I Just Had to Ask...with Seema Mangoo

About I Just Had to Ask...with Seema Mangoo

Running a business means making decisions in real time with incomplete information and the people worth learning from are usually too busy building to write about it. 'I Just Had to Ask... with Seema Mangoo' is hosted by Seema Mangoo, a business owner who built her business connecting founders and decision-makers across markets. If you're a business owner who wants honest insight over rehearsed answers, this is your podcast.

Publisher

Seema Mangoo

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Jun 2026

Latest episode

26 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

13 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   26 Sept 2026

   Episode 12: Lou Rowe - Corporate Marketing to Coaching: Owning Your Unique Strengths

   How do you transition from the security of a 20-year corporate marketing career to building your own business? In this episode, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Lou Rowe, founder of Rowe & Rise. Lou helps founders and leaders stop copying others and start leveraging what makes them uniquely brilliant. Lou shares her honest journey of conquering self-doubt, navigating the unexpected challenge of building a personal brand, and finding accountability when stepping out of the corporate safety net. In this episode, we cover: Overcoming imposter syndrome and gaining confidence in pricing your worth. Balancing administrative discipline with room for creativity. Why unregulated coaching needs ethical frameworks like ICF and CliftonStrengths. Tune in for an open, practical conversation about conquering self-doubt and getting curious about how you work best. 👉Connect with Lou Rowe: https://www.instagram.com/roweandrise (https://www.instagram.com/roweandrise) and here https://www.linkedin.com/in/lourowe/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lourowe/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

2. 

   20 Sept 2026

   Episode 11: Paul Phillips - From CFO to Entrepreneur

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Paul Phillips, Founder and CEO of 'Relocate to UAE '. After two decades in finance, including a high-level CFO role in private equity, Paul leaped into entrepreneurship to build 'Relocate to UAE ' from the ground up. Now ranking organically at the top of Google search results, the platform serves as a trusted guide for individuals, families, and businesses moving to the region. Paul shares what it takes to build a robust ecosystem of trusted partners and scale a digital-first platform in a fast-paced market. In this episode we discuss: How Relocate to UAE curated its network of exclusive, high-quality partners What the first 6 months of launching a business in the UAE actually look like Why long-term relationship building beats quick-fix sales outreach The essential networking advice every entrepreneur in the region needs to hear Whether you are planning a move, expanding your business, or scaling your own startup in the UAE, this conversation offers actionable insights. 👉 Connect with Paul Phillips: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-phillips-b042a65a/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-llewellyn/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

3. 

   13 Sept 2026

   Episode 10: Amanda Llewellyn - Why saying "No, Thank You" to Scaling is OK

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Amanda Llewellyn, co-founder of The Mortgage Boutique. Amanda is a Dubai-based entrepreneur who is shaking up the UAE property landscape by delivering a high-touch, concierge-style mortgage service for busy professionals, executives, and high-net-worth clients. Grown entirely through organic referrals and personal networks, The Mortgage Boutique proves that true business success comes from having the confidence to do less, but execute exceptionally well. In this episode, we discuss: Why focusing on deep client relationships and high service quality beats "rack-and-stack" transactional models. Stepping out of comfort zones and building a personal brand on LinkedIn through consistent micro-habits. Why "there is never a perfect moment" and how to take the moment to make it perfect. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on why being true to yourself is the key to success. 👉 Connect with Amanda Llewellyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-llewellyn/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-llewellyn/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

4. 

   6 Sept 2026

   Episode 9: Gautam Ganglani

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Gautam Ganglani, Chief Energising Officer at Right Selection Global Thought Leaders. For over 30 years, Gautam and his family enterprise have been connecting world-class speakers, authors, and coaches with corporate leaders across the GCC, Asia, and beyond. Gautam shares the philosophy behind his book, Breaking Bread, explaining why genuine human connection and shared meals far outweigh traditional sales tactics or transactional networking. In this episode, we explore: How a local non-fiction bookstore in Dubai transformed into a speaker management company. Why taking the time to share a meal builds trust and opens doors that cold outreach never could. E + R = O (Events + Response = Outcome): Jack Canfield’s framework for navigating market disruptions, economic downturns, and global crises. How the energy you bring to your family, team, and clients directly impacts your business outcomes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on scaling your business with heart. 👉 Connect with Gautam Ganglani: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gautamganglani/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gautamganglani/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

5. 

   30 Aug 2026

   Episode 8: Drocelle Bénézet

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Drocelle Bénézet, a chartered accountant, financial analysis expert, real estate investor, and CEO across three distinct ventures: Budget Mastermind, Rebuild Life Real Estate Investments, and Franchise Voices. Drawing on her extensive background with Big Four financial auditing, Drocelle breaks down why high revenue doesn't equal high profit, and why cash flow management is the ultimate safeguard for any entrepreneur. In this episode, we cover: The "4 Cs" Framework: How Capital, Cash Flow, Community, and Continuous Support tie together across diverse business models. Revenue vs. Profit vs. Cash Flow: Why an $18M turnover business can still struggle to meet payroll, and how to fix it. The Power of Real Ownership: What "owning the land" really means for entrepreneurs, from real estate portfolios to physical assets. Franchising & Business Acquisitions: How to leverage existing businesses as stepping stones toward your ultimate vision. Tune in to discover how to transform daily financial discipline into a legacy that lasts. 👉 Connect with Drocelle Bénézet: www.linkedin.com/in/drocelle-bénézet-41b3a6a7 (www.linkedin.com/in/drocelle-bénézet-41b3a6a7) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

6. 

   23 Aug 2026

   Epidode 7: Serge Jean aka 'The Boring ESG Guy'

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Serge Jean, aka "The Boring ESG Guy", founder of ALECA Solutions. With over 30 years of global experience as an energy executive and tech leader, Serge is making sustainability practical, transparent, and capital-efficient for SMEs across Malaysia, Canada, and global markets. In this conversation, Serge shares: How energy cultures and decarbonization goals differ between nations like Malaysia and Canada. How honest reporting opens doors to supply chains and major contracts. Why small businesses shouldn’t waste capital on inefficient micro-projects, and how economies of scale unlock real carbon reduction. Practical advice for business owners overwhelmed by the endless "alphabet soup" of ESG standards Tune in to discover how taking your first steps toward sustainability today can future-proof your business for tomorrow. 👉 Connect with Serge Jean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergejean/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sergejean/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

7. 

   16 Aug 2026

   Episode 6: Michelle France

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, Seema sits down with Michelle France, co-founder of Strategic Business Connect (SBC). After decades shaping school visions and leading teams across South Africa, Australia, and the UAE, Michelle leapt into business, only to realise that traditional, cold, transactional networking wasn't cutting it. Michelle is redefining how entrepreneurs connect across the UAE, UK, and beyond. In this episode, we cover: How to transfer decades of 'employed' skills into building a scalable startup. The secret to moving from transactional handshakes to authentic, high-value business relationships. How SBC maintains brand integrity and deep trust while scaling through ambassadors and licensees. One vital piece of advice for new business owners struggling to find their tribe. Whether you're an established SME owner or just stepping out on your own, Michelle’s insights on the "human advantage" in business will change how you view networking. 👉 Connect with Michelle France: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-france-b23650219/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-france-b23650219/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

8. 

   9 Aug 2026

   Episode 5: Julie Lewis

   In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, Seema Mangoo sits down with Julie Lewis, founder of Mountain High and a pioneer in nature-based leadership. Over 20 years ago, Julie founded the Middle East’s first female-led expedition company, leading over 70 expeditions across 20 countries, from the Arctic to Antarctica. But her greatest lessons in resilience weren't forged on the trail, they came from navigating major economic shifts, business reinventions, and profound personal loss. In this episode, we cover: How she launched her pioneering expedition business without a blueprint. Why resilience isn't about "bouncing back," but upgrading your internal operating system. The difference between merely performing and truly thriving in leadership. Practical ways leaders can draw on nature to build sustainable, regenerative performance. Tune in to discover how to adapt through any storm and why nature might just be the ultimate leadership mentor. 👉 Connect with Julie Lewis: ⁠https://julie-lewis.com/ (https://julie-lewis.com/) and https://julie-lewis.com/stand-like-a-mountain-audio/ (https://julie-lewis.com/stand-like-a-mountain-audio/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

9. 

   2 Aug 2026

   Episode 4: Susanna Toth Lee

   What does it take to navigate international business and successfully scale an SME across dynamic global markets? In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Susanna Toth Lee, Founder & CEO of HBBA Global and Ambassador for the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). With over 30 years of high-level experience with advising organisations like the UK Ministry of Defence, KPMG, and Harley-Davidson, Susanna has built a powerful international network spanning the UK, UAE, Europe and North America. In this episode, we cover: How HBBA Global connects SMEs to international investment and market entry opportunities. Key lessons learned from managing high-stakes international contracts. The common mistakes leaders make during expansion and why high expectations must be balanced with realism. The single most important step every business owner must take before investing in overseas growth. Details on upcoming global initiatives. Whether you're looking to scale globally or simply curious about cross-cultural business strategy, this conversation offers actionable insights from a true architect of global expansion. 👉 Connect with Susanna Toth Lee: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanna-toth-lee/ 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/ and here - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

10. 

    26 Jul 2026

    Episode 3: Aliya Rajah

    In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, Seema Mangoo sits down with Aliya Rajah, founder of AR Consulting, executive presence expert, and communication coach. Aliya shares her inspiring journey from a corporate biomedical career in London to running a successful coaching practice spanning the UK and UAE. In this episode, we cover: The Universal Struggle: Why imposter syndrome and communication fears affect leaders at every level. Overcoming Personal Fear: How Aliya conquered her own hatred of networking and public speaking to build a thrive-and-lead business. Future-Proofing Teams: Why corporate demand is shifting toward coaching junior and mid-level managers on social and people skills. Actionable Advice: The two key questions to ask yourself if fear is holding back your professional presence. Whether you’re an established leader, an emerging professional, or an entrepreneur stepping out of your comfort zone, this conversation has practical wisdom to help you speak with authority and build real confidence. 👉 Connect with Aliya Rajah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliya-rajah-0b72ba8a/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliya-rajah-0b72ba8a/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

11. 

    19 Jul 2026

    Episode 2: Mike Walden

    In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with FMCG powerhouse Mike Walden, CEO and Founder of Beboxa. With over 35 years of high-level experience, Mike knows exactly what it takes to scale brands internationally. But it’s his deep, 15-year expertise in the GCC market that makes him a true regional expert. Mike pulls back the curtain on why cracking the Middle Eastern market takes much more than a simple supermarket listing. Tune in as we discuss: The Reality of Regional Growth: Why patience and boots-on-the-ground presence trump shortcuts every single time. The Complexity of the GCC: Navigating multi-layered decision-making, franchise operations, and changing ownership structures. The Post-Exhibition Trap: Why securing a single order at a trade show like Gulfood doesn't mean you've "cracked the market" and what to do next. Tapping into Innovation: How Saudi Arabia's young, overseas-educated demographic is changing the game for on-trend wellness and innovative products. Whether you're an FMCG veteran or an entrepreneur eyeing regional expansion, Mike’s masterclass in transparency, relationship-building, and market strategy is an absolute must-listen. 👉 Connect with Mike Walden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-walden-08a1b032/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-walden-08a1b032/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - ⁠https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/⁠ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

12. 

    12 Jul 2026

    Episode 1: Phil Bedford

    In this episode of I Just Had to Ask, host Seema Mangoo sits down with Phil Bedford, founder of The Rebel Networker and Strategic Business Connect, to pull back the curtain on how he built an incredible career spanning recruitment, real estate, and international franchising across the UK, UAE, and Australia, without ever making a single cold call. Inside this episode, we dive into: The "Less is More" Philosophy: Why massive networking events fail, why 30 is the absolute perfect number for a networking group, and how to curate a "Deep Dive" room of just 12 people. Systems Over Passion: Why loving what you do isn't enough to sustain a business, and how to build efficient, relationship-driven systems that bring clients to you. The Cold Call Trap: Why traditional sales managers rely on the 1% conversion numbers game, and what you should be doing instead. The Power of Self-Awareness: Phil gets incredibly candid about his childhood experiences with bullying, overcoming internal demons, and how learning to "soften up" changed his leadership style. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a self-proclaimed introvert who absolutely hates traditional networking, this conversation will completely reframe how you build professional relationships. 👉 Connect with Phil Bedford: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philbedford/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/philbedford/) 👉 Connect with Seema Mangoo: https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/ (https://www.instagram.com/seema.mangoo/) and here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/smangoo) Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review if you enjoyed the episode! ------------ Artwork by Jhems - https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari (https://www.instagram.com/jhems_chaudhari) - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhems) Music by DARIOCOIRO - https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/ (https://pixabay.com/users/dariocoiro-54756271/)

13. 

    13 Jun 2026

    This is I Just Had to Ask…with Seema Mangoo

    This is I Just Had to Ask…with Seema Mangoo, a podcast for SME business owners and senior leaders who want the unfiltered truth about building and running a business. Every episode, I sit down with a global business leader who's still in it and ask the questions I genuinely want the answers to. No scripts, no highlight reels. Just an honest conversation about growth, learning, ambition, and the why. The first episode is coming soon. Hit follow wherever you get your podcasts so you don't miss it.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.