About Guest:Srikanth Velamakanni is the Co-Founder and Executive Vice-Chairman of Fractal, one of India’s first AI unicorns. With over 25 years of leadership, he has helped Fortune 100 companies make billion-dollar decisions by blending artificial intelligence with behavioral science. A former investment banker, he now serves on multiple boards, including NASSCOM and ideaForge, and is deeply involved in shaping India’s AI future across business, defense, and education.In this episode, Fractal Co-Founder Srikanth Velamakanni shares how he built a billion-dollar AI company by combining math, psychology, and deep human insight. He talks about making better decisions, building a people-first culture, learning from Jeff Bezos, and designing businesses that last 100 years. From startup lessons to leadership frameworks, this conversation is a masterclass in long-term thinking, emotional intelligence, and building institutions that outlive their founders.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:05 Starting from Scratch: Key Steps02:44 Finding Your Sweet Spot04:29 Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs11:59 Importance of Industry Choice17:03 Behavioral Psychology and Decision Making22:02 Tools for Guiding the Elephant Brain26:01 Observing Human Behavior28:56 Investment Banking Experience31:40 Starting Fractal: Challenges and Insights46:09 Understanding Data Analytics in Business46:30 Charging for Insights: Business Models46:56 Risk and Reward in Client Relationships47:34 Setting Value Expectations with Clients48:50 Pricing Models for Analytics Services50:07 Client Acquisition Stories: P&G53:01 Client Acquisition Stories: Tech Giant54:33 The Importance of Alumni in Business Growth01:00:37 AI in Defense: Task Force Experience01:04:14 Diversity in Problem Solving01:06:57 Customer Centricity and Long-Term Thinking01:08:31 Investing in R&D for Future Needs01:11:39 Building a Long-Term Company Culture01:15:53 Identifying and Nurturing Leaders01:18:21 Navigating Complex Organizations01:20:19 People Principles at Fractal01:24:55 Future Predictions and Optimism01:26:51 Personal Insights and Meditation01:29:02 Fascination with Business Models01:30:13 Keys to Success and Future PlansCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#Fractal #AILeadership #DecisionScience #BehavioralEconomics #LongTermThinking #FounderMindset #StartupCulture #EmotionalIntelligence #AIForGood #InstitutionBuilders #ArtificialIntelligence #GenerativeAI #LLMs #MachineLearning #AIInnovation #AIProducts #Analytics #DataDrivenDecisions #AIUnicorn #FutureOfWork
About Guest:Mohan Reddy is the Founder Chairman of Cyient, a global technology solutions company, and a visionary leader in India's engineering and innovation ecosystem. With over three decades of experience, he has also served as Chairman of NASSCOM and holds leadership roles at premier institutions like IIT Roorkee and IIT Hyderabad. Deeply invested in education and entrepreneurship, he’s a founding director of T-Hub and serves on the Leadership Advisory Board at the University of Michigan.In this podcast, Mohan Reddy shares hard-earned wisdom on building institutions with integrity, succession planning, and the real meaning of leadership. He opens up about grooming future leaders, creating a values-first culture, and earning the trust of investors for over 27 years. From adopting government schools to mentoring his son without entitlement, he emphasises discipline, transparency, and purpose, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how true legacy is built.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:10 Balancing Life and Work04:34 Financial Growth Journey04:57 Entrepreneurial Challenges07:17 Institutional Building07:28 Company History and Evolution10:12 Key Man Risk10:57 Values and Culture12:28 Stakeholders and Society13:31 Balancing Stakeholder Interests18:03 Role of Training and Loyalty18:52 Succession Strategy25:12 Reflecting on Past Decisions25:33 Aggression and Caution in Entrepreneurship26:43 Delegation and Control26:55 Acquisition and Growth27:34 Starting from Scratch27:47 The Power of Communication28:48 Trust and Execution29:14 Design-Led Manufacturing29:47 Early Career and Transition to Computers32:09 Purpose and Fulfillment33:48 Impact on Education35:39 Mentorship and Values36:08 Changing Perspectives on Education36:42 Teaching and Engagement38:12 Predicting the Future39:26 AI and Continuous Learning41:31 Mobility and Sustainability43:06 Virtual Reality Innovations43:36 Finding a Mentor46:38 Boardroom Lessons and IntegrityCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#BVRMohanReddy #BVReddy #Cyient #CyientDLM #IITLeadership #IITAlumni #VisionaryLeader #IndianEntrepreneur #LegacyBuilder #ValuesDriven #SchoolTransformation #GovtSchoolToPrivate #CSRIndia #SocialImpact #MentorMindset #InstitutionBuilder #InvestorTrust #StartupMentor #IndiaInc #LeadershipWithPurpose #TechForGood #DigitalIndia #EducationReform #SuccessionPlanning #EntrepreneurJourney
About Guest:Desh Deshpande is a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with a legacy of building transformative tech companies. He founded billion-dollar ventures like Cascade Communications and Sycamore Networks, served as Chairman of A123Systems and Sparta Group, and held leadership roles at Tejas Networks and Motorola. A Life Member of the MIT Corporation and Trustee of the Deshpande Foundation, he’s spent over 25 years shaping innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact in both the U.S. and India.In this podcast, Desh Deshpande shares his journey from arriving in Canada with just $8 to building billion-dollar companies like Cascade and Sycamore. He discusses the evolution of internet infrastructure, startup lessons, innovation vs. relevance, and how to scale impact through philanthropy. From quitting startups to working with Bill Clinton and MIT, Desh offers deep insights on entrepreneurship, risk-taking, technology trends, and creating meaningful change across business and society.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:58 Journey to Canada03:45 Graduate School and Teaching08:06 First Taste of Entrepreneurship08:25 Move to Silicon Valley and Boston09:39 Growth Strategies and Market Needs11:28 Technological Innovations14:12 Building a Network15:28 Challenges in Telecommunications21:07 Rise of Sycamore Networks24:29 Market Dynamics and Competition31:43 Future Technologies and Opportunities35:38 Personal Reflections and Advice44:13 Lessons from Coral Networks44:44 Moving to Boston and Early Struggles45:10 First Funding and Product Development45:40 Differences in Vision and Decision to Quit48:13 Starting Cascade and Entrepreneurial Spirit49:07 Living a Life of Sacrifice vs. Enjoyment50:17 Lessons on Control and Letting Go52:42 Broadening Comfort Zones Through Challenges59:53 Importance of Conviction and Objectivity01:03:22 Philanthropic Journey and MIT Involvement01:04:32 Impact of ICORP Program in the US and India01:05:07 Challenges of Working with the Bottom of the Pyramid01:11:24 Entrepreneurship for All Program01:13:06 Irrational Optimism in Entrepreneurship01:13:57 Navigating Financial Crises01:15:01 Experience with Bill Clinton and Air Force One01:17:30 Predicting the Future and Embracing Change01:19:38 Adapting to Technological Changes01:20:26 Advising Obama and Policy Impact01:22:31 Creating Entrepreneurial Ecosystems01:23:06 Lessons from N.R. Narayana MurthyCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#DeshDeshpande #DeshpandeInterview #DeshDeshpandePodcast #DeshDeshpandeStory #DeshDeshpandeMIT #DeshDeshpandeBiography #DeshDeshpandeEntrepreneur #DeshDeshpandePhilanthropy #DeshDeshpandeFoundation #DeshDeshpandeInnovation #CascadeCommunications #SycamoreNetworks #TejasNetworks #CoralNetworks #A123Systems #Airvana #SpartaGroup #Motorola #MIT #DeshpandeFoundation #BillionDollarStartup #InternetRevolution #StartupSuccess #OpticalNetworking #TelecomLegend #IITToMIT #IndianEntrepreneur #SiliconValleyLegend #TechPioneer
About Guest:Gaurav Singh Kushwaha is the Founder and CEO of BlueStone, one of India’s leading omnichannel jewellery brands. An IIT Delhi alumnus and a seasoned tech entrepreneur, Gaurav began his career as a software engineer at Amazon and Tavant Technologies. He co-founded Chakpak.com before launching BlueStone in 2011. Recognized by Fortune and Economic Times in their "40 under 40" lists, Gaurav has redefined how Indians discover and buy fine jewellery online.In this podcast, Gaurav Singh shares how he built Bluestone from scratch, turning a struggling startup into a ₹12,000 crore jewelry brand. He opens up about early failures, surviving near shutdowns, pivoting from online-only to omnichannel, and using design, data, and trust to win customers. He also talks about tech-driven retail, funding challenges, Ratan Tata’s support, and his vision for Bluestone’s future, including IPO plans and the role of AI in retail.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction 02:13 Lessons from Early Career02:32 Cryptography and Early Jobs06:38 Transition to Amazon08:03 Founding the First Startup09:46 Challenges with Chakpak11:33 Birth of Bluestone11:54 Initial Struggles and Perseverance14:13 Building the Brand16:47 Design and Catalog Challenges21:24 Manufacturing and Quality Control26:44 Adopting Omnichannel Strategy30:39 Opening the First Store31:07 Competing with Legacy Brands31:31 Customer Behavior Insights33:44 Expanding Store Locations37:25 Franchise Model and Future Plans37:48 Store SOPs and Initial Challenges38:26 Capital Structure and Franchise Model39:45 Convincing Franchisees and Early Growth40:54 Impact of COVID-19 on Business42:41 Gold Inventory and Hedging Strategy44:23 Navigating Financial Challenges49:36 Target Audience Insights51:36 Cultural and Demographic Factors52:57 Store Profitability and Inventory Management53:22 Co-Founder Elevation and Team Dynamics57:29 Technology in Retail Operations57:38 Automated Merchandising System59:52 Investment from Ratan Tata01:01:17 IPO and Capital Strategy01:04:18 Debt vs. Equity Decisions01:07:21 Support from Key Investors01:07:31 Empathy and Support from Prashant01:08:24 Navigating Competitive Markets01:13:06 Future Predictions and AI Impact01:14:37 Concluding Thoughts on AI and Human ExistenceCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#GauravSingh #Bluestone #RatanTata #StartupJourney #EntrepreneurLife #FoundersStory #BuildInIndia #StartupIndia #BusinessInspiration #IndianStartup #D2CBrands #IPOJourney #ScaleUp #JewelryBusiness #Bluestone #RetailRevolution #JewelryDesign #OmnichannelRetail #JewelryStartup #LuxuryRetail #EcommerceIndia #JewelryInnovation #JewelryTech #ZeroToHero #FromFailureToSuccess #BrandBuilding #CustomerExperience #DataDrivenBusiness #FranchiseModel #LeadershipJourney #TechInRetail #GoldBusiness #IndianBrands
Check out Ditto:https://ditto.sh/9hmopbAbout Guest:Ajay Gupta is the visionary founder behind Capital Foods, who created household brands like Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones. With a background in disruptive advertising, he revolutionised Indian kitchens by popularising Desi Chinese cuisine. His bold marketing strategies and consumer insight built a ₹2,000 crore empire, recently acquired by Tata. Today, he continues his journey as Senior Advisor to the CEO at Tata Consumer Products Ltd.In this podcast, Ajay Gupta shares his remarkable journey from bankruptcy to building Capital Foods, home to Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones. He discusses the emotional toll of failure, the vision behind launching Desi Chinese in India, and the power of storytelling and branding. Ajay reflects on scaling without credit, reinventing home cooking, and ultimately selling his ₹2,000 crore business to Tata, offering deep lessons on resilience, innovation, and legacy-building.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:15 Marketing vs. Advertising02:55 Understanding Consumer Wants06:21 The Rise of Indian Fashion07:21 Transition to Marketing and Advertising08:07 Seeking Knowledge and Mentorship10:24 Case Studies and Observations11:32 Building a Fashion Retail Empire12:28 Entering the Food Industry14:16 Challenges in the Food Business15:05 Export Strategies and Innovations20:01 The Birth of Desi Chinese23:54 Survival and Growth Strategies27:31 The Role of Supermarkets29:44 Exporting Indian Cuisine38:27 Maintaining Profitability48:10 Observations on Consumer Behavior49:11 Future of Indian Market53:48 Opportunities in New Categories55:41 Affordable Pricing Strategies56:14 Consumer Aspirations and Dining Table Excitement56:55 The Complexity of Food Marketing58:00 Understanding Consumer Behavior58:27 Rural and Urban Market Insights01:00:37 Capital Foods' Market Approach01:10:07 The Role of Brand Ambassadors01:11:00 Building a Strong Brand Identity01:24:51 The Importance of Human Connection in Business01:33:21 Balancing Health and Taste01:36:08 The Journey of Wealth Creation01:39:56 The Power of Belief in Entrepreneurship01:42:47 The Role of Luck in Success01:43:09 Admiration for Successful Brands01:43:49 The Emotional Connection with Amul01:47:14 Respect and Human Values01:47:28 Bucket List Achievements01:48:49 Philanthropy and Impact Investment01:50:29 Reflections on the Journey01:50:52 Final Thoughts and GratitudeCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#AjayGupta #CapitalFoods #ChingsSecret #SmithAndJones #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #Innovation #StartupStory #Foodpreneur #Branding #Marketing #BusinessGrowth #Founder #DesiChinese #Inspiration #Leadership #Visionary #Success #Legacy #FoodRevolution #Disruption #Motivation #TataGroup #Acquisition #Growth #Courage #Storytelling #Transformation #Hustle #IndiaBusiness
About Guest:Shankar Sharma is a well-known Indian financial analyst and investor. He is the founder of GQuant Investech and previously the Managing Director at First Global. He is recognized for his stock-picking abilities and market trend analysis, particularly his early recognition of the Indian IT sector in the 1990s. Sharma is also a strong advocate for investing in small-cap stocks.In this podcast, Shankar Sharma shares his unconventional investing philosophy, emphasizing that wealth creation is a probabilistic game—not a mystical skill. He criticizes the lack of data-driven frameworks in India, discusses the importance of knowing when to sell, and shares how global exposure shaped his thinking. He also draws parallels between investing, relationships, and life, urging listeners to stay curious, embrace imperfection, and make evidence-based decisions.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:49 Consumer-Centric Marketing05:40 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons06:28 The Evolution of Computing07:45 Demystifying Technology08:52 Investing Frameworks and Patterns10:26 The Importance of Sell Discipline11:56 Health Insurance and Financial Independence12:36 A Global Perspective from Childhood14:20 The Influence of Early Education19:47 Balancing Good and Bad in India21:26 The Reality of the Promised Land22:16 Investing in Imperfect Markets23:39 Case Studies in Investing32:12 The Probabilistic Nature of Investing39:43 The Curiosity Around Copper Investments40:09 Investment Strategies and Probabilistic Bets40:38 Global Investment Allocation40:53 Betting on Troubled Countries41:56 4 AM Investing Framework43:56 Impact of AI on Demographics44:36 The Role of Crisis in Economic Shifts45:16 The Importance of Questions Over Answers45:38 Desires and the Brain's Mysteries47:12 Evolution of Investment Philosophy49:05 The Game of Probabilities in Investing52:01 The Myth of Great Investors53:43 Shorting and Bear Market Strategies55:19 Data-Driven Decision Making56:47 Relationships and Data01:07:13 Learning from Personal Experiences01:07:58 Innovative Approaches to Brain Recovery01:13:05 Intermittent Relationships and Volatility01:15:27 Future Predictions and Geopolitics01:18:22 Lessons from ChildrenCredits:Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Support: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#ShankarSharma #InvestingWisdom #StockMarketIndia #FinancialFreedom #WealthCreation #MarketMindset #IndianInvestor #ValueInvesting #MarketCrash #WarrenBuffett #ProbabilisticThinking #MoneyTalks #InvestmentStrategy #GrowthMindset #EquityInvestor #PersonalFinance #TradingTips #GlobalMarkets #InvestmentGyaan #InvestorLife #EconomicInsights #FinancialEducation #BillionaireMindset #StockTips #IndiaInvests #MarketGuru #SmartInvesting #WealthMindset #FinancePodcast #InvestingLegends #FinancialDiscipline
About Guest:Anurag Goel is a seasoned entrepreneur and investor, currently leading Cactus Partners, a purpose-driven venture fund supporting early-stage startups with scale, strategy, and founder-first support. He previously built a global category-leading D2C tech business, B2B enterprise solutions, and AI/ML products across markets like Japan, Korea, the US, and India. A Wharton & UPenn graduate, Anurag also worked at McKinsey & Company and led CACTUS to become India’s #1 mid-sized workplace in 2017.In this podcast, Anurag Goel shares his journey from McKinsey to building Cactus Communications and later, Cactus Partners. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from founder to investor, building global businesses without external funding, and the importance of culture, branding, and trust. Anurag dives into product-market fit, leadership, and why profit is like oxygen—not the purpose. He emphasizes long-term thinking, team synergy, and the power of doing over planning.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:19 Current Ventures and Deals02:25 VC Business Dynamics02:43 Stress in Investing vs. Operating04:39 Investment Strategies and Levers05:13 Marketing, Branding, and Expansion06:00 Seed vs. Venture vs. Private Equity14:29 Team Dynamics and Strengths34:52 Launching the Business in Japan35:23 Early Struggles and Realizations35:56 Pivot to Research Focus36:34 Expansion Beyond Japan36:46 Venturing into Big Pharma and AI37:13 Developing Proprietary Software37:30 Introducing Paper Pal37:44 The Story Behind the Name 'Cactus'40:07 Cultural Insights from Japan40:29 Building Relationships in Japan41:19 Customer Centricity in Japan vs. US43:37 Challenges of Punctuality in Japan45:49 Global Expansion and Offices46:19 People Management Across Cultures48:00 Balancing Global and Local Strategies49:00 The Importance of Profit and Growth50:29 Shifting Towards M&A Strategy51:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs56:04 The Role of Marketing and Branding58:34 Personal Reflections and Future TrendsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Cohost: Apratim Chandra Singh - https://www.linkedin.com/in/singhapratimchandra?Support: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#AnuragGoel #Cactus #McKinsey #Bootstrapped #Founder #Investor #Startups #Scaling #Culture #Branding #Leadership #Strategy #PMF #Profit #Impact #Growth #Mindset #Teamwork #Execution #Focus #Global #Innovation #Vision #Lessons #Mentorship #Business #Grit #Journey #Success #Wisdom
About Guest:Dilsher Malhi is the founder of Zupee, one of India’s fastest-growing gaming platforms, now valued at over ₹5,000 crore. A graduate of IIT Kanpur, he previously worked on microfluidics research at EPFL, Switzerland, and contributed to multiple innovation projects in India. With a deep interest in science and human behavior, Dilsher has combined his research mindset with entrepreneurial vision to revolutionize the gaming space for Bharat through skill-based play and user-centric design.In this podcast, Dilsher Malhi, founder of Zupee, shares his journey of building a ₹5,000 crore gaming company by understanding human psychology, motivation, and cultural behavior. He talks about product-market fit, building for Tier 2 and Tier 3 India, and why Zupee is more than just a gaming company. Dilsher also explores topics like boredom, dopamine, AI companions, and how founders can identify deep emotional needs to build scalable businesses.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:14 Meet the Founder of Zupee02:43 Innovations in the Indian Gaming Market03:21 The Neuroscience Behind Gaming03:29 Profit Pool Approach Explained04:02 Human Motivations and Business04:52 Understanding Consumer Behavior07:09 Dating Market Dynamics09:41 Fundamental Needs and Business Models09:56 The Impact of Romanticism and Consumerism12:13 Instant Gratification and Business24:20 Cultural Shifts in Indian Society25:11 Personal Reflections on Wisdom and Learning26:07 Experiences that Shape Entrepreneurs27:06 Building a Company in Your Twenties27:46 Craziest Experience and Early Ventures28:04 Meeting SMILE and Early Partnerships29:33 Equity and Success Optimization30:32 Choosing the Right Partners32:21 Ref Checks and Hiring Process33:54 Challenges in Interviews and Insights36:41 Deep Understanding and Unique Insights38:14 Building Great Companies39:58 Future Predictions and Trends40:53 AI and Creativity42:41 Interactive Content and Gaming44:17 Target Audience and Game Choices45:38 Motivations and Spending Habits47:14 Personal and Business Challenges47:51 Predictions and Probabilities49:30 Digital Twins and Custom Models50:00 Bucket Lists and Desired Products51:29 Marriage and Personal Growth51:57 Inspiration from Gaming Companies54:28 Meaning and Motivation in LifeCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#DilsherMalhi #Zupee #IndianStartup #GamingFounder #YoungEntrepreneur #IITKanpur #StartupIndia #MadeInIndia #SkillGaming #BharatTech #Tier2India #DigitalIndia #FoundersJourney #ProductMarketFit #GamingIndustry #PsychologyInGaming #NeuroscienceInBusiness #TechForBharat #MobileGamingIndia #StartupPodcast #EntrepreneurMindset #GamingForGood #IndianInnovation #NextGenFounder #AIandGaming #ZupeeStory #FounderTalks #StartupSuccess #BuildForIndia #5000CroreStartup
About Guest:Mr. Balkrishan Goenka, Chairman of the \$5B Welspun World, has built a global conglomerate with 30,000+ employees and presence in 50+ countries, spanning textiles, pipes, energy, and infrastructure. His leadership earned Welspun Corp the Emerging Company of the Year Award in 2009, and in 2019, he was honored by the Asian Business Leadership Forum. He served as ASSOCHAM President (2018–19), and in 2022, Welspun Living ranked 1st in the National Water Awards.In this podcast, Mr. Balkrishan Goenka shares his incredible journey of building a global manufacturing powerhouse from scratch. He discusses how innovation, sustainability, and talent shaped Welspun’s diverse success across textiles, pipes, infrastructure, and clean energy. With bold decisions, government collaboration, and a mission to touch every Indian household, Mr. Goenka offers timeless lessons in leadership, resilience, and building globally competitive businesses from India.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:02 Family Influence and Early Lessons03:32 Learning from Grandparents05:00 Importance of Giving Back06:42 Early Business Aspirations08:15 First International Exposure09:56 Fast Food Business Failure14:02 Joining the Textile Business15:07 Navigating Early Business Days15:41 Startup Capital and Challenges19:25 Commitment to Quality20:58 Building a Global Benchmark21:48 Expanding into New Markets22:16 Customer Perception and Commitment24:47 Achieving Global Recognition25:35 Strategic Business Decisions26:40 Venturing into Pipe Manufacturing27:24 The Road PI Pipeline27:45 Challenges and Opportunities in the Pipe Industry27:53 Technological Innovations in Pipe Manufacturing28:14 The Struggle with API Certification28:50 A Godsend Opportunity with Enron29:33 Convincing Enron of Quality30:44 The Enron Collapse and Its Aftermath31:22 Boom in the US Pipe Market31:37 Breaking into the US Market32:53 The Walmart Breakthrough34:09 Navigating the Textile Industry35:36 The Role of Government Support37:44 Rapid Plant Setup and Expansion38:12 Leadership and Vision42:18 The Importance of Customer Commitment47:13 Risky Business Decisions48:30 Betting on Green Energy51:23 Learning from the Past53:03 Family and Education55:34 The Value of FriendshipCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#BalkrishanGoenka #WelspunWorld #WelspunIndia #WelspunLiving #WelspunCorp #IndianEntrepreneurs #BusinessTycoon #MakeInIndia #GlobalIndian #IndianManufacturing #VisionaryLeader #InfrastructureIndia #GreenEnergyIndia #TextileIndustry #SustainableBusiness #IndianConglomerate #HarGharSeHarDilTak #IndianSuccessStory #IndustryLeadership #ASSOCHAM #CorporateLeadership #EconomicGrowthIndia #WaterStewardship #InnovationInIndia #IndiaBusinessIcons #BusinessTransformation #GlobalImpact #ManufacturingExcellence #CleanEnergyMission #SmartInfrastructure
Ditto:https://ditto.sh/9hmopbAbout Guest:Saurabh Mukherjea graduate of the London School of Economics with both BSc and MSc degrees in Economics, he has led key roles at Ambit Capital, Noble Group, and Accenture. With over two decades of experience across global markets, Saurabh is known for his sharp insights on investing, business cycles, and long-term wealth creation.In this podcast, Saurabh Mukherjea shares powerful insights on long-term investing, building trust-based businesses, and identifying high-quality companies in India. He discusses the importance of focus, first-principles thinking, and why predicting markets is less useful than recognizing patterns. Drawing from global economic trends, he explores India’s future, the China slowdown, and interest rate impacts—while emphasizing why challenger brands, discipline, and compounding are the keys to sustainable wealth creation.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction 01:55 Case Study: Alexia Problem Statement02:11 Finding Gaps for Challenger Brands02:22 Thinking About Niches03:02 Educational Content for Finance Professionals03:25 Ignoring Niches03:58 Dominating Niches05:23 Equity Investments in India05:50 Sports as a Growing Niche06:43 Ecosystem of Hobbies and Skills08:06 Importance of Health Insurance08:42 Investing and Predicting the Future11:48 Analyzing Market Data12:48 Real Estate Market Insights13:51 Defining a Healthy Economy14:05 Light Industrial Exports16:00 Observing Companies and Opportunities16:18 Understanding Compressors17:13 Investing in High-Quality Companies17:32 Analyzing the Union Budget19:26 Fundamentals of Investing22:42 First Leap into Startups24:33 Convincing the First Client27:40 Business of Portfolio Management31:05 Building Relationships with Promoters32:14 Favorite Fund Managers34:51 Challenger Brands in Retail36:47 Success Factors for Companies37:28 Inspiring Manufacturing Facilities38:42 Lowest Moments in Business39:54 Learning from John Casa42:02 First Principle Thinking44:58 Raising a Family45:55 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#SaurabhMukherjea #MarcellusInvestmentManagers #MarcellusInvesting #LongTermInvesting #IndianStockMarket #WealthCreation #InvestingInIndia #ValueInvesting #PortfolioManagement #PMSIndia #InvestmentStrategy #ChallengerBrands #CompoundingWealth #MarketCycles #IndiaGrowthStory #EquityInvesting #SmartInvesting #FirstPrinciplesThinking #FocusAndDiscipline #InvestorMindset #FinanceLeadership #StockMarketInsights #BuildWithConviction #GlobalMarkets #EconomicTrends #IndiaVsChina #InterestRates #TrustBasedBusiness #PredictPatternsNotEvents #SaurabhOnInvesting
About Guest:Gopal Jain is Co-founder & Managing Partner at Gaja Capital, one of India’s leading mid-market growth capital firms. With over 21 years at Gaja and prior leadership at View Group, one of India’s earliest VC firms, Gopal brings unmatched expertise in private equity. An IIT Delhi alumnus, he has co-founded pioneering ventures in equity research, asset management, and broking, making him a true veteran of India’s financial ecosystem.In this podcast, Gopal Jain shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading investor in India. He discusses the evolution of private equity, the importance of long-term thinking, and building businesses with strong fundamentals. Gopal reflects on his early influences, the role of IIT Delhi, and his belief in India's potential. He emphasizes integrity, relationship-building, and why founders should focus on purpose, resilience, and creating real impact over time.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:15 The Importance of Background Research04:32 Building Relationships vs. Meetings05:02 Giving Before Receiving05:44 Networking Strategies09:04 Evolution of Networking Over Time10:08 Cold Calling and Communication Challenges15:17 Sales Challenges in Business16:08 First Stock Investment20:17 Setting Up the First Business23:22 The Failure and Learnings25:42 Journey to Gaja Capital31:57 Leadership and Entrepreneurship41:38 The Importance of Treating People Well41:53 India's Path to Meritocracy42:01 Economic and Social Factors for a Great Country42:30 India's Self-Image and Global Perception43:04 Private Equity and Acquisition Strategies43:46 Building a Successful Acquisition Framework44:48 Choosing and Integrating Acquisitions Wisely45:46 The Importance of Pricing Discipline47:10 Evaluating Businesses and Founders47:29 The Three Pillars of a Good Investment49:15 The Joy and Magic of Investing51:27 Learning from Investment Mistakes51:34 Changes in Investment Strategies Over Time53:11 Contrarian Views on Investing54:19 Predicting Future Trends58:42 Consumer Behavior and Economic Growth in India01:00:13 Challenges and Strategies for Exiting Investments01:06:34 The Role of Politics and Innovation in India's Future01:11:06 Personal Reflections and Life Lessons01:19:37 Final Thoughts and GratitudeCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#StartupIndia #EntrepreneurMindset #FoundersJourney #BuildInIndia #FounderTalk #StartupStories #LeadershipLessons #PurposeDriven #PrivateEquity #GrowthCapital #InvestmentStrategies #LongTermThinking #VentureCapital #InvestorMindset #BusinessBuilding #ScaleWithPurpose #LifeLessons #MentorshipMatters #ResilienceInBusiness #SuccessMindset #BusinessWisdom #DisciplineAndDrive #HustleToLegacy #IndiaRising #IITDelhi #IndianBusiness #IndiaGrowthStory #MakeInIndia #VoiceOfIndia #GopalJain
About Guest:Ranjeet Pratap Singh is the Co-Founder and CEO of **Pratilipi**, India’s largest storytelling platform. With over a decade of leadership, he’s built a creator-first company empowering millions to read and write in their own language and format. A former Vodafone Area Sales Manager and FMS Delhi alumnus, Ranjeet blends corporate experience with startup grit. His mission? To make India read again—and build the country’s most powerful storytelling ecosystem.In this podcast, Ranjeet Pratap Singh shares the raw journey of building Pratilipi—from a simple idea to a storytelling empire. He discusses the power of user-generated content, how they scaled without ads, and why language, emotion, and access matter more than tech. Ranjeet opens up about failures, rejections, creator monetization, and how Pratilipi is becoming India’s next big media powerhouse—spanning stories, comics, audio, and even web series.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:28 Ali's Vision for Great Stories03:02 User-Generated Content and Expansion04:31 Monetization Strategies05:03 Quality and Frequency in Content Creation06:06 Revenue Models and Premium Content10:24 Engagement and Recommendation Engines12:47 Incentivizing Quality Content18:29 Network Effects and Marketplace Dynamics23:18 Investor Insights and Predictability24:37 Uber's Market Size and Problem Solving25:40 Pitching to Investors28:06 Timeless Value of Great Stories28:51 Amazon's Timeless Principles29:51 Language and User Metrics30:20 Metrics for Measuring User Engagement30:34 User Demographics and Geography31:01 Gender and Age Group Insights31:27 Top Genres and Preferences32:28 City-wise Story Preferences33:14 Personalization and Recommendation Engine34:44 AI and ML Applications36:14 Content Conversion and Tools37:08 Language Barriers in Content38:28 AI Predictions and Intuition39:47 Monetization Strategies41:56 Competition in Entertainment43:00 Podcasting and Media Companies45:25 Tools for Content Creators46:17 Impact of Investor Exit47:39 Personal Low Points and Advice48:16 Learning from Influential Figures48:49 Sources of Happiness49:20 Advice for Entrepreneurs52:21 Current Challenges and Future PlansCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#RanjeetPratapSingh #Pratilipi #IndianStartups #StorytellingPlatform #ContentCreators #UGCIndia #FounderJourney #StartupLife #HindiStories #ComicStartups #EntrepreneurIndia #DigitalMediaIndia #CreatorEconomy #StartupPodcast #LanguageTech #BharatStartups #BootstrappedSuccess #DesiStartups #IndianLanguages #ContentRevolution
About Guest:Baskar Subramanian is the founder of Amagi Media Labs, a global leader in cloud-managed media tech. With over 17 years at the helm, he has helped transform how major broadcast and digital-first media companies deliver and monetize content across 45+ countries. An IIT Bombay dropout and GCT alumnus, Baskar’s journey spans roles at SiRF Technology, Impulsesoft, and Texas Instruments, blending software, cloud, and AI to revolutionize the media industry.In this podcast we discussed how Baskar built a ₹12,000 crore bootstrapped business with zero external funding. Baskar shared valuable insights on long-term thinking, building high-quality teams, and staying focused on core fundamentals rather than hype, while also reflecting on his personal growth, decision-making journey, and staying grounded through the ups and downs of building a large company.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:10 Dreams of Democratizing Health, Food, and Education04:47 Innovations in Sustainable Farming06:38 Educational Initiatives for Underprivileged Children09:55 Exploring Health Tech Innovations10:50 Scaling Technological Solutions14:26 The Genesis of Amagi16:44 Early Entrepreneurial Experiences34:58 The Birth of Bluetooth Technology41:12 Customer-Funded Beginnings41:31 Scaling with Bluetooth42:33 Entering the Consumer Market44:31 Innovating with Bluetooth Watches45:47 Acquisition by Broadcom47:26 Founding AGI49:04 Japanese Cultural Influence49:26 Commitment and Work Ethic51:32 Learning from Global Interactions54:58 Building a Timeless Institution57:09 Cultural Foundations at AGI01:01:43 Goodness Wins01:05:22 Targeted Advertising in India01:16:32 Challenges with TV Networks01:21:07 First Customer and Early Challenges01:21:42 Building a Cloud-Based Channel01:22:11 Expanding to the UK Market01:22:50 Shutting Down and Pivoting01:23:27 Investor Reactions and Decisions01:23:39 Rebuilding the Business01:24:18 Betting on Streaming and Cloud01:27:23 US Market and Streaming Boom01:27:55 Goldilocks Moment in Streaming01:30:53 Rapid Growth and Scaling01:32:19 Comparing US and Indian Markets01:42:57 Future of Media Consumption01:58:34 Homeschooling and First Principles02:04:22 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#BaskarSubramanian #Amagi #CloudBroadcasting #MediaTech #DigitalTransformation #StartupIndia #BootstrappedSuccess #SaaSIndia #CloudTechnology #StreamingRevolution #BroadcastInnovation #ContentMonetization #AIInMedia #TechEntrepreneur #IITAlumni #MediaDistribution #GlobalStartups #BangaloreTech #MediaStartup #CloudInfrastructure #TechForMedia #FounderStories #AmagiSuccessStory #EntrepreneurLife #IndianStartups #FutureOfMedia #DigitalMediaTech #AmagiGlobal #FromBootstrappedToBillion #MediaMonetization #StartupsThatScale #AmagiMediaLabs #BaskarAtAmagi #AmagiCloudTV #TechVisionary #MediaStreaming #VCFreeGrowth #MediaTechnologyLeaders #AmagiInnovation #BootstrappedToUnicorn
About Guest:Monish Darda is the Co-founder and CTO of Icertis, a leading SaaS company valued at $5 billion. With over 16 years at Icertis, he has driven innovation in contract lifecycle management. He also co-founded CloudMoyo and Websym Technologies, showcasing his entrepreneurial expertise. Monish has held leadership roles at BMC Software, BladeLogic, and Storability Software, making significant contributions to the tech industry with his visionary leadership.In this podcast, Monish Darda shares insights on building Icertis into a $5 billion SaaS leader, the importance of contract lifecycle management, and how AI is transforming enterprise solutions. He discusses leadership lessons, scaling challenges, and the significance of innovation. Monish also touches on entrepreneurship, the future of AI in legal tech, and the need for strong company culture to drive long-term success in a competitive market.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:06 Building a Consequential Company00:17 The Hunger for Success00:29 Journey into Computers01:03 Challenges of Early Programming01:45 The Dot-Com Boom Experience02:24 Founding Icertis02:32 Understanding Contract Lifecycle Management02:57 The Birth of Icertis03:02 First Steps into CLM03:31 Securing Microsoft as a Client04:36 Scaling Up with Enterprise Clients06:47 The Importance of Focus07:26 Transition from Mechanical Engineering to Software07:55 The Role of Serendipity08:57 Early Programming Challenges12:24 Returning to India14:09 The Entrepreneurial Journey18:49 The Importance of Culture and Values28:27 The Role of Serendipity in Success34:24 Pioneering Legal Tech: A Conservative Field35:17 Legal Tech's Evolution and Market Dynamics35:30 Icertis: Beyond Legal Tech36:50 The Role of LLMs in Legal Tech37:47 AI's Impact on Contract Drafting38:29 Legal System Challenges in India39:24 India's Leapfrogging Potential with AI42:10 Replicating Success: Lessons from Retail and Tech43:00 Building for the World from India43:17 Creating or Riding the Wave: A Founder's Perspective46:13 The Brain Drain and Its Reversal49:37 The Role of Multinationals in India's Growth51:04 The Importance of Mentorship and Local Expertise51:40 Balancing Work and Personal Interests52:28 Gaming and Reading: Stress Relievers55:10 Recommended Reads and Their Impact56:07 Identifying White Spaces and Opportunities01:00:22 Advice for Aspiring CTOs01:02:52 Predicting Customer Behavior with AI01:04:21 Rapid Fire: Personal Insights and PredictionsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#MonishDarda #Icertis #CloudMoyo #WebsymTechnologies #BMCSoftware #BladeLogic #StorabilitySoftware #SaaS #EnterpriseSoftware #AIinBusiness #ContractManagement #LegalTech #Entrepreneurship #TechLeadership #AIInnovation #FutureOfAI #StartupJourney #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipLessons #TechTransformation #ScalingAStartup #SaaSSuccess #EnterpriseAI #InnovationInTech #EntrepreneurLife #SaaSUnicorn
About Guest:Amit Gupta is the Co-Founder and CEO of Yulu, India’s leading micro-mobility startup, focused on sustainable urban transport since 2017. He is also a Co-Founder of InMobi, a global mobile advertising giant. With over two decades of experience across companies like Citifinancial, Andale, and Aditi Technologies, he brings deep expertise in business strategy, analytics, and mobility. He’s also served as a Global Board Member of the Mobile Marketing Association.In this podcast Amit shares insights on building purpose-driven companies, his journey from InMobi to Yulu, and the challenges of scaling in the EV space. The discussion dives into infrastructure, public-private partnerships, battery swapping tech, and how startups can drive meaningful change while staying focused on long-term impact and innovation.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to the Bug00:06 The Power and Perils of Data00:21 Challenges in Mobility Solutions00:42 Early Success Stories01:59 Insights on Future Energy03:14 The Evolution of Energy Technologies08:32 The Concept of Time Travel09:44 The Journey of InMobi12:59 Painkiller vs. Vitamin Products14:51 The Birth of Ulu19:46 The Role of Hard Work and Luck35:14 The Genesis of Glance41:19 Challenges and Convictions43:51 The Entrepreneurial Mindset44:32 Leaving the Job and Starting Something New45:08 The Birth of InMobi45:28 Planning for Retirement at 4046:40 Finding Joy in Giving Back47:08 Choosing Traffic and Pollution as Problems to Solve48:03 Influence of Philanthropic Leaders49:20 The First Steps Towards Ulo49:40 Understanding Traffic Congestion50:54 The First and Last Mile Problem51:44 Challenges with Bicycle Sharing52:19 Pivoting to E-Bikes52:28 Choosing the Name 'Ulo'57:06 Launching in Indian Cities01:06:28 Impact of COVID-19 on Ulo01:23:51 Personal vs. Commercial Use Cases01:24:19 Launching in New Cities01:25:53 Understanding Consumer Behavior01:26:57 Adapting to Geography01:28:22 Service Infrastructure01:28:54 Fragmentation in Food Business01:30:52 Profitability and Unit Economics01:33:30 Franchisee Business Model01:34:27 Data-Driven Decision Making01:37:39 Challenges in BKC Launch01:40:53 Building a Strong Company Culture01:51:09 Hiring and Letting Go01:53:27 Effective Meetings02:00:34 The Importance of AdvertisingCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#AmitGupta #Yulu #InMobi #UrbanMobility #MicroMobility #EVRevolution #GreenTransport #SustainableMobility #ElectricVehicles #BatterySwapping #MobilityTech #SmartCities #StartupIndia #TechForGood #MobilityInnovation #CleanEnergy #PurposeDriven #MobilitySolutions #EVStartup #PublicPrivatePartnership #ClimateTech #SustainableLiving #ImpactStartup #FounderJourney #TechEntrepreneur #FutureOfTransport #MobilityDisruption #TransportationReform #EVInfrastructure #MobilityLeadership #CityInnovation
About Guest:Ananth Narayanan is the founder of Mensa Brands, a company building India’s largest digital-first brand house across fashion, beauty, home, and FMCG. He was earlier the CEO of Myntra, where he led 6x growth, and co-founder of Medlife, which merged with Pharmeasy. A former senior partner at McKinsey, Ananth also serves on the boards of Marico, Arghyam, and is part of Niti Aayog’s Champions of Change initiative.In this podcast, Ananth Narayanan, shares how he built India’s fastest unicorn, scaling to a $1.2 billion valuation in record time. He opens up about learnings from Myntra, Medlife, building brands, switching roles, performance marketing flaws, and the mindset every founder needs. From handling co-founder conflicts to using data for brand growth, this episode is packed with real, raw, and powerful startup insights.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:42 Skills for Founders01:50 Resilience and Energy in Entrepreneurship02:36 Problem Solving and Team Building03:14 Judgment in Hiring04:14 Challenges in Medlife06:23 Keeping Energized and Balanced07:25 Fears and Relevance08:42 Bucket List and Personal Goals09:46 Contrarian Views and Fashion Insights10:38 Favorite Brands and Inspirations11:59 Learning from Mentors and Role Models38:18 Favorite Engine Discussion38:44 Need for Elderly Care Services40:15 Book Recommendations41:14 Recent Movie Experience41:38 Solutions to Complex Problems42:32 Future Predictions and Trends45:13 Impact of Social Media on Politics48:01 Teaching and Learning from Kids51:05 Sources of Happiness52:29 Building Institutions54:45 Creating a Purpose-Driven Organization57:10 Achieving Longevity in Business57:58 Importance of Unit Economics59:16 Fostering a Meritocratic Culture01:05:23 Giving and Receiving Feedback01:07:33 Meeting the Most Important Person01:08:20 Skincare Routine and Brand Promotion01:09:09 Wine Preferences and Experiences01:11:55 Wine Collecting as a Hobby01:13:00 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#MensaBrands, #AnanthNarayanan, #StartupIndia, #IndianUnicorn, #D2Cbrands, #Entrepreneurship, #BusinessGrowth, #BrandBuilding, #FoundersLife, #StartupLessons, #UnicornStartup, #ECommerceIndia, #Myntra, #Medlife, #PerformanceMarketing, #FounderMindset, #StartupJourney, #ScaleUp, #BusinessPodcast, #StartupInsights
About Guest:Bharat Shah is the Executive Director at ASK Group and a seasoned investment expert with over 25 years of experience in investment management. He holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce from the University of Bombay and a post-graduate diploma in management from the Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta. He is also a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and a member of the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India. He is also the author of "Of Long-Term Value & Wealth Creation from Equity Investing" (2013), offering insights into long-term investing.In this podcast, we explored Bharat Shah’s insights on investing, market behavior, and business growth. He shared how to predict growth before the market does, the importance of capital allocation, and why growth, durability, and resilience define great businesses. We discussed market cycles, investment psychology, risk management, and the power of patience in wealth creation. Bharat also revealed his biggest investing lessons and how financial freedom truly works.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Investing00:05 The Importance of Growth00:09 Understanding Business Predictability00:13 The Brutality of Business00:18 Probability in Investing00:41 Sizing Opportunities00:45 Learning from Mistakes01:00 Balancing Wealth Preservation and Risk01:47 Evaluating Management and Promoters01:55 Key Questions for Promoters04:23 Capital Allocation Decisions05:46 The Fire in the Belly06:17 The Role of Growth in Investing11:31 Value, Growth, and Quality13:37 Predictability, Durability, and Resilience20:48 Examples of Predictable Businesses39:27 The Role of Market Discounting43:37 Human Behavior and Market Cycles47:59 Market Volatility and Extremes48:25 Impact of Technology on Human Behavior49:00 Examples of Technology's Influence49:06 Social Media and Attention Deficit50:08 Psychological Effects of Social Media51:01 Technology's Role in Market Behavior51:12 Beating the Market with Discipline52:21 Internal and External Noise52:25 The Importance of Self-Discipline52:42 Wisdom Over Intellect in Investing53:17 Character and Temperament in Investing54:31 Market Behavior and Opportunity56:03 Patience as a Strength in Investing56:29 Sizing Opportunities in the Market58:55 Learning from Investment Mistakes01:06:27 Balancing Wealth Preservation and Risk01:07:02 Fiduciary Responsibility in Investing01:09:51 Mentoring and Decision Making01:11:14 Balancing Preservation and Appreciation01:13:45 Absolute vs. Relative Returns01:27:02 Energy and Time in InvestingCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#BharatShah #ASKGroup #ExecutiveDirector #InvestmentManagement #ValueInvesting #WealthCreation #LongTermInvestment #GlobalBusinessInsights #StockSelection #QualityInvesting #SuperiorGrowth #ReasonableValuations #EquityInvesting #InvestmentPhilosophy #FinancialExpert #InvestmentLiterature #Author #EquityMarkets #FinancialWisdom #InvestmentStrategies #StockMarket #Investing #Trading #Stocks #Investment #Finance #Money #Nifty #Forex #ShareMarket #Investor #FinancialFreedom #Trader #StockMarketIndia #Business #Bitcoin #Cryptocurrency #DayTrader #NSE #StockMarketNews
About Guest:Ramakrishna NK is the Co-founder & MD of Rang De, India’s first social investment platform, working to bridge the credit gap and drive financial inclusion. An Ashoka Fellow and social innovator, he has over 16 years of experience in microfinance, technology, and impact investing. Previously, he held leadership roles at IFMR Trust, Tech Mahindra, and Vignette Europe, specializing in financial technology and social impact solutions.In this podcast, we explored why most Indians can’t get loans and how Ramakrishna NK’s Rang De is solving this problem through social investing and microfinance. We discussed how small loans can change lives, why banks reject so many people, and what needs to be done to fix it. Timestamps:00:00 Intro02:00 College Days and Early Volunteering04:39 Organizing a Charity Event10:04 A Life-Changing Experience13:07 Post-College Journey15:43 Life in the UK and Future Plans20:50 The Importance of Local Solutions21:54 Challenges in Rural Development22:51 Creating a Media Platform for Change25:21 The Role of Microcredit28:48 Building a P2P Platform33:20 Overcoming Initial Setbacks37:47 Meeting the Techies from Infosys39:38 The Humble Beginnings and Initial Struggles40:41 Negotiating the First Deal44:26 Launching Rang De44:52 Early Partnerships and Roadshows50:02 Challenges with Legal and Financial Structuring53:44 A Million-Dollar Advice55:09 The SOS Email55:31 Connecting with Dr. Nachiket59:00 The Birth of Rangdev01:03:13 Challenges in Financial Inclusion01:04:36 The Reality of Credit Access in India01:11:29 Understanding the Financial Exclusion01:12:30 Value Propositions for the Community01:13:51 Creating a New Asset Class01:15:58 Challenges in Credit Accessibility01:17:34 Sector-Specific Credit Issues01:20:20 Navigating Regulatory Challenges01:24:36 Meeting the Mentor: Professor P. Sudarshan01:24:56 The Birth of Rangde's Idea01:26:36 Navigating Regulatory Changes01:27:52 Equity Investor Challenges01:33:14 RBI Application Process01:36:57 Revolutionizing Credit with Okin01:41:09 Understanding the Roles: MD vs CEO01:41:32 Assessing Credit Worthiness Without Data01:42:10 Impact Partners and Livelihood Programs01:43:35 Challenges of Non-Repayment01:45:32 Social Investors and Their Impact01:51:13 Future Predictions and Final ThoughtsCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#RamakrishnaNK #RangDe #SocialInvesting #FinancialInclusion #Microfinance #ImpactInvesting #SocialEntrepreneurship #AshokaFellow #LoansForAll #PovertyAlleviation #InclusiveFinance #InvestForGood #FintechForGood #EthicalInvesting #FinancialEmpowerment #CreditForAll #RuralDevelopment #SocialImpact #EmpowerThroughFinance #BankingTheUnbanked #InvestingWithPurpose #TechForGood #SmallLoansBigImpact #FutureOfFinance #LoanAccessibility #FintechInnovation #BridgingTheCreditGap #SocialLending #IndiaFinance #FairFinance
About Guest:Zishaan Hayath is a entrepreneur, investor, and startup strategist known for his expertise in building and scaling tech-driven businesses. A graduate of IIT Bombay, he started his career at ITC Limited, where he played a key role in setting up a ₹160 million greenfield biscuit plant. He later worked as an Associate Consultant at Opera Solutions, advising Fortune 100 companies across New York, London, and Shanghai on high-stakes strategy and operations.Zishaan's entrepreneurial journey began when he co-founded Chaupaati Bazaar, a pioneering e-commerce venture that was later acquired by Future Group. In 2013, he founded Toppr, India’s leading AI-driven learning platform, revolutionizing edtech with personalized learning for students. Under his leadership, Toppr grew into a market leader, ultimately leading to its acquisition by BYJU’s in 2021.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Why Not Everyone is a Founder?00:03 The Story of Ola's Beginnings08:26 Challenges and Opportunities in Indian Education08:45 The Potential of EdTech in India09:51 Revenue Potential and Market Misjudgment13:23 Capital Allocation and Market Dynamics14:42 Finding Gaps in the Education Space16:36 Predicting Future Trends in Education18:56 The Importance of Timing in Business19:49 The Role of Passion and Skill in Founding a Company20:09 Observing Market Trends and Personal Fit21:14 Combining Vision, Skill, and Passion21:40 The Elements of Success21:53 Hard Work vs. Smartness22:14 Formative Years and Intelligence22:48 Parenting and Child Development23:22 Drive and Hard Work23:56 Discipline in Different Areas24:53 Building a Company25:25 The Role of Networks25:53 Luck and Serendipity26:11 Discovering IITs28:15 The Impact of Networks28:47 Topper's Journey31:26 Acquisition and Market Dynamics32:23 Reflections on EdTech38:44 Investment Strategies Post-Acquisition40:33 Equity and Debt Investments41:01 Learnings from Kishore Bihani42:05 Left-Brain vs Right-Brain Thinking43:17 Missed Opportunities at Future Group44:38 DNA Mismatch in Acquisitions44:55 Desirable Products and Services45:18 Sources of Happiness45:53 Best Food Experiences48:10 Mentorship and Guidance50:28 Meeting My Wife51:34 Favorite TV Shows52:59 Admiration for Historical Figures55:07 Favorite Tech Companies01:01:16 Challenges in EdTech EngagementCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#ZeeshanHayath #IITBombay #Toppr #ChaupaatiBazaar #FutureGroup #BYJUs #Edtech #StartupSuccess #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #AngelInvestor #VentureCapital #Fundraising #MarketTrends #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #StartupEcosystem #TechInnovation #OnlineLearning #AIinEducation #ScalingStartups #NetworkPower #StartupLessons #FounderInsights #BusinessMindset #StrategicInvestments
About Guest:Ashutosh Lawania is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. He began his career as a Software Engineer and later co-founded Bytedge Solutions in 2006, focusing on SaaS product development. In 2007, he co-founded Myntra.com, helping it become one of India’s leading fashion e-commerce platforms over a decade. In 2017, he co-founded MFine, a health-tech platform transforming healthcare with virtual consultations and digital health solutions. In this podcast, the guest shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his early experiences as a software engineer to co-founding startups like Bytedge Solutions, Myntra, and MFine. He discusses the challenges faced in building and scaling these businesses, key learnings from early mistakes, and the evolution of e-commerce in India. He explains how operational strategies like return policies and logistics impacted growth and emphasizes the importance of adapting to market demands. The conversation also explores insights into consumer behavior, the role of technology in healthcare, and his future aspirations in the health-tech space.Timestamps:00:00 Intro01:55 Studies and Entrepreneurship04:03 First Steps in the Tech Industry04:13 Building a Salesforce-like Product06:43 Transition to Internet-Based Business07:19 Early Client Acquisition08:41 Meeting MUA and Starting ByteAge10:46 Challenges in Personalized Merchandise13:11 Pivoting to Branded Products14:14 Growth of Internet Shopping20:03 Learning from Flipkart's Success21:09 Understanding Supply Chain Operations23:06 Lessons from Chinese E-commerce25:24 Leaving Myntra for New Ventures25:33 Founding Mfine30:10 Launching Mfine's Consult Product31:30 Building Super Speciality Services31:37 Solving the Chicken-Egg Problem31:44 Virtual OPD Implementation33:03 Marketing Strategies for Initial Customers33:58 Revenue Model and Business Challenges34:22 Expanding to Diagnostics and Derma Products34:50 Launching Derma Essential35:06 Understanding Consumer Behavior36:50 Comprehensive OPD Solutions37:17 Major Revenue Streams38:02 Differentiating in a Red Ocean Market38:58 Consistency and Trust Building40:49 Challenges and Learnings from Downsizing43:30 Behavioral Insights on Indian Health Consumers45:22 Growth Strategies for Derma Essential47:21 Engagement and Adherence Strategies48:51 Future Focus on Hair Loss Solutions50:04 Personal Interests and Inspirations53:18 Learning from Industry Leaders58:58 Embracing Change and Staying RelevantCredits: Host: Shivank Joshi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shivankjoshi-2001/Thumbnail: YaaSPost Production: YaaSSupport: Zerodha ( https://zero1byzerodha.com/network )Disclaimer:The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by the speaker and host are their own and do not represent those of the Exploring Minds platform. The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. All products and company names mentioned are the property of their respective owners, and their use does not imply any endorsement or opposition.#ExploringMinds #ShivankJoshi #AshutoshLawania #Myntra #MFine #BytedgeSolutions #StartupJourney #Entrepreneurship #EcommerceIndia #HealthTech #DigitalHealthcare #OnlineShopping #BusinessGrowth #TechInnovation #StartupLessons #ConsumerBehavior #BusinessInsights #ScalingStartups #FutureOfHealthcare #VirtualConsultations #flipkart #TechEntrepreneurs #FounderStories #StartupSuccess #IndianStartups #BuildingBusinesses #InnovationInIndia #EcommerceRevolution
