The BAE HQ Podcast

00:00 - Opening 01:26 - 9 Key Components of The Lean Canvas 02:26 - Customer Segments 05:03 - The Problem 06:14 - Existing Alternatives 07:45 - The Solution 09:12 - Unique Value Prop.11:27 - Revenue 12:44 - Channels 15:14 - Key Metric 18:20 - Cost Structure 19:46 - Unfair Advantage 24:04 - What To Do Now?

00:00 - Intro01:39 - Technical vs Non Technical Co-Founders03:29 - Pros of Having A Co-Founder06:49 - Cons of Having A Co-Founder11:07 - Identifying a Good Co-Founder15:33 - Where To Find Co-Founders 21:57 - Testing The Right Co-Founder 32:10 - Maintaining Co-Founder Relationships

Timestamps:00:00 - Intro 01:41 - Validation Breakdown 15:55 - Shortlisting Problems 16:29 - Your Founder Potential 18:08 - Problem Scoreboard 20:13 - Customer Research 24:50 - Where To Find People 26:47 - What Not To Ask 28:08 - Questions To Ask 32:24 - Extra Methods 34:49 - Founder Problem Revisited 40:44 - Problem Solution Fit

One of the biggest decisions is about should you start a startup? Is it for you? Do you have what it takes?I breakdown this entire question in this video!Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:50 - 5 Reasons You Should NOT start a Startup04:08 - 2 Reasons to start a Startup 07:59 - Founder Traits

I'm Amar, Co-Founder of Bae HQ and in this video i've broken down 14 ways to help fund your startup in the UK as of 2025! TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Opening 00:54 - Bootstrapping 02:43 - Grant Funding 04:09 - Competition Prizes05:13 - Startup Loan Scheme 07:36 - Revenue Based Financing 09:04 - Venture Debt11:14 - Funding Rounds 15:40 - Valuation16:45 - Dilutions 16:35 - SEIS & EIS 18:43 - Friends & Family 20:49 - Equity Crowd Funding 23:11 - Angel Investors 30:27 - Family Offices 31:45 - Venture Capital 35:37 - Corporate Venture Capital 37:53 - Bonus Funding Option!

Part 2 of 2: Bae HQ Year-Ender Episode CompilationIn this special year-end episode of the Bae HQ, we highlight inspiring stories and invaluable lessons from some of the most remarkable guests of the year. This first part of our compilation features insights and reflections from Natasha Ratanshi-Stein, Rina Newton, Rahul Patil, Ishveen Jolly, Praveen Vijh, Deepak Ravindran, Anushka Patchava, Priya Downes, Dr Karan Rajan, Karan Jain, Dr. Farzana Rahman, Sandrine Zhang Ferron, and Kanu Batra.Through their journeys, these entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers share pivotal moments, challenges, and achievements that shaped their careers and lives. From building disruptive businesses to navigating personal hardships, this episode offers inspiration and actionable takeaways for anyone striving to achieve their purpose.Message from our headline partners:From the first time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:12 - Transition from investment to operations.02:03 - Reflections on adjusting to a new entrepreneurial environment.03:30 - Overcoming imposter syndrome and broadening skills in a leadership role.04:28 - Career journey: redundancy to launching a business at 39.05:33 - Reflections on unexpected business exits and growth choices.06:26 - Navigating organic acquisition and contemplating future ventures.08:03 - Inspiration from early marketplace successes and disruptive ideas.09:26 - Lessons from early entrepreneurial pivots in technology solutions.11:06 - Leveraging family support and early ventures into entrepreneurship.12:29 - Initial challenges in breaking into retail with innovative products.13:42 - Defining career happiness and transitioning to passion-driven work.15:22 - Journey into strategy consulting and redefining goals.16:58 - Balancing long work hours with aspirations of early retirement.18:21 - The importance of full-time focus in startup success.19:13 - Conquering fears of career gaps to launch a business.20:31 - Measuring impact over vanity metrics in entrepreneurship.23:07 - Early entrepreneurial ventures and transitioning back to employment.24:37 - Reflection on prioritising learning over titles and money.26:05 - Embracing high-stakes entrepreneurship and raising investment.27:16 - Resolving co-founder roles based on complementary strengths.29:08 - Leveraging professional experience to launch a meaningful venture.31:04 - Building an MVP and the challenges of self-directed work.33:37 - Leaving a fulfilling corporate job to pursue entrepreneurial ambitions.35:47 - The importance of aligning passion with problem-solving in entrepreneurship.Amardeep Parmar https://www.linkedin.com/in/amardeepsparmarWebsite:https://www.thebaehq.com/

Part 1 of 2: Bae HQ Year-Ender Episode CompilationIn this special year-end episode of The Bae HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq), we highlight inspiring stories and invaluable lessons from some of the most remarkable guests of the year. This first part of our compilation features insights and reflections from Avnish Goyal, Anya Roy, Raj Kaur, Benjamin Fernandes, Hardeep Rai, Lara Naqushbandi, Rahul Goyal, Sathya Smith, Iris ten Teije, Faraan Irfan, Vishal Amin, Sammi Wei, Nishul Saperia, Aaron Dardi, Rupa Ganatra Popat, Uzair Bawany, Lucy Jung, Dilesh Bhimjiani, and Amrit Dhaliwal.Through their journeys, these entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers share pivotal moments, challenges, and achievements that shaped their careers and lives. From building disruptive businesses to navigating personal hardships, this episode offers inspiration and actionable takeaways for anyone striving to achieve their purpose.Stay tuned for part two of this year-end special, where we'll bring more inspiring stories and lessons from other incredible guests.Message from our headline partners:From the first time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:05 - Avnish Goyal: Reflects on founding a leading care company and the journey of dreaming big and disrupting the care sector.02:42 - Raj Kaur: Discusses the importance of relatable role models and how everyone has the potential to achieve greatness.03:25 - Benjamin Fernandes: Shares the transformative advice that led to his acceptance at Stanford MBA and his entrepreneurial journey.11:54 - Hardeep Rai: Opens up about his son Ishan's birth, its profound impact on his life, and the societal judgments he faced.15:42 - Lara Naqushbandi: Talks about leaving Google to pursue her passion for sustainability and starting a new venture.17:56 - Rahul Goyal: Details his transition from finance to discovering his passion for creating and entrepreneurship.20:25 - Sathya Smith: Discusses the founding of Piper and the challenges of building leadership solutions for startups.22:34 - Iris ten Teije: Shares the pivot from a fintech app to a new business direction amidst market challenges.24:49 - Anya Roy: Describes combining her passion for music and entrepreneurship to spotlight South Asian classical music.27:40 - Vishal Amin: Emphasizes the importance of people in every business and the journey of building something meaningful.28:47 - Sammi Wei: Reflects on evolving a business from a research focus to a community-centered approach.31:07 - Dilesh Bhimjiani: Navigates personal loss and finds purpose in climate and biodiversity work.32:22 - Amrit Dhaliwal: Shares his journey of transitioning from family businesses to launching an energy solutions startup.34:44 - Nishul Saperia: Discusses redefining success after perceived failure and pivoting toward building communities.37:59 - Aaron Dardi: Narrates the challenges of scaling a recruitment business and the lessons learned during market downturns.40:20 - Lucy Jung: Talks about the challenges of starting a medical device company and how passion for helping others drives resilience.42:33 - Rupa Ganatra Popat: Reflects on working in macroeconomic projects and transitioning to leadership and well-being ventures.44:02 - Faraan Irfan: Shares the early days of building a home care business and the realization of scaling through franchising.

Amardeep Parmar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amardeepsparmar) from The BAE HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq) welcomes Simone Maini, Chief Executive Officer at Elliptic.This podcast episode Simone Simone Maini, CEO of Elliptic, discusses her career journey from corporate banking to consulting, and eventually leading a blockchain intelligence firm, sharing insights on navigating career transitions, scaling startups, and fostering trust in the crypto space.Message from our headline partners:From the first-time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:45 - Simone shares childhood ambitions and early academic interests.03:13 - Reflections on studying history at Cambridge and adjusting to its unique teaching style.04:37 - Transitioning from ambitions of teaching to exploring broader career paths.05:22 - Criteria for first job post-university: working in a global company in London with opportunities for variety and international exposure.06:11 - Simone recounts her first job at Legoland and its impact on her skills and adaptability.07:32 - Experience in Deutsche Bank's graduate scheme, including time in New York and navigating the 2008 financial crisis.09:50 - Insights on career reflections during the banking crisis and the transition to client-facing roles in consulting.11:22 - Simone's mindset on promotions and why she transitioned from banking to consulting.14:40 - Decision to join Elliptic, an early-stage crypto startup, despite the risks and her initial doubts.17:40 - Trust in Elliptic's founders and the value of working with passionate, resilient people.19:22 - Importance of trust and aligning values when joining a startup.20:35 - Transition to CEO during the pandemic and navigating challenges remotely from Singapore.23:11 - Responsibilities in the early days at Elliptic and enjoying the variety of startup roles.24:50 - Surprises and challenges in adjusting from structured corporate environments to startups.27:15 - Explanation of Elliptic's work in crypto intelligence and combating money laundering.30:20 - Building trust with clients and ensuring reliability in partnerships.33:54 - Challenges of scaling Elliptic and lessons learned in timing and decision-making.35:42 - Wins at Elliptic: advancing the mission to stop illicit activity in crypto and fostering a strong company culture.37:56 - Optimism about the future of crypto, including regulation and stablecoins.39:37 - Quick-fire questions and shout-outs to influential figures in business and media.40:59 - Where to find Simone and Elliptic online.Simone Maini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simone-maini/Website:https://www.elliptic.co/

Episode 201: Anshika Arora (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anshika-arora-ab5021137), today's host from The BAE HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq) and the founder of Eternity (https://eternity-uk.com/) welcomes Nishi Shah, Leadership Development Consultant.In this episode of the Bae LAB Podcast, host Anshika discusses how to shape a winning company culture with leadership consultant Nishi Shah. Nishi emphasises the importance of self-awareness in founders, strategies for building and maintaining culture, and actionable tips for hiring and team alignment.Message from our headline partners:From the first time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:09 - Defining company culture and why it's critical for startups.02:52 - Mindset shifts: From founder to leader.04:20 - Practical strategies for aligning teams with the mission.07:28 - Building a culture: Start with the business mission and behaviors.12:16 - Break for HSBC Innovation Banking partnership.13:28 - Founders' behaviors: Leading by example.18:28 - Hiring for culture and competence.24:12 - Measuring culture: Feedback, check-ins, and accountability.Nishi Shah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nishishahcoach/

Join us as we celebrate our 200th episode!Amardeep Parmar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amardeepsparmar) from The BAE HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq) Celebrating 200 episodes, Bae HQ reflects on its journey, highlights its impact on British Asian entrepreneurs, and reveals exciting plans for 2025, including mentorship programs, events, and media expansions.Message from our headline partners:From the first-time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:07 – About Bae HQ & Four Pillars03:06 – Mentorship Programs & Work Experience Initiatives06:02 – Media: Podcast Evolution & Future Content11:09 – Events: Community Building & Bae HQ Awards15:23 – Investment: Angel Network & Fundraising Support17:25 – Personal Investments & Achievements18:24 – Team Expansion & Studio Plans19:31 – Regional Growth & Partnerships20:17 – Final Thoughts & Gratitude

Episode 199: Anshika Arora (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anshika-arora-ab5021137), today's host from The BAE HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq) and the founder of Eternity (https://eternity-uk.com/) welcomes Rajiv Samani, Corporate Associate at Joelson.This podcast episode discusses the legalities of fundraising with angel investors, exploring the differences between angels and VCs, key legal documents, managing investor expectations, and common mistakes founders make. Expert insights from Rajiv, a corporate associate at Joelson, offer practical advice on term sheets, investor rights, due diligence, and balancing authority with angel investors. The discussion also highlights tax relief schemes and negotiation strategies for founders.Message from our headline partners:From the first-time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:27 - Typical fundraising process with angels vs. VCs.02:29 - Explanation of term sheets and key legal documents.04:06 - Advanced subscription agreements and their role in early-stage fundraising.04:37 - Negotiable terms founders should focus on in discussions with angels.05:41 - Key investor rights and balancing founder control.07:30 - Challenges with traditional banks vs. innovation banking.07:54 - Due diligence process for angel fundraising.10:29 - Balancing board seats and authority with investors.12:29 - Common legal mistakes and SEIS/EIS eligibility importance.15:43 - Aligning investor expectations for follow-on rounds and exits.17:19 - Closing thoughts and shout-outs to inspiring individuals.19:25 - Rajiv shares how listeners can connect and seek advice.20:11 - Final advice on networking and asking for help.Rajiv Samani:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajiv-samani-124a58100Joelson: https://joelsonlaw.com/

Amardeep Parmar (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amardeepsparmar) from The BAE HQ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bae-hq) welcomes Jyoti Patel, CEO and Founder of Red Rickshaw and FeastBoxThis podcast episode explores Jyoti Patel's entrepreneurial journey from co-founding Red Rickshaw and Feastbox to angel investing, focusing on the interplay between psychology, business growth, and cultural innovation.Message from our headline partners:From the first-time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro02:01 - Jyoti's childhood ambition of becoming an FBI agent and early passion for psychology.03:07 - Reflections on family, cultural influences, and first trip to India.05:13 - Choosing psychology as a career and studies.06:47 - Transition to business psychology and first career steps.08:30 - Jyoti's curiosity about building businesses from her management consulting experience.09:55 - The catalyst for starting Red Rickshaw: personal frustration with Asian grocery shopping.12:02 - Initial steps in launching Red Rickshaw, identifying product-market fit.14:58 - Challenges in building the business, including logistics and product sourcing.17:11 - Early hires and managing logistics with a full-time job.19:43 - Reaching a million in sales and deciding to go full-time.21:42 - Raising VC funds and scaling the business.25:50 - Launching Feastbox as an extension of Red Rickshaw.29:01 - Lessons learned from Red Rickshaw applied to Feastbox operations.31:02 - Exiting both businesses and transitioning to new ventures.32:46 - Exploring psychology's role in consumer behavior and decision-making.35:32 - Current focus: angel investing and helping startups expand to the US.38:48 - Advice for entrepreneurs on geographic expansion.Jyoti Patel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jyoti-patel-53ba37a/Website:https://jyotipatel.me/

Episode 197: Anshika Arora , today's host from The BAE HQ  and the founder of Eternity welcomes Ankush Bhatia, a Commercial Focused Finance Leader.This podcast explores the essential components of an effective board pack, emphasising the importance of storytelling, tangible metrics, and strategic planning to maintain investor confidence and engagement. Featuring Ankush, a seasoned CFO, the discussion provides actionable advice for founders on presenting data, managing challenges, and building relationships with current and future investors.Message from our headline partners:From the first time founders to the funds that back them, innovation needs different. HSBC Innovation Banking is proud to accelerate growth for tech and life science businesses, creating meaningful connections and opening up a world of opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover more at https://www.hsbcinnovationbanking.com/________Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro01:12 – Purpose and impact of a board pack.02:00 – Board pack structure: summary, metrics, financials.03:28 – Storytelling to drive discussions.04:46 – Identifying and tracking key metrics.06:18 – Balancing metrics for current/future investors.07:45 – Building investor relationships early.08:26 – Managing bad news with communication.10:50 – Financial metrics and data storytelling.13:24 – Operational and non-financial metrics.14:42 – Common board pack mistakes.Ankush Bhatia:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ankush-bhatia-154559b/