In this deeply moving and insightful episode of Gratitude Through Hard Times, host Chris Schembra engages in a heartfelt conversation with Sandeep Angra, Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) of the 40,000 person strong company, Unifi, the largest airport ground-handling company in North America and Europe. With over three decades of IT leadership experience spanning various industries, Sandeep’s professional achievements are significant, but today’s conversation takes us beyond his impressive resume.
This episode focuses on the themes of gratitude, humility, and spirituality, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the personal beliefs and life lessons that have shaped Sandeep's journey. He reflects on his upbringing in a small village in India, where his parents made enormous sacrifices to provide him with the opportunity to pursue education—a theme that resonates deeply throughout the episode. Sandeep’s father, a schoolteacher who walked 15 kilometers to work to save money for his children's tuition, and his mother, a primary school teacher, instilled in him values of hard work, humility, and gratitude that continue to guide him today.
Sandeep's personal philosophy centers on the belief that gratitude is the cornerstone of success, both in life and leadership. He speaks candidly about the importance of acknowledging the people who have supported us along the way—whether they are still with us or not—and how expressing gratitude strengthens both personal and professional relationships. Throughout the conversation, Sandeep delves into his spiritual beliefs, sharing his thoughts on karma, incarnation, and the interconnectedness of life, drawing on influences from both Eastern philosophy and scientific thought, such as Einstein’s reflections on the nature of reality.
Listeners are invited to consider three essential questions: Who am I? Why am I here? How can I help others? These questions form the foundation of Sandeep’s life philosophy, one that calls us to live with purpose, to give selflessly, and to remain humble regardless of external achievements.
The episode is not just a reflection on leadership in business, but also on the leadership of the heart—how empathy, kindness, and serving others can lead to both personal fulfillment and professional success. Sandeep shares stories from his career in global IT leadership, highlighting the ways in which gratitude and humility have not only helped him navigate challenges but have also allowed him to build high-performing teams, implement transformative technology projects, and align corporate objectives with human values.
Chris and Sandeep also explore the power of giving without expectation—a recurring theme that underscores the entire conversation. In a world that often values material success and self-promotion, Sandeep reminds us that true fulfillment comes from giving generously, whether through acts of kindness, mentorship, or simply acknowledging the contributions of others.
By the end of the episode, listeners will walk away with not just actionable leadership advice, but a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of how gratitude can enrich both their personal and professional lives. Sandeep’s wisdom reminds us that the journey of giving, whether to our families, our communities, or even to strangers, is a difficult but immensely rewarding one—one that ultimately defines our legacy.
Whether you’re an executive, a leader, or simply someone seeking more meaning in life, this episode offers valuable insights into how we can all lead with humility, harness the power of gratitude, and create a more compassionate, connected world.
Key Discussion Points:
- Sandeep’s Humble Beginnings: Growing up in a small village in India, with parents who sacrificed everything to ensure their children received a quality education.
- Gratitude for Life’s Guides: Sandeep reflects on the people who shaped his journey, including his parents, teachers, and his wife, who supported him through difficult decisions.
- Living with Gratitude and Humility: The importance of giving thanks and remaining humble, no matter where life takes you.
- Spiritual Reflections: How spirituality and karma play a significant role in Sandeep’s approach to life, including his belief in reincarnation and universal connection.
- Leadership through Service: Sandeep shares the idea that true leadership is about serving others selflessly, and how that has been the foundation of his career.
- Applying Gratitude to Everyday Life: Simple yet profound questions everyone should ask themselves: "Who am I?" and "How can I help?"
Notable Quotes:
- Sandeep Angra: "If you want to attract good, you must be good. What you give to the world is what you will get in return. That is the law of karma."
- Chris Schembra: "To do something without expecting anything in return is the most difficult journey a human being will take."
- Sandeep Angra: "You cannot give to the world what you don’t have. If you have anger, that’s what you’ll give. If you have kindness, that’s what you’ll give."
Action Items:
- Subscribe: If this conversation resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe for more heart-centered discussions on leadership, empathy, and gratitude.
- Share: Send this episode to someone who could use inspiration and a reminder to practice gratitude.
- Reflect: Who in your life deserves a thank you? Take a moment today to reach out and express your gratitude.
ABOUT OUR GUEST:
Sandeep Angra is the Chief Information and Technology Officer (CIO/CTO) for the largest airport ground handling company, which operates across more than 250 airports in Europe and North America. With over 30 years of experience in IT leadership, Sandeep has worked in industries including Big4 consulting, travel and logistics, pharmaceuticals, financial services, and consumer goods. He has led a range of digital transformation projects, such as ERP implementation, Cloud Adoption, AI/ML integration, and Automation, managing budgets up to $250 million. These projects have contributed to business growth, improved customer value, increased productivity, and cost reductions. Sandeep is experienced in building teams, developing IT strategies, and aligning technology initiatives with business objectives.
ABOUT OUR HOST:
Chris Schembra is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Gratitude Through Hard Times and Gratitude and Pasta. USA Today calls him their "Gratitude Guru", he's a Founding Member of Rolling Stone Magazine's Culture Council, and he sits on the Executive Board at Fast Company Magazine.
He is the Founder and Chief Question Asker of the 7:47 Gratitude Experience™ — an evidence-based framework used to strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways. He's used the principles of gratitude to spark thousands of relationships within the workplace.
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