In this episode of “Beyond Limits: Redefining Leadership”, we have the privilege of speaking with Pramoda Vyasarao, founder of Chain Smith Coaching and a former leader at tech giants Meta and Oracle. With over two decades of experience, Pramoda has transitioned from engineering to leadership coaching, transforming lives and organizations across 11 countries.
Through his inspiring journey, he shares actionable insights on leadership, personal growth, and the power of setting meaningful goals.
A Transformative Journey
Pramoda’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention. After experiencing personal loss and an existential crisis early in his career, he turned to goal-setting as a way to create meaning in life. This pivotal shift not only helped him overcome personal challenges, like obesity and a fear of public speaking, but also led him to discover his passion for coaching.
Through his book, “Beyond Your Limits,” and his coaching, he emphasizes the importance of intrinsic goals—those driven by personal fulfillment rather than external validation.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
- The Importance of Intrinsic Goals
Pramoda explains how intrinsic goals like becoming a better parent, improving communication skills, or prioritizing health provide deeper meaning and sustainable motivation compared to extrinsic goals like promotions or salary increases. - Growth Mindset as a Leadership Foundation
Leaders need to embrace a growth mindset, which allows them to learn continuously and support their teams’ development. In today’s knowledge-driven economy, fostering respect and empathy is essential for unlocking the potential of individuals and teams. - Turning Adversity into Opportunity
Pramoda’s layoff from Meta didn’t deter him; instead, it propelled him toward achieving his goal of becoming a coach and business owner earlier than planned. His positive mindset demonstrates how reframing challenges can lead to remarkable outcomes. - A Framework for Achieving Goals
In his book, Pramoda outlines a seven-step framework for goal-setting that starts with envisioning the end goal and ends with enjoying the journey. This practical approach helps individuals navigate their paths with clarity and purpose.
Notable Achievements
Pramoda’s personal and professional milestones are a testament to his philosophy of intentional growth. Here are some highlights:
- Donated blood 50 times, exemplifying his commitment to giving back.
- Achieved 52 personal goals over 21 years, including writing his book and founding his coaching company.
- Coached leaders from 11 countries, bridging cultural and professional divides.
The Power of Leadership Coaching
Pramoda’s coaching philosophy emphasizes asking the right questions rather than providing direct answers. By guiding clients to reflect on their lives and identify meaningful goals, he empowers them to make transformative changes.
Join the Journey
Whether you’re navigating your own leadership challenges or looking to unlock personal growth, this episode offers valuable lessons to inspire your journey.
Explore more of Pramoda’s work and access his coaching resources at www.changesmith.me.
Listen to the full episode and discover how to redefine leadership and live beyond your limits.
