Meet Manisha Dhawan | Author | Executive | Executive Coach | Consultant | Facilitator | Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Manisha Dhawan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Manisha, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I grew up in San Diego and watched my father, Gulshan Dhawan, build his company, Applied Membranes Inc, from the ground up in our garage. As an immigrant from India and a pioneer in the water treatment industry, my father works tirelessly and believes strongly in his mission and the technology to solve complex water issues around the world. I am fortunate to learn from him and continue to be involved in the company. From humble beginnings to taking risks, his drive sparked my entrepreneurial spirit.

Over the past two decades, I made some bold career moves and stepped outside my comfort zone. After obtaining an MBA from UC Irvine, I led global digital and change initiatives at organizations including PwC, Deloitte, Slalom, and Taco Bell. This included overseeing the design and launch of Taco Bell delivery, kiosks, and e-commerce across 7,000 restaurants. I did not know what my path would look like but said yes to different opportunities. As a result, I worked in multiple industries and roles like HR, IT, operations, and marketing.  I discovered my passion for building inclusive and high-performing leaders and teams. I felt compelled to share my story and wrote about my experiences in my book, The Digital Agile Leader.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
After experiencing challenging work environments, I was motivated to establish my practice and bring about positive change. People were also asking me for help with developing their careers and dealing with workplace change and conflict. As a result, MPath Coaching was born.

At MPath Coaching, I provide executive coaching, consulting, speaking, and facilitation services. I am passionate about building cohesive teams and helping people thrive on their unique paths. My clients range from individuals and start-ups to Fortune 10 companies. In our family business, Applied Membranes, we continue to lead the water treatment industry and impact communities around the world.

My journey has been both challenging and rewarding. With so many responsibilities, it is easy to become overwhelmed. I have learned the importance of prioritizing breaks, health, and personal life. Equally vital is nurturing relationships and being open to trying new things.

Starting a business requires patience, building a solid foundation, and dealing with self-doubt and uncertainty. To overcome these challenges, it is important to be adaptable, ask for help, streamline processes, and view obstacles as opportunities for growth.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Downtown Carlsbad and Encinitas are a few of my favorite spots. I enjoy hiking in Torrey Pines, walking along any beach in San Diego, and exploring the local shops and restaurants. Whether it’s riding bikes, paddleboarding, watching the sunset, or catching a live performance, there is no shortage of fun things to do here. San Marcos offers incredible views from Double Peak. There are many great restaurants too, including in La Jolla and Little Italy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The importance of having a supportive community cannot be overstated. My parents are wonderful mentors and role models. My siblings are also strong positive forces in my life. Reflecting on my journey, I am deeply appreciative of the support from my family and friends. They have provided encouragement during challenging times and helped me navigate through critical decisions. My clients, students, and colleagues have also been instrumental in my journey. I am grateful to be able to serve and make a difference in any way I can.

Website: https://mpathcoaching.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mpathcoaching

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manishadhawan/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpathcoaching

Facebook: https://facebook.com/mpathcoaching

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/mpath-coaching-carlsbad

Other: https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Agile-Leader-Attract-Ever-Changing/dp/1957651377