Meet Pooja Desai

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Pooja Desai. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Pooja, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Wow, what a powerful and deeply personal question which resonates with so many people.

When I walk into a room where I am the only one who looks like me, I remind myself that I am there for a reason and to never doubt myself, nor my abilities as a minority woman.

I am here because I belong. I bring a unique perspective that no one else does.

Most importantly, my presence is a strength to be heard and not a gap to be filled.

I have learned that authenticity is a true leadership trait which allows for connection.

My leadership development as a minority woman started by my grit at an early age, which was louder than my race, sex, and voice.

My work ethic and grit have helped me earn the right to be in any space where I no longer have to introduce myself.

I pay tribute to my values, my traditions, cultural insights, and even my bilingual skills, which have helped me develop into a legendary leader.

I put in the work to earn the opportunity to be an added value across various platforms.

When not valued, I remember my worth and purpose.

I think to myself, “I am a catalyst for change and then I pave the way for others.”

I know that every time I speak up, I succeed, and help make it easier for the next person who looks like me to do the same.

For me, representation is not just about visibility; it’s about my responsibility as a knowledge donor.

I help others by providing them with a platform to be heard, seen, and valued.

I am also confident in myself, and I trust that my voice matters; I choose my words with intention.

I have become my own safe space, and I know I belong in these spaces.

It is important for me that my passion connect with my purpose, so I can remind myself why I am in this room to begin with.

When doing so, it opens the space for me to celebrate my wins for being able to make it in those rooms.

I do not code-switch to shrink myself anymore; I simply honor, not hide, my identity and my voice!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I currently leverage my extensive knowledge of over 27 years in healthcare to be what I consider myself to be; a knowledge donor who genuinely believes in paying it forward as part of my kindness journey.

I am also the indie author behind the acclaimed series, Tia Bua.

I have collaborated with multiple school districts to implement “calm rooms” and have successfully helped replace detention with meditation in one elementary school.

I am also currently on a series of Barnes and Nobles tours.

My magical books can be found in children’s hospitals, pre-surgical packets, pediatric units, gift shops, and dental offices.

My work is featured in the following places thus far: The Kid’s Cub at The Hard Rock, Punta Cana, a few indoor water parks, The Kid’s Club at Dreams, Panama, and, on both the ONNJ Morning Show and the OneonOne Steve Adubato show.

I have performed live on the Dream Stage located in American Dream for Mental Health Awareness Month in 2024 & 2025.

With a particular passion for children’s mental wellness, and a personal interest in my wellness as well, the stories I share on my podcast, “Heels & Boots on The Ground!” are brimming with kindness, energy, and a strong commitment to empowering others.

Follow my journey!!

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Prioritizing my mental wellness 2. My work ethic
3. Remaining resilient
4. Find your village

I believe truly knowing yourself, using your voice, and connecting with others are powerful career and life tools.

Finding my village and surrounding myself with others who shared my vision for equity, empathy, and inclusion was important for my development.

Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
This is a powerful and deep question which invites honesty, reflection, and intention.

I would continue to do what I am currently doing by taking care of my mental and physical health.

I would also continue to prioritize my family, leaving them with memories that are uplifting, nurturing, filled with adventure, forgiveness, purpose, and unconditional love.

I would proceed to travel the world and continue embracing it with joy, laughter, storytelling, and dancing; I would continue to feed my soul.

No matter what, I must continue to follow my passion and purpose while paving the way for my legacy to live on.

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Pooja Desai Maya Santiago Dayana De Pena Vivek Desai Aalyana Santiago

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