What can earning a black belt in karate teach you about leading a global business team?

In this TechVibe Radio interview, CGI Senior Vice President Manoj Mishra sits down with Jonathan Kersting and Audrey Russo to explore the five powerful leadership lessons he's carried from the dojo into the boardroom. After six years of training, Mishra discovered that the discipline and mindset behind martial arts go far beyond physical skill—they build emotional awareness, humility, and resilience that define great leaders.

From staying centered under pressure to serving others before yourself, Mishra shows how karate's core principles can transform the way leaders inspire teams, make decisions, and grow personally and professionally.

Key Takeaways:

• Discipline fuels consistency — True leaders show up even when it's hard.

• Quiet confidence beats arrogance — Strength is best shown through humility.

• Servant leadership matters — Those with higher "belts" should lift others up.

• Respond, don't react — Emotional awareness keeps you calm and effective.

• Resilience is earned — Falling and getting back up builds lasting strength.

Hit Play to hear how one executive's journey to a black belt reshaped his leadership philosophy — and why the best leaders never stop being students.

The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe Radio to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation landscape.