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Jay Thadeshwar at GLS University Inspires Future Storytellers

Jay Thadeshwar tells GLS University students why curiosity matters more than a career plan

Podcast host and storyteller Jay Thadeshwar urged students to stay curious, build strong communication skills and remain open to new experiences during a conversation at GLS University in Ahmedabad, saying that success often grows from unexpected opportunities rather than a carefully planned path.

Jay Tadeshwar was the guest at “Decoded with Chandni Kapadia”, a discussion series hosted by Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University. Students, faculty members and young professionals attended the programme, which focused on entrepreneurship, storytelling, communication, personal values and career choices.

The discussion reflected the growing interest among Indian universities in inviting entrepreneurs, creators and public speakers to interact with students. Higher education institutions across the country have increasingly added such conversations alongside classroom teaching to expose students to changing career paths, digital media and leadership skills.

During the session, Jay Thadeshwar spoke about moving from a career in brand strategy to creating long form conversations through podcasting. He explained that his work changed after he realised that meaningful stories could help people understand different ideas, experiences and viewpoints.

Podcasting has become one of India’s fastest-growing digital content sectors. Improvements in smartphone access, cheaper internet services, and the popularity of regional-language content have encouraged many creators to build audiences beyond traditional television and print media. Business leaders, actors, educators and public figures now regularly use podcasts to discuss their work in greater depth than short social media posts allow.

One part of the discussion centred on Jay Thadeshwar’s decision to produce content in Gujarati. He said regional languages are becoming more influential in the digital space because they allow creators to connect with audiences through culture, identity and everyday experiences.

The rise of Indian language content has been widely recognised across the digital media industry. Video streaming platforms, podcast services and social media companies have all expanded support for regional languages as internet use has spread beyond major metropolitan cities. Industry studies have shown that language diversity continues to shape how millions of Indians consume news, entertainment and educational material online.

Students also heard Jay Thadeshwar’s views on balancing business goals with personal beliefs. He said professional success should not come at the cost of clarity about one’s values or purpose. The conversation touched on entrepreneurship, spirituality and the importance of making decisions that remain consistent with personal principles.

Another topic was the pressure many young people experience through social media. Jay Thadeshwar said constant comparison can distract people from their own progress. Instead of measuring success against others, he encouraged students to continue learning, improve their skills and contribute in ways that matter to society.

The discussion reflected concerns that educators and mental health experts have increasingly raised about the effect of social media on young people. Researchers have found that while digital platforms create opportunities for learning, networking, and self-expression, they can also increase anxiety when users compare themselves to carefully curated online lifestyles and achievements.

Drawing on his experience as an interviewer, Jay Thadeshwar described conversations he has held with entrepreneurs, industrialists, actors and public figures. He said preparation begins with understanding the individual rather than simply collecting questions. According to him, meaningful interviews depend on curiosity, careful listening and the willingness to move beyond predictable topics.

One of the session’s most widely discussed moments came when Thadeshwar spoke about representing the voice of young Indians at the House of Commons in the British Parliament. Looking back at that experience, he said effective communication and confidence helped him reach an international platform despite growing up in a small town in Gujarat.

He told students that geographical location should not limit ambition. According to Jay Thadeshwar, people who continue learning, stay curious and develop the confidence to express their ideas can contribute to respected national and international platforms.

Reflecting on his own journey, he said, “Sometimes life does not take you directly towards your dream; it takes you through experiences that prepare you for it. What may look like a missed opportunity at one point can become the foundation for something much bigger in the future.”

The audience later questioned him about leadership, communication, entrepreneurship and career planning. The exchange allowed students to discuss practical challenges they expect to face after graduation and hear how personal experiences often shape professional growth.

Speaking during the programme, Chandni Kapadia said universities should create opportunities for students to interact with people from different professional backgrounds. She said such discussions help young people build confidence, think independently and understand a wider range of career possibilities beyond conventional classroom learning.

GLS University, based in Ahmedabad, regularly organises academic, industry and cultural programmes alongside degree courses. Through initiatives such as Decoded with Chandni Kapadia, the university aims to connect students with professionals from different sectors so they can gain practical knowledge, hear diverse viewpoints and better understand the changing demands of modern careers.

As podcasting, digital media and regional language content continue to grow in India, conversations such as this reflect how communication skills, critical thinking and the ability to tell authentic stories are becoming valuable across industries. For students preparing to enter a changing job market, the discussion served as a reminder that technical knowledge alone may not be enough. Curiosity, adaptability and the confidence to communicate ideas clearly are increasingly recognised as qualities that can open new opportunities throughout a career.