The Quest for Success

Dr. Dorian von Freyhold, a consultant and researcher with a PhD in consumer psychology, shares insights on redefining success through the lens of happiness. He discusses how his global upbringing fostered adaptability and a people-first approach in business. Dorian emphasizes the importance of genuine networking over transactional relationships, and how life experiences shape professional growth. He also highlights the role of personal character in achieving success and the impact of AI on the consulting landscape.

In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast we sit down with Mark Plueckthun, Managing Director of Allied Metals, for a candid and insightful conversation on what it truly means to succeed in business and life.Mark shares his personal story, from his early upbringing and formative experiences to building a successful career rooted in leadership, mentorship, and relationship management. He offers practical advice on building strong teams, cultivating authentic leadership, and navigating the challenges of the metals industry in an era increasingly shaped by sustainability and innovation.This episode dives deep into the principles that have guided Mark’s leadership philosophy, including the value of persistence in sales, the importance of cultural diversity in the workplace, and the need to balance professional ambition with personal fulfilment.Whether you’re a young professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or seasoned executive, this conversation delivers meaningful insights on success, growth, and what it takes to lead with purpose.Key Topics Covered: - Defining success through a people-first lens - Lessons from mentorship and early influences - Building team culture and hiring for attitude - Leadership traits that make an impact - Relationship-driven business practices - Challenges and opportunities in the metals industry - Sustainability and innovation in manufacturing - Work-life balance and values in leadership - Advice for the next generationConnect with Mark Plueckthun:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-plueckthun/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 : )

Yohani De Silva, Sri Lanka’s global music sensation, shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to international stardom. She discusses how music wasn’t her initial path and the rocky start of her performances that built her resilience. The viral success of "Manike Mage Hithe" not only launched her career but also showcased Sri Lankan music worldwide. Yohani opens up about the pressure of sudden fame, balancing her identity as an artist, and her passion for mentoring young talent. Her creative process blends multiple languages, breaking cultural barriers.

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 : )

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 : )

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 : )

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 : )

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 : )

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 : )

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 : )