Shows
Sandpit StartupsAmazon Acquisition to Anghami Listing | Sandpit Startups | Ep30 | Mary GhobrialIn this episode, we speak with Mary Ghobrial who is the former Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer of Souq.com, Mary launched White Friday, drove regional retail strategies, and led Souq.com to its landmark acquisition by Amazon in 2017. Mary also played a key role as Chief Strategy and Operations Officer at Anghami, leading its historic NASDAQ launch. Join us as she shares insights on scaling businesses, fostering local brands, and thriving in the competitive tech and e-commerce landscapes of the MENA region.2025-01-1425 minSandpit StartupsFrom Founders to Unicorns | Sandpit Startups | Ep29 | Khaled TalhouniIn this episode, we engage with Khaled Talhouni, the Managing Partner of Nuwa Capital. Nuwa Capital has successfully backed several innovative startups, including Eyewa, Seez, Silkhaus, Calo, and many more. Khaled’s extensive experience in leading Nuwa Capital and other VC funds allows him to offer invaluable insights into identifying standout founders and analyzing pitch decks. Together, we delve into the thriving startup ecosystem of the Middle East, particularly focusing on entrepreneurs in the UAE and KSA. We tackle pressing questions, such as the existence of a funding winter and the key traits that define a compelling founder, making th...2024-12-1035 minSandpit StartupsPivoting Masterclass | Sandpit Startups | Ep28 | Andrew KabritIn this conversation with Andrew Kabrit, Co-founder of Seez—a resilient startup backed by Nuwa Capital—he shares how Seez navigated the pandemic and adapted to survive when other startups struggled. Hear how Seez evolved its model, pivoted multiple times, and found different product-market fits to stay strong in a rapidly changing market. With Andrew’s background as CPO you'll gain valuable insights on strategic pivots, achieving product-market fit, and building resilience in shifting industries and how to guide/hire the team from a startup to scaleup.2024-11-1542 minSandpit StartupsCrossing Over From VC to Startup | Sandpit Startups | Ep27 | Ajinkya TanpureIn this conversation with Ajinkya Tanpure, also known as AJ, the Founder and CEO of CrossVal, we dive into essential topics every entrepreneur needs to master to become investor-ready. We'll explore how to justify valuations and effectively manage finances, making your startup more attractive to investors. CrossVal is a powerful tool designed to help founders gain a clear understanding of cash flow management and prepare for the tough questions VCs and investors ask. With AJ's background in Venture Capital and Private Equity, you'll get valuable insights on how startups are leveraging CrossVal to sharpen their financial strategies2024-09-1141 minSandpit StartupsHow Private is My Equity? | Sandpit Startups | Ep26 | Dr. Brandon GuthrieWith Dr. Brandon Guthrie, General Partner at Shatranj Capital, we explore the strategic world of Private Equity. Dive into the intricacies of how PE firms help global enterprises like YUM Brands expand internationally, and learn when they consider investing in venture-backed startups. This episode is packed with expert advice on market commercialization, brand essence marketing, and the key differences between Private Equity and Venture Capital. Don't miss out on this masterclass in scaling businesses globally!2024-08-0243 minSandpit StartupsWhere is my Zofeur?! | Sandpit Startups | Ep25 | Bunty MonaniIn an engaging session with Bunty Monani, Founder & CEO of Zofeur, we unravel the journey of Zofeur's meteoric ascent. From its humble inception to securing customer funding and navigating rapid expansion, every facet of Zofeur's growth story comes to light. Bunty emphasizes the pivotal role of resilience as the cornerstone skill in entrepreneurship. Discover the strategies and insights that propelled Zofeur to success, offering invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to chart their own path to greatness.2024-07-1040 minSandpit StartupsFrom First VC to a Foremost VC - MEVP | Sandpit Startups | Ep24 | Walid MansourIn this podcast episode with Walid Mansour, Co-founder of Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), we explore the journey of the first and now one of the largest Venture Capital firms in MENA. Since its inception in 2008, MEVP has built an impressive portfolio, including stellar names like Anghami, Invygo, Fresha, and MamoPay. Join us as we delve into how venture capital is akin to a startup constantly raising funds, the essential checklist for startups applying to VC firms, and how VCs identify promising opportunities. We also discuss why the UAE and GCC are hotspots for startups. This enlightening conversation offers...2024-06-1946 minSandpit StartupsHardware as a Service? | Sandpit Startups | Ep23 | Atul BhansalJoin us for an engaging conversation with Atul Bansal, co-founder of Livlyt, a cutting-edge IT platform designed to help companies optimize their tech spending. Atul provides valuable insights into how Livlyt tracks SaaS usage, manages device inventory, secures devices, and offers on-demand IT support to streamline operations and save costs. We also explore how his experience consulting with McKinsey and working in a Unicorn (or Unicamel in MENA) influenced his entrepreneurial mindset. Additionally, Atul shares personal reflections on the entrepreneurial journey and the crucial role of family as an asset rather than a liability. Don't miss this deep dive...2024-06-0440 minSandpit StartupsFamily Offices: A New Investor Class | Sandpit Startups | Ep22 | Obediah AytonWe have a deep dive discussion with Obediah Ayton, Director Dhabi Holding Company and Chairman of Abu Dhabi Family Office Summit. Obediah shares his experience on the rise of the new investor class that many startups aren't aware of. We also understand how 2 different emirates although in one country behaves as a different hubs for startups. Also we discuss the investor's mindset and what startup entrepreneurs should keep in mind when they engage with such investors. Get ready for a crash course in family offices think and invest. Use these tips and leverage this information while engaging with this...2024-05-2945 minSandpit StartupsFrom FoodPanda KSA to FinTech Founder | Sandpit Startups | Ep21 | Tarek GhobarJoin us in this inspiring session with Tarek Ghobar, co-founder of Paymennt and recognized as a Forbes Top 20 FinTech Entrepreneur. Discover how Paymennt is is transforming digital payments for micro and small businesses handle online payments by offering a quick, secure, and cost-effective solution. Tarek shares his experiences from managing FoodPanda in Saudi Arabia to spearheading Paymennt's innovative, secure, and cost-effective online payment solutions. Learn about the acquisition journey of his startup, his early entrepreneurial challenges, and the determination needed to thrive in the business world. Don't miss this compelling talk that delves deep into the realities and challenges...2024-05-0144 minSandpit StartupsFrom Idea to Acquisition | Sandpit Startups | Ep20 | Benjamin MouflardIn this episode, we have a food chat with Benjamin Mouflard, the co-founder of Chatfood. ChatFood offers restaurants a commission-free platform for online ordering and sales via social media and websites, with integrated payment and logistics solutions. We talk to Benjamin about his entrepreneurial journey from selling golf balls in his youth to getting Chatfood acquired by a global scaleup Deliverect. Benjamin with Chatfood raised more than USD 5 Million in funding and talks about making a name in a highly competitive UAE food-tech market.2024-03-2233 minSandpit StartupsTalking "Boring Business" with Washmen's Co-Founder | Sandpit Startups | Ep18 | Jad HalaouiIn this squeaky clean episode we sit down with Jad Halaoui, the co-founder of Washmen, a digital laundry and dry-cleaning service in the UAE. We talk about Jad's journey from working in Canada one day for an Oil & Gas giant to take the leap of faith to fly to UAE and work with his co-founder Rami on Washmen. He talks about the highs of receiving multiple rounds of funding and being mentored by the co-founder of Careem to the lows of coping with the struggles and anxiety of his startup Washmen. A profound conversation where we talk about hiring...2024-03-1554 minSandpit StartupsYour Virtual Legal Advisor | Sandpit Startups | Ep19 | Ahmed ArifIn this startup forensics episode, we discuss with Ahmed Arif, the co-founder of Clara. Clara simplifies the intricate legal procedures of starting, expanding, and selling a startup in the UAE with their cutting-edge legal software. With Ahmed, we discuss how startup founders struggle to consolidate all their legal requirements especially when it's on a shoestring budget, but with Clara, it serves as a one-stop shop for all the legal requirements from creating your cap table, issuing Convertible Notes and also forming companies in different jurisdiction.2024-03-0140 minSandpit StartupsSky full of Startups | Sandpit Startups | Ep17 | Lukas KrejcaIn this episode we are with the operations director of Astrolabs Lukas Krejca, Dubai-based digital capability building company. Astrolabs supports expansion of startups and scaleups to UAE and Saudi Arabia. It's a startup community where entrepreneurs leverage from resources and the network within UAE and KSA. Astrolabs helps with building sustainable ecosystem and act as an accelerator to thrive in competitive local market.2024-02-1534 minSandpit StartupsThis $5M Idea Will End Car Ownership by 2030 | Sandpit Startups | Ep16 | Claudio Esposito-AiardoIn this episode we drive down memory lane with Claudio Esposito-Aiardo co-founder of Carasti, Dubai-based car subscription start-up. From starting with a prototype to raising $5M and also expanding to Saudi Arabia. We learn the do's and don'ts of getting into a business and also how to manage customers in the early days. A really insightful story of starting a car subscription platform and making it as easy as ordering a pizza.2024-01-1544 minSandpit StartupsHe Bootstrapped Dubai's Fastest Growing Community | Sandpit Startups | Ep15 | Cameron Lee RobertsIn this community-focused episode, join us with Cameron Lee Roberts, Founder of DYP Club (now YP Club), as we explore the incredible evolution of UAE's premier hub for aspiring young professionals. From its humble beginnings as a monthly gathering to becoming a powerhouse for thought leaders and innovators, YP Club unites ambitious minds, fostering connections and impactful discussions. Discover how Cameron shapes the future of young leadership communities in the UAE and beyond, offering insights on building communities and becoming tech powered.2024-01-0141 minSandpit StartupsHaltia.AI The AI Super App | Sandpit Startups | Ep14 | Talal ThabetIn this super charged episode with Talal Thabat the Cofounder of Haltia we discuss all things AI which includes Sam Altman and ChatGPT to data and privacy issues. We talk about how Haltia will change the life of people with this AI super app making one not only more productive and efficient but most importantly giving you time to do the things that you love. Get ready for this AI powered episode and to geek out on the tech of the future.2023-12-1539 minSandpit StartupsThe Man That Can Build You a FREE MVP?! | Sandpit Startups | Ep13 | Dennis KohlIn this unique episode with 'Tech Angel' and Founder of Inheaden, Dennis Kohl. We discover the new form of investment, unlike the venture studios, rather the tech angel concept is a new and unique take on investment that combines the VC business model but with a Tech Enabler concept. We talk to Dennis about how it all started, their growth in Europe and now their expansion to the UAE. Exciting angle for all the pre-seed stage entrepreneurs out there!2023-11-3035 minSandpit StartupsThe Dubai Matchmaker | Sandpit Startups | Ep12 | Christiana MaxionJoin us in this exciting episode as with 'The Dubai Matchmaker' and Founder of the Maxion app. Her journey from a Teacher in Abu Dhabi to a Tech founder is inspirational and her matchmaking app is set to change the conventional dating app landscape in UAE and beyond. Bringing compatible connections via a convenient concierge to make sure you can focus on the things that really matter i.e. finding love and connections.2023-11-1532 minSandpit StartupsOwn Home in Dubai with just 500 AED | Sandpit Startups | Ep11 | Siddiq FaridJoin us in this exciting episode as we sit down with Siddiq Farid, the co-founder of SmartCrowd, a revolutionary real estate crowdfunding platform in the UAE! Discover how you can now turn property investment into a hassle-free, stock-like experience with as little as 500 AED. Own properties, enjoy rental returns, and watch your investments grow from the comfort of your own home. Don't miss this episode to unlock the world of real estate investing like never before!2023-11-0334 minSandpit StartupsFrom Side Hustle to 5,200 Bottles Per Day | Sandpit Startups | Ep10 | Raja AbuljebainJoin us in this episode as we sit down with Raja Abuljebain, the CEO of Essentially Juices, an innovative F&B startup dedicated to health and wellness. Dive into the fascinating journey of "Essentially" as we discuss the challenges and growth strategies in a competitive F&B industry with a limited product shelf life. Whether you're in the F&B business or dreaming of launching your own, this conversation is packed with valuable insights. Get ready for a nourishing discussion that could change the game for your startup!2023-10-0230 minSandpit StartupsInside the SandBox | Sandpit Startups | Ep9 | Elliot DenhamIn this episode we are with Elliott Denham the Program Manager at SandBox, a groundbreaking program from Dtec. This startup program is designed to help founders unlock their full potential and guide them on their 0 to 1 journey, providing all the essential support and tools needed along the way. The program provides the guidance, resources, and connections to take your startup from concept to investment-ready. If you have a startup idea and want to join a program to realize your dreams, tune in to this episode as we go behind the scenes of what a startup program offers.2023-09-1933 minSandpit StartupsDesert Deals - Venture Capital in MENA | Sandpit Startups | Ep8 | Asher SiddiquiIn this episode with Asher Siddiqui a General Partner at Sukna Ventures, an early stage VC firm . He is a seasoned investor, mentor that has led deals over $15 Billion. Asher has established himself as a trusted advisor to numerous VC firms in MENAP and has also been an entrepreneur. He was a partner at 500 startups in Silicon Valley, which is a global venture capital firm. We talk about the dynamic relationships of VC mindset and funding strategies. So, keep a pen and writing pad handy as we dive into this supercharged conversation 2023-08-3139 minSandpit StartupsStartup Scales and Legal Tales | Sandpit Startups | Ep7 | Bianca GraciasIn this episode we are with Bianca Gracias the managing partner at Crimson Legal, a smart legal services firm providing legal solutions to help startups, SMEs and family offices achieve their business goals in the UAE . We talk about corporate governance, term sheets, NDAs and other important aspects with respect to Startups and SMEs. Subscribe now for more such legal clinics where we talk about startups and legalities !2023-08-1529 minSandpit StartupsOldest Startup Ever | Sandpit Startups | Ep6 | Steve Drake & Paul DonnelyJoin us for an incredible episode featuring Steve Drake and Paul Donnely from Middle East Advisory Partners who are the masterminds behind a boutique consultancy startup for SMEs. With over 100 years of collective experience, including Big 4 consultancy backgrounds, they're ready to share their inspiring journey from corporate to startups. Don't miss this episode for invaluable insights and entrepreneurial inspiration!2023-08-0128 minSandpit StartupsThe Rise of Starz Play : The Netflix Challenger | Sandpit Startups | Ep5 | Saleem BhattiWe are joined in this episode by Saleem Bhatti who co-founded Starz Play Arabia. In this episode we find out the origin story of Starz Play and how they prepared themselves to go toe to toe with the likes of Netflix. Brace yourself for a dynamic conversation as we delve into Saleem's vast expertise and uncover new angles into the world of streaming services.2023-07-1521 minSandpit StartupsHow Gaurav Oberoi Successfully Launched During Tough Times | Sandpit Startups | Ep 4 | Gaurav OberoiOn this podcast episode discover the captivating journey of Hamples or "Happy Samples", a digital sampling platform founded by Husband and Wife, Gaurav and Aditi Oberoi. Join us as Gaurav shares his experiences from idea to seed funding, navigating the challenges of early-stage entrepreneurship. Learn how his past ventures with his wife influenced the shaping of Hamples and gain valuable insights for your own startup journey. Subscribe now for an inspiring conversation that will ignite your entrepreneurial spirit!2023-07-0128 minSandpit StartupsHaving Wasta Is An Unfair Advantage! | Sandpit Startups | Ep3 | Shyam VisavadiaIn this episode, we interviewed Shyam Visavadia, the co-founder of Wasta.ai – they build your professional network through video. Join us as Shyam shares his remarkable insights on the journey from corporate to startup. He shares the challenges of Wasta and the power of connections in today's business landscape. We delve into the intricacies and lessons learned as Shyam discusses the realities of starting, re-starting and finding his feet in the MENA region. This candid conversation provides a unique story of Shyam's experiences and gain valuable insights into network effects of Wasta.ai and its impact on business connections.2023-06-1538 minSandpit StartupsThis Startup is Cleaning Up the Competition | Sandpit Startups | Ep2 | Aman SinghIn this episode, we host Aman Singh, an Entrepreneur in Residence at Urban Company. Join us as Aman shares his valuable insights on the journey and challenges of entering a new market, with a mention of Urban Company's expansion into KSA. Discover the intricacies and lessons learned as Aman discusses the realities of navigating new territories for business expansion. This candid conversation provides a unique opportunity to learn from Aman's experiences and gain valuable insights into the world of business expansion.2023-06-0132 minSandpit StartupsHow I Scaled Foodpanda To 28 Countries in 12 Months | Sandpit Startups | Ep 1 | Christian MischlerJoin us for an exhilarating conversation with Christian Mischler, an accomplished serial entrepreneur who co-founded FoodPanda, Hotel Quickly, GuestReady, and Deskimo. We take a look into his transition from Credit Suisse to the world of startups, to his insights as a partner at the Swiss Founder's Fund, Christian's journey is both captivating and enlightening. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights from an exceptional entrepreneur!Follow to catch future episodes where Sam Drake and Abhishek Chatterjee interview the brightest and best founders the region has to offer!2023-05-2738 min