What makes a nuclear physicist leave science to transform millions of lives? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Kalpana Sankar shares her extraordinary journey—from working in cutting-edge research to building Hand in Hand India, an organization that has uplifted millions of women through microfinance, education, and entrepreneurship.
She dives into the game-changing five-pillar approach that tackles poverty at its roots and explains why financial independence is the ultimate tool for empowerment. Dr. Sankar also reflects on what inspired her to write her autobiography, The Scientist Entrepreneur: Empowering Millions of Women—offering a deeply personal look at her struggles, breakthroughs, and vision for the future.
From grassroots innovation to international expansion, this episode is filled with insights, inspiration, and a powerful call to action for anyone who wants to drive meaningful change.
Tune in now to hear Dr. Kalpana Sankar’s inspiring journey on one of the popular podcasts in India!
00:00 Highlights
01:08 Introduction to Dr. Kalpana Sankar
03:09 The Genesis of Hand in Hand
05:05 Tackling Multi-Dimensional Poverty
07:04 The Five Pillars of Hand in Hand
16:01 Creative Institution Building
18:30 Scaling the Model Globally
21:24 The Role of Microfinance in Empowerment
23:39 Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth
28:08 Challenges in International Expansion
30:07 The Call to Action in The Scientist Entrepreneur
31:02 Future Aspirations and Projects
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Connect with Us
Mohua Chinappa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohua-chinappa/
The Mohua Show: https://www.themohuashow.com/
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Connect with the Guest
Kalpana Sankar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkalpanasankar/
Hand in Hand Foundation: https://www.instagram.com/hihindia/
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Disclaimer
The views expressed by our guests are their own. We do not endorse and are not responsible for any views expressed by our guests on our podcast and its associated platforms.
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