Educator. Mentor. Coach.

In a Toastmasters impromptu speaking round, I was once asked what excites me the most. I answered instantly, “Reading and teaching.” These two interests continue to shape my work and thinking even today.

This blog is centred on books, ideas, reflections, and the clarity that comes from deep reading. For me, reading is not just a hobby. It is a meta-competencya base skill that strengthens how we think, learn, and solve problems. It helps us become lifelong learners. Through this space, I share what I read, what I learn, and how these ideas connect to work, careers, and personal growth. If you value reading and continuous learning, you can join the mailing list here.

In 5th standard, on 5th September, on Teachers’ Day, I played the role of a teacher — and teaching never left me. After a period in the IT industry in India and Japan, I formally entered academia and completed a rigorous PhD (FPM) in Organisational Behaviour (OB) at XLRI.

For nearly two decades, I’ve been part of classrooms, research work, and mentoring spaces that explore how people learn, grow, and perform at work. I teach and write about HR and OB, areas where understanding people matters as much as understanding systems. On Substack, I write regularly about management, behaviour, careers, and OB-HR themes. You can subscribe here.”https://santoshsali.substack.com/

Over time, my MBA students would approach me with career questions. They stayed in touch even after graduating. Some referred their spouses and relatives to speak to me for career guidance. These interactions made me realise that I could support a wider group of people, as my strength has always been careers.

So, I expanded my work into coaching mid-career professionals and career aspirants. To deepen my practice, I pursued ICF certification. You can read about my coaching services on my LinkedIn Services page. <link>Through this blog and my newsletter, I bring together reflections, research insights, and thoughtful readings. The aim is simple — to make learning meaningful, practical, and connected to real life. If this interests you, you can subscribe to the monthly newsletter here. <link>

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