Discover the power of optimism, perseverance, and relentless determination in this inspiring conversation with Mou Dasgupta. As the Founder and CEO of Brook37 The Atelier (uh·teh·lee·ay), an innovative American tea brand, Mou has overcome numerous obstacles on her journey to success. Born in India, Mou learned to read and write in English but never really "spoke" the language until she was 18 years old, yet she went on to study physics and computer science before landing in the finance industry.
Facing the challenges of being a single mom with a demanding career, Mou courageously attempted to leave her job at JP Morgan three times before finally succeeding in pursuing her passion for tea production.
Mou's corporate background has been invaluable in navigating the challenges of starting a business. Throughout her entrepreneurial journey, she has been unafraid to seek help and share her story, leading to an incredible response from others and even attracting collaborators.
As a self-described trendsetter, she has infused her unique vision into every aspect of her brand, from the packaging and aroma to the sensory experience of her tea. Her authentic and transparent approach has attracted a talented team of female managers who share her commitment to producing exceptional tea while upholding their environmental and social values.
Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or simply searching for motivation to keep pushing forward in your own ventures, this podcast is a must-listen.
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Highlights
[02:49] Mou’s journey from India
[08:01] Why it took three attempts to leave her job in the financial industry
[09:53] Overcoming challenges and limiting beliefs to leave her job
[13:33] How Mou started her tea business
[17:11] What was important to her tea brand
[22:25] Leveraging important relationships
[24:30] The great response Mou received about her brand, Brook37
[26:47] Telling the story of her small tea company
[29:16] Finding mentors and sponsors
[31:29] What to unlearn from corporate life
[34:14] Practicing self care
[36:01] Lightning round questions -
Quotes
“My brand is a reflection of me.” – Mou Dasgupta
“From every conversation I have, I learn something.” – Mou Dasgupta
“I think where my corporate career got me ready is to prepare myself before a meeting.” – Mou Dasgupta
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Lightning Round Questions
What book has greatly influenced you?
“Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead” by Nell Scovell and Sheryl Sandberg
What is your favorite inspiring quote or saying?
It’s not done until it’s done.
What is one word or moniker you would use to describe yourself?
Trendsetter
What is one change you've implemented that made your life better?
Self-care, working out, eating healthy.
What power song would you want playing as you walk out onto a stage?
"Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys -
About
Mou Dasgupta is a Trendsetting Disrupter on a mission to bring luxury tea to discerning American households and make their moments of connections more memorable, in a socially and environmentally conscious way.
Mou is an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, an equality advocate, and a leader in building high performing teams.
Mou is the Founder and CEO of Brook37 The Atelier, an American tea brand, that has the goal to disrupt the dusty tea industry by introducing the rarest and the most exquisite teas to American consumers. She believes that a premium tea is the non-alcoholic sibling of premium wine and it needs to be reimagined.
Mou comes with 25 years of experience in the financial services industry. She held key leadership positions at Capital Group, Morgan Stanley, and J P Morgan Chase, prior to her departure from the corporate career. She is known to be a champion for diversity and equality. She established Lean in Circles and spearheaded multiple corporate programs for women’s advancements.
At the peak of her career, Mou decided to depart her corporate life and follow her passion to build a brand where the core values will be of driving force and not financial gain. Brook37 is Plastic Neutral and 1% for the planet certified from day 1 and they donate 2% of their revenue to social and environmental causes. Brook37 is a woman first organization, where 90% of the team members are women, not by design, but by pure talent.
Mou has worked all her life in providing support for various causes. Her Covid relief work was featured by J P Morgan, where she single-handedly supported businesses as well as communities in need in India. Mou is an avid supporter of various NGOs and educational institutions within and outside the USA.
Mou has an undergraduate degree in Physics and a MS in Computer Science. Her passion is to disrupt the status quo, that led her to create her brand Brook37.
Mou lives in Princeton, NJ with her husband Sanjay, their dog Mishti and cat Zara. They have a daughter Emily, and two sons Sabar and Navin who live in New York.
Links:
Website: https://brook37.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mou-dasgupta/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brook37tea/