Entrepreneur Lounge of India (ELI)

Welcome to Eli (Entrepreneur Lounge of India), your daily dose of inspiration for entrepreneurship! Today, we have Chirag Jadhav, the Co-founder and CTO of Tablesprint. Tablesprint is an innovative AI-powered SaaS platform enabling businesses to build custom enterprise applications within minutes, not months.Chirag shares his journey (00:47) starting as an engineer (University of Pune graduate), his early product inclination leading him to build RainCan (India's first subscription-based daily essentials delivery service), its acquisition by BigBasket (becoming BBdaily), and the insights gained from scaling operations there, especially during the challenging COVID period (03:56).Discover insights into:The Genesis of Tablesprint: How experiences at BigBasket during COVID, needing rapid system changes, sparked the idea for a platform allowing quick app modifications, even by non-technical users (04:41).What Tablesprint Does: An AI-first, no-code/low-code platform for building intuitive apps and workflows across business verticals like HR, sales, operations, supply chain, education, and pharma (00:03, 06:15, 06:58).The Role of AI: How Tablesprint uses AI as a consultant, allowing users to build apps, forms, and workflows using natural language commands, leveraging models and proprietary embeddings (08:42).Platform Features: Building complex workflows (e.g., education sector attendance, parent notifications via WhatsApp/calls), seamless integrations (e.g., Shiprocket), reusable components, and templates (10:17, 07:28, 08:18, 21:22).Target Audience & Market: Serving global clients of varying sizes, with a strong focus initially on the US market due to higher platform adoption tendencies (05:28, 14:11, 14:54).Business Model: A SaaS platform where apps are built and run on Tablesprint's infrastructure (on-premises for Tablesprint), with options to hire developers hourly and partner programs (12:17, 13:22).Customer Acquisition: Using social marketing, Google Ads, and a partner program (16:34).Future of AI & Development: Chirag's view that AI will augment developers ("super developers") rather than replace them, making development faster and more robust (17:47).Tablesprint's Roadmap: Focusing on enhancing AI capabilities (especially in workflow creation), adding more templates, and increasing platform simplicity (20:06).User Onboarding & Support: Utilizing video materials, help documentation, in-app annotations, and a Tablesprint developer certification program (22:50).Tune in to learn about building a cutting-edge AI SaaS platform, the future of app development, and Chirag's entrepreneurial insights.#EliPodcast #ChiragJadhav #Tablesprint #AIAppBuilder #NoCode #LowCode #SaaS #EnterpriseSoftware #RainCan #BigBasket #Entrepreneurship #TechStartup #India #Podcast

Welcome back to Eli, your source for entrepreneurial inspiration! In this episode, we chat with Joy Sharma, Founder & CEO of EZ Works, a unique service business leveraging AI across offerings like graphic design, market research, video production, and more.Joy shares his fascinating journey (00:55) from engineering (Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology) and working at STMicroelectronics, to manufacturing, an MBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, consulting with McKinsey & Company in the US and Dubai, working with governments, and finally launching EZ Works in 2018.Dive into insights on:The "Services Factory" Concept: How EZ Works applies assembly line principles and internal frameworks (like the mentioned "BAT" framework) to deliver consistent, high-quality services at scale across 70+ offerings (05:10, 08:33).Embracing AI Disruption: Why EZ Works deliberately chose services ripe for AI disruption and how they've thrived by adopting AI early (13:08, 14:10).AI as an Assistive Tool: Practical examples of using AI to enhance productivity and quality in translation, graphic design, and digital marketing, empowering employees rather than replacing them (20:17, 21:34, 22:08).Building a Future-Proof Service Business: Joy discusses the critical importance of organizational culture, hiring adaptable generalists, retaining talent through responsibility, and continuously evolving processes in the age of AI (25:12, 26:23, 34:24).Talent & Culture: The challenges and strategies for hiring the right people, fostering a culture of service and accountability, and reaching a "critical mass" where culture becomes self-perpetuating (28:52, 29:49).Entrepreneurship Insights: Joy emphasizes resilience, the necessity of complementary skills within a team, and the importance of showing up every day (36:59).Learn how to navigate the AI revolution in the service industry, build scalable processes, and foster a resilient company culture with Joy Sharma.#EliPodcast #JoySharma #EZWorks #EasyWorks #AIServices #FutureOfWork #ServiceBusiness #Entrepreneurship #DigitalTransformation #AI #BusinessStrategy #Podcast #McKinsey #STMicroelectronics #MichiganRoss #NSIT

In this episode of ELI, host Priya welcomes Ashish Goyal, Co-founder of Fibe (formerly known as Early Salary). Fibe is a leading fintech app providing quick micro-credit and diverse financial solutions in India.Ashish shares his entrepreneurial journey (00:47), transitioning from a finance career to founding Early Salary in 2015 (01:41). He discusses:The market need and research behind launching Early Salary to serve young Indians needing access to credit (02:05).The target audience: young professionals, often migrating to cities, with high aspirations (02:56, 16:01).The rebranding journey from Early Salary to Fibe (Financial Vibes) to reflect a broader range of financial services (04:50).Fibe's diverse product offerings: skill upgradation loans, education financing (coaching, etc.), healthcare funding, solar panel financing, and personal cash loans (05:27, 11:52, 12:37, 13:26, 14:14, 14:33).The sophisticated risk assessment process, leveraging data analytics and AI to underwrite customers quickly and effectively, even those without traditional credit histories (09:06, 16:51).Real-world examples of AI application, including analyzing customer photographs for creditworthiness assessment and fraud detection (18:27, 20:10).Overcoming major challenges like demonetization and the COVID-19 pandemic, and how these periods spurred innovation (21:20, 25:12).Ashish's perspective on the rapidly evolving future of digital lending in India, emphasizing customer experience and the integration of technology (28:49).Tune in to learn about building a successful fintech company in India, the role of AI in modern finance, and insights into the digital lending landscape.#ELI #Fibe #EarlySalary #AshishGoyal #FintechIndia #DigitalLending #Entrepreneurship #AIinFinance #IndianStartups #Podcast

Dive deep into the world of insurance with Tarun Mathur, Co-founder and Chief Business Officer at Policybazaar.com!In this episode, Tarun shares his fascinating entrepreneurial journey, from his early days navigating India as a "Fauji kid" and working in call centers, to co-founding one of India's largest insurtech platforms.We explore the evolution of Policybazaar and get an exclusive look into the strategy, challenges, and vision behind Policybazaar for Business (PB for Business), their dedicated B2B wing serving SMEs and large corporates.In this conversation, you'll learn about:(00:40) Tarun's unique background and how early experiences shaped his approach to business and change.(03:03) The founding principles of Policybazaar and its core focus on customer protection.(03:50) The "Why" behind Policybazaar for Business: Extending protection to SMEs and corporates.(06:14) The distinct challenges of building a B2B brand within a well-known B2C company.(07:55) The complexity and breadth of corporate insurance products (Cyber, Liability, Fire, etc.).(11:26) Why Policybazaar's value goes far beyond sales: The critical importance of service and claims management (Detailed Cyber Insurance example).(16:19) How Policybazaar tackles unique and complex "edge case" insurance needs for businesses.(19:22) Addressing industry concerns: Data privacy and unwanted calls in the insurance sector.(22:30) The persistent problem of misselling: How Policybazaar uses systems and ethics to combat it.(25:40) Unpacking claim rejections: Understanding hidden clauses, waiting periods, and the roles of different stakeholders (insurers, hospitals, brokers).(32:29) The exciting role of AI at Policybazaar: Enhancing product development, fraud detection, and overall efficiency.Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader navigating corporate insurance, or simply curious about the evolving insurance landscape in India, this conversation offers valuable insights from a key industry player.About the Guest:Tarun Mathur is the Co-founder and Chief Business Officer at Policybazaar.com, where he leads the Policybazaar for Business vertical.#Policybazaar #TarunMathur #Insurance #Insurtech #B2BInsurance #Entrepreneurship #AI #Fintech #IndianStartups #BusinessPodcast #InsuranceClaims #CyberInsurance #Misselling #DataPrivacy #PolicybazaarForBusiness

Ever wondered how massive university hostels housing thousands of students are managed in India? Go behind the scenes of Fretbox, the innovative SaaS platform transforming traditionally manual hostel operations into a streamlined, digital experience!In this episode of Eli, we talk to Ashish Gupta, Co-Founder & CEO of Fretbox, about his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Discover how Fretbox identified a critical gap in the market and built a solution to digitize every aspect of student accommodation management.Ashish shares the fascinating origin story of Fretbox, including crucial pivots from earlier ventures and how a personal observation highlighted the urgent need for technology in managing university hostels, which often relied on outdated manual processes, paperwork, and basic communication tools.Discover the core challenges Fretbox tackles head-on: streamlining complex admissions processes, simplifying fee collection, managing daily operations like attendance tracking and meal planning, resolving student complaints efficiently, enhancing communication between residents, wardens, and administration, and bolstering student safety and security.Learn about the Fretbox platform, structured around key functional pillars – Revenue, Communication, Student Tracking, and Assistance. Ashish explains their mobile-first strategy, providing tailored interfaces and real-time notifications for students, wardens, security, and even high-level university management via dedicated apps.Ashish discusses how Fretbox leverages technology, including biometrics for security and data analytics for better planning. He shares insights on exploring AI to further enhance automation, security features like attendance tracking, and optimizing operations such as mess menu planning based on student feedback.Gain valuable insights into the realities of building a B2B SaaS startup targeting the challenging education sector in India. Ashish candidly discusses navigating long sales cycles, dealing with multiple stakeholders, the critical importance of patience and persistence, and the rewards of building long-term customer relationships.Explore Ashish's perspective on the future of student housing in India, which is rapidly evolving into a 'hospitality industry' demanding better amenities and services. Understand Fretbox's vision to support this transformation in a market driven by India's large youth population and the increasing need for digitized, safe, and efficient living experiences for students relocating for higher education.About Fretbox:Fretbox (https://fretbox.in/) is a leading B2B PropTech SaaS platform providing comprehensive management solutions tailored for university and college hostels across India. It streamlines operations, enhances security, improves communication, and optimizes the overall student living experience, currently serving over 30 universities and tens of thousands of students nationwide.Ashish Gupta is the Co-Founder & CEO of Fretbox, driving the company's mission to digitize student accommodation in India.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction: Eli Podcast & Ashish Gupta(01:23) The Fretbox Origin Story: Pivots & Identifying the Niche(02:15) The Chaos: Problems in Traditional Hostel Management(04:30) Landing the First Customer & Iterative Development(06:38) Deeper Dive into Hostel Administration Pain Points(11:40) Inside Fretbox: Core Pillars & Key Features Explained(15:40) Serving All Stakeholders: User Roles & Mobile-First Strategy(18:27) Tech Innovation: Leveraging Biometrics, Data & Exploring AI(20:00) The B2B Grind: Challenges of Selling to Universities(23:30) Future Trends: Student Housing as Hospitality & Fretbox's Vision(25:32) Market Opportunity: India's Youth & Relocation for Education(26:40) Closing Remarks

In this episode, we talk with Manoj Dhanotiya, a serial entrepreneur and the Founder of Micro Mitti. Manoj shares his incredible journey – from starting a bootstrapped IT firm, building a successful e-commerce SaaS platform, to now revolutionizing the real estate sector with Micro Mitti.Micro Mitti is India's pioneering co-investment PropTech platform focused on making fractional ownership in potentially high-growth real estate accessible, transparent, and professional, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities and villages. Manoj explains how Micro Mitti differs from traditional REITs and other fractional models by making investors actual partners in projects with institutional-level due diligence and technology-driven transparency.In this conversation, we cover:(00:44) Manoj's entrepreneurial background: From Mansour (MP) to the US and back, building GoWeb and AiTrillion.(05:50) Identifying the gap: Why Manoj shifted focus to the Indian real estate sector, particularly for the common person.(08:47) What is Micro Mitti?: Understanding their unique co-investment model, focus on Tier 2/3 cities, and use of SPVs.(15:00) Solving Real Estate Challenges: Tackling transparency, accessibility, and professional execution using technology and partnerships (JLL, IC Universal Legal).(20:30) The Role of Technology & AI: How Micro Mitti uses PropTech for live project tracking, document access, online investment, and future AI applications (price prediction, security).(25:47) Fractional Ownership Explained: Why it's gaining popularity and its potential compared to other asset classes.(28:15) Market Insights: Manoj's view on real estate appreciation in India, especially in non-metro regions, and the impact of infrastructure growth.(30:22) Real Estate Bubbles: Addressing concerns about market overheating and how to invest wisely.(35:23) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs: Manoj's key insights on building impactful businesses, especially from smaller cities (Hint: Read!).Tune in to understand the future of real estate investing in India and learn from a seasoned entrepreneur's journey!#RealEstateIndia #FractionalOwnership #PropTech #MicroMitti #ManojDhanotiya #Investment #Entrepreneurship #Tier2India #Tier3India #WealthCreation #IndianStartups #EliPodcast #RealEstateInvesting #FinTech #PropertyInvestment #AIinRealEstate

In this episode, we sit down with Manoj Adlakha, the founder of RedBeryl Lifestyle Services. Red Beryl is a unique, premier luxury lifestyle management company dedicated to curating exclusive experiences and providing unparalleled service to India's rapidly growing affluent class (HNIs and Ultra HNIs).Join us as Manoj shares his incredible journey:- From Chartered Accountant to a top executive at American Express and Visa.- His first entrepreneurial venture and the lessons learned from failure.- The inspiration behind launching RedBeryl (inspired by the rare RedBeryl gem).- Deep insights into the booming Indian luxury market – exploding HNI/Ultra HNI numbers (projected 1.7M HNIs & 20k Ultra HNIs by 2026), the shift towards experiences, and the rise of Tier 3/4 cities.- The unique challenges and desires of India's affluent population.- How Red Beryl differentiates itself from traditional credit cards and concierge services by offering a comprehensive suite of benefits under one roof – covering travel, dining, exclusive club access (3000+ globally), sporting events, concerts, wellness, bespoke requests (like sourcing vintage cars or arranging unique weddings), and more.- Red Beryl's unique value proposition, membership tiers (Red & Black cards), and high-touch service model with dedicated lifestyle managers.- How they acquired their first customers through an exclusive launch event featuring Grammy winners Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej.- The power of word-of-mouth marketing in the luxury segment.- Discover how Red Beryl acts as the ultimate "go-to" resource, making moments of truth come true for its discerning members.Timestamps:(00:03) Introduction to Manoj Adlakha & RedBeryl(00:40) Manoj's background: Chartered Accountancy, American Express, Visa(02:15) First stint at entrepreneurship and lessons learned(05:00) Insights into the Indian market & opportunity(05:45) Role as CEO of American Express India(07:44) The decision to pivot and founding RedBeryl(08:30) Understanding the unique Indian affluent class(10:12) Exploding HNI & Ultra HNI numbers in India(14:30) Market dynamics: Private consumption, demographics, Tier 3/4 growth(18:10) What Red Beryl is (and isn't): Beyond concierge/credit cards(19:00) Membership Tiers (Red & Black) and Pricing(20:15) The Value Proposition: Focus on Service & Benefits(21:15) Pillar 1: Hotel Partnerships (e.g., Taj discounts)(23:50) Pillar 2: Dining Benefits (Standalone restaurants, free meals)(24:55) Pillar 3: Bespoke Travel Desk(26:30) Pillar 4: Sporting Events & Concert Access (Authenticity guaranteed)(28:55) Pillar 5: Exclusive Social & Golf Club Access (3000+ globally)(31:45) Pillar 6: Meet & Assist Travel Services(33:35) Concierge as a fulfillment channel & unique requests (Great Wall wedding, Ford Mustang)(37:20) The shift towards experiences over material goods(38:35) Proactive service: The "Dream Weavers" concept(39:20) Marketing Strategy: Zero ad spend, focus on referrals(40:39) Acquiring the first customers: The exclusive launch event(43:45) Building brand awareness organically (Insta, partnerships like Tata CLiQ Luxury, Kirchhofer)(46:10) Pillar 7: Wellness Partnerships(47:16) New Verticals: Wedding Planning ("With Red")(50:20) The meaning behind the name "RedBeryl" (Rarest Gem)(52:55) Flexibility and channel choices for members#ManojAdlakha #RedBeryl #LuxuryLifestyle #India #HNI #UltraHNI #Entrepreneurship #LuxuryMarket #ExclusiveExperiences #AmericanExpress #LifestyleManagement #ELIPodcast

Sonya, Co-founder of Imarticus Learning - India's leading professional education company, discusses bridging India's skill gap, the impact of AI, trending job skills (FinTech, Gen AI), her entrepreneurial path, and the future of the edtech industry. Essential listening for insights on education, careers, and entrepreneurship in India.Timestamps:(01:26) Why Imarticus Started(05:03) The Skill Gap Problem(14:16) Hot Career Trends(16:45) AI & White-Collar Jobs(21:08) Entrepreneurial Motivation(26:54) Finding a Co-founder(36:40) Future of EdTech#ImarticusLearning #EdTechIndia #SkillIndia #FutureOfEducation #AIJobs #IndianEntrepreneur

Welcome to Eli! In this episode, we talk with Aditya Mhatre, Co-founder of MyBeacon (mybeacon.ca), a fintech startup revolutionizing the immigration experience for those moving to Canada.Aditya shares his incredible journey from being an early employee at Reliance Jio and Paytm (Canada & Japan/PayPay) to founding Beacon based on his own challenges as an immigrant.Discover how Beacon aims to be a 'super app' for immigrants, offering unique services like:✅ Opening a Canadian bank account BEFORE you arrive✅ Cost-effective money transfers from India to Canada✅ Paying Indian utility bills directly from Canada✅ Planning tools for your moveWe also discuss the concept of super apps, the risks involved, the future of immigration, and the pros/cons of building a product based on personal experience.If you're planning a move to Canada or interested in fintech solutions for immigrants, this episode is for you!#ImmigrationCanada #Fintech #MyBeacon #Canada #Startup #Entrepreneurship #IndiaToCanada #SuperApp

Welcome to another episode of ELI, your daily dose of inspiration for entrepreneurship! In episode 449, we have a fascinating conversation with Jinen Dedhia, the Co-founder of DronaHQ, a cutting-edge low-code and no-code app development platform.Join us as Jinen shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his early days and initial ventures to the evolution of Drona HQ.

Welcome to ELI! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of cross-border payments with Anand Balaji, co-founder of XFlow, a cutting-edge fintech startup solving India's B2B payment challenges. From his early days in engineering to shaping Amazon India's launch and leading Stripe's India operations, Anand shares his journey of building a global payment infrastructure that's fast, transparent, and trusted by thousands of businesses. ---### **

Join us on this eye-opening episode where Gaurav Dagaonkar, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Hoopr.ai & Songfest India, shares his inspiring journey from an aspiring musician and Bollywood music director to a trailblazer in AI music technology. Discover how his decade-long experience in the music industry shaped his entrepreneurial path, how Hoopr.ai is transforming music licensing and copyright management, and what the future holds for AI-driven music creation. We dive deep into hot topics like AI tools (think Suno AI), innovative revenue streams for artists, and the evolving digital landscape of music. Whether you're a musician, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights to inspire and spark change in the music world.Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories!

In this episode of ELI - Entrepreneur Lounge India, we sit down with Harshit Jain, Founder & Global CEO of Doceree, who is transforming the way pharmaceutical companies engage with physicians. A trained medical professional turned entrepreneur, Harshit has built Doceree, the world's first physician-only programmatic marketing platform, to bring efficiency and transparency to pharma marketing.

Welcome to Entrepreneur Lounge of India (ELI)! In this episode, we speak with Kiran Nambiar, Co-Founder & CEO of MyFi by TIFIN, about how AI is reshaping wealth management and empowering Indian investors with intelligent, personalized financial advice.

Welcome to ELI (Entrepreneur Lounge of India), where we bring you real stories and actionable insights to fuel your entrepreneurial journey. In this thought-provoking episode, our host Priya sits down with Sauvik Banerjjee, a multifaceted entrepreneur who has transitioned from playing professional cricket at an elite level to founding cutting-edge technology ventures.Key Discussion Topics 1. Early Beginnings and Cricket • Balancing sports and academics • Lessons in discipline, teamwork, and handling pressure 2. Building Tech Ventures in AI • Founding Rezolve AI: Enhancing e-commerce through next-gen conversational search • Sirrus.ai: Streamlining real estate transactions with AI • Ziki: Creating community platforms that connect residents in gated societies 3. The Power of Generative AI • How gen AI (ChatGPT, Midjourney, etc.) is only one slice of the entire AI spectrum • Practical use cases of conversational AI for retailers, real estate developers, and more 4. India's AI Opportunity • Multilingual, multicultural potential for AI adoption • Observing global pioneers and then innovating for India's billion-plus population 5. Entrepreneurship Mindset • The role of resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning • Why profitability should be central to any new business from day one • Embracing “work-life harmony” instead of seeking a perfect balanceWhy You Should Watch • Gain a nuanced understanding of how AI is reshaping diverse industries. • Learn how to validate your startup idea before fully committing resources. • Discover how India's unique market dynamics can lead to AI breakthroughs. • Get a firsthand account of the dedication and grit required to build multiple ventures from scratch.Timestamps • 00:00 – Introduction • 00:03 – From professional cricket to founding startups • 05:30 – The vision behind Rezolve AI • 11:00 – Building community platforms with Ziki • 13:05 – The real estate tech play with Sirrus.ai • 20:45 – AI beyond just ‘generative' and ChatGPT • 33:00 – Entrepreneurship lessons and career pivots • 40:23 – India's AI journey and the global landscape • 44:00 – Final advice for budding entrepreneurs

Welcome to ELI - the place where you get your daily dose of entrepreneurial inspiration. In this episode, we chat with Anirudh V., the founder of Trailytics, an AI-powered data aggregation and analytics platform. Anirudh shares his journey from engineering to entrepreneurship, the challenges in the analytics domain, and how Trailytics is revolutionizing data insights across industries.

Welcome to ELI - the platform where you gain daily inspiration for entrepreneurship. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Sajeev Nair, the founder of Vieroots, a D2C brand specializing in personalized health, wellness, and nutrition solutions. Dr. Sajeev shares his journey from sales to pioneering breakthroughs in biohacking, AI-driven health insights, and blockchain-powered wellness ecosystems.

Welcome to ELI . In this episode, we talk to Nikhil Kurhe, the Co-Founder and CEO of Finarkein Analytics, about how his company is revolutionizing the financial services industry with their cutting-edge Flux platform. Discover insights about India's fintech ecosystem, the Account Aggregator framework, and how Finarkein is enabling seamless data-driven journeys for enterprises.

Welcome to ELI (Entrepreneurship Learning Insights)! In this episode, we dive into the world of cybersecurity with Srinivas Shekar, the founder and CEO of Pantherun Technologies, a cybersecurity and data encryption innovator. Discover his entrepreneurial journey, insights into cybersecurity challenges, and how his patented solutions are safeguarding the digital world.

Discover the inspiring journey of Pramod Kathuria, Founder & CEO of Easiloan.com, a digital home loan platform revolutionizing the mortgage industry. In this episode of ELI - 439, Pramod shares his transition from a 20-year career in banking and real estate to solving real-world problems with innovative tech solutions.

In this episode of ELI, we host Paddy Raghavan, Co-founder of Multipl, a fintech startup pioneering the concept of “Spendvesting”. Paddy shares how Multipl bridges the gap between spending and saving by encouraging users to invest for their spends instead of relying on credit. Multipl offers a smarter way to plan for life goals—travel, shopping, insurance, or savings—by combining mutual fund returns with brand discounts, resulting in 7x to 10x better value compared to savings accounts or credit.

In this episode of ELI, we feature Moiz Arsiwala, Co-founder of WorkIndia, India's largest blue-collar and gray-collar job portal. Moiz shares how WorkIndia bridges the gap between job seekers and employers by solving information asymmetry and eliminating job fraud for millions of blue-collar workers. Discover the unique tech-driven solutions WorkIndia uses, including graph analytics, NLP, and machine learning, to ensure job authenticity while empowering job seekers with a simple, intuitive platform. Learn how WorkIndia grew from the 2G era to a digital-first platform helping the underserved segment access meaningful livelihoods.

In this episode of ELI (Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative), we sit down with Samuel Joy Cherian, Co-founder of HUNTR, an AI-driven mass hiring platform revolutionizing how enterprises recruit, train, and onboard blue-collar and gray-collar workers globally. Samuel shares his entrepreneurial journey from a secure corporate job in Dubai to solving the complex problem of high-volume, cross-border recruitment. Discover how HUNTR digitizes inefficient manual processes, uses AI for documentation, demand forecasting, and ensures transparency for both enterprises and workers.

In this episode of ELI, we host Samudragupta (Sam) Talukdar, Founder & CEO of Relata, a real estate SaaS platform revolutionizing how properties are sold, managed, and optimized using technology. Sam shares his journey from working in tech to identifying critical problems in the real estate sector and building Relata – a platform that combines virtual sales tools, CRMs, analytics, and booking workflows to solve challenges in lead conversions and customer engagement.

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Jitin Bhasin, Founder & CEO of SaveIN, a healthcare financing platform that is transforming how Indians access and afford private healthcare. Jitin shares his journey from banking and fintech to launching SaveIN in 2022. With a unique focus on outpatient care, SaveIN offers no-cost EMI solutions to cover expenses like dental treatments, dermatology, IVF, mental wellness, and fitness — areas often ignored by insurance.

In this episode of ELI (Entrepreneur Lounge of India), we sit down with Jairaj Bhattacharya, Co-founder & CEO of ConveGenius, a social EdTech enterprise driving educational transformation in India. Jairaj shares his inspiring journey of building solutions that have reached 75+ million learners across 40% of India's schools through platforms like SwiftChat and personalized learning tools. From starting in a garage in Mathura to building one of India's largest AI-driven educational platforms, Jairaj discusses how innovation, WhatsApp integration, and a “fail-fast” mindset have shaped their growth.

Welcome to ELI (Entrepreneurial Learning Initiative), the podcast that brings you your daily dose of entrepreneurial inspiration!

In this episode of ELI (Entrepreneur Lounge of Inspiration), we dive into the fascinating journey of Sougata Basu, the founder of CashRich Investment App, a cutting-edge wealth management platform designed for retail investors.

In this episode of ELI, we speak with Eric Fonseca, Co-Founder of IndoAI, a startup building AI-powered edge cameras and computer vision solutions. Inspired by platforms like iOS, Android, and cloud giants such as Azure and AWS, IndoAI is creating an open ecosystem where third-party developers can innovate and contribute their own AI models and applications. The company aims to revolutionize the way enterprises handle attendance, visitor management, security, and more—right at the edge, ensuring data privacy and real-time responsiveness. Eric shares insights into IndoAI's journey, how the COVID-19 pandemic led them to pivot toward advanced face recognition and AI-driven attendance systems, and how they're scaling up to address various use cases like fire detection, intrusion alerts, and vehicle identification. He also discusses the importance of fostering a developer community, the challenges of changing customer mindsets about AI-based solutions, and the path to building a sustainable AI startup. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:03 Meet Eric Fonseca & Genesis of IndoAI 01:22 Transitioning from Face Recognition to a Full AI Camera Platform 02:10 Early Collaboration with Government & Pandemic Pivot 03:33 Edge AI Cameras Explained: On-Device Processing & Data Privacy 05:31 Emphasis on Real-Time Analytics & On-Premise Data Handling 07:32 Use Cases: Visitor Management, Intrusion Detection & Smart Locks 09:16 Evolving from Attendance Apps to AI-Driven Cameras 10:52 The Concept of “Appization”: AI Model Marketplace for Cameras 12:57 Multiple AI Models: Face Recognition, Intrusion, Fire/Smoke Detection 14:23 Market Strategy: B2G, Societies, Corporates, & Channel Partners 16:56 Building a Developer Ecosystem & Revenue Sharing Model 18:16 Enhancing & Improving Models via Hackathons & Collaborations 19:32 Global Trends: Environmental Monitoring & Gesture Recognition in Pharma 21:43 Future Outlook: Starting in India, Expanding Beyond Borders 22:28 Entrepreneurial Lessons: Overcoming Mindset Barriers & Team Alignment 24:26 Defining Entrepreneurship: Persistence, Consistency & Building Legacy

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Siva Balakrishnan, Founder of Vserve Ebusiness Solutions, a company that provides end-to-end services for e-commerce retailers worldwide. Siva discusses the evolving landscape of e-commerce—from the early days of small-scale stores to today's mature market dominated by omnichannel retailers. He shares insights on how Vserve helps clients with everything from platform setup and product catalog management to digital marketing, supply chain optimization, and analytics. Siva also delves into how AI is transforming various aspects of e-commerce, including customer support chatbots, inventory forecasting, and content creation. For aspiring service entrepreneurs, Siva offers valuable advice on acquiring initial clients, retaining talent, and embracing continuous innovation amidst rapid technological changes. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:04 Meet Siva Balakrishnan & Genesis of Vserve Ebusiness Solutions 01:13 Early Inspiration: Leveraging Offshore & E-commerce Expertise 02:23 Targeting the US Market & Bootstrapping for Stability 03:36 The Evolving E-commerce Landscape: From Startups to Omnichannel Giants 05:48 Winning the First Customers: Selling Yourself First 07:52 Strategies to Secure Initial Deals: In-Person Meetings & Digital Outreach 10:40 Types of Clients: Established Retailers vs. Emerging E-commerce Players 11:08 Mature Market Needs: Full-Spectrum E-commerce Services 13:18 Niches for New Entrants: Finding Proprietary Products & Differentiation 14:22 Embracing AI: Balancing Automation & Human Creativity 17:17 Impact of AI on Supply Chain & Data Analysis 20:29 Rise of AI Chatbots & Personalization in Customer Experience 21:04 Exceptional UX & Creative Campaigns as Key Differentiators 23:10 Managing Reviews & Reputation: Tools & Strategies 27:59 Running a People-Centric Services Business: Transparency & Incentives 31:48 Advice for Aspiring Service Entrepreneurs: Talent, Process & Innovation 32:21 Closing Remarks & Future Outlook

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Bruce Keith, CEO of Bridgeweave, a London-born entrepreneur based in India, who's on a mission to democratize access to institutional-grade investment insights using AI. Bruce discusses the global problem of unadvised and underutilized investor segments, particularly in emerging markets like India. He explains how AI can help level the playing field, offering personalized guidance—short of direct financial advice—to individuals who may not have access to traditional wealth managers. He also shares insights on data security in AI, India's rising fintech scene, and what it truly means to be an entrepreneur in a rapidly evolving global market. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:04 Meet Bruce Keith & the Vision Behind Bridgeweave 01:22 The Global Problem: 2.1 Billion Potential Investors With No Advice 02:04 The Unadvised Market & India's Unique Growth Opportunity 03:43 Why Many Indian Demat Accounts Remain Inactive 05:20 Bridging the Guidance Gap: Moving Beyond Just Access & Media 07:52 The Downside of “Stock Tips” & Need for Timely Insights 09:16 Long-Term Investing vs. Short-Term Speculation & AI's Role 11:08 What's Missing in Neo-Broker Platforms & How AI Steps In 13:09 AI's Potential: From Institutional-Only to Common Investors 17:54 Efficiency vs. Best-in-Class Returns: Enhancing, Not Beating Institutions 20:29 Avoiding “Herd Trades”: Ensuring Portfolio Diversification with AI 23:12 The Guardrails of AI in Investing: No Overstepping into Direct Advice 26:10 Tackling Data Security & Sovereignty with AI Tools 31:42 Can India Lead the Global AI Revolution in Fintech? 33:54 Leveraging AI to Boost Developer Productivity & Innovation 35:14 Lessons in Entrepreneurship: Vision, Resilience & Embracing Mistakes 38:15 India's Entrepreneurial Energy & Global Outlook 40:05 Closing Remarks & Future Outlook

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Siddhartha Chandurkar, Founder & CEO of Shephertz, a tech company focused on helping enterprises achieve agile and incremental digital transformation. Beginning as a provider of APIs, Big Data, and AI-driven tools, Shephertz pivoted during COVID-19 to create solutions like Work Anywhere (to facilitate secure, productive remote and hybrid working) and Talent Anywhere (an AI-enhanced recruitment platform). Siddhartha shares insights on how AI is reshaping work environments, the recruiting process, and what emerging entrepreneurs should focus on to leverage this technological shift. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:03 Meet Siddhartha Chandurkar & the Shephertz Journey 00:43 About Shephertz: From API & Big Data to AI-Driven Products 02:06 Birth of Work Anywhere: Enabling Remote & Hybrid Teams 03:26 Overcoming Security & Confidentiality Hurdles in Remote Work 04:01 Talent Anywhere: Redefining Global Recruitment with AI 05:12 Insightful Case Studies: Pivoting Amidst the Pandemic 07:52 Computer Vision & AI for Workforce Monitoring & Compliance 09:34 Beyond Compliance: Productivity & Engagement in Remote Setups 11:39 Fostering Company Culture & Gamification for Distributed Teams 14:00 Real-Time Examples: Launching Solutions for BFSI during COVID 17:44 Transition from API-Centric Products to New AI-Powered Solutions 19:03 Separate Platforms & Portals for Different Market Segments 20:45 AI as an Enabler: Future Trends in Remote Work & Recruitment 23:12 Exploring Generative AI & Beyond 26:10 Applied AI: Real-World Problem Solving & Continuous Innovation 28:23 Use Cases of AI in Hiring: Shortlisting, Interviews & Assessments 31:12 Advice for Entrepreneurs: Seizing the AI Opportunity Early 34:50 Closing Thoughts & Best Wishes

In this episode of ELI, we speak with Amar Shirsat, Co-founder & CTO of GrowthPal, a cutting-edge SaaS platform designed to streamline the mergers & acquisitions (M&A) process. Amar sheds light on how GrowthPal uses advanced AI-driven data analysis and insights to match buyers and sellers—especially in mid-market deal sizes ranging from $1 million to $50 million. He explains how they maintain confidentiality in a sensitive space, manage complex regulatory environments, and leverage technology to identify opportunities for inorganic growth. Whether you're new to M&A or looking to understand how AI can make deal sourcing smarter, this conversation is packed with valuable insights. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:03 Meet Amar Shirsat & His Background in Startups & M&A Tech 00:42 About GrowthPal: A SaaS Platform for M&A Deal Sourcing 02:21 How Buyers Use GrowthPal for Inorganic Growth Opportunities 05:36 Navigating the Confidentiality & Sensitivity of M&A Deals 06:19 Understanding M&A Strategy: Why Buyers Always Stay Alert 09:01 Leveraging AI & Data to Score & Recommend Target Companies 11:35 Sorting Complex Signals: Company Layoffs, New Products & More 14:08 Handling Missing or Sensitive Data Through Due Diligence 15:30 Why GrowthPal Focuses on $1M to $50M Mid-Market Deals 18:07 Pricing Model: Subscription & Finder's Fees vs. Investment Bankers 19:27 GrowthPal's AI Agent: Constantly Monitoring Competitors & Markets 20:45 Exploring Agentic AI Workflows & Future Automation Plans 22:39 Ensuring Confidentiality & Consent for Deal Discussions 25:11 Integrations & Data Security Measures 29:57 Hiring Tech Talent & Sustaining an Entrepreneurial Team Culture 31:20 Closing Remarks & Key Takeaways

In this episode, we sit down with Rahul Bajaj and Shitiz Ruhail, the founders of Digital Darwin—a deep-tech platform revolutionizing sports performance and athlete training through AI, computer vision, and integrated analytics. They share how their platform is helping elite athletes and coaches fine-tune training methods, predict performance improvements, and ultimately unlock human potential. From analyzing motion and form to providing nutrition insights via AI-driven models, Digital Darwin is bringing cutting-edge technology to the sports ecosystem. Whether you're interested in the future of sports science, AI's impact on high-performance training, or the entrepreneurial journey in building a deep-tech startup, this conversation has something for you. Timestamps/Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:02 Meet the Founders: Rahul Bajaj & Shitiz Ruhail 00:41 Backgrounds: From Healthcare & Tech to Sports Innovation 03:41 Origin of the Name “Digital Darwin” & Vision Behind the Venture 05:59 Real-World Examples: Elevating Athlete Performance with Data & AI 09:01 Beyond the Buzz: Explaining the Different “Flavors” of AI 12:46 Applying Computer Vision & LLMs for Athlete Training 20:41 Computer Vision in Action: Ensuring Correct Form & Reducing Injury 27:53 Scaling Up: Supporting 3,000+ Elite Athletes 29:48 Case Studies & Success Stories from National Centers of Excellence 31:49 Go-To-Market Strategy: Who Pays & How They Reach the Market 36:27 Customization vs. Standardization Across Different Sports 41:17 Reflections on Entrepreneurship & Building a Deep-Tech Startup 55:46 Closing Remarks & Future Outlook

In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Neha Juneja, the Co-founder & CEO of IndiaP2P, to explore the world of peer-to-peer lending in India. Neha shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting from her early ventures in fintech and clean energy solutions to founding IndiaP2P, a platform that enables everyday individuals to lend directly to vetted borrowers and potentially earn high returns. We dive deep into how IndiaP2P sources borrowers, the unique focus on women-led businesses, risk management strategies, and the importance of transparency in digital lending. Neha also provides valuable perspectives on the future of financial services in India, new opportunities for fintech entrepreneurs, and the broader role of entrepreneurship in societal development. If you're curious about P2P lending, financial inclusion, or are looking for inspiration on building impactful ventures, this conversation is a must-watch. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Neha Juneja & IndiaP2P 00:03 Meet Neha & Overview of IndiaP2P's Model 00:42 Neha's Background & Early Ventures in Fintech 01:19 First Venture & Lessons from the 2008 Financial Crisis 02:33 Building Greenway Grameen & Rural Market Insights 05:01 Understanding the Traditional Peer-to-Peer Lending Roots in India 06:20 Addressing India's Credit Starvation & P2P as a Solution 09:57 Risk Management & Default Handling in P2P Lending 12:28 Diversification for Lenders & No Averaging of Defaults 13:04 Borrowers vs. Lenders Profile & Onboarding Process 15:01 Field-Agent Model & Underwriting for Small Women-led Businesses 18:08 Alternative Credit Data & Manual Verification Methods 20:35 Why Women Borrowers Are Underserved Despite Better Credit Scores 24:21 Interest Rates, Returns, & Transparency in P2P Lending 26:46 Regulatory Landscape & Ethical Lending Practices 29:48 India's Shifting Credit Landscape: From Underserved to Over-extended 32:19 Opportunities in Fintech: Solving the Future Pension Crisis 34:23 Reflecting on Entrepreneurship & Building a Lasting Legacy 35:04 Closing Remarks & Best Wishes for IndiaP2P

In this episode, we dive into the world of fintech innovation with Ryan Malhotra, the founder of NeoFinity. Ryan's ventures are redefining the payment and banking landscape with cutting-edge solutions tailored for digital-first customers.

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Kavitha Kanaparthi, founder of Soulverse, a groundbreaking decentralized identity creation platform. Kavitha unpacks the vision behind Soulverse, which is designed to empower individuals and enterprises with secure and universal access to digital identities. Join us as we explore:

In this episode of ELI, we speak with Vishal Chopra, founder of Umwelt AI, an AI-powered employee experience management platform. Vishal shares how Umwelt AI helps companies listen to employees, analyze their experiences, and take actionable steps to enhance engagement, reduce attrition, and boost overall business outcomes. Tune in to explore:

Welcome to ELI, your daily dose of entrepreneurship inspiration! In this episode, we speak with Karan Ahuja, co-founder and CEO of AiVANTA, a cutting-edge B2B SaaS platform that helps enterprises optimize video production costs by up to 80%. Karan shares his insights on leveraging AI for video production, bridging the gaps in enterprise-grade solutions, and the future trends in video communication for businesses. Karan discusses AiVANTA's innovative approach to AI-driven video production, the platform's use cases in BFSI, healthcare, and insurance, and how businesses can scale video personalization and localization to enhance communication.

Welcome to ELI, the place where you get your daily dose of inspiration for entrepreneurship. In today's episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Dr. Sat Kumar Tomar, the founder and CEO of Satyukt Analytics. Satyukt is an AgTech platform that leverages satellite data and machine learning to provide precision agriculture solutions to farmers. Join us as we delve into Sat's journey from his farming background in Western Uttar Pradesh to building a cutting-edge technology platform that aims to revolutionize farming practices in India and beyond. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:04 Welcome to ELA and Guest Introduction 00:38 Sat Introduces Himself and SatSure Analytics 02:29 Simplifying Precision Farming 04:12 Role of Satellites in Agriculture 05:22 How Satellites Measure Soil Composition 07:05 Data Points Obtained from Satellites 08:48 Using AI and Machine Learning in Agriculture 10:14 Making Satellite Data Actionable for Farmers 12:27 Early Days of Building the Venture 16:08 Challenges in Farmer Adoption of Technology 18:08 Building a Diverse Team 20:27 Success and Adoption of the Platform 22:49 Monetizing the Platform 24:33 Future Plans for SatSure Analytics 26:46 Advice for Aspiring AgriTech Entrepreneurs 29:01 Closing Remarks and Best Wishes Don't miss this insightful discussion packed with valuable lessons on technology, agriculture, and entrepreneurship!

In this episode of ELI, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dave Esra, the founder and CEO of BobiHealth AI, an innovative pregnancy tracking platform leveraging artificial intelligence to predict and prevent complications during and after pregnancy.

In this episode of ELI, we sit down with Manish M., founder of Learning Spiral, a leading online examination solution provider, to explore the evolution of digital assessments and the future of education technology. Manish takes us through Learning Spiral's journey, from the startup days in 1999 to becoming a pioneer in transforming university assessments and admission processes across India. We delve into: •

In this episode of ELI, we are joined by Suresh Bansal, the Founder & CEO of DCGpac, India's leading packaging material supplier. Suresh takes us on an inspiring journey through his decades-long entrepreneurial experience, from founding an IT company in the 90s, listing it on the stock exchange, to joining the board of DTDC and expanding the supply chain giant globally. Now with DCGpac, Suresh is revolutionizing the packaging industry with innovation, technology, and scalable solutions for both small e-commerce sellers and large corporate clients. In this episode, we discuss: • Suresh's entrepreneurial journey, from IT to packaging and logistics • The challenges of building a business in India in the 90s • How DCGpac is solving the packaging needs of MSMEs and large corporates alike • The importance of packaging for brand positioning and customer experience Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction 01:30 – Suresh's entrepreneurial journey and IT venture 04:50 – Joining DTDC and scaling the business globally 08:00 – Founding DCGpac and the motivation behind it 10:50 – The packaging industry in India and challenges for MSMEs 14:30 – Solving e-commerce packaging needs with technology 18:30 – How DCGpac's platform helps large corporations 22:00 – Innovation in packaging: Smart packaging, storytelling, and more 25:50 – The impact of packaging on brand perception 28:00 – How much should businesses invest in packaging? 29:30 – Lessons learned as an entrepreneur #Entrepreneurship #PackagingIndustry #BusinessInnovation #Logistics #SupplyChain #DCGpac #Leadership #Branding #CustomerExperience

In this episode of ELI Podcast, we sit down with Raj K Gopalakrishnan, the founder of Kogo Tech Labs, India's first AI Agent Operating System. Raj explains the difference between AI agents and foundational models like ChatGPT, highlighting how Kogo's platform is designed to build, deploy, and manage millions of AI agents for enterprises. Raj also shares real-world use cases across industries such as manufacturing, travel, and insurance, and offers insights into how AI can enhance efficiency while maintaining a human-first approach.

In this episode of ELI Podcast, we sit down with Manjul Wadhwa, the Founder & CEO of Anagram Media Labs, a full-service integrated marketing agency that blends technology and creativity. Manjul shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting Anagram in the midst of the pandemic, and how he leveraged technology to deliver scalable, data-driven marketing solutions. We dive deep into: • The evolution of marketing services from traditional to influencer marketing • How Anagram launched their AI-based creator marketplace, “Inflyx,” for data-driven influencer campaigns • The shift in media consumption and how brands can adapt to the creator economy • The challenges of running a service-based agency and how to retain talent in a highly competitive industry This episode is packed with insights on entrepreneurship, marketing trends, and the future of the creator economy. Tune in to learn how to grow your business through sustainable marketing strategies!

In this episode of ELI, we dive into the world of electric bicycles with Kunal Gupta, the visionary Co-Founder and CEO of EMotorad, a rapidly growing e-bike company that's revolutionizing urban mobility in India and beyond. Discover how EMotorad is changing the way people commute, and learn why MS Dhoni, a cricket legend and passionate motorhead, has invested in this innovative company. Kunal shares insights into EMotorad's growth, from their humble beginnings to becoming a global player in the e-bike market. We discuss the challenges they faced, the future of urban mobility, and what sets their electric bikes apart from traditional vehicles. Tune in to hear the fascinating story of how EMotorad is transforming transportation and why it caught the attention of one of India's biggest icons, MS Dhoni. Topics Covered: • The rise of electric bicycles in India and globally • Why MS Dhoni became an investor and ambassador for EMotorad • The unique technology and features of EMotorad's bikes • How e-bikes are solving health, economic, and environmental challenges • Future trends in urban mobility Don't miss this inspiring conversation packed with insights for entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the future of transport. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Kunal Gupta, Co-Founder of EMotorad 01:40 – What is EMotorad? Overview of India's Largest E-Bike Company 03:00 – The Global Appeal of Electric Bikes 05:25 – Trends in India's Electric Bike Market 09:00 – The Health and Environmental Benefits of E-Bikes 11:30 – The Cost and Affordability of Electric Bikes 13:45 – How Kunal's Journey in Entrepreneurship Began 17:00 – Why MS Dhoni Invested in EMotorad 19:30 – The Impact of MS Dhoni on EMotorad's Growth 21:45 – EMotorad's Expansion and the Future of E-Bikes 25:00 – Innovation in E-Bike Technology: Smart Features & Safety 29:00 – Kunal's Vision for the Future of Urban Mobility in India 32:00 – The Role of Local Manufacturing and Supply Chain Challenges 35:45 – Advice for Entrepreneurs: Kunal's Key Learnings 39:00 – Final Thoughts: EMotorad's Mission to Revolutionize Mobility

In this episode of ELI Podcast, we sit down with Roopak Naresh Gupta, the Founder & CEO of mTap. Roopak shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, the creation of mTap, and how NFC technology is transforming the way we network and share information. Learn how mTap is bridging the gap between physical and digital worlds, revolutionizing business cards, and enhancing networking efficiency. Roopak also discusses key aspects of building a successful tech product, customer validation, and navigating the challenges of scaling a startup. Topics covered include: • Roopak's career background and journey to entrepreneurship • The idea and market validation behind mTap • Features and use cases of NFC technology in business cards • How mTap enhances networking and contact management • Advice for budding entrepreneurs on finding cool problems to solve Timestamps for Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:42 - Roopak's background and career journey 02:04 - The motivation behind starting mTap 03:23 - Market validation through TikTok viral success 04:50 - The pain points mTap is solving 06:12 - Demonstration of mTap's networking and digital footprint features 08:22 - Differences between mTap and LinkedIn QR codes 09:38 - Capturing conversation context with mTap 12:18 - How NFC business cards work 14:26 - NFC technology use cases (cards, table stands, key fobs) 17:08 - The future of NFC: Commoditization and mTap's software focus 21:53 - mTap's plans for future development 25:20 - mTap's user growth story 29:12 - Advice for budding entrepreneurs: Finding problems to solve 33:13 - The importance of customer journey in product development 35:15 - Idea pollination vs copying products 35:57 - Closing thoughts and final advice

Welcome to ELI, your go-to source for entrepreneurial inspiration! In this episode, we sit down with Siddharth Agarwal, the founder of Mobicule, a pioneering platform in debt collection and recovery. Siddharth takes us through Mobicule's journey, the challenges of debt collection, and how AI is transforming the industry by personalizing the customer experience. From the impact of AI on debt collection to the future of fintech in India, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and finance. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:40 - Siddharth Agarwal's Background and Mobicule Overview 02:54 - Early Career and Founding Mobicule 06:34 - Starting During the 2008 Financial Crisis 10:50 - The Debt Collection Process Explained 14:10 - How AI Personalizes Debt Collection 19:27 - Addressing Security Concerns with Payment Links 23:48 - The Future of Fintech in India 29:51 - UPI-Based Lending: A New Frontier 32:05 - Expanding Mobicule's Product Offerings 35:27 - What Siddharth Has Learned About Entrepreneurship 37:16 - Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Welcome to ELI, the place where you get your daily dose of entrepreneurial inspiration! In this episode, we are thrilled to host Neeti Sharma, CEO of TeamLease Digital. With over two decades of experience in education, employability, and employment, Neeti shares her journey from joining a 2-year-old startup to leading one of India's leading technology professional services companies. In this conversation, we explore the evolution of TeamLease, the challenges and rewards of long-term leadership, the impact of AI on recruitment, and valuable advice for new entrepreneurs. Whether you're a startup founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply interested in the intersection of technology and employment, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss! Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:37 - Neeti Sharma's Journey with TeamLease 02:23 - Evolution of TeamLease: From Staffing to Digital Services 05:06 - International Experience and Early Career 07:25 - Why Join a Startup: Neeti's Perspective 10:45 - Leadership Lessons for New Founders 14:55 - The Role of AI in Recruitment 18:36 - Is AI Replacing Jobs? 24:14 - Defining Entrepreneurship: Neeti's Insights 26:30 - Final Thoughts and Closing

In this episode of Eli, we sit down with Sameer Gandotra, the CEO and founder of Frendy, a digitized convenience store network transforming rural and small-town India. Sameer shares his journey from working in the family tea business and the oil and gas industry to founding Frendy, a venture aimed at modernizing the shopping experience in under-served regions. We dive into the challenges and opportunities of catering to rural consumers, the innovative use of technology in retail, and the unique business model that empowers micro kirana stores. Sameer also discusses his insights on entrepreneurship and the future of retail in India's smaller towns. Tune in to discover how Frendy is bringing a mall-like experience to places where it's most needed. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:42 - Sameer Gandotra's Background and Journey to Entrepreneurship 02:39 - The Genesis of Frendy: Identifying the Gap in Rural Retail 05:06 - Differences Between Urban and Rural Buying Patterns 10:23 - Frendy's Unique Retail Experience: What Sets It Apart 14:29 - Product Range and Assortment at Frendy Marts 16:18 - Role of Micro Kirana Stores in Frendy's Ecosystem 20:46 - Reducing Costs Through a Localized Delivery Model 22:20 - Choosing Locations for Frendy Marts 26:26 - Surveying Consumer Buying Power in Small Towns 30:19 - Leveraging Technology in Frendy's Operations 34:28 - Insights on Entrepreneurship from Sameer Gandotra 38:51 - Closing Remarks: The Role of Entrepreneurs in India's Future