Ever feel like your wellness journey and your career ambitions are on two different planets? Like you have to choose between crushing your goals and actually feeling good? You’re not alone. But a new wave of female leaders is proving that the most powerful career move you can make is investing in your mental health. And one woman, Prakriti Poddar, is leading the charge, showing us how to build a life where success and wellbeing aren’t just connected—they’re inseparable.
Who Is Prakriti Poddar and Why Is She a Woman of Influence?
As the Global Head of Mental Health and Wellbeing at Roundglass, Prakriti Poddar isn’t just talking about self-care; she’s building the digital infrastructure for it. She’s helped bring science-backed mental health resources to over half a million users worldwide. Think about that number for a second. That’s half a million people who now have tools for stress relief, emotional resilience, and daily wellness habits right at their fingertips. This is the modern approach to mental health: accessible, integrated, and powered by innovation.
How Mental Health Innovation Is Changing Women’s Lives
Forget the outdated image of wellness as a solo bubble bath (though those are still great). The new frontier is about systemic change. Prakriti’s work focuses on creating tailored programs for workplaces, schools, and even athletes. This is a game-changer. It means mental health support is being woven into the very fabric of our daily lives—where we work, learn, and push our limits. It’s about creating environments where women don’t have to burnout to break through.
Through her own foundation, Mind Over Image Consulting, she’s also provided wellbeing outreach to over 70,000 women and girls in India. This is what global female leadership looks like: leveraging technology for mass impact while never losing sight of the individual, especially those in underprivileged communities.
3 Career and Wellness Lessons from a Global Leader
Prakriti’s journey—from nationally ranked tennis player to mother of three to global mental health head—is a masterclass in building a multifaceted life. Here are the key takeaways you can apply to your own path.
1. Your Comfort Zone is a Launchpad, Not a Home. When the pandemic hit, Prakriti mobilized 700 volunteers in India within five days to create a nationwide mental health support network. That’s a level of decisive action that comes from a mindset of service, not fear. The next time you’re faced with a daunting challenge, ask: “How can I use my skills to serve a need right now?” It reframes anxiety into purpose.
2. Your Whole Life is Your Legacy. When asked about her legacy, Prakriti didn’t mention a job title or a company. She spoke about empowering people “to embrace wholeness, unlock resilience and realize their limitless potential.” This is a powerful reminder that our legacy isn’t one single achievement. It’s the energy, support, and empowerment we leave with everyone we touch—in our careers, our communities, and our homes.
3. Build Your Toolkit with Intention. Prakriti’s diverse education—from cognitive behavioral therapy to neurofeedback—shows that building resilience is an active practice. It’s not about finding one magic solution, but curating a personalized toolkit of wellness habits that work for your unique brain and lifestyle.
Your FAQ on Modern Mental Health and Career Growth
How can I start integrating wellness into my busy schedule?
Start micro. It’s not about blocking out an hour for meditation. It’s about a 60-second breathing exercise before a meeting, a five-minute walk between tasks, or setting a hard stop on your workday. Small, consistent wellness habits create massive compound interest for your mental health.
Is it really possible to be ambitious and prioritize mental health?
Yes, and it’s the only way to sustain ambition long-term. Think of your mental wellbeing not as a distraction from your goals, but as the fuel that allows you to pursue them with clarity, creativity, and endurance. The most successful women are ditching the “hustle at all costs” model for a more integrated, resilient approach.
What’s one small step I can take today?
Identify one boundary. It could be a digital boundary (no emails after 7 PM) or an emotional one (not taking on a colleague’s stress). Protecting your energy is the most foundational career and wellness tip there is.
The TechMae Takeaway
Prakriti Poddar’s story is a powerful blueprint for the modern woman. It proves that the future of influence isn’t about power over others, but about the power to uplift, heal, and connect. Her journey from the tennis court to the global stage of mental health innovation shows that our diverse experiences aren’t distractions—they’re our greatest strengths. By embracing our own wholeness, we don’t just build better careers; we build a better world.
Inspired by stories of women redefining success? So are we. Inside the TechMae app, we’re building a space for women to connect, share insights, and grow together. Come join the movement: Download the TechMae App and be part of what’s next.
