Leland’s Post

Mridula never planned to end up on a stock market trading floor. 📈 It was one of many moments where she stepped up when life demanded it. Here’s how it unfolded: • grew up in South India in a single-mother household • mother is a physics professor who fills the house with books, science, and philosophy • learns early that curiosity and reflection belong together • father suffers a heart attack • steps onto the stock market trading floor to help support the family • marries and becomes a mother soon after • eventually relocates abroad with her family Life accelerated quickly. • volunteers as a storyteller at the Santa Clara library • initially told they only work with professionals • responds: “I’m a storyteller from India.” • creates an immersive storytelling session using music and participation • is invited back and paid as a professional storyteller • returns to India years later to care for her mother during her final year • navigates the following years as a single mother • learns the discipline of showing up when others depend on her Then another transition arrives: • her son is admitted to a music college in Boston • she relocates with him • finds herself surrounded by ambitious, self-directed women • begins reconsidering what she wants from her own career • takes a role that quickly feels too small • resigns within days • formally trains as a coach Her perspective today: • many successful women operate from an outdated version of themselves • promotions, caregiving, and responsibility shift their lives faster than their identity catches up • many people already know what needs to change; the hard part is acting on it One insight she shares with clients: “Confidence rarely comes before action. It is the result of it.” We're so glad to have her helping women navigate major life transitions as a Leland coach!