State of Mind

What if being a better leader starts with accepting that you don’t have all the answers?In this episode of State of Mind, Vera speaks with Ali Powell, Corporate Vice President of Asia Technology Services at Microsoft, about humility, resilience and learning to lead through uncertainty.With 20+ years at Microsoft, Ali reflects on how his approach to leadership has changed, from feeling the need to know everything to becoming more curious, listening more and finding calm in challenging situations.We explore:Why great leadership doesn’t mean having all the answersThe importance of humility, curiosity and learning from othersHow being honest about our mental health builds trust and connectionFinding calm, protecting our energy and making time for wellbeingA thoughtful conversation about personal growth, staying grounded and why sometimes the most important thing we can do is become comfortable with not knowing.Keywords: Leadership, Mental Health, Resilience, Humility, Wellbeing, Psychological Safety, Personal Growth, Microsoft Asia, State of Mind Podcast

What happens when your path to leadership looks different from everyone else’s?In this episode of State of Mind, we speak with Heather Gordon, Chief Partner Officer for Microsoft Asia, about confidence, belonging and forging your own path. After 20 years at Microsoft, Heather speaks openly about building her career without a university degree, the self-doubt she has experienced along the way, and why imposter syndrome can still show up regardless of how far you have come.We explore:• Building confidence when your path looks different• Navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome• The value of lived experience alongside education• Creating more inclusive opportunities at workA thoughtful conversation about recognising that there is no single path to success, and learning to value the experiences that make us different.Keywords: imposter syndrome, confidence, inclusive leadership, belonging, career development, workplace inclusion, lived experience, Microsoft Asia

In this episode of State of Mind, we speak with Annella Heytens, Vice President of Human Resources for Microsoft Asia, about what it really takes to support wellbeing at scale.From deeply personal experiences to leading HR across diverse markets, Annella shares why mental health is never “one size fits all” - it’s one size fits one.Together, we explore how culture, leadership, and empathy shape the employee experience, and why organisations must move beyond policies to truly understand the individual behind the role.In this episode:Why wellbeing needs a personalised approachCultural nuances of mental health across AsiaHybrid work and its impact on wellbeingPrevention, not just reactionA thoughtful conversation on creating workplaces where people can truly thrive.Connect with Annella: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annella-heytens/ Keywords: workplace wellbeing, HR leadership, mental health, psychological safety, culture, Microsoft Asia

What does wellbeing really look like in a high-pressure leadership role?In this episode of State of Mind, Mayank Wadhwa, President of Microsoft ASEAN, shares how personal experiences - from supporting others to navigating grief and change - shaped his approach to mental health.He reflects on the importance of pausing, building awareness, and creating space to process what we often push aside.We explore:Mental health as a continuous journeyThe pressure of leadership and changeMicro habits that support resilienceCreating psychological safety at workA thoughtful conversation on staying grounded in a fast-moving world.Connect with Mayank: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mayankwadhwa/ Keywords: leadership wellbeing, mental health awareness, resilience, workplace culture, habits, Microsoft

What does it really mean to lead with empathy?In this episode of State of Mind, Mark Souza, CTO for Microsoft Asia, reflects on how personal experiences shaped his approach to leadership - from performance-driven to people-first.From moments he didn’t understand, to learning how to listen and support, Mark shares why creating safe environments at work matters more than ever.🎧 We explore:Supporting people through what we can’t always seeWhy listening matters more than fixingCreating trust and psychological safetyThe role of leadership in wellbeingA simple but powerful message: people need to feel they’re not alone.🔗 Connect with Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksouza/Keywords: leadership, mental health awareness, empathy, workplace culture, wellbeing, psychological safety

Join Vera for an insightful conversation with Mike Chan, Chief Operating Officer for Microsoft ASEAN, on the State of Mind podcast. Mike, a 24-year veteran of Microsoft, shares his personal experiences and practical tactics for maintaining mental well-being in a high-pressure role. Mike opens up about: The importance of recovery: Why prioritising breaks and recovery is crucial for mental health and career longevity. Balancing work and family: How to be present and engaged with your family while managing a demanding career. The role of adventure: Discovering how physical activities and adventure can provide mental clarity and a fresh perspective. Tune in to learn valuable strategies for managing stress, prioritising your well-being, and achieving a fulfilling work-life balance. Find Mike Chan online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mchan/ Follow the host  Vera Siertsema for more updates on the State of Mind episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verasiertsema/

Explore the importance of prioritising well-being and taking courageous career breaks in this episode of the State of Mind podcast. Vera's back with a conversation with Kevin Wo, Chief Partner Officer for Microsoft ASEAN, as they discuss mental health in the context of leadership and personal growth.Kevin shares his personal experience of taking a sabbatical, highlighting: The power of a reset: How stepping away from work can provide clarity and renewed focus. Overcoming stigma: Addressing the cultural challenges of discussing mental health in Asia. Leading with authenticity: The importance of prioritising well-being to be your best self and effectively support your team.Tune in to gain valuable insights on building resilience, managing stress, and creating a culture of well-being in the workplace.Find Kevin Wo online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-wo/Follow the host  Vera Siertsema for more updates on the State of Mind episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verasiertsema/

Discover the power of joy in the workplace with Pip Arthur, Chief Marketing Officer for Microsoft Asia, on the State of Mind podcast. Vera returns with Pip, who shares her inspiring journey and practical insights on cultivating joy, fostering inclusion, and leading with authenticity.Pip delves into: The importance of self-care: Why prioritising sleep, nutrition, and movement is crucial for finding and sustaining joy. Diversity and inclusion in action: How everyday actions and behaviours can create a more inclusive and joyful workplace. Leading with purpose: Connecting to your purpose at work to enhance joy and fulfilment.Tune in to learn how to cultivate joy in your own life and inspire those around you, while also gaining valuable perspectives on leadership, diversity, and creating a positive workplace culture.Find Pip Arthur online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-arthur-34a199/Follow the host  Vera Siertsema for more updates on the State of Mind episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verasiertsema/

Join Vera for a candid conversation about mental health with Ahmed Mazhari, the former President of Microsoft Asia, on the State of Mind podcast. In this insightful episode, Ahmed shares his personal journey and leadership perspectives on prioritising mental well-being in the workplace and beyond.Ahmed opens up about: His evolving view of mental health: From personal well-being to recognizing its profound impact on workplace dynamics and productivity. The importance of leadership: How leaders can advocate for mental health awareness and create supportive environments for their teams. Practical strategies for a healthy mind: Discover the role of sleep, exercise, gratitude, and open communication in fostering mental well-being.Tune in to gain valuable insights from a leader who champions mental health and discover how we can all contribute to a happier and healthier workplace culture.Find Ahmed Mazhari online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmed-mazhari-7717773/Follow the host  Vera Siertsema for more updates on the State of Mind episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verasiertsema/

Dive into the fascinating world of AI and its impact on society in this episode of the State of Mind podcast. Vera sits down with Lee Hickin, AI Technology & Policy Lead for Microsoft Asia, to explore the complex landscape of responsible AI.Lee, with over 30 years of experience in the tech industry, shares his unique perspective on: The intersection of technology and policy: Discover how Lee bridges the gap between complex AI concepts and the need for clear, ethical guidelines. Navigating difficult conversations: Learn how Lee approaches discussions about AI's impact on jobs, humanity, and the future. The power of empathy: Understand why empathy is crucial when discussing AI's role in shaping a more inclusive future.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of AI's potential, the importance of responsible development, and how we can all contribute to a brighter technological future.Find Lee Hickin online: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leehickin/Follow the host  Vera Siertsema for more updates on the State of Mind episodes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verasiertsema/