Karishma Konnect

150 episodes and counting — still wrapping my head around it!

Bridging konnections in the world of modern-day dating: Meet Ravi Mittal, Founder of QuackQuack, in this episode of #KarishmaKonnect. From dropping out of college at 16 to starting QuackQuack in a small rented flat with a few friends, Ravi's journey is anything but conventional. He talks about the early days of building a dating app when there were few to none, the challenges he faced, and how he continues to innovate to create genuine konnections for millions of people today.A homegrown, India-first brand headquartered in Hyderabad, QuackQuack has grown from a humble start to one of the fastest-growing dating apps in the country, with over 30 million users, 28,000 new sign-ups daily, and 46 million chat messages exchanged each month!

Excited to share this episode of Karishma Konnect, where Nidhi Jain, author of Joy Alukkas' biography, opens up about his remarkable journey, guiding principles, and the process behind telling his story. A thoughtful conversation that sheds light on the values that drive success.

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, we explore the journey of GUVI (Grab Your Vernacular Imprint), a leading online learning and skill development platform. Incubated by IIT Madras and IIM Ahmedabad, GUVI has revolutionized tech education by making it accessible in multiple vernacular languages. With over 3 million learners and 2000+ corporate partners, GUVI's impactful approach to skilling has caught the attention of the tech world. Recently acquired by the HCL Group, GUVI continues to break barriers and shape the future of tech education.Join us as we discuss GUVI's mission to empower learners, its commitment to bridging language gaps, and how it's creating an inclusive tech ecosystem for all.

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, meet Dr. Adil Alzarooni, a serial entrepreneur, academic, and Emirati author. He recently launched his debut novel The Red Island: The Gatekeeper at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2024. This literary romance offers an authentic Emirati narrative, exploring love, loss, and cultural identity, set in the UAE's transformative 90s and early 2000s.With a PhD in Family Business Management, Dr. Adil also founded a modern school and runs family businesses, giving him deep insight into the UAE's evolving landscape. He shares his unique perspective on business and literature, discusses the difference between fiction and non-fiction writing, and offers key tips for aspiring entrepreneurs.

14 February 2025. 5 years. 5 guests. 5 reflections. 135 episodes. A project so special. A love for the mic and thy musings. Valentine's made forever special. #KarishmaKonnect

An unexpected boom in 2024 has been the growth of real estate marketing and PR

Empowering Rural Communities: A Conversation with Simeen Kaleem on #KarishmaKonnect

Purposeful and Kurious, meet Echika Obijiaku, Founder and CEO of Mwanga – a digital-first, ethical debt recovery and business process outsourcing (BPO) firm on a mission to promote financial inclusion in Nigeria. In this episode, Echika opens up about her vision for empowering millions of Africans by tackling the growing debt crisis and driving financial inclusion. Mwanga aims to help 10 million people break free from debt by 2030, using innovative digital solutions. With over 16 years of experience in consulting and a background at top global firms, Echika discusses the unique challenges and immense opportunities shaping Africa's financial future and how her experience in business consulting has helped lead the way. She also shares her personal journey as a female founder, the highs and lows of navigating life at Oxford Business School, and how a strong cause is the foundation of her business. Tune in to discover how business innovation can create real, lasting change—when driven by purpose.

In an open and honest conversation, Premachi Goshta star and model Mrunali Shirke shares her journey to becoming an actor, the challenges along the way, and what it truly takes to succeed in the industry. From practical tips for aspiring actors to valuable insights from senior artists, this episode is packed with inspiration, dreams, and the craft of acting.

Happy 53rd National Day to the UAE! Lived here, growing up in the zaatar infused streets of Rolla in Sharjah, to the plush F&B facades in Downtown Dubai, to cozy street eats in Al Ain or fine dine in Abu Dhabi - oh - how can I forget the joys of karak at the highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah - if there is one place you can experience the spirit of the UAE - I think its food. Not just the culture but also its evolution through the years. And one such brand has been The Noodle House - a homegrown Asian eatery curating delicious flavours for locals and tourists alike. Which is why as we celebrate Eid Al Etihad this year, here's a story that sheds light on how glocal concepts can add to a city's growth and share of tasteful endeavours, how recognised brands can empower entrepreneurs further contributing to their scale and set up, what goes into pulling off effective brand partner experiences as an SME and most importantly - which dish is to look out for from the Noodle House x Curious Elephant offering available until end of December. The Noodle House has teamed up with Curious Elephant—a homegrown brand known for its artisanal sauces—to launch a limited-edition Four Hands menu, running from October to December. This collaboration is more than just a fusion of flavors; it's a celebration of homegrown brands and Dubai's culinary creativity. The Noodle House, a beloved 18-year-old brand, takes pride in supporting emerging local talent. In this collaboration, Chef Fetty Aryani of The Noodle House and Melody Mak, founder of Curious Elephant, have created a special menu featuring eight dishes, blending traditional Asian flavors with Melody's signature sauces. The menu offers four small plates and four large plates, each with a distinctive twist—highlighting the playful and flavorful nature of both brands. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

Was super unwell when I shot this one but even more grateful for Nikita who reminded me that which I love doing on this podcast - Showing up! This one's a konversation I have been waiting to share for sometime now. Here it is, just in time for pageant season - meet Nikita Tanwani, Pageantry Coach, Model and Former Miss India State Winner who tells me more about why pageantry is not just about the glitz and glam, how it almost redefines a person and what value does it hold for those who sign up. She also takes me through the BTS hardwork put in by some of India's currently contesting talents, clearly identifying what works in their favour and how one can reflect and learn. A topic I was very kurious about and am glad we did it finally! Looking to sign up for a pageant? Follow https://www.youtube.com/@NikitaTanwani782! And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to #karishmakonnect!Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

In the last of our October Edit (better late than never), meet Sunny Chandiramani, Senior Vice President, AstaGuru - India's Premium Online Auction House. Speaking to me in a fun 'art' to heart chat, Sunny unfolds the different layers of art and why its business agendas are totally unique and distinct from other industries. Herself a modern art specialist, Sunny has over 10+ years of experience in the art industry, having contributed to over 30+ successful auctions. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, meet Rohan Bansal, Impact Investing, Strategy and Finance Expert who tells me more about navigating entrepreneurship with purpose at its core and power in its approach. Hailing from India, Rohan is currently pursuing his MBA at Oxford and has over 10 years of experience across investment banking, entrepreneurship, startup strategy in AI, angel investing, private equity, and startup fundraising. I am actively involved in supporting early-stage entrepreneurs develop their startup ideas into full-fledged startups in various aspects - investor materials, perspectives, business strategy, etc. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

4/6 from the October Edit: October's been festive and Deepavali is finally here - wishing you all a very happy and prosperous one! This festive season, while people talk about new beginnings, here are two founders investing in building new beginnings for innovators beyond tier 1 cities in India and abroad. Meet Jeet Chandan and Meet Jain, Founders of BizDateUp Technologies. Having recently acquired undisclosed stakes in IPO bound Swiggy, both these bright young minds shed light on what India offers as a market, elevator pitch hacks and tips for budding founders, innovative ideas, bizarre startup's they have heard of and a whole lot more. BizDateUp is one of the largest ecosystem enablers for startups, offering comprehensive support services that propel your ideas to the forefront of your industry. With a commitment to nurturing a culture of innovation, they empower startups to challenge conventions, pioneer new solutions, and drive meaningful change. If you're looking for a sign to get started on that venture dream of yours - this podcast is right here for you, wishing you all the festive luck! BizDateUp: https://www.bizdateup.com/ Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

In this episode, meet Hitesh Sharma, Founder, Taste Studio Catering Dubai as we discuss all things catering and FOOD! Founded by Hitesh Sharma, Taste Studio Catering is a premier catering service that has carved a niche for itself in the competitive landscape of the UAE's hospitality industry. From humble beginnings, Hitesh chanced upon an opportunity he converted into a thriving business that now caters to over 1500 people in corporates daily prepared in a personally owned 12,000 sqm state-of-the-art kitchen. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, meet Levis Wilson, Founder, Haloocom who has deployed India's one and only Voice Bot which is capable of handling 22 Indian Spoken Languages. Haloocom emerges as a distinguished Enterprise Telecom Solution provider, transcending conventional norms. Positioned as a dynamic and innovative force, the company has been at the forefront of delivering Comprehensive Telecom Solutions since its inception. With a commitment to excellence, Haloocom offers cutting-edge Unified Communication and industry-redefining Contact Center Platforms. It has swiftly earned the trust of diverse sectors, serving as a preferred partner for entities in Fintech, Healthcare, BPOs, Government Organizations, and Customer Support Centres. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, meet Inara Dhrolia, Co-Founder of Rivona Naturals, a personal care brand that prioritises natural ingredients, redefines selfcare through simplicity and is the epitome of effortless, effective self-care that bridges the gap between natural and modern lifestyles. Catch the full episode across all platforms: ⁠https://linktr.ee/karikonnect⁠

His latest song 'Heeriye' has just gone live as we go live with this super insightful and engaging konversation featuring Aasa Singh, a budding Singer and Musician set to make his mark in the industry of tunes, carving note-worthy milestones for himself.

In this episode of #KarishmaKonnect, we chat with Maitha Al Awadi, the celebrated Emirati scriptwriter and director behind the debut feature film Al Eid Eiden, now showing in UAE cinemas.

This week, we're talking business and that too, one which excites all of us - food! Meet Niketa Sharma, Founder of a super cool and vibey brunch spot in Bandra, Mumbai, India, with a wide range of other F&B brands to her name as well. Her dedication and talent have been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Young Restaurateur of the Year at the F&B Leaders Mumbai 2023 and the Emerging Woman Entrepreneur of the Year at the Times Hospitality Icons Mumbai 2023. In one power packed episode, we cover: - Her journey from having pursued an MBA in Switzerland to coming back and starting her own in India - Pros and perils of the F&B space - Hospitality - what does the industry entail? - Founder mindset and the need to let go - Navigating finances as a founder - Investing right Kurious to know more: https://www.zomato.com/mumbai/blah-bandra-kurla-complex Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #podcasts #foodie #thingstodoinmumbai #mumbai #indianfood #restaurants #goexplore #foundermindset

This week's guest on Karishma Konnect is a woman with magic wrapped in her lens, where she visits very often to press pause in the moment, making them memories to hold on forever. Meet Barkha Agarwal, Maternity Photographer and Founder of Memories by Barkha - one of the leading Newborn and Maternity Photography brands of its kind established in 2018. Having captured interest from a diverse clientele including popular celebrities like Debina Banerjee, Barkha is known for her unique expertise and ideas fine-tuned with a customer experience unlike any other. Barkha is the recipient of leading industry recognitions including Athe 'Canon Maestro' title and 10 European, US and Australian photography awards. She is also a mother to her own three year old and tells me more about navigating entrepreneurship and motherhood in her own style. Highlights for me were: - Leaving behind her corporate career - Her journey as a self-taught photographer - Knowing how to start your own photography career - What makes her genre unique - The importance of mentorship - Building a business using social media Kurious to know more: https://memoriesbybarkha.com/ Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #podcasts #KarishmaKonnect #photography #moms #mothers #maternity #newborn #kids #memories

Dear followers, Here I am back again after a little break. Needed some time to take a pause amid the extremely busy few weeks that have been. Somewhere along the way I realised that there is no need to rush if everyone's telling you to. You can tread growth the way you want to - it could be quiet, it could be paced, it could be mindful and it could still remain as 'you' as you'd like it to be. That it's okay to prioritize meaning over metrics. Ironically, my next guest konnected directly with this ideology of sorts. Meet Karan Singh, Director and CEO of Aristobrat in this episode of #KarishmaKonnect. Highlights for me were: - Fashion and entrepreneurship after a career in cricket and IT - How AI tools (with examples) can help reduce costs for early entrepreneurs - Why slow ain't that bad and what is effective inventory - What you need to know as a first time entrepreneur Established in 2019, Aristobrat embodies affordable luxury in men's apparel, committed to redefining the modern man's style with their capsule collection. The brand is headed by Karan and Neha who is the Director and Category Head at Aristobrat. Kurious to know more: https://www.aristobrat.in/ Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #fashion #retail #ecommerce #luxury #trending #podcasts

This week on #KarishmaKonnect, meet Ananda Shakespeare, Founder, Shakespeare Communications - a boutique agency in Dubai offering full service PR support for a wide range of clients. Journalist turned PR, Ananda shares insights from a journey of having dabbled across different roles, her learnings and vision for what lies ahead. Know more about her journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #podcasts #publicrelations #communications #founder

Another must-watch on #KarishmaKonnect - Meet Ayesha Khan, Founder and Social Entrepreneur who launched Food ATM officially in 2019, having started years ago from her kitchen to serve low-income labourers in the UAE. She has been recognized by the UN, won a Guinness World Record, yet remains grounded in her most cherished trophy - her people and the lives she continues to touch everyday through food. Know more about her journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #foodatm #socialentrepreneurship #podcasts #founder

Meet Sandeep Kumar, Founder, Baatu Tech in this episode of #KarishmaKonnect. Baatu Technologies is India's first smart parenting solution offering the country's first and safest smart tab. In a world where children are exposed to multiple sources online, Baatu's Enable Tab makes it possible for parents to supervise their child's activity through a large and clear 10.1-inch HD display, a powerful MediaTek processor, dual cameras, supreme speakers, and a long-lasting 6000mAh battery. Know more about his journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #tech #podcasts #parenting #digital

Variety well served as always on #KarishmaKonnect, a platform to konnect with horizons beyond your own. This week, we're talking about a topic you may or may not know about - DEBT COLLECTION! Shedding light on why collection methods need to evolve as payment options diversify, Siddharth Agarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Mobicule Technologies breaks down the jargon to simplify the BTS of EMIs. After working with organizations like Zycus & Mindcraft, Siddharth founded Mobicule in the year 2008, with a vision to help organizations leverage the power of mobility and wireless, thereby offering a competitive edge to these organizations by solving business problems. After pioneering in products focussed on mobile field force and successfully deploying some of the largest mobile field force implementations across Sales & Distribution, Telecom, and BFSI, he is now steering the organization in the next phase of hyper-growth in niche disruptive products focussed on solving complex business problems. Know more about his journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #tech #disruption #business #founder #growthmindset #entrepreneur #podcastshow #podcasts #debtrelief

Just in time for Labour Day on 1st May, we are speaking to Samuel Joy, Founder of Huntr, which is a migrant blue-collar worker marketplace that connects various business enterprises with service providers such as government and training partners to source, manage, and onboard a job-ready workforce. The company currently serves 40+ clients comprising some leading names like Amazon, Hilton, Marriott, Landmark Group, Dulsco, Accuro to name a few. Samuel talks to me about the kind of change we need to bring when it comes to resourcing and shares some extremely interesting tips for job seekers. Know more about his journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #tech #humanresources #middleeast #jobs #huntr #resourcefulinfluencing #podcasts

If you're someone navigating career breaks or years into your journey trying to find that niche of your own, here's an episode for you. Speaking with me is Sonal B. Chibber, well-known authorpreneur based in Dubai but with roots in India, with a diverse range of talents that include being an award-winning author, editor, journalist, and motivational speaker. She's been honored with numerous awards, including the Best Writer-Poetess Award, the Most Inspirational Woman Award, the Best Blogger Award, the Best Speaker Award, the Best Model Award, the Changemaker of the Year Award, the Travel Blogger Award, the Wellness Icon Award, the Most Influential Woman in Dubai and many more. Her articles and blogs have been published in reputable publications worldwide. She talks to me about dabbling across all these roles and chasing her dreams with time and age no bar. A conversation that keeps you feeling motivated from the get go! Know more about her journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #karishmakonnect #podcast #author #writing

Konnecting with me on this episode is Chris Olivier who works as Multi-Property Beverage Manager and Sommelier at The St. Regis Hotel in Downtown Dubai. WIth years of experience behind him, Chris dives deeper into the essence of truse hospitality, what's in it for incoming entrants, the reality behind all that goes on before the plate arrives at your table, how there is so much more to F&B than what meets the eye. His practical insights are super engaging and this is one episode I truly recommend tuning into, no matter which industry you are from. Know more about his journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #podcasts #food #beverage #hospitality #business

Founder of a unique marketing concept, Pragya Chopra is on her way to changing the media landscape one step at a time. In this episode, she talks to me about coming up with CMO as a service to support modern day communication set ups, provide greater value and sustainable returns. Know more about her journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #karishmakonnect #podcasts #cmo #marketing #digitalmarketing #performancemarketing #founder

Yet another diversified topic broken down on #KarishmaKonnect. This time round, meet Richard Parker, renowned mergers and acquisition expert talking to me about business buying and selling. With a career spanning over 30 years, Richard Parker has turned business aspirations into reality through his highly regarded program, “How To Buy A Good Business At A Great Price ©,” which has sold over 100,000 copies. This program, embraced across 80 countries, has empowered tens of thousands of individual business buyers to achieve their dreams of business ownership. Richard's journey includes the successful acquisition of 13 companies, ranging from $50,000 to $200+ million, and advisory roles in transactions surpassing $2 billion, showcasing his expertise and accomplishments. His insights have been prominently featured in reputable publications such as Forbes and The New York Times, and he has authored an impressive portfolio of over 300 published articles, cementing his status as a true industry authority. He was also hired by the Dalio family office for several years to mentor Ray Dalio's son on the art of acquiring small businesses. This testament to his influence underscores his reach even within the most elite circles. Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. While at it, please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #mergers #acquistions #finance #businessbuying #businessselling #entrepreneur #expertise #founder

This week, we're discovering something extremely out of the box on a podcast series - SPRAY TANNING! Meet Gemma Richards, Founder of Cazimi Tan in Dubai, a lady I met as part of her journey with the British Mums group in Dubai before she moved on to starting her own venture. WIth a passion for supporting SMEs and a background in sales and marketing, Gem shares why she decided to pursue her own spray tan set up, what people need to know about it and how taking chances can lead to some of the best networking results. Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. While at it, please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #Podcasts #KarishmaKonnect #Beauty #Skin #SprayTan #Dubai #Founder #SmallBusinesses

In this episode, meet Rajender Prasad, Managing Director, Money Maestro shedding light on all things mortgage and property buying. Some practical tips in there for young buyers and insights on loan vs mortgage - the best route for you. Know more about his journey so far and everything you can gain from it, while at it, tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. Please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #mortgage #property #podcasts #buying #selling #loan

On the other side of the century in our second episode, we've got Hanisha Lalwani, an awardwinning B2B and B2C marketing and communications professional with 14+ years of experience across industries and countries including India, UAE, North America and the UK. Currently working with the Page Group in London, Hanisha offers a wide range of comprehensive insights from the world of marketing. She tells me why the marketing function is often taken for granted but how it is one of the most effective value-generating arms for any business. Ahead of award season, Hanisha tells me how effective is winning as part of your career/strategy practice, while also shedding light on how aspiring professionals can make the most out of every opportunity. What's even more exciting is that this konnection has ignited a passion project of her own and at Karishma Konnect, we're super delighted to see her reveal what's in store! Glad we could play a small role in it and thanks to her for trusting me with her journey! Tune into Karishma Konnect across platforms here: https://linktr.ee/karikonnect. While at it, please subscribe, like, comment, share, and all that jazz. Stay Tuned for our next episode coming soon! For regular updates, follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/karishmakonnect! #podcasts #communications #marketing #karishmakonnect #leadership #people #experience #diaspora