American Technocrat Who Loves India Speaks About Coaching

Dr Mosongo Moukwa, President of Hathaway Advanced Materials has a special place in his heart for India, and its people. He is a polymath; he has authored a book on Leadership and works as Executive Coach. I interviewed him on his insights on coaching.

Dr Mosongo Moukwa: Thank you, Vivek, for the opportunity to reconnect. India has a special place in my heart, filled with both professional and personal growth experiences. I’ve had the privilege of working in India for over 12 years, first with Asian Paints in Mumbai, where I helped build the R&D organization in Turbhe from 2006 to 2013. Later, I returned to India to work with Phillips Carbon Black in Baroda from 2018 to 2022. These years weren’t just career-defining; they were life-enriching, allowing my wife and me to experience the warmth of Indian culture, make meaningful connections, and build lasting friendships. I still cherish the welcoming support you, Vivek, provided, helping me integrate into Indian society, even enrolling me to basic Hindi! It’s these bonds and experiences that I hold dear.

Today, I’m focused on using my experiences to support small business owners. I’m now a best-selling author and a nationally recognized business strategist. My book, “Be a Leader of Significance,” which emphasizes impactful leadership, has resonated with many. But beyond the accolades, my passion lies in helping entrepreneurs uncover hidden revenue opportunities and build lives filled with purpose and fulfillment.

What are the challenges experienced by small business owners?

Indian small business owners are among the most hard-working, often putting in longer hours than they did as employees yet finding they’re not always seeing the returns they hoped for. Many start with dreams of freedom and flexibility but are soon confronted with the immense demands of managing daily operations, handling cash flow issues, and constantly attracting and retaining customers. This intense grind can be isolating, leading to feelings of stress, uncertainty, and loneliness. The challenges don’t end there; in India, entrepreneurs face limited access to financing, a shortage of skilled labor, and outdated technology.

Statistically, it’s daunting. Around 90% of Indian startups don’t make it past the first five years, often due to issues like misreading market demand, inadequate funding, and a lack of strategic planning. With so much pressure, it’s easy for entrepreneurs to lose sight of the passion and purpose that initially drove them to start their business.

How is your coaching addressing these challenges, and what is your program?

My coaching program, “Pathway to Profit,” is designed to address these core challenges, financial pressures, operational stress, and the quest to rekindle that original passion. It’s a hands-on, practical approach to building a sustainable business that focuses on three main pillars: revenue growth, cost optimization, and efficient operations. Unlike traditional methods, this program doesn’t rely on pouring more money into advertising. Instead, I work closely with clients to create systems that generate steady income, reduce expenses, and foster customer loyalty.

But “Pathway to Profit” isn’t just about boosting profits. It’s about helping entrepreneurs reclaim their time and align their business with their personal values. Whether it’s spending quality time with family or achieving a meaningful impact in their community, I want my clients to have a business that supports a fulfilling life rather than consuming it.

What will they gain?

Clients in “Pathway to Profit” receive a comprehensive toolkit for building a profitable, self-sustaining business. On the financial side, most experience a significant revenue boost, I aim for at least a 22% increase in the first year. For an ₹8 crore business, this could mean an additional ₹176 lakh in revenue. But the gains go beyond numbers. Clients regain precious time and a deeper sense of fulfillment, allowing them to step back from the relentless hustle, knowing their business is running smoothly and steadily growing.

That stability gives them the freedom to focus on the bigger picture: leaving a legacy, enjoying family life, and achieving the freedom they’ve always envisioned. The program doesn’t just set them up for short-term success; it reawakens their joy in the journey.

Why does your coaching program work?

“Pathway to Profit” works because it’s grounded in my real-world experience and addresses the entire picture, not just isolated business mechanics. Having worked and lived in India, I’ve seen firsthand the unique challenges small businesses here face, from cash flow struggles to operational inefficiencies. I know how isolating and overwhelming entrepreneurship can feel, especially in such a dynamic environment.

My program combines proven strategies in revenue growth, cost management, and building customer loyalty with a deeper focus on reclaiming time, finding balance, and aligning business success with personal goals. There is no “quick fix” here—“koi aasan upaay nahin hai”. It’s a sustainable framework tailored to each client’s journey. They’re not just learning strategies; they’re transforming how they see and manage their business, and that shift is what makes the program’s impact lasting.

What advice do you have for entrepreneurs starting out?

For anyone just starting, my first advice is to define your “why”, a purpose beyond profit that will fuel you through the challenges. Build a strong foundation by knowing your market, setting up efficient systems, and putting customers at the heart of everything you do. Don’t go it alone; seek mentors, coaches, or a supportive community.

Also, manage cash flow wisely and keep accurate records to stay resilient during financial ups and downs. Surround yourself with skilled, motivated people and ensure your business aligns with your values. Remember, true success isn’t just about money in the bank, it’s about creating a business that lets you enjoy life and live the dreams you set out to achieve.

Dr Mosongo Moukwa’s website:  https://mosongomoukwa.coach

Feature Pic Courtesy: Ashley Batz on Unsplash

Vivek S Patwardhan

What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others/ All work copyrighted.