Hosted by high school students Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri, Professional Perspectives is a podcast built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that stories have the power to inspire change. Each episode features a conversation with professionals, innovators, and leaders from diverse industries: from finance, law, and entrepreneurship to sports, entertainment, and technology.
What started as a simple idea between two friends, to learn directly from people making an impact, has grown into a platform that bridges the gap between students and the professional world. Through thoughtful questions and genuine dialogue, Aarav and Praneeth uncover the personal journeys behind each guest’s success: the challenges they faced, the decisions that defined them, and the lessons they wish they’d known earlier. Whether it’s a startup founder sharing how they built something from scratch, a coach discussing leadership and resilience, or an executive revealing what drives their success, Professional Perspectives offers a rare, human look into what it takes to thrive in any field.
Aimed at high school and college students, and anyone eager to learn from experience rather than just textbooks, the podcast blends insight with authenticity. Every episode leaves listeners not just inspired, but equipped with practical takeaways they can apply to their own ambitions. If you’re curious about the world, passionate about growth, and ready to hear stories that make you think, Professional Perspectives is your front-row seat to conversations that matter.
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Hosted by high school students Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri, Professional Perspectives is a podcast built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that stories have the power to inspire change. Each episode features a conversation with professionals, innovators, and leaders from diverse industries: from finance, law, and entrepreneurship to sports, entertainment, and technology.
What started as a simple idea between two friends, to learn directly from people making an impact, has grown into a platform that bridges the gap between students and the professional world. Through thoughtful questions and genuine dialogue, Aarav and Praneeth uncover the personal journeys behind each guest’s success: the challenges they faced, the decisions that defined them, and the lessons they wish they’d known earlier. Whether it’s a startup founder sharing how they built something from scratch, a coach discussing leadership and resilience, or an executive revealing what drives their success, Professional Perspectives offers a rare, human look into what it takes to thrive in any field.
Aimed at high school and college students, and anyone eager to learn from experience rather than just textbooks, the podcast blends insight with authenticity. Every episode leaves listeners not just inspired, but equipped with practical takeaways they can apply to their own ambitions. If you’re curious about the world, passionate about growth, and ready to hear stories that make you think, Professional Perspectives is your front-row seat to conversations that matter.
In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Siddarth Pai, Software Development Engineer III at Walmart Global Tech, to explore the world of modern software infrastructure and design.
Mr. Pai shares how high-impact software is built, what goes into designing scalable and reliable systems, and the skills and mindset engineers need to thrive in the tech industry. We discuss his journey into software development, the challenges of working on large-scale systems, and the lessons he has learned along the way.
Mr. Pai also provides actionable advice for students interested in software engineering, from understanding foundational concepts to developing practical problem-solving skills.
At Professional Perspectives, our mission is to empower students by providing insightful, honest conversations with leaders across industries. We are high schoolers aiming to increase the professional perspectives of high school and college students who are choosing a career. Our goal is to highlight real career journeys, practical guidance, and the mindset that helps young people make informed decisions about their futures.
Join us for this episode featuring Siddarth Pai and gain a behind-the-scenes look at how software that powers the world is designed, developed, and delivered.
Season 3 of Professional Perspectives begins with a thoughtful conversation featuring Mr. Shefqet Avdullau, an angel investor who supports early stage founders across both the United Kingdom and the United States.
He shares how he identifies promising startups, what qualities he believes define strong founders, and how students can begin preparing for future roles in entrepreneurship and innovation. Listeners will hear about Mr. Avdullau’s path into angel investing, the major lessons he has learned from working within two different startup ecosystems, and the advice he believes every young creator and builder should keep in mind.
At Professional Perspectives, our mission is to empower students by providing insightful and honest conversations with leaders from a wide range of fields. We aim to reveal real career journeys, practical guidance, and the mindset that supports meaningful success.
This episode reflects that mission by giving listeners an inside look at early stage investing and the thinking that helps turn ideas into real impact. Join us for the Season 3 premiere featuring Mr. Avdullau and his clear and encouraging message for the next generation of innovators.
In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Tone Stakes, Head of Basketball Licensing at Panini America, to go behind the scenes of how Panini became basketball’s biggest brand. As high school students passionate about learning from industry leaders, this conversation was both inspiring and eye-opening, and we know it will motivate other students interested in sports, business, and entrepreneurship.
Tone shares his journey in the sports and licensing industry, offering an inside look at what it takes to build a globally recognized brand. We dive into the strategies Panini uses to connect with fans, the role of creativity and innovation in driving success, and the importance of teamwork and relationship building in a competitive industry.
Beyond the business lessons, Tone shares personal stories and insights that are relatable and actionable for students and aspiring professionals. He shows how passion, dedication, and thoughtful strategy can turn opportunities into impact and how young people can start building the skills and mindset to succeed in sports, business, or any field they are passionate about.
This episode is full of energy, actionable insights, and inspiration. It is a must-listen for anyone curious about the business of sports, brand building, or pursuing their dreams as a high school or college student.
S2 Ep4 - In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Giridhur Sriraman, Vice President of Product at Goldman Sachs, to explore his journey from studying at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) to leading innovative financial products at one of the world’s top investment banks. Giridhur shares valuable insights on navigating the intersection of technology and finance, adapting to a fast-changing industry, and making career decisions that align with long-term growth. Whether you’re a student curious about fintech or an aspiring professional looking for direction, this conversation offers practical lessons on ambition, balance, and building a meaningful career.
S2 Ep2 - In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Steve Reed, Creator of Experiences and top seller for the Minnesota Vikings. A lifelong fan turned professional, Steve has built a career around making every game-day unforgettable, meeting clients at the stadium, ensuring they feel valued, and creating memories that go far beyond the seats. His deep passion for the Vikings fuels everything he does, motivating him to connect fans to the team in a way that feels personal and genuine. Steve shares his unique journey into sales, his philosophy of relationship-driven selling, and why personalization is the key to building lasting client trust. He also breaks down the three keys he credits for his success: believing, keeping a Super Bowl mindset, and setting big goals with a clear plan. Listeners will also hear about his “aggressively casual” sales style and the importance he places on teamwork in driving results. Whether you’re in sales, sports, or simply looking for motivation, Steve Reed’s story is packed with insights, energy, and inspiration you won’t want to miss.
S2 Ep1 - In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Dr. Chung, a dedicated dentist and passionate advocate for patient-centered care. With a background in biochemistry from UCSD and a D.D.S. from UCSF, Dr. Chung has built a career around making dentistry more comfortable, accessible, and personalized. We talk about his path into dentistry, the importance of continuous learning, and how he balances clinical work with leadership in the dental community. From advanced procedures like implants and tissue regeneration to building trust with patients, Dr. Chung shares valuable insights for anyone curious about healthcare, medicine, or building a career with purpose. Tune in as we explore what it really means to care for people, one smile at a time.
Season 2 is here, and we’re ready to bring you even more incredible stories and valuable insights! As we continue this journey, we dive deeper into the challenges, successes, and lessons shaping different careers. Whether you’re exploring potential paths, seeking advice, or love hearing about people’s journeys, this season is packed with fresh inspiration and practical takeaways. Join us for another season of discovery, learning, and growth—this is Professional Perspectives!
Season 1 was an incredible journey, filled with meaningful conversations and insights from a wide range of professionals. From navigating legal careers to the lessons learned in sports and real estate, we explored what it takes to succeed, grow, and find fulfillment in different paths. In this special episode, we’re reflecting on the highlights of Season 1—what we learned, the advice that stuck with us, and how these conversations have inspired us moving forward. Join us as we reflect on the first chapter of Professional Perspectives and prepare for what’s to come!
S1 Ep5 - In this episode of Professional Perspectives, we sit down with Blair Ballin, a Phoenix-based realtor with over 23 years of experience. Blair shares his journey from a frustrating first home-buying experience to becoming a trusted guide for others navigating real estate. Known for his exceptional customer service and community-building expertise, Blair talks about creating the thriving Living North Phoenix community and the importance of putting clients first. Whether you're curious about real estate, community development, or building meaningful professional relationships, this episode offers valuable insights. Tune in to hear Blair’s advice on turning challenges into opportunities and creating a career that truly makes a difference!
Hosted by high school students Aarav Akella and Praneeth Vemuri, Professional Perspectives is a podcast built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that stories have the power to inspire change. Each episode features a conversation with professionals, innovators, and leaders from diverse industries: from finance, law, and entrepreneurship to sports, entertainment, and technology.
What started as a simple idea between two friends, to learn directly from people making an impact, has grown into a platform that bridges the gap between students and the professional world. Through thoughtful questions and genuine dialogue, Aarav and Praneeth uncover the personal journeys behind each guest’s success: the challenges they faced, the decisions that defined them, and the lessons they wish they’d known earlier. Whether it’s a startup founder sharing how they built something from scratch, a coach discussing leadership and resilience, or an executive revealing what drives their success, Professional Perspectives offers a rare, human look into what it takes to thrive in any field.
Aimed at high school and college students, and anyone eager to learn from experience rather than just textbooks, the podcast blends insight with authenticity. Every episode leaves listeners not just inspired, but equipped with practical takeaways they can apply to their own ambitions. If you’re curious about the world, passionate about growth, and ready to hear stories that make you think, Professional Perspectives is your front-row seat to conversations that matter.
