Insiders Talk - Success Blaze

In this exciting episode of Insiders Talk, we welcome back Sharad Bansal, the visionary behind Warm Up Ventures. Sharad shares his fascinating journey from co-founding Tinkerly, a STEM education tech company, to establishing Warm Up Ventures, a unique VC firm designed by the founders, for the founders and backed by founders. Sharad dives deep into the organic transition, the challenges of raising capital, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way.Key Discussion Points:- Sharad's transition from Tinkerly to Warm Up Ventures.- The unique approach of Warm Up Ventures, blending the roles of angel investors and VCs.- How being a founder himself gives Sharad an edge in understanding and supporting other founders.- The critical importance of the right amount of capital and its impact on startup growth.- The strategic role of investors and how founder-investor dynamics influence startup success.- The importance of market understanding, team dynamics, and sectoral experience in startup evaluation.- The balance of personal biases and rational decision-making in investment choices.- The journey and achievements of Warm Up Ventures' portfolio companies.Sharad emphasizes the significance of founders understanding their business, market, and the right pace for growth. He also discusses the balance between raising capital and maintaining the right valuation, and the potential pitfalls of over-aggression in scaling. This episode is packed with practical advice for early-stage startups and insights into the VC world from a founder's perspective.Join us for a compelling conversation that offers a wealth of knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike. Whether you're looking to raise capital or support startups, this episode provides a deep dive into the intricacies of early-stage investing and the journey of building successful ventures.Connect with Sharad Bansal on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey and insights.Reach out to our host Veronica Mam at veronica@insiderstalk.in Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Show notes created by https://headliner.app

In this episode of Insiders Talk - Success Blaze, we dive into the world of sports journalism with Haresh Ramchandani, a corporate professional who has successfully turned his passion for tennis into a part-time career in sports writing. Haresh shares his journey, from his early obsession with tennis to his accidental start in sports journalism and the challenges of balancing a demanding corporate job with his love for writing about tennis.Key Discussion Points:- Haresh's early passion for tennis and how it led to a career in sports writing.- The role of supportive mentors and bosses in pursuing dual careers.- The evolution of tennis and the impact of technology and social media on the sport.- The importance of networking and creating a portfolio for aspiring sports writers.- Haresh's writing process and the difference between factual match reports and opinion pieces.- ChatGPT writing!- The future of sports journalism in India and the potential for niche sports writing.Haresh emphasizes the significance of following one's passion and turning it into a career, regardless of the challenges. He advises aspiring sports writers to watch the sport extensively, start writing blogs to build a portfolio, and network with professionals in the field. Haresh also discusses the impact of AI on sports journalism and the importance of maintaining a personal touch in writing.Join us for an engaging conversation that offers valuable insights for anyone looking to balance a corporate career with a passion for sports writing. Whether you're an aspiring journalist or a sports enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories.Connect with Harish Ramchandani on LinkedIn to learn more about his journey and insights.Reach out to our host Veronica Mam at veronica@insiderstalk.in Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Dr. P. Prashant, Registrar || Associate Professor @AIPH University || Mentor @ The MAARG Portal by Startup IndiaIn this compelling episode of Insiders Talk - Success Blaze, host Veronica Mam engages in a profound conversation with Dr. P. Prashant. From his humble beginnings as a paper boy to becoming a PhD holder and a guiding force for students in their entrepreneurial journeys, Dr. Prashant's story is one of resilience, hard work, and unwavering dedication.Key Discussion Points:- Dr. Prashant's inspiring journey from financing his own studies to holding a PhD.- The importance of building confidence and focusing on one skill to excel in one's career.- Navigating the energy and ideas of young students and guiding them towards organized and actionable plans.- The evolving educational landscape in India and the role of policies like NEP in shaping the future of students.- The impact of startups on providing real-world experience and opportunities for students.- The significance of mentorship in transforming ideas into viable business plans.- Dr. Prashant's work with Niti Aayog and other platforms to support and mentor young entrepreneurs.Dr. Prashant emphasizes the importance of understanding public needs, focusing on skills over grades, and the value of practical experience. He shares valuable insights on how students can navigate their career paths, the role of government policies in education, and the importance of mentoring in fostering entrepreneurial spirit.Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the world of education and entrepreneurship. Whether you're a student, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone passionate about education, this episode is packed with insights that can help you on your journey.Connect with Dr. P. Prashant on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights.Reach out to our host Veronica Mam at veronica@insiderstalk.in Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Avinash Mandelia, Startup WhispererIn this insightful episode of Insiders Talk - Success Blaze, we sit down with Avinash Mandelia, the Startup Whisperer, to delve into his journey of mentoring startups and the evolving entrepreneurial landscape in India. Avinash shares his invaluable experiences and wisdom gained from over 25 years in the business world, discussing the challenges and triumphs faced by startups today.Key Discussion Points:- The motivation behind Avinash's transition to becoming a startup mentor.- The changes in the entrepreneurial landscape in India over the years.- The importance of learning from failures and not repeating the same mistakes.- The evolving acceptance of entrepreneurship in Indian society and families.- Key factors leading to the success or failure of startups despite having funding.- The significance of financial planning, service quality, and continuous market research.- Avinash's mentorship style and how he helps startups lay a solid foundation.- The role of shows like Shark Tank in providing a platform for startups.- Emerging trends and future opportunities in the startup ecosystem.Avinash emphasizes the importance of having a good team, treating equity like debt, and the need for startups to focus on generating actual profits rather than just brand value. He also discusses the critical role of market research and understanding the needs of the target audience.Join us for an engaging conversation filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the world of startups. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with insights that can help you navigate the complex landscape of startup success.Connect with Avinash Mandelia on LinkedIn to learn more about his mentorship and insights.Reach out to our host Veronica Mam at veronica@insiderstalk.in Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Show notes created by https://headliner.app

Ja Simran Ja Jee le Apni Zindagi (Go Simran Go, Live your life) A classic Bollywood dialogue that is apt for Simran Sainani who through her passion is building Hair Care for Curly Hair.One would say that there are many imported products in the market then why Curl Care?PriceDealing with Indian HairEmbracing your CurlsThese top 3 reasons led to the discovery of products that were on the shelf through extensive research and self-trial!"Growing up, that Maggi noodles was probably one of the things that we heard, apart from being called Jhadu Hagrid.""I don't want kids now to grow up with the same issues that we have had."Embracing Curls and Breaking NormsJoin us for an inspiring conversation with Simran Sanani, the founder of Curl Care, as she shares her journey of creating a brand that celebrates curly hair. From personal struggles to entrepreneurial success, Simran's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a mission to change societal beauty standards.Key Discussion Points:- The challenges and stigma associated with curly hair in India.- Simran's personal journey and the motivation behind starting Curl Care.- The extensive research and development process behind Curl Care products.- The importance of community and customer feedback in product development.- The impact of social media and celebrity influence on embracing natural curls.- The future of Curl Care, including expansion plans and new product development.Simran emphasizes the importance of making curly hair care accessible and easy, with a focus on educating and supporting customers. She shares heartwarming stories of customers who have traveled long distances just to experience Curl Care's specialized services, highlighting the significant gap in the market and the brand's role in filling it.Discover how Curl Care is not just a brand but a movement towards self-acceptance and breaking cultural norms. Whether you have curly hair or know someone who does, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration for embracing natural beauty.Connect with Simran Sanani on LinkedIn to learn more about Curl Care and its mission.Reach out to our host Veronica Mam on veronica@insiderstalk.in Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Show notes created by https://headliner.app

🎙 EP57: From Chaos to Control: How Tech is Taming the Construction WorkforceJoin us in this riveting episode as we dive deep into the world of construction technology with Asutosh Katyal, CTO of Capacit'e Infraprojects Limited. From his transition from a computer scientist in the US to revolutionizing labor management in India, Asutosh shares his journey and insights into how tech is transforming the construction industry.Key Questions Explored🔑 How did Asutosh transition from computer science to the construction industry?🔑 What are the major pain points in construction, and how can technology address them?🔑 How has the implementation of the e-force platform changed labor management?🔑 What are the future trends in construction technology?Under the guidance of a "Dangal Movie" Father, Asutosh started from the bottom in the construction field, learning the intricacies and identifying key gaps. His scientific background and analytical mindset led him to create the e-force platform, a game-changer in labor management. This platform has streamlined processes, reduced stress, and significantly cut down turnaround times, providing a competitive edge.Asutosh also discusses the reluctance of major construction companies to adopt new technologies and how this mindset needs to change for the industry to thrive. He emphasizes the importance of digital transformation, not just in construction but across all sectors, and how it is inevitable in the information age.Furthermore, he touches upon the potential for fintech solutions to address the funding challenges faced by the construction industry, highlighting the untapped opportunities for financial institutions.Key Takeaways📝 Starting from the ground up provides invaluable insights and understanding of industry gaps.📝 Technology can significantly streamline labor management, reducing stress and improving efficiency.📝 The reluctance to adopt technology often lies with management, not the labor force.📝 The construction industry must embrace digital transformation to remain competitive.📝 There are significant opportunities for fintech solutions to support the construction industry.Connect with Asutosh Katyal to know more about the platform and how it is helping him scale not only his business but also for contractors, subcontractors and workers!Connect with our host Veronica Mam on veronica@insiderstalk.inComment with your key takeaways from the conversation.Support us by sharing the episode on your feed and your other social media platforms!

Exploring how a versatile Marketer can excel across industries and the key attributes of a skilled Marketer. Delving into the evolving landscape of Marketing in construction and the growing focus on Sustainability. Aniruddha Sinha explains how Walplast successfully entered the market with one key product and effective marketing strategies.What have we discussed?Marketing Techniques across IndustriesInfluencer Marketing and its impact on sales in Construction IndustryImportance of giving your ears to your consumersImportance of reduced TATImportance of Extensive Market Research based product creationSteps taken for SustainabilitySummary:In this conversation, Aniruddha Sinha talks about how marketing skills are Industry Agnostic.In his words:Creating value not only for myself but for the entire stakeholder community, including my organization, and to accelerate dynamic and competitive marketingHe discussed the evolution of marketing strategies over his two decades of experience, emphasizing the shift to digital marketing and consumer education for global product exposure. Technological advancements now enable businesses to showcase products from even the most remote locations, facilitating growth without client outreach concerns. He also narrated Walplast's progression from introducing a flagship product to diversifying their product range gradually.About Aniruddha Sinha:Seasoned marketing leader with over 22 years of experience in diverse industries such as FMCG, Alcobev, Retail, Media, and Building Materials. He is a passionate about delivering consumer-centric solutions, driving innovation and growth, and mentoring and empowering my teams. His mission is to create value for my organization, customers, and stakeholders, and to excel in the dynamic and competitive marketing landscape.Key TakeawaysMarketing skills apply across all industries. Niche products position your brand as an expert. Educating consumers is a powerful lead generator. Utilizing influencer marketing is crucial in the marketing realm.Providing exceptional customer service with quick response times is vital. Stand out not only through your product, but also through visual merchandising, presentation, or overall customer experience. Prioritizing sustainability initiatives is essential.Follow Aniruddha Sinha on LinkedinCheckout WalplastReach out to the host on Linkedin or veronica@insiderstalk.in

We've all been part of or hosted a wedding celebration and are well-versed in the accompanying issues! No wedding is devoid of drama. What, in your opinion, is the solution to diminishing that drama and stress? What strategies should Event Management companies embrace for seamless execution?We talk with Prerana Agarwal Saxena about the essential requirements of event management companies today and how technology serves as the solution to address the issue of disorganization.We will be Discussing:Why switch from TWD- Luxury Wedding Planner to Wedease?Is incorporating empathy into client conversations essential for reaching consensus?What are the primary deficiencies in the event management sector?What is the rationale behind establishing distinct firms according to the wedding budget?In order to expand, the presence of an operational framework is crucial, so how are they leveraging technology to enhance transparency?In what ways can adequate training and assistance assist local vendors in expanding?Why is it vital to maintain a buffer for all crucial tasks?SummaryIn this conversation, Prerana Agarwal Saxena discusses the importance of getting the event management industry organized by designing systems, workflows and SOPs. To scale a business, one needs to have a transparent system in place, which helps to track the project from vendor as well as client side.She further emphasizes on how training your team and vendors is important to ensure that they can carry out their activities based on the company's vision ensuring credibility of the service.Creating WedEase had been the next step after TWD, as she wanted to give similar services with proper hygiene to all kinds of wedding. She believes that transforming emotions into reality is what weddings is about!Overall, she emphasizes on organizing the disorganized industry through tech!About Prerana Agarwal Saxena.She is the founder of Theme Weavers International Pvt. Ltd. overseeing global events and collaborating with WedEase to empower the team for autonomous operations.With a corporate background, she understands the significance of efficient systems, SOPs, and workflows to organize and optimize activities for business growth.She has been instrumental in merging event management with technology to offer clients a distinctive experience.Her goal is to revolutionize the industry, ensuring timely delivery and top-notch quality for every event, regardless of its scale.Key Takeaways:Systems can help event management scale their businessTechnology can be used to have a transparent workflow for vendors and clientTraining is key player in engaging different vendors and making them work with your vision.Listening to your client feedback can help you create verticals to tap the market you are missing.One doing all doesn't work. Don't dilute your business, create separate companies that gives clear picture on what you doFollow Prerana Agarwal Saxena on LinkedinCheck out : Theme Weavers International Checkout WedeaseReach out to the host on Linkedin or veronica@insiderstalk.in

Pankaj Goyal always had the Entrepreneurial Keeda that pushed him to leave his cushion job and to enter the world of challenges.He believes that there is a lot of mental strength one needs to transition from Salaried Professional to an Entrepreneur but one needs to practical as well to ensure that you are able to live off your security fund. Before starting with AutoNxt he had successfully established Brain Waves International school, where he got the global experience blended with the government educational policies. He believes that there needs to be more focused on building the overall personality and leadership building and government is doing it's bit through right educational policies.Having worked in Automotive Sector, his bent towards EV came naturally. He joined Kaustubh Dhonde (listen to podcast here) as he truly believed the kind of disruption it can make in the agricultural field. Being Practical by nature, he chose EV Tractors, you know why??? Well listen to the episode.AutoNxt is a great option for consumers who are looking for long term benefits. It is amazing how easily a farmer is able to adapt to technologies compared to big players in the market.How are teh farmers able to save money and utilise it to pay off their other loans?How Mr. Nitin Gatkari's Vision for sustainable green mobility solutions is empowering Automotive startups in India!Keep listening and following Insiders Talk