conditioning matter as much in business as they do in emergency service.Systems beat hustle when it comes to sustainable success.Scale requires identity evolution, not just bigger goals.Process creates freedom by reducing chaos and decision fatigue.Failure isn’t the opposite of success—it’s structured feedback.As AI and automation rise, leadership is becoming more human, not less.Sound Bites"run towards the danger""not let fear be the dominant factor"Chapters0:00:00 Precap0:03:00 Introduction to Dave Seymour and His Journey0:06:35 The Importance of Systems in Business0:09:00 Who Is Your Guiding Voice?0:12:00 The Top 3 Contributors to Dave’s Success0:15:00 Toughest Lessons from the Entrepreneurial Journey0:18:00 From Firefighter to Fund Leader0:21:00  Hustle Without Systems Burns Out Fast0:24:00 Failure as a Leadership Sharpener0:26:00 Thinking Like a Value Investor in Life & Business0:28:00 Structured Underwriting & SOP-Driven Operations — 0:00:00 Turning Mission & Vision Into Executable Systems0:30:00 Innovation vs Process0:31:00 Leadership in the Age of AI & Automation0:33:00 A Message to His Firefighter SelfGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveseymour343/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code: NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this conversation, Umang shares his personal journey of self‑discovery, reflecting on how being gay is far more than a label—it is one aspect of a larger human identity. He speaks about the need to move beyond stereotypes and highlights the importance of creating safe, meaningful spaces where honest conversations about identity, acceptance, and humanity can take place.Building on this openness, Umang Sheth and Naveen Samala discuss vulnerability and the courage required to ask for help. They reference well‑known personalities who have publicly spoken about their struggles with mental health, addiction, and career challenges, reinforcing the idea that such difficulties are phases of life rather than definitions of one’s worth. Through shared experiences and honest dialogue, they emphasize that embracing vulnerability can be a powerful source of strength—one that encourages others to seek support, normalize self‑reflection, and show up authentically in their own journeys.TakeawaysUmang's journey began with personal discrimination.He realized being gay is more than just sex.The media often portrays stereotypes that are limiting.Umang seeks to create spaces for deeper conversations.He emphasizes the importance of human identity over labels.The journey involves challenging societal norms.Creating awareness is key to understanding diversity.Conversations should focus on authenticity and connection.Umang encourages discussions beyond sexual identity.The need for community support in the LGBTQ+ space.People often fear judgment when admitting struggles.Vulnerability is a sign of courage, not weakness.Asking for help can inspire others to do the same.Famous personalities have shown that it's okay to seek help.Life phases do not define who we are as individuals.Acknowledging one's situation can lead to personal growth.Sharing struggles can create a supportive community.There is strength in admitting one's vulnerabilities.Mental health issues are common and should be openly discussed.Empowerment comes from embracing our challenges.Sound bites"My journey started to that there has to be more.""Can we talk of something else?""Amitabh Bachchan asked for help in debt.""Vulnerability is courage, not a weakness.""My situation is bad, not me."Chapters0:00:00 – Precap0:03:00 – The Guiding Voice Within  0:06:00 – Foundations of Success  0:09:30 – Where the Journey Truly Began  0:12:00 – When Safety Became Non‑Negotiable  0:15:30 – What Real Safety Feels Like  0:18:00 – The First Experience of True Belonging  0:22:30 – From Community to Corporate DEI  0:25:30 – The Truth About DEI Beyond Policies  0:28:00 – The Science of Connection  0:31:00 – A Story That Changed Everything  0:33:30 – Redefining Vulnerability as Strength0:35:01 Rapid Fire InsightsGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/umangshethchangeenabler/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon: https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code: NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this conversation, Naveen Samala and Chuck Marting shine a light on the misunderstood and often invisible world of workplace impairment. They unpack the blind spots leaders commonly have about what impairment actually looks like — far beyond the obvious signs. The discussion reveals how impairment can hide behind overperformance, burnout, or sudden dips in productivity, and how employees often mask their struggles behind a facade of normalcy. They debunk myths that impairment is always visible and stress the urgent need for retraining, awareness, and open conversations. Ultimately, they call for leaders to better understand mental health nuances and team dynamics to build healthier, high-trust workplaces.TakeawaysImpairment is widely misunderstood and often invisible.Leaders frequently misinterpret signs of impairment, confusing burnout for high performance.Employees may hide their struggles until performance collapses.Millions experience some form of impairment at work, yet it rarely gets identified.Retraining leaders is essential to recognizing subtle indicators.Impairment isn’t always external — it can manifest as overachievement.Sudden performance dips may signal deeper issues.Open communication helps uncover hidden struggles.Understanding impairment improves team health and outcomes.Educating leaders breaks myths and supports a more inclusive, aware workplace.Sound BitesWhat is the biggest blind spot that leaders have?Impairment hides in plain sight.It’s not always what we think it is.High performance can mask deep struggle.Chapters0:00:00 Precap and the introduction0:03:00 The Real Face of Workplace Impairment0:06:14 The Myths Leaders Still Believe0:09:00 The scariest trend that employers are completely ignoring0:12:00 The CODE in Mastering the Impairment Code0:14:30 How to spot a high-functioning impaired person versus someone who's just having a bad day?0:17:00 Exact signs that managers should look for within an impaired employee0:19:00 How to distinguish between 'they need mental health support' versus 'they're impaired'?0:21:00 What's the mental gymnastics?0:23:24 Zero Blind Spots: A Leadership Essential0:25:00 If someone is struggling with impairment, here’s the one thing they should knowGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-marting-aa849660/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this enlightening episode, Dr. Trupti Gokani, an award-winning neurologist, discusses the profound impact of stress on both mental and physical health. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of stress and how merging Western neurology with Eastern Ayurvedic wisdom can lead to effective healing. Dr. Gokani shares insights on the neurological links between chronic stress and illness, debunks common myths about stress, and highlights the significance of gut health in emotional balance. The conversation also explores practical strategies for managing stress and achieving high performance without succumbing to pressure.TakeawaysStress impacts both mental and physical health significantly.Root cause healing involves understanding the subtle energies within us.Chronic stress can lead to serious health issues if untreated.The gut-brain connection is crucial for emotional balance.Forgiveness is essential for reducing emotional baggage.Simple daily rituals can help reduce stress and anxiety.Understanding stress markers can help break free from stress loops.A balanced approach combining Western and Eastern medicine is vital.Sleep plays a critical role in healing and stress management.Empowering oneself through knowledge can transform stress into growth.Sound bitesFailure is just feedback.Sleep is healing.Clear out the baggage to be present.Chapters0:00:00 Precap0:05:00 Introduction to Stress and Healing0:11:48 Understanding the Guiding Voice0:16:10 The Impact of Stress on Health0:22:51 Root Cause Healing vs. Symptom Treatment0:25:47 The Merge of Western and Eastern Medicine0:28:40 Myths and Realities of Stress0:32:56 Neurological Markers of Stress0:38:18 The Gut-Brain Connection0:41:11 Managing High Performance Without High StressGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/trupti-gokani-md-17533a8/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this conversation, Suzanne Smith and Chanda Khanwani discuss the common misconceptions surrounding the role of money in making a difference in the world. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the core values and impact ('stake') rather than just the financial aspects ('sizzle'). The dialogue explores how money can be a tool to amplify efforts towards meaningful change, rather than the primary driver.Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTakeawaysOne of the biggest myths is you need money to make a difference.Money helps fuel the efforts to create change.It's essential to start with a focus on impact.The concept of 'stake' should guide our actions.Money should follow the mission, not lead it.Everything done to make a difference should be stake-oriented.The 'sizzle' is secondary to the 'steak' in impact work.Opportunities arise when the focus is on meaningful change.Financial resources can amplify efforts but are not the core.True impact comes from a commitment to values and purpose.Suzanne shares:The story of becoming a Big Sister at age 18, and how it shaped her purpose.The daily moments that reaffirm her belief that ordinary people move mountains.Her definition of success:→ “Significance with receipts.”Guest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannesmithtx/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Professor V Ramgopal Rao discusses the critical importance of emotional and adaptability quotients in education, the challenges faced by the Indian higher education system, and the need for substantial reforms. He emphasizes the disparities in funding between Indian institutions and their global counterparts, the role of teachers, and the necessity for a research-driven ecosystem. The discussion also touches on the future of engineering disciplines, the impact of AI, and the importance of long-term vision in career planning. Professor Rao shares insights on entrepreneurship in academia and the need for a shift towards product innovation in India, particularly in the semiconductor industry. The conversation concludes with a rapid-fire round, revealing personal insights and reflections on education and career choices.TakeawaysEmotional and adaptability quotients are crucial for students.The education system needs to adapt to modern challenges.Funding disparities hinder the growth of private institutions.India must invest more in science and technology.Philanthropy in education is essential for growth.Private universities need a sustainable financial model.Research and development funding is critical for innovation.Students should focus on long-term career visions.Degree and skills both play a role in employability.India needs more product startups to drive innovation.Sound bites"Netflixfication of education is a problem.""We need more product startups in India.""Degree vs. skills is a crucial debate."Chapters0:00:00 Precap0:02:00 The Importance of Emotional Quotient in Education0:04:33 Challenges Facing Private Universities in India0:05:32 Funding Disparities in Higher Education0:08:09 The Need for Educational Reform in India0:11:14 Infrastructure Challenges in Indian Education0:14:10 The Semiconductor Industry and India's Position0:16:52 Innovation in Core Engineering Sectors0:19:40 The Role of Academia in Entrepreneurship0:22:37 Career Choices for Engineering Students0:25:12 The Path to Becoming Experts in Technology0:34:52 Degree vs. Skill: The Ongoing Debate0:37:59 The Employability Crisis in India0:41:47 R&D Spending: The Need for Investment0:47:33 The Future of Engineering Disciplines0:50:17 AI-Driven Education: The Amaravati Campus01:01:58 Long-Term Vision: Choosing a Career PathGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramgopalrao/https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in/rrao/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryThe conversation explores the paradox of modern connectivity through technology and social media, contrasting it with the growing disconnection in interpersonal relationships. The speakers emphasize the importance of deep, intimate connections and the need for vulnerability in relationships.TakeawaysWe are technologically connected but relationally disconnected.The connection problem lies in interpersonal relationships.Deep, intimate relationships are essential for human fulfillment.Vulnerability is key to sharing our true selves.Social media does not replace the need for real connections.Technology can enhance communication but may hinder intimacy.People crave meaningful relationships despite being online.The 24-hour news cycle affects our perception of connection.Creating space for vulnerability is crucial in relationships.We were designed for connection and intimacy.Sound bites"We're very connected from an information standpoint.""We have a connection problem.""We were created for deep, intimate relationships."Chapters0:00:00 Precap0:03:20 Introduction​0:07:00 Humans were created for connection—so why are we more disconnected than ever in today’s hyper-connected world?0:11:00 The #1 reason most relationships fail isn’t what you think—and here’s how to catch it early.0:14:00 Before you lead others or enter a partnership, ask yourself: Are you a whole person?0:17:00 Self-awareness and emotional wholeness aren’t buzzwords—they’re the antidote to broken communication.0:20:00 Three keys can transform any relationship—romantic, professional, or personal.0:23:00 Ambition and relationships don’t have to compete. One mindset shift can help you build both.0:26:00 Stress can pull couples and teams apart—or become their greatest strength. Here’s how.0:28:00 Wholeness is the new wellness. What does that mean for your emotional and mental growth?0:31:00 Past trauma doesn’t stay in the past—it silently shapes present relationships.0:33:00 Second Rapid Fire round0:35:00 Across cultures, relationship patterns repeat. What global lessons can we learn?0:36:00 Trivia about the longest recorded marriageGuest Websites:Web: www.onefleshministries.orgFB: www.facebook.com/OneFleshMinistriesIG: www.instagram.com/onefleshministries/#marriage@onefleshministries.orgConnect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our Hindi, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/TGVHindihttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala

SummaryIn this episode of The Guiding Voice, host Naveen Samala engages with AI futurist Mario Rozario to explore the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and human intelligence. They discuss how AI is not making human intelligence obsolete but rather liberating humans to focus on higher-level thinking and problem-solving. The conversation delves into the future of learning, the importance of asking the right questions, and the role of emotional intelligence in a technology-driven world. Mario emphasizes the need for unlearning outdated knowledge and adapting to new realities as AI continues to shape our lives.Sound bites"AI liberates humans to operate at a higher level.""The future of learning will involve AI tutors.""Asking the right questions is key in an AI world."Chapters0:00:00 The Rise of AI and Human Intelligence0:02:37 The Role of AI in Learning0:04:59 Success Mantras and Learning from School0:07:51 The Future of Learning with AI Tutors0:10:31 Displacement vs. Liberation in the Age of AI0:13:27 What Makes a Smart Person Smart?0:16:04 Betrayal or Enlightenment: The Impact of AI0:19:00 The Human Element in a Tech-Driven World0:23:04 The Importance of Human Dynamics in a Connected World0:24:05 Mastering the Art of Prompting AI0:28:08 Neuroscience of Learning and Memory0:33:49 The Future of AI and Human Judgment0:37:10 Staying Smart in an AI-Driven World0:42:53 Unlearning for Relevance in a Changing LandscapeGuest LI profile link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-rozario-23a234a/Connect with the host on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/naveensamala/Also, Tune into our English, Telugu & Kannada podcasts here:YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/THEGUIDINGVOICEhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVTeluguhttps://www.youtube.com/c/TGVKannadaSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/1GvX6tvmfelawEba0F6KS4http://surl.li/tmksx (#tgvtelugu)Grab a copy of Naveen Samala’s latest book, “69 Naked Truths”Amazon:  https://tinyurl.com/69NTAMZNFlipkart: https://tinyurl.com/69NTFPKTTGV Inspiring Lives Volume 1 & 2 are on AmazonKindle:https://amzn.eu/d/cKTKtyCPaperback:https://amzn.eu/d/4Y1HAXjVolume 2:Notion Press: http://surl.li/tmkryUse the Coupon code:  NAVEEN20 on notionpress.com to avail a 20% discountKindle Edition:http://surl.li/tmmmnAMZ IN: http://surl.li/tmmnbAMZ UK: http://surl.li/tmmnlFOLLOW ON X:@guidingvoice@naveensamala