

The Quest for Success
Dylan Pathirana and Jamitha Pathirana
Welcome! Thanks for joining us on this journey. We are a father and son duo on the quest to find the formula to success, and understand what success means to different people. Our goal is to take a deep dive into people's stories and interview people from a range of backgrounds in this quest for success.About us:Jam is an experienced founder with over 18 years of experience. He is passionate about helping businesses overcome their supply-chain challenges and achieve success. He is in his final year of the Harvard OPM program where he is deepening his knowledge and network.Dylan is a renewable energy engineer turned entrepreneur, currently working on building a community based equipment rental platform. He recently completed the Stanford ignite program, a business and entrepreneurship course where he found his love for the startup hustle. Together, we are on the quest, the quest for success!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 27, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Sound of Success with Sangeeth Wijesuriya - Music, Mindfulness & Meaning
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Sangeeth Wijesuriya, one of Sri Lanka’s celebrated musicians, to explore his journey of passion, discipline, and cultural impact. From a childhood steeped in music to becoming a recognised artist, Sangeeth reflects on how his path has been shaped by family, mentors, and his unwavering dedication to personal growth.He opens up about his belief in internal success - happiness, mindfulness, and presence - as being more meaningful than external validation. Drawing on his martial arts practice, Sangeeth shares how discipline and balance influence both his music and life philosophy. As a cultural representative of Sri Lanka, he discusses the importance of inspiring the next generation and leaving behind a legacy rooted in creativity, compassion, and authenticity.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of success beyond achievements, and for those who believe in the power of art and mindfulness to transform lives. Key TakeawaysSuccess can be defined in many ways, both internal and externalInternal success, such as happiness and well-being, is vitalEarly influences and mentorship shaped Sangeeth’s careerMartial arts strengthen discipline, creativity, and mental balanceCultural representation carries responsibility and prideMindfulness is essential for growth and presenceInspiring the next generation is part of true successListen to WAYOSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/4FxhFEHyjxhdm3C8vAq0wVYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@WayolkFollow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
How This Doctor Blossomed into a Business Icon - Dr. Lasantha Malavige
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Lasantha Malavige, a medical doctor turned entrepreneur, whose journey from the world of medicine to building one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised floral and lifestyle brands is both inspiring and thought-provoking. As the founder of Lassana Flora and Treats of Ceylon, Dr. Malavige has redefined what it means to blend professional expertise, family values, and innovation to create lasting societal impact.He shares how his early influences and upbringing instilled in him the importance of happiness and service to others - principles that continue to guide his personal and professional life. From starting a small floral business while pursuing a demanding medical career, to navigating the challenges of scaling operations, Dr. Malavige reflects on the creativity, resilience, and vision required to succeed.He also opens up about the pivotal role of innovation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Lassana Flora transformed into a fully integrated farm-to-doorstep ecosystem. Dr. Malavige emphasises the responsibility of entrepreneurs to uplift communities, highlighting his commitment to building sustainable farming networks and empowering local producers. Looking ahead, he discusses his aspirations with Treats of Ceylon, a brand dedicated to taking Sri Lankan delicacies to global markets.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, balancing multiple passions, or finding fulfilment by aligning personal happiness with societal contribution. Key Takeaways - Entrepreneurs have a responsibility to solve societal problems - Happiness is the foundation of true success - Family values shape personal and business philosophy - Creativity and opportunity recognition are vital in starting a business - Innovation drives long-term growth and relevance - Building sustainable ecosystems benefits farmers and communities - Quality and service excellence set businesses apart - COVID-19 was a turning point for transformation and resilience - Education plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial development - Success is defined by the happiness you bring to othersConnect with Lasantha Malavige: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lasantha-malavige-294892bb/Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 14min
She Cares For The Kids That Everyone Else Forgot!
The Heart of a Mother: Sunethra Weerasinghe’s Journey of Compassion and Service In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Sunethra Weerasinghe, a woman whose life’s work has been dedicated to caring for abandoned and disabled children in Sri Lanka. Her definition of success isn’t tied to wealth, recognition, or career milestones - it is rooted in love, compassion, and the profound impact one individual can have on a community.Sunethra reflects on her early life, marriage, and the pivotal turning points that inspired her to open her heart and home to children in need. She shares the challenges of running homes and orphanages, the role of education in empowering marginalised communities, and the courage required to challenge societal stigmas surrounding disabilities.Her journey is one of personal sacrifice and unwavering dedication, where happiness is found in seeing others thrive. Through her work, Sunethra has created safe spaces, built supportive communities, and inspired countless others to live a life of purpose and service.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, lead with empathy, and understand the true meaning of success. Key Takeaways - Success is defined by the love and care we give to others - Compassion for those in need is a driving force in life - Education and empowerment are crucial for marginalised communities - Personal sacrifice is often necessary for the greater good - Building a supportive community can transform lives - Stigmas surrounding disabilities must be challenged - Legacy is about the impact we leave on others - Happiness comes from seeing others succeed - Every individual has the potential to make a difference - Life is about using our talents to help those in needFollow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Aug 6, 2025 • 59min
The Secrets of Sri Lanka’s Snack Dynasty - Shea Wickramasingha
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Shea Wickramasingha, Group Managing Director of CBL Group, to explore her inspiring evolution from a self-described reluctant entrant into her family’s business to one of Sri Lanka’s most respected leaders in the FMCG space.Shea opens up about how her definition of success has changed over the years, shaped by education, personal experience, and her unique vantage point as a second-generation leader. She reflects on the challenges of navigating leadership in a legacy business, and how she learned to adapt her style to cultural and generational shifts while holding on to the values that define her family and company.From the importance of innovation in staying relevant, to the critical role soft skills now play in leadership, Shea offers a candid and deeply human perspective on what it takes to lead with intention and impact. She also speaks about the responsibility businesses have toward the communities they serve and how social responsibility is baked into the DNA of her leadership.This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating leadership transitions, balancing tradition with innovation, or striving to make a meaningful difference in their organisation and community.Key Takeaways - Success is a personal journey, not defined by societal expectations - Education and life experiences shape leadership philosophy - Leadership in a family business demands emotional intelligence and adaptability - Innovation is essential for long-term business sustainability - Understanding cultural context is key to effective leadership - A diverse, young workforce requires evolved management styles - Recruiting for cultural fit supports organisational growth - Soft skills like empathy and communication are vital for modern leaders - Female leadership in male-dominated industries brings unique challenges and opportunities - Social responsibility is not just strategy - it’s purpose in actionConnect with Shea Wickramasingha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shea-wickramasingha-221a9b25/Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 3min
Why This CEO Meditates Every Morning (And You Should Too) - Dheerajj Agarwaal
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Dheerajj Agarwaal - co-founder and CEO of VSynergize AI - to explore how he fused entrepreneurial ambition with mindfulness and social impact to create a more holistic version of success. From facing early life challenges in India to becoming a leading voice in empathetic AI and meditation, Dheerajj’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and inner clarity.Dheerajj opens up about moving to the U.S. with a dream, building a global business, and learning that success goes beyond wealth - it’s about happiness, service, and balance. He shares how meditation became a cornerstone of his leadership, why he believes AI should be used to reduce isolation, and how he integrates ethical values and mental wellness into his business and life.This episode offers a refreshing perspective for entrepreneurs, tech leaders, and seekers alike - reminding us that in a fast-moving world, clarity of mind might just be our greatest edge. Key Takeaways - Success is a combination of material and personal fulfillment - Early challenges shaped Dheerajj’s entrepreneurial mindset - AI can be a tool for connection, not just efficiency - Breathwork and meditation build resilience and emotional intelligence - Business growth thrives on ethics, honesty, and team support - Leadership requires mental clarity and self-discipline - Technology can coexist with mindfulness when used consciously - Meditation transforms people from needing help to offering it - Social impact and purpose elevate the entrepreneurial journey - True success includes health, relationships, and peace of mindConnect with Dheerajj Agarwaal: linkedin.com/in/vsynergizeceodheerajagarwaalFollow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 7min
Breaking Through: How Hanan Nagi Redefined Success Against the Odds
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Hanan Nagi - founder & CEO of HNI Training & Coaching - to unpack her remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Egypt to leading one of the Middle East’s most innovative learning and development companies.Hanan opens up about how adversity shaped her drive, why education and coaching became catalysts for change, and how she built (and scaled) a business through empathy, innovation, and bold risk-taking - even in the middle of a pandemic. We dive into leadership rooted in humility, the evolution of company culture, and the growing role of women redefining what success looks like in business.In this conversation, we cover:•How success evolves from material wins to meaningful fulfilment•The link between childhood adversity, resilience, and ambition•Coaching, self-awareness, and reflection as tools for transformation•Building HNI: identifying client pain points and innovating delivery•Scaling during crisis: adaptability, necessity-driven innovation, and culture•Leading with empathy, humility, and purpose•Women in leadership: challenging norms and owning your space•Legacy as impact - helping others grow and thriveIf you’re building a business, leading a team, or seeking deeper fulfillment beyond titles and numbers, this episode is for you.Connect with Hanan NagiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hanan-nagi-9558244Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
Balancing Tradition and Disruption - George Szegö’s Guide to Next-Gen Leadership
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with George Szegö, CEO of Mecalore, to explore his journey from engineer to third-generation leader of a pioneering refrigeration company. Raised in a Hungarian immigrant family in Brazil, George shares how his upbringing, education, and early career shaped his approach to leadership and personal growth.George opens up about the complexities of family business succession, stepping into leadership after the tragic loss of his father, and the bold decisions he had to make to ensure Mecalore’s future. From implementing financial controls to navigating innovation in a legacy-driven environment, his story is one of resilience, adaptability, and purpose.With a deep commitment to sustainability, employee engagement, and global impact, George reflects on the balance between honouring tradition and driving change. This episode is a powerful listen for anyone navigating leadership transitions, growing a business with meaning, or building a legacy that lasts.Key Takeaways - Success evolves over time and is rooted in personal growth - Family, culture, and early experiences shape leadership values - Education and mentorship are critical to long-term development - Leading a family business requires balancing legacy with innovation - Navigating succession involves tough decisions and emotional resilience - Financial discipline is essential for sustainable growth - Empowering employees fosters a healthy organisational culture - Innovation in refrigeration can help combat climate change - Sustainability and social responsibility are central to long-term success - Legacy is about building a company that thrives beyond one generationConnect with George Szegö: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ggszegoCheck out Mecalore: https://www.mecalor.com/en/Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 20min
From Rabbi to Entrepreneur: Pinny Gniwisch on Purpose, Resilience & Meaning
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Pinny Gniwisch -rabbi, entrepreneur, educator, and ecommerce pioneer - to explore what it truly means to live with purpose and impact.Born into a family of Holocaust survivors, Pinny shares how trauma, gratitude, and faith shaped his definition of success and inspired his journey through rabbinical studies, business ventures, and global teaching. He opens up about building a successful jewelry business during the dot-com boom, the bold marketing that made it thrive, and the lessons learned from both triumphs and failures.As someone who blends spirituality with sharp business acumen, Pinny reflects on the importance of empathy, and education in today’s divided world. Whether he's speaking on social responsibility, family dynamics, or the legacy he hopes to leave - his insights will inspire anyone seeking to lead a more intentional and impactful life.Key Takeaways - Success is about discovering and living your true purpose - Gratitude and trauma deeply influence mindset and direction - Education and teaching are core to lasting impact - The internet changed the face of marketing and business - Bold risks and chutzpah are essential in entrepreneurship - Building a successful jewellery brand required innovation and resilience - Family dynamics can be a powerful business advantage - Faith provides clarity in leadership and life - Empathy is key to healing division and driving change - Legacy is helping others reveal their gifts and take actionConnect with Pinny Gniwisch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pinny/Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 11min
Inside India’s Fast-Evolving Manufacturing Boom with Divya Ramraika
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we sit down with Divya Ramraika, Managing Director of Star Engineers, to explore his journey from working hands-on in his family’s factory to becoming a key force in India’s automotive electronics sector.Divya opens up about growing up in an entrepreneurial household, learning from his father’s leadership style, and the values that continue to shape his business decisions today. From automating production lines to setting up a plant in Vietnam, Divya shares how quick thinking and a resilient mindset helped him scale a legacy business into a globally competitive brand.As a second-generation entrepreneur, he talks about balancing innovation with tradition, navigating cultural shifts across borders, and preparing the next generation for leadership. Whether it’s adapting to the rise of electric vehicles or embracing digital transformation, Divya remains focused on building an organisation that lasts.Whether you're leading a family business, managing cross-cultural teams, or redefining success on your own terms - this episode is filled with wisdom, grit, and the blueprint of building something with lasting impact.Key Takeaways • Success is rooted in resilience and long-term relationships • Learning from family leadership shapes your business mindset • Automation and global expansion were game-changers for scale • Establishing a plant in Vietnam required agility and courage • Innovation and R&D drive growth in automotive electronics • Adapting to local culture is essential when scaling internationally • India’s manufacturing sector is evolving fast—with huge potential • Digital transformation and sustainability are now non-negotiable • Family support fuels long-term entrepreneurial success • Building a legacy means preparing the next generationConnect with Divya RamraikaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-ramraikaFollow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )

Jun 25, 2025 • 51min
Family First, Business Second: How Michael Fox Builds for Generations
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast we sit down with Michael Fox - veteran property developer, former Toll Holdings executive, and father of two - to unpack a career defined by bold decisions, strategic growth, and a commitment to leaving something that lasts.Michael traces his journey from modest beginnings to leading the construction of more than 2,000 apartments across Melbourne. He reflects on scaling Toll Holdings, why empowering teams is the only way to achieve sustainable growth, and how relationships built on trust underpin every strong business.Family remains his guiding force: Michael explains how every project and every risk ultimately ladders back to a legacy for his daughters. We also discuss his Harvard OPM experience, the rise of property-technology, and what the future holds for real-estate development in a rapidly changing world.Key Takeaways • Success is about building something that leaves a legacy. • Family values drive long-term vision. • Empowered teams create sustainable success. • Trust-based relationships are the foundation of great business. • Harvard OPM broadened strategic thinking and leadership clarity. • Real estate demands resilience, adaptability, and foresight. • Innovation in prop-tech is reshaping property’s future. • Great leaders prioritise trust, not just transactions.Connect with Michael FoxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-fox-654b7122Follow us on all your favourite platforms:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheQuestforSuccessPodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Quest-For-Success-Podcast/61560418629272/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thequestforsuccesspod/Twitter: https://x.com/quest4success_LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-quest-for-successTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thequestforsuccesspodWebsite: www.thequestforsuccesspodcast.com Please share this around to anyone you think will get value from it : )