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Journey From Influence of Power to the Power of Influence - an Interview with Ekta Vyas, Ph.D, Chief Human Resources Officer from Keck Medicine of USC

clarity influence power the journey Aug 20, 2025

In the latest Fearless Female Leadership interview, I had the distinct honor of speaking with Ekta Vyas, Ph.D, Chief Human Resources Officer of Keck Medicine at USC, about her remarkable journey from navigating cultural transitions to becoming an influential leader in healthcare. We explored her philosophy on moving from the influence of power to the power of influence, and how clarity, resilience, and humility fuel true leadership.

Dr. Vyas shared her upbringing in India, her bold move to the U.S., and the challenges of rebuilding her career in a new country. An introvert at heart, she leaned on deep reflection, silent courage, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. She emphasized that leadership is not about positional authority but about the enduring impact you leave through your influence, character, and values.

She also revealed how spirituality, self-awareness, and resilience anchor her power, especially during adversity. Her message for leaders everywhere: seek no...

Wondering What's Next? Do This Consistently (Part 3 of 3)...

future truth mindset power shift the journey what's next Jul 08, 2025

From Seeking to Serving: The Mindset Shift That Transforms What’s Next

If you’re at a crossroads in your career—wondering what’s next, what your next big move could be, or how to make the leap into something more meaningful—you’re not alone. I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside several clients recently who were in that exact space. Each of them ultimately landed CXO or executive leadership roles, but their real transformation started long before they signed their offer letters.

It began with a mindset shift: from seeking to serving.

Flip the Script: You’re Not Just Looking—You’re Offering

When we’re in a “seeking” mindset, it can feel like we’re chasing something outside of ourselves—waiting for someone else to hand us the next opportunity. But the truth is, you have immense value to offer. You’ve got wisdom, experience, and heart. So instead of asking, “Who will hire me?” ask this instead:

“Where can I serve at the highest level?”
“What kind of organization would be lucky to ha...

Lessons Learned From Ursula Burns and Ann Mulcahy

courage power speak up Feb 10, 2021

Lessons Learned From Ursula Burns and Ann Mulcahy

Something extraordinary happened at Xerox between 2001 and 2009, prior to the only woman to woman CEO changing of the guard in a large Fortune 500 company. For almost a decade, Ann Mulcahy was a fierce ally and supporter of Ursula Burns, so there would be a smooth transition when Ursula became CEO in 2009. In Mulcahy’s HBR article How I Did It: Xerox’s Former CEO on Why Succession Shouldn’t Be a Horse Race, she was not threatened by the brilliant, outspoken, and power of Burns. Mulcahy recognized Burn’s strengths, challenged her to improve her weaknesses and championed her for almost a decade until Burns eventually replaced her as CEO.

What can we learn from these two compassionate and powerful women, and how can we use this wisdom to empower more female leaders, emerging leaders and male allies, especially those who sit on the margins?

Quite a lot, but here are two important things to ponder and hopefully take action on: