What does it take to rise from an average student to becoming a visionary CFO in healthcare? In this in-depth conversation, Parinda Gandhi opens up about her extraordinary journey on the Indianness Podcast.

~ Early struggles & immigrant family life in Cleveland.
~ The importance of parental influence on spirituality, culture, and education.
~ How she turned setbacks—like being underestimated academically—into opportunities for growth.
~ Why embracing networking and adaptability transformed her career path.
~ Her perspective on imposter syndrome, failures, and trusting instincts as a leader.

💡 This is a must-watch for aspiring professionals, leaders balancing cultural identities, and anyone chasing meaningful growth.

Resources Mentioned:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/parindagandhi/

Timestamps:
00:00–01:11 — Opening reflections on inflexion points and seizing opportunities
01:11–02:20 — Podcast introduction & Parinda’s consulting background
02:20–06:40 — Family: Small-town Indian roots, arranged marriage, immigration to the US and early struggles
06:40–09:45 — Culture shock: Navigating identity between Indian home and American society
09:45–13:00 — School experiences: Friendships, moving to the suburbs, diversity, and challenges
13:00–18:00 — Parental influence: Education, spirituality, Jainism principles, and family bonds
18:00–21:40 — Overcoming shyness: Early introversion, transitioning to ambivert, learning to network
21:40–28:00 — Career inflexion points: Handling setbacks, academic hurdles, first jobs, mentorship
28:00–34:00 — Taking risks: Relocating solo to LA, embracing career opportunities, adapting to big city life
34:00–38:00 — Leadership: Networking skills, moving beyond self-doubt, learning from failures
38:00–41:40 — Professional growth: Embracing Indian culture, balancing identity at work, defining ‘Indianness’
41:40–43:40 — Influences & hypotheticals: Parinda’s father, alternative careers, entrepreneurship
43:40–45:37 — Rapid-fire round & closing advice

Share our Podcast