It’s Suneera Madhani here, and I decided to write this one myself because today, I want to share a story that goes beyond my usual entrepreneurial narrative.
It’s a tale that weaves through the themes of loss, legacy, and the immense impact we can create beyond the confines of our businesses. This is a very personal episode of the CEO School Podcast that I hope will inspire, move, and encourage you to think deeply about your legacy and health.
My Mission to Make a Difference
I believe that there is so much gatekeeping in business knowledge and that we, as female entrepreneurs, should be learning from other female founders and leaders who have broken the statistics.
My journey from nurturing an idea to building a billion-dollar empire is a testament to what women can achieve. But more than the financial milestones, my passion lies in making an impact. Business success equips us, women, to enact meaningful change, not just within our immediate circles but across the broader community.
And for the longest time, the word “influencer” would give me the ick, not because I have anything against influencers, but because I was shy of my own power. I thought it would be egotistical of me to assume center stage on a platform that I created myself, to sit at the head of the table I built with my own hands, ironic, isn’t it?
But I’m glad I got out of my own way and I decided to internalize the truth: My Voice Matters. Because today, I have a platform where I can talk about something very personal to my heart and well, your heart too.
The Heart of My Story: Loss and Legacy
This episode is deeply personal, I talk about my father, Ike. His sudden passing in 2020 from a heart attack left an indelible mark on my life and work.
My father was the epitome of discipline and family-first values, teaching me and my brother about hard work, integrity, and the belief that “you have it,” a mantra that empowered me through countless challenges. And I bring up my girls with the same values, hoping I can be half as good as him.
My Partnership with the American Heart Association
This is why my collaboration with the American Heart Association is a personal one, it is rooted in my family’s personal battle with heart disease. Through my platform and voice, I want to highlight the importance of heart health, particularly in the South Asian community, where the risk of heart disease is alarmingly high.
This collaboration is more than raising awareness; it’s a call to action for everyone to prioritize their health and that of their loved ones. I’m going to share some stories I rarely ever open up about so that you join me in championing heart health and supporting families affected by heart disease.
A Call to Reflection and Action
As you listen in, I urge you to reflect on your health and the legacy you wish to leave behind. It’s a reminder that amidst our pursuits of building businesses and achieving success, our health and the impact we have on those around us are what truly matter.
Check in on your beautiful, beautiful hearts
Listen, I’m trying to raise $25,000 towards American Heart’s Mission with this collaboration. I officially signed on as a #GoRedWomanofImpact nominee and I’m joining other community leaders to raise funds and make a direct impact on women’s health. It would be incredible if you could donate whatever you can spare, but even if you can’t.
Check-in with yourself, and make sure you check in with your family, make sure their hearts are happy and healthy and that’s I’ll be happy knowing I was able to be the reason you did that.
Join me in making a difference, because when women make more money, and when they channel their success into meaningful causes, we make the world a better place for everyone.
Remember, class is always in session, and together, we can learn, grow, and leave an indelible mark on the world.
