The Silicon Dreams

Schwark Satyavolu and Bhargavi V.

Join us for a live panel moderated by Preethy Padmanabhan featuring Schwark Satyavolu, Co-founder & CEO, Startup, and Bhargavi V., Founding Partner at Java Capital, as they discuss the future of fintech, venture capital, and emerging innovation shaping 2025 and beyond. The panel also explores what investors are looking for in early-stage startups, how entrepreneurs can build resilient and scalable companies, and the broader shifts redefining financial services globally. From AI-driven finance and digital infrastructure to startup growth and evolving investor priorities, this conversation offers valuable insights for founders, builders, and investors navigating the rapidly changing fintech landscape.

Divya Raghavan

In this episode, Preethy Padmanabhan sits down with Divya Raghavan, Early Stage VC at Hitachi Ventures Global, for a thought-provoking conversation on the power of grit, resilience, and perseverance in building long-term success. Drawing from her experience working closely with startup founders, Divya shares insights into the passion and determination she sees in entrepreneurs, the importance of cultivating grit in the workplace, and the lessons that shaped her own journey into venture capital. Inspired by the ideas explored in Angela Duckworth’s “Grit,” the discussion dives into why passion and perseverance often matter more than talent alone, how individuals can develop resilience through challenges, and the mindset required to achieve meaningful goals in an ever-evolving world. Divya also reflects on the value of growth, adaptability, and learning through setbacks while navigating the fast-paced startup and investment ecosystem.

Molly McCabe

In this episode, Preethy Padmanabhan sits down with Molly McCabe, CEO of HaydenTanner, to unpack the major global trends shaping humanity, business, and innovation, leading up to From Africa’s rising economic potential and the rapid expansion of the global middle class to the critical role of immigration in driving innovation, Molly unpacks how these macro trends will impact businesses, governments, and communities worldwide. The discussion also explores the rise of senior demographics, the future of healthcare and age-friendly technology, shifting economic power toward Asia and India, and the evolving role of women in shaping tomorrow’s workforce and leadership.   Molly shares powerful insights on adapting to change, identifying 10X growth opportunities, and preparing for a rapidly evolving future.

Andrew Romans

In this episode, Preethy Padmanabhan sits down with Andrew Romans, General Partner at 7BC Venture Capital and author of Masters of Corporate Venture Capital. Drawing from his extensive experience in Silicon Valley, Andrew unpacks the real motivations behind corporate venture capital and why it operates differently from traditional VC models. From navigating corporate structures to understanding strategic investments, the conversation sheds light on what truly drives CVC decision-making. Andrew also shares key challenges faced by corporate venture arms and offers practical, no-fluff advice for startups looking to raise capital from CVCs—what to do, what to avoid, and how to stand out. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of innovation, capital, and corporate strategy—perfect for founders, operators, and anyone building in today’s evolving tech ecosystem.

Lucie Newcomb

In this episode, Preethy Padmanabhan sits down with Lucie Newcomb, Founder & CEO of The NewComm Global Group, an international advisory and training firm specializing in global business development and leadership. Inspired by the book Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter by Liz Wiseman, the conversation explores what truly defines impactful leadership. From empowering teams to unlocking collective intelligence, Lucie shares actionable insights on how leaders can shift from being “diminishers” to becoming “multipliers.” This episode dives into the power of collaboration, innovation, and global leadership strategies—offering a fresh perspective on how to build high-performing teams that thrive in today’s fast-evolving world.