The BarberShop with Shantanu

Can you scale fast without falling into legal traps?In this episode of The BarberShop with Shantanu, we are joined by Archana Rajaram (Managing Partner, River Law) and Anup Agarwal (Co-Founder & CEO, Mintifi) to decode a side of entrepreneurship that’s often left behind and what really happens when capital, compliance, and chaos collide.From helping founders steer clear of costly mistakes to making sense of India’s tricky legal systems, Archana breaks down how "good lawyering should never come in the way of business". And Anup shares how Mintifi is not just simplifying credit for distributors but doing it while keeping unit economics and risk in check.This episode is basically a founder survival guide on what to fight for, what to let go, and how to not get distracted by vanity clauses.Key Takeaways from the episode:Why not hiring a lawyer early could cost you crores.The dos and don’ts of equity dilution, term sheets, and board control.How Mintifi is solving working capital at scale using tech-first lending.When you should fight a clause and when to just move on.If you're a founder, investor, or just someone trying to make sense of startup chaos, this episode will make you think and maybe double-check your SHA.Let us know in the comments what’s one legal or financial misstep you wish someone had warned you about.

Some episodes are personal.This one is family.I had the privilege of sitting down with two people who’ve shaped the way I think, live, and lead: Dr. Pravin Bhagwat (Founder of 14 Trees Foundation) and my father, Kiran Deshpande (Former CEO, Tech Mahindra. Founder, Mojo Networks. Board Member, 14Trees Foundation) two entrepreneurial men I've had the privilege of learning from since I was a child.They built a company together. Exited it with grace. And then, Pravin uncle did something most people wouldn’t, he walked away from the tech world to plant trees and build forests. Literally.He started the 14 Trees Foundation, a community-led movement that’s quietly restoring India’s green cover and here’s why he did it:While reading a 6th-grade textbook on photosynthesis with his daughter, Pravin Uncle had an eye-opening realization: that the carbon we emit can be neutralized simply by planting trees. In fact, it takes exactly 14 trees to neutralize the carbon footprint of one person over a lifetime.This simple, measurable, and relatable insight inspired him to act. It clicked with me instantly, and it’s become the core of what 14 Trees stands for, bringing nature back, one tree at a time.And his conversation isn’t about funding rounds or exits.It’s about friendship, purpose, legacy, and trees, making the world better:Some things you’ll take away from this episode:How my dad and Pravin uncle met, and the values they shared while building Mojo Networks.Why they left it all to work with their hands in the soil.What reforestation looks like and how you and I can help.Why building quietly can still leave a loud legacy.If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What comes after success?” this episode might offer a few answers.And here’s a way you can be part of it:If this conversation resonates with you, share the video on any social media platform along with your own takeaway (no generic reposts or AI summaries), and send it to me via DM or email shantanu@bombayshavingcompany.com and CC deepti@bombayshavingcompany.com.I’ll personally plant one tree in your name at 14 Trees.And if you go a step further and plant one yourself, maybe for a parent, mentor, pet, or friend, I’ll plant two more trees for you.That’s three trees. One simple act. No deadline.Let’s grow something together.

Is the healthcare system in India broken, or just evolving? In the latest episode of Barbershop, Shantanu is joined by Viren Shetty, Vice Chairperson of Narayana Health (NH), to explore how the pandemic reshaped global healthcare and how, despite the changes, NH is committed to staying true to its values while introducing its new inpatient care services. Viren proudly reflects on the incredible legacy of his father, Dr. Devi Shetty, one of India’s most renowned cardiac surgeons. He shares how Narayana Health has emerged as a leading healthcare provider in the country. The organisation has set a new benchmark in the industry by offering health insurance at just ₹10,000 per year for a family of four. This move, he explains, represents a major shift toward making healthcare more accessible, affordable, and focused on quality for all. Viren also reveals the intense pressure of being a second-gen entrepreneur and constantly proving himself while leading a firm rooted in his father’s vision. What you’ll discover: 1. The importance of prioritising health over everything else in the global economy. 2. Devi Shetty’s revolutionary approach to accessible patient care. 3. The contrast between the past and present generations' views on diagnosis. 4. What would Viren change in India’s healthcare system if he were in charge? 5. Can AI replace the human touch in healthcare? The conversation gets candid about leadership, healthcare investment, and the journey to building a massive organisation with a purpose. Watch now and discover the hard truths behind healthcare and entrepreneurship.

Is mental health just a buzzword for Gen Z or is it a genuine crisis?In this episode of The Bridge, Shantanu leads a candid, cross-generational debate on one of the most misunderstood workplace questions today: Is mental health struggle real for Gen Z? One side, the seasoned professionals, Revant Bhate (Co-Founder & CEO at Mosaic Wellness) and Kaushik Mukherjee (Co-founder & COO at SUGAR Cosmetics), question if the regular hustle is being mistaken for crisis.While the Gen Z voices Vidit Dugar (Chief of Staff at Bombay Shaving Company) and Gauri Bansal (Strategy Manager, South Asia, Middle East, and Africa at Spotify) talk about the demand of a workplace built on empathy, trust, and emotional safety.Together, they dive into:Do Gen Z employees expect too much emotional support at work?How much responsibility should founders bear to safeguard mental well-being?Do Western Startups “Do It Better”?And most critically: How real is stress today?Both generations agree on one thing: behind every “tough boss” is a founder terrified of losing their team.Watch now to hear both sides unpack what’s valid, what’s exaggerated, and how workplaces need to adapt.Tell us in the comments: Does your workplace really see you, beyond deadlines and deliverables?

Are phones killing brains or just replacing boredom with a dopamine hit?In this episode of The Bridge, Shantanu dives into a no-filter conversation with guests from different tech eras to explore the real impact of smartphones on human brains, behaviours, and boundaries. Joining him are Aseem Dhru (MD & CEO, SBFC Finance Ltd) and Damodar Mall [CEO(Grocery Retail ), Reliance Retail] who are amazed to see WhatsApp being the most powerful medium of business, while on the other side, Gauri Bansal (Strategy Manager, South Asia, Middle East, and Africa at Spotify) and Avi Anurag (Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company), the thought-provoking Gen Zs believe phones are a filler for dead time.Together, they dive into:Is YouTube really better than Instagram?The rise of “phone as a boredom cure”.Why do parents trust WhatsApp more than other applications?And whether brains are truly at risk, or simply evolving!Watch now to hear both sides unpack the real truth behind screen time.Tell us in the comments: what do you want us to break down next?

Is owning a home still the ultimate goal, or are there smarter, more flexible alternatives in today’s fast-changing world?This week on The Bridge, the guests debate about one of the most talked-about life decisions in a GenZ’s life today: to buy a home or rent, with perspectives from seasoned business leaders and the next generation of entrepreneurs.On one side, we have industry veterans Aseem Dhru (MD & CEO of SBFC Finance Ltd.), and Luis Miranda (Former Bank Treasurer at HDFC and Ex-CEO of IDFC), who share their views on the financial and emotional implications of homeownership, and why, in some cases, it may still be a solid investment.On the other side, we hear from young trailblazers Ishan Gulati (Chief of Staff to the CEO at Rebel Foods), and Arshi Gupta (Senior Associate, Investments at Singularity AMC) who provide fresh insights on how they’re rethinking traditional paths to financial stability and whether owning property still makes sense in an increasingly mobile world.In this episode, we dive into:The emotional, financial, and practical considerations of owning versus renting a home.How shifting economic landscapes and new technologies are changing what it means to “settle down.”What today’s young professionals really think about homeownership.Don’t miss this candid conversation that explores one of the most significant decisions of our lives.

Is going to college still the best way to succeed, or is it time to rethink the traditional career routes?In this week’s episode of The Bridge, Shantanu sits down with a diverse group of leaders to explore one of today’s most debated topics: The true value of college education in a fast-evolving world.On one side, we have seasoned entrepreneurs who have led the way in shaping businesses and brands. Abhijeet Dabas, Executive VP & Business Head at Nykaafashion, and Ankush Grover, Co-Founder & CEO at Rebel Foods, share their insights on how formal education played a role in their success stories and whether it’s still essential in today’s business landscape.On the other side, we hear from the next generation of leaders: Akansha Padmane, a final-year undergraduate at IIT Bombay, and Vidit Dugar, Chief of Staff at Bombay Shaving Company. They provide a fresh perspective on the evolving role of education, career-building, and how new-age skills and experiences are reshaping what success looks like for Gen Z.In this episode, we dive into:Is a degree still essential for career success, or is it a barrier?How are Gen Zs navigating their educational journeys in a world dominated by digital transformation?The rise of alternative career pathways and the new ways of learning that are gaining momentum.This conversation challenges the conventional thinking about education and explores what the future of learning looks like for the next generation. Don’t miss this compelling discussion to truly thrive in today’s competitive world!

Is consumerism in India really making our lives better?Or is it a trend everyone is chasing because of FOMO?From the latest gadgets to fashion trends, the young generation is bombarded by ads, influencers and social media. But at what cost? Are they even thinking about the consequences of overconsumption?This week, the roundtable isn’t here to judge, it only unpacks how Gen Z deals with the pressure of staying on top of trends with the mindset of "buy now, pay later".In the new episode of ‘The Bridge’, Shantanu is joined by Aseem Dhru (MD & CEO, SBFC Finance Ltd) and Damodar Mall [CEO (Grocery Retail), Reliance Retail], two industry veterans who bring their years of experience and wisdom to the table, alongside Gauri Bansal (Strategy Manager, South Asia, Middle East, and Africa at Spotify) and Avi Anurag (Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company), the next-gen leaders who are unafraid to confront the world head-on.If you've ever bought something just to feel better or questioned where your money’s going, this episode is for you.Here’s what went down:If 70% of iPhones in India are sold on EMI, how do we save for the future or do we even want to?How social media is amplifying FOMO and fueling consumerism.Is consumerism a tool for empowerment or a path to more debt?Now, get ready for a real conversation about how consumerism affects wallets and mental health. This problem is not shopping; it's purchasing decisions that make a difference in your life.Tune in to hear from both sides of the spectrum, and let us know if you also feel trapped by your own spending habits.Drop your comments below, and let’s bridge the gap.

Is Startup a real problem-solver or just a way out of toxic jobs?For next-gen, it’s the real escape from 9-to-5s and societal expectations. But as startup culture grows louder, are the deeper motivations being overlooked?In this episode of The Bridge, Shantanu hosts a multi-generational roundtable with industry veterans, Abhijeet Dabas (Nykaafashion Executive VP & Business Head - Fashion) and Ankush Grover (Rebel Foods - Co-Founder & CEO), who unpack what decades in finance and leadership have taught them. From the other side, Vidit Dugar (Chief of Staff at Bombay Shaving Company), and Akansha Padmane (Final-year Undergraduate at IIT Bombay), representing the Gen Z lens, question whether the facade of hustle culture hides the harsher reality.Together, they debate on:1.⁠ ⁠If startups are driven by purpose or frustration2.⁠ ⁠Why bad jobs often spark better ideas, Gen Z redefines3.⁠ ⁠How ‘act like an owner’ mindset wins the game, with zero funding4.⁠ ⁠Why failure might open more doors than success, Founders decoded.If you’ve ever thought, “Should I just leave everything and start up?”, this conversation is a must-watch.🎧 Watch now to hear both sides and determine if Entrepreneurship is still worth the hype.

Is organisational loyalty outdated, or are we asking the wrong questions?This week, on the latest episode of ‘The Bridge’, Shantanu engages in a thought-provoking discussion with leaders from both sides of the generational spectrum.On the one hand, Aseem Dhru (MD & CEO at SBFC Finance Ltd.) and Luis Miranda (Former Bank Treasurer at HDFC and Ex-CEO at IDFC) share valuable insights on why internal promotions, career patience, and organisational commitment remain the bedrock of professional success.On the other hand, Ishaan Gulati (Chief of Staff to CEO at Rebel Food) and Arshi Gupta (Senior Associate, Investments at Singularity AMC), the Gen Z voices, reflect on how they view career progression with their fast-moving approach to work and the gig economy.Tune in for a raw, honest conversation about:- Why does career patience and internal promotions still matter?- The unspoken pressure of choosing the “dream career”.- How Gen Z’s approach to job hopping is reshaping workplace norms.For those eager to understand what’s driving these shifts, this latest episode provides all your answers. Tune in and share your thoughts in the comments.Also, don’t forget to let us know what topics you’d like to see on The Bridge next!Navigate your way through these chapters00:00 Coming up00:52 Introduction01:38 Organisational loyalty: a two-way street?02:42 Founders on organisational loyalty04:56 Role of self-interest in job-switching vs commitment08:00 Loyalty: from promotion to retention to trust14:47 Jobs: situationship or relationship? Gen Z’s FOMO decoded19:30 Rise of JOB culture & Gen Z lost in Career Choices21:09 What senior leaders look for in hiring22:28 Closing thoughts

Thank you for the overwhelming response to Episode 1 of The Bridge!We absolutely loved reading your comments, your thoughts, reflections, and even disagreements made it clear: We need more conversations like these.So, here we are back with Episode 2.This time, we’re asking: IS PERSONAL BRANDING NECESSARY?Why is everyone suddenly obsessed with “being seen”?Why does every Gen Z feel the need to show up online all the time?And is that visibility actually translating to value?Joining Shantanu this time are two sharp Gen Z voices, Avani Rathore (Entrepreneur, Ex-BCG) and Goutami Rane (Senior Account Executive at Ogilvy), who’ve built their presence in the digital world and understand the trade-offs that come with it.Across the table are Revant Bhate (Co-Founder & CEO, Mosaic Wellness) and Kaushik Mukherjee (Co-founder & COO, SUGAR Cosmetics). Two seasoned founders who’ve built iconic brands from scratch without ever turning themselves into a ‘brand’.Together, they unpack what personal branding really means today, beyond LinkedIn carousels and viral reels.Tune in for an honest debate on:1. Does Gen Z value visibility over actual value?2. Can your LinkedIn presence really get you promoted?3. Where’s the line between authenticity and performance?Drop your thoughts in the comments below!Tune in now to hear both sides of the debate and rethink how we show up in the world of work.Navigate your way through the chapters00:00 Coming up01:00 Introduction02:06 Views of Gen Z on Personal Branding03:45 The gap between the true self and the public persona06:59 The role of branding in starting a career08:25 Employee views on Personal Branding11:52 Promoting online presence vs. valuing offline skills14:28 The importance of storytelling in building a brand18:42 How social media impacts personal branding19:08 Recruitment parameters based on personal brands22:27 The reality and effort behind personal branding25:41 Founders on using podcasts to boost growth27:54 Closing thoughts

Is hustle culture quietly killing India’s next generation?Is Gen Z actually giving up at their jobs for reasons evident but often unsaid?Where really is this gap and why is it important to fill it?Next season of the Barbershop is not a season, it’s a completely different story.A whole new setup, a mix of old and new voices, unfiltered views, and debates that often make it out of these leaders’ LinkedIn's, onto the news! 😂Only this time, we don’t have a 1:1 setup, we have a round table.Joining Shantanu are Vidit Dugar (Chief of Staff at Bombay Shaving Company) and Gauri Bansal (Product and Strategy at Spotify), on the one side. Ambitious. Sharp. Super switched on. They represent India’s blue-eyed Gen Z at workplaces.Sitting on the other side are Radhika Gupta (MD & CEO, Edelweiss Mutual Fund) and Damodar Mall (CEO, Reliance Retail). Two veterans who made it to their CXO roles in their early thirties, all with patience, clarity, and grit.This is not a podcast, it’s a debate. Someone’s got to start it!Where aspirational Gen Zs meet inspirational leaders.Tune in for a brutally honest conversation on:- Are Gen Z an employer's nightmare?- The 9-to-5 job was made for people who worked in factories. So why are we still working like that?- Why does every Gen Z worker feel like they are underpaid?- Why comparison is the key recipe for unhappiness.So, on this note, dear Gen Zs, this is for you. YOU are the hero of this show.Here it is. The wait is over. This platform is now officially yours.Talk to us, drop a comment and tell us if you’d like to be a part of the next bridge debate. 🙌🏻Navigate your way through:00:00 Coming up0:55 What is ‘The Bridge’?2:03 Hustle culture through Gen Z’s lens5:23 Senior leaders on generational clashes and hustle culture9:57 The truth about time and work quality14:40 Gen Z on no fixed hours and transforming digital life17:22 Women and hustle culture20:14 Generations on grind: accountability, rewards, hard work, and purpose24:08 Hustle culture and mental health struggles27:02 Backstage performers vs. Frontstage seekers30:41 Closing Thoughts

What if playing it safe is the real courage in entrepreneurship? In Barbershop’s latest episode, Shantanu sits down with Alok Sama (Writer & Investor) to explore what truly makes a CEO great. It’s not just about flashy risks, but staying humble and adapting as things change.How Alok brought his first book ‘The Money Trap’ to life, and how getting a degree in Master of Fine Arts, from NYU at 58 proves that growth has no age. Key Takeaways:- Leadership is as much about humility and adaptability as bold risks.- AI and disruptive tech are shaking things up, but also raise questions on creativity and originality.- India’s startup scene faces unique socio-economic challenges alongside fresh growth chances.- How and why to go back to school if you feel a passion strongly. So, Alok’s story exhibits that sometimes fortune favours the unexpected. Join us, and maybe you will see your professional path a little more differently in the aftermath. Also, if you’d like to join our next conversation as live audience, sign up here: https://forms.gle/yF6Rzr9NRheKRoV98Navigate the episode 00:00 Coming Up01: 17 Introduction2:30 Top CEOs in Alok’s views7:44 Comparing CEOs' operating styles: global vs Indian leaders11:14 Billionaire behaviour: insecurity or personal quirk?14:40 How do visionary CEOs adapt and grow?17:30 From Instagram to ChatGPT: Alok on AI24:44 Top CEO behaviours: founder vs manager?31:11 Alok on Indian founders and tech evolution42:53 Alok’s take on the tariff situation44:00 Indian conglomerates in US: capital drives disruption?49:31 India’s middle class: unemployment and consumption issues53:35 Risk-taking: entrepreneur or investor, Alok?58:27 Alok on MFA, writing, and nonfiction passion1:03:06 Money Trap duration and AI’s originality threat/His Book journey length and AI vs originality1:07:48 Living and investing: Alok’s India perspective1:18:14 Closing Thoughts

What if you could build your epic career without the fear of failing?In a world chasing speed, Warikoo advises people to try everything, experience it all, until the path becomes clear.In Barbershop’s latest episode, Shantanu chats with Ankur Warikoo (Entrepreneur and Bestselling Author), who deeply talks about personal growth and mindset shifts on career development.He shares his journey about scaling a 70 Cr education empire, ‘WebVeda’, with 100% refundable courses, and yet, it’s thriving effortlessly. In this episode, Warikoo explains that content isn’t just about reach, it’s about the trust you build over time. So, if he, being a well-known social media personality, gives content half a day a week and crushes it, why can’t you find your survival options? There’s no fluff at all in this conversation, just very actionable steps and real talk about life, purpose and bootstrapping your dreams. Key Takeaways:- What resilience and long-term thinking look like in business.- How AI is quietly transforming course dubbing and content clean-up.- What fuels his three income engines: content, community, and investing- What if playing it smart could also be playing it bold? Tune in, and maybe you will see your path a little differently.Hope this episode inspires you to go “all in” with your idea! And if you’d like to join our next conversation live, sign up here: https://forms.gle/yF6Rzr9NRheKRoV98Navigate the episode 00:00 Coming Up1:07 Introduction2:03 The source of inspiration behind Ankur Warikoo’s content4:51 Using knowledge and optionality to assess risk in career decisions08:57 The power of consistent content and its role in trust-distributed perspectives.16:01 How evolving content helps trust to shape consumer behaviour in low-trust societies21:09 Understanding market dynamics and changing views on careers, income, and investments.32:21 Easy loans, less accountability, AI cutting productivity and rising consumption across all layers.41:00 Older Folks on money stress and Impact of AI on knowledge workers47:50 Quick commerce vs. Offline profit: Ideal time strategic sales choices57:27 Warikoo's views on commercial real estate in prime areas surged59:16 Exploring Warikoo’s authorship path and the growth of his Ed-tech initiative1:08:38 The role of AI in content creation and WebVeda’s setup1:13:44 Warikoo's investment propaganda and vision1:15:21 Role of Warikoo Crew and Warikoo Partner in zero-tech project management1:21:19 Warikoo’s solo entrepreneurial story and strategic investment tips1:29:27 A chat on books Shantanu and Ankur have read and key takeaways from Ankur’s 4th book.1:42:08 Closing Thoughts

To build a business, you should always have your feet on the ground and eyes on the stars. A mindset Manish Taneja has carried from the narrow lanes of Faridabad to build a ₹10,000 Cr beauty giant.In this episode, Shantanu sits down with Manish Taneja (CEO & MD of Purplle.com) for a raw conversation about the unseen side of entrepreneurship.Growing up in Tier 2 India, Manish never had the blueprint but just a dream to build big. And in 13 years, he turned that fascination into Purplle, a brand that has redefined beauty in India.From taking bold bets on acquiring big brands like Faces Canada and Carmesi to choosing long-term value over viral trends, this is a story of perseverance, principles, and playing the long game.Key takeaways from the episode:- Why it’s crucial to not chase trends but build with purpose.- What are the mistakes every founder often makes in the beauty space?- What is the role of AI in shaping the future of brand building?- If you’re still playing it safe, you’re probably holding yourself back.Hope this episode inspires you to go “all in” with your idea! And if you’d like to join our next conversation live, sign up here: https://forms.gle/yF6Rzr9NRheKRoV98Navigate the episode 00:00 Coming Up01:25 Introduction01:50 Backstory of Purplle and their initial challenges10:57 Business Cash Flow and Employee Growth at Purplle13:25 Market Evolution and Capital Raising Milestones21:00 Role of Investors and Purplle’s First Product to many more27:10 Strategic Brand Acquisitions and Reshaping the market30:51 Effectiveness of Data Usage and Geographic Customer Targeting34:40 Revenue Margins and Sales Channel Insights36:30 The Impact of Offline and Quick Commerce on Sales39:16 Growth of the Beauty and Personal Care Industry44:13 Innovation, New Product Categories, and Avoiding Trend-Chasing49:45 The Role of AI in Brand Building54:58 Understanding Market Dynamics and Capital Flow1:02:02 Industry Evolution and the Power of Content Creation1:05:03 A 13-Year Journey of Investor Relations and Key Success Stories1:09:24 Manish’s Perspective on Building Startups1:17:40 Closing Thoughts

If there’s no existential doubt, it’s not an early-stage business.Because you're just figuring it out, one bold risk at a time.In this episode Shantanu is joined by Vedang Patel (Co-Founder of The Souled Store) and Yogesh Kabra, (Founder of XYXX Apparels) for a raw and honest conversation on what it really takes to start up.As a bootstrapped company, Vedang started with just ₹5 lakhs and a big dream. On the other hand, Yogesh started up in a 250 sq. ft. room in Surat. But Now? These founders have built a 1000Cr empire. Key Takeaways from the episode: •⁠ ⁠How a customer-first mindset shapes everything, from product to brand.•⁠ ⁠What should you know before building a clothing brand for women?•⁠ ⁠Why “mental freedom” from your investor can often be more powerful than just financial backing.This is a story of building something of your own with the right people by your side.Tell us in the comments: What’s the wildest risk you’ve taken to build your dream? And if you’d like to join our next conversation as a live audience member, sign up here: https://forms.gle/yF6Rzr9NRheKRoV98Navigate the episode00:00 – Coming Up01:10 – What Are Business Models and Market Trends?04:13 – Why Being Honest About Business Numbers is Important07:01 – Problems in the Clothing Industry09:59 – How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market13:08 – What Customer Retention and Acquisition Costs Really Mean16:02 – How Good Products Keep Customers Coming Back19:08 – How Fashion Trends Change and How to Keep Up22:16 – A New Look at the Underwear Market25:16 – Wrapping Things Up and Looking Ahead26:49 – Why Average Order Value (AOV) is Important for Sales29:20 – How to Market Your Brand and Keep People Interested32:09 – The Problems with Quick Commerce in Clothing industry35:14 – Why Consumers Return Stuff in Online Shopping38:18 – How to Build and Market Your Brand Creatively41:55 – Is Business Success About Luck or Strategy?49:22 – Moving Your Business from Offline to Online52:17 – How Luck and Your Attitude Impact Success54:00 – Finding the Right Investors and Why They Matter59:22 – How We Think About Money01:03:03 – The Mindset of Thriving vs. Just Getting By01:07:16 – The Excitement of Growing Your Business01:14:01 – Closing thoughts

Some companies almost don’t make it, until they do.MakeMyTrip could’ve been one of them.In this episode, Shantanu Deshpande is joined by Deep Kalra (Founder and Chairman of MakeMyTrip Limited) and Sanjeev Aggarwal (Co-Founder, Fundamentum, Helion and Daksh), one of MMT’s early investors. Kalra and Aggarwal uncover the real behind-the-scenes of building one of India’s most iconic travel companies.This Investor-Founder bond isn’t just about travel. It’s about the courage to stick around when the road gets rough.Let us know in the comments: What’s the toughest phase your startup has survived and how? And if you’d like to join our next conversation as a live audience member, sign up here: https://forms.gle/yF6Rzr9NRheKRoV98Navigate the episode 00:00 Coming up01:09 Introduction07:55 Relationship insights between founders and investors08:38 Foundation of Make My Trip13:28 How Sanjeev and Deep met15:36 Sanjeev’s view on Makemytrip Founders16:44 Tough time Prior 200521:52 What are the commonalities among founders?27:34 Deep’s perspective on Sanjeev’s contribution in IPO board33:33 The entry of fragmented market39:38 The great vs an average board meeting47:56 Reasons for the decline VC and entrepreneurship56:43 Digitalisation impacts on business opportunities59:32 Roles of professional high-quality management01:04:56 Importance of governance training to run a company01:08:29 Role of quick commerce01:13:05 Key role of product genesis01:15:09 Closing thoughts

Not every founder finds the right investor. Not every investor bets on the right founder. In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome a BarberShop veteran, Kapil Chopra (Founder - EazyDiner and The Postcard Hotel). But this time, he is not alone. Joining him is his first ever investor and his very good friend, Deepak Shahdadpuri (Managing Director, DSG Consumer Partners). Why did Kapil and Deepak take 8 years to finally start a business together? Find out in this episode. This isn’t just an entrepreneurial conversation. It’s a masterclass on the kind of investor-founder friendship required for businesses to thrive even when the going gets tough. Takeaways from this episode: What do investors look for in a founder during a pitch?Why did Deepak NOT invest in Bombay Shaving Company?How to identify your Product-Market-Fit in a crowded market. Kapil and Deepak’s story is a great reminder of why it matters who you surround yourself with. Who is that friend in your life you’d love to build a business with?Navigate the episode 00:00 Coming up01:00 Introduction06:37 Founder-Investor Friendship11:53 How did Kapil Identify Market Opportunities14:46 The Evolution of Consumer Brands in India17:21 Founding story of Sula23:13 The Future of Consumer Brands in India27:37 Veeba Funding Story29:55 Why and how did Deepak Invest in EazyDiner33:00 Finding the Right Investor-Founder Dynamics38:00 How to Navigate Startup Challenges53:53 Evolution of Investments in India01:05:41 Maturity of Family Offices in India01:17:28 The Art and Commerce of Consumer Brands01:41:40 Importance of Aligning Incentives for Long-Term Success02:01:33 Challenges in the Startup Ecosystem and Corporate Governance02:05:46 How to Find the Right Fit in Teams02:06:17 The Importance of Cultural Fit02:10:15 Opportunities in Travel and Hospitality02:17:09 Culinary Diversity and Innovation in India02:21:16 Closing Thoughts

Not every founder finds the right investor. Not every investor bets on the right founder. In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome a BarberShop veteran, Kapil Chopra (Founder - EazyDiner and The Postcard Hotel). But this time, he is not alone. Joining him is his first ever investor and his very good friend, Deepak Shahdadpuri (Managing Director, DSG Consumer Partners). Why did Kapil and Deepak take 8 years to finally start a business together? Find out in this episode. This isn’t just an entrepreneurial conversation. It’s about trust, conviction, and the kind of friendship that every investor-founder must share, for businesses to thrive even when the going gets tough. Takeaways from this episode:- What do investors look for in a founder during a pitch?- Why did Deepak NOT invest in Bombay Shaving Company?- How to identify your Product Market fit in a crowed market.Kapil and Deepak’s story is a great reminder of why it matters who you surround yourself with. Who is that friend in your life you’d love to build a business with? Drop your thoughts in the comments! And if you’d like to join our next conversation as a live audience member, sign up here :- https://forms.gle/5rVezQtDnYm1rqZJANavigate the episode 00:00 Coming up01:00 Introduction06:37 Founder-Investor Friendship11:53 How did Kapil Identify Market Opportunities14:46 The Evolution of Consumer Brands in India17:21 Founding story of Sula23:13 The Future of Consumer Brands in India27:37 Veeba Funding Story29:55 Why did Deepak Invest in EazyDiner33:00 Finding the Right Investor-Founder Dynamics38:00 How to Navigate Challenges53:53 Evolution of Investment in India01:05:41 Maturity of Family Offices in India01:17:28 The Art and Commerce of Consumer Brands01:41:40 Importance of Aligning Incentives for Long-Term Success02:01:33 Challenges in the Startup Ecosystem and Corporate Governance02:05:46 How to Find the Right Fit in Teams02:06:17 The Importance of Cultural Fit02:10:15 Opportunities in Travel and Hospitality02:17:09 Culinary Diversity and Innovation in India02:21:16 Closing Thoughts

Mokobara was rejected 33 times.And now they’ll beat legacy brands in their own game within 6 years. Something the biggest brands took 44 years to do! That’s the thing about great entrepreneurs. They don’t give up.In this episode, we are joined by three of Shantanu’s closest friends. Sangeet Agrawal, Founder at Mokobara, Navin Parwal, Co-Founder & CMO at Mokobara, and Manu Chandra, Founder and Managing Partner at Sauce.vc came together to uncover the power of aspirational hungry India.Mokobara is on a mission to redefine travel for India, designing luggage that feels world-class. But with ambition comes scrutiny.Recently, they faced backlash over claims of white-labeling and premium pricing. Instead of backing down, they flipped the script by dropping a non-apologetic comeback, launching a discount code named WHITELABEL on their latest Naruto collection. Through this episode, Sangeet and Navin, along with their friend and investor Manu Chandra also put down the curtains on the unnecessary controversy finally. Major takeaways from the episode:- Sangeet and Navin finally address their controversy.- How fast Mokobara grew in 6 years, something Safari took 44 years to do.- Why Indian brands need to build high-quality products and take them to the global market.- A secret BSCxMokobara product launch.If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a design enthusiast, or just someone who needs to hear a story of resilience today, this episode is for you! Hit LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring conversations.Drop your thoughts in the comments! And if you’d like to join our next conversation as a live audience member, sign up here :- https://forms.gle/uY8w2an4Q44mN9dd800:00 Coming Up01:15 Introduction06:06 The Dichotomy of Founders: Passion vs. Market Analysis12:02 Cultural Exports: Lessons from Korea18:10 The Evolution of the Indian Consumer21:08 The Importance of Passion in Entrepreneurship23:52 The Dynamics of Brand Building and Design26:45 The Role of Community and Support in Business29:57 The Journey of Growth and Resilience32:59 Creating Products with Purpose and Identity41:21 Building a Consistent Brand Identity42:10 Navigating Product Life Cycles and Manufacturing43:35 Philosophy of Timeless Design45:30 Evolution of a Travel Lifestyle Brand46:58 Balancing Focus and Scale in Business49:02 Expanding into Global Markets50:39 Creating an Exceptional Retail Experience54:57 Importance of Offline Presence01:00:11 The Role of Design in Brand Experience01:02:39 The Impact of Retail on Digital Performance01:09:10 Lessons from Adversity in Business01:21:46 Importance of Patience in Building Brands01:23:39 Valuation Challenges in Entrepreneurship01:24:20 Understanding Business Valuation and Investment01:26:18 The Risks of Overvaluation01:28:19 The Reality of Angel Investing01:30:08 Building a Brand with Passion and Quality01:32:15 Navigating Competition in the Market01:34:03 The Role of Patience in Brand Evolution01:35:35 The Power of Team Dynamics01:36:03 Leadership and Team Culture01:39:40 Celebrity Endorsements and Brand Identity01:42:30 The Impact of Profitability on Brand Partnerships01:45:30 Collaborative Opportunities Between Brands01:48:05 The Journey of Fundraising and Building Trust01:51:56 Closing Thoughts on Building a Business