#145. How to Build a Purpose-Driven Business: Entrepreneurship Lessons with Neena Pandey

In this inspiring episode of the Pockets of Knowledge podcast, host Desiree Stanley sits down with Neena Pandey—serial entrepreneur, Forbes author, speaker, and business coach—to unpack the real story behind building multiple businesses from scratch, navigating failure, and finding purpose in the process.

Neena shares her path from growing up in India to becoming a marketing executive in Silicon Valley—all without a tech background—and how that experience eventually fueled her passion for entrepreneurship. From launching one of the fastest-growing education franchises in North America to founding socially conscious lifestyle brands like String Code and Indie Roots, Neena reveals the mindset, resilience, and strategy it takes to turn vision into reality.

This episode is filled with empowering insights on:

• How to pivot through setbacks and failures (including losing a trademark and $250k in inventory!)

• The critical importance of personal branding in today's market

• Building a business that aligns with your life goals—not just your income targets

• Mental health, mentorship, and why community matters for entrepreneurs

• The mission behind her “It’s Ok” movement and why women’s empowerment is central to everything she does

Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just dreaming of your first venture, Neena’s authenticity, transparency, and practical advice will leave you both inspired and better equipped to take your next step.

Bio:

Neena is a mother, wife, and multi-faceted businesswoman who was born and raised in India. She spent the majority of her career in the male-dominated tech industry as a marketing executive in Silicon Valley. 

She’s a serial entrepreneur, a Forbes author, speaker, start-up advisor and a business coach.

String Code, her apparel brand, is driven by a spirited desire to empower women of all backgrounds, instilling in them the confidence to pursue their ideal life path and compete on an equitable platform. Women's empowerment and mental health are at the core of String Code's identity. The brand offers inclusive sizing and flattering silhouettes that complement and accentuate every body type. String Code also initiated the “It’s Ok” project, an awareness community and digital campaign to help support anyone struggling in their everyday lives. “It’s Ok” aims to help individuals regain the confidence and hope they need to thrive.

Like String Code, Indie Roots is guided by social consciousness and sustainability. Indie Roots is an artisan collective that curates unique products directly from artists to consumers. With a range of furnishings, home decor, and lifestyle accessories, Indie Roots aims to inspire appreciation for thoughtfully, handcrafted products.

Connect with Neena:

Email: email_address

Website: https://thestringcode.com/

Website:  https://neenapandey.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeenaPandey

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Thestringcode/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamneenapandey/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenapandey/

Coupon code for The String Code: Desiree20

Books mentioned:

The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers―Straight Talk on the Challenges of Entrepreneurship by Ben Horowitz (Author) - https://amzn.to/3IBOsSt