In this episode, hosts Atul and Suman engage in a deep conversation with guests Vikas Tandon and Siddarth Menon about their career transitions and the importance of self-awareness.

Vikas is an IIMA graduate, tried his hand at corporate jobs for the first 6-7 years, subsequently started a digital agency -Indigo Consulting. Indigo was acquired by the Publicis Groupe in 2012 after which he had the choice to continue as an Internet Entrepreneur/Leader, or pursue his first passion, Music. He chose the latter, and currently is a semi-professional musician learning music, writing original songs, and playing live.

Siddarth is a sales, marketing and strategy expert with over 20 years of experience. Having worked with Coca Cola & Colgate, he joined Epigamia as a founding member and helped scale it to a recognisable and well distributed brand. He is now an advisor and Consultant to Startups and works with them to build a playbook for growth.

Vikas shares his journey from a successful corporate career & entrepreneurship to pursuing his passion for music, while Siddarth discusses his shift from a corporate leader to advising startups. The conversation explores themes of risk-taking, the power of awareness, and the relationship between passion and skill, ultimately emphasizing the significance of financial preparedness in navigating career changes.

In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of financial planning, the importance of setting goals, and the role of perseverance in entrepreneurship. They discuss the significance of partnerships in business, reflect on their past decisions, and emphasize the need for self-awareness and overcoming self-doubt. The dialogue highlights that while financial safety is essential, the journey of entrepreneurship requires adaptability, resilience, and a supportive network.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction to Second Innings Podcast

00:05:10 Vikas Tandon's Journey: From Corporate to Music

00:16:11 Siddarth Menon's Path: From Corporate Success to Startups

00:24:27 The Power of Self-Awareness in Career Transitions

00:35:42 Navigating Major Life Transitions: Vikas & Siddarth's Insights

00:39:22 The Value of Education and Risk Taking

00:42:30 Living Life on Your Own Terms

00:45:59 Understanding Personal Risk and Desperation

00:48:42 The Importance of Harmony in Life

00:52:51 Passion vs. Skill: A Misconception

00:56:13 Financial Preparation for Transitions

01:05:44 Timing and Self-Awareness in Career Changes

01:08:59 Learnings and Unlearnings from Transitions

01:15:52 The Importance of Connection and Community

01:18:15 The Value of Partnerships in Business

01:21:01 Navigating the Challenges of Finding Co-Founders

01:26:30 Reflecting on Past Decisions: What Would You Change?

01:37:08 Advice for Those Hesitant to Take the Leap