Shows
Hard Truths By VertexWhy India’s Home Appliance Market Will Look Very Different in 5 YearsWhy would someone quit chasing “big startup ideas” to redesign something as ordinary as a ceiling fan? In this episode, I sit down with Gazal, co-founder of Nuuk, to trace her journey from a personal problem at home to building a design-led consumer electronics startup in India.We talk about how COVID changed the way Indians live indoors, why Indian consumers are shifting from cheap to meaningful products, and how Nuuk builds home appliances designed specifically for Indian homes.Gazal shares the thinking behind product-first brands, women-led design, and what it reall...
2026-02-0646 min
News at 7December 25: India successfully tests nuclear-capable K-4 missile; Top Maoist Commander Killed & Delhi Goverment Launches Atal CanteensOn News@7 this 25 of December, Taniya Dutta brings to you the evening’s most crucial headlines. India has successfully tested the nuclear-capable K-4 missile from the submarine INS Arighaat in the Bay of Bengal, boosting its sea-based nuclear deterrent. Meanwhile, Odisha security forces killed top Maoist commander Ganesh Uikey along with five others in Kandhamal forests, calling it a major breakthrough. In Delhi, 100 Atal Canteens were launched, providing subsidised meals at ₹5 per plate for low-income residents. Produced by Taniya Dutta Sound mixed by Rohan Bharti
2025-12-2506 min
Hard Truths By VertexHow Solar + Credit Is Changing Rural India Forever | Metafin CEO Sandeep ChopraWhat if the biggest energy revolution in India isn’t happening in cities… but inside tiny flour mills in forgotten villages?In this conversation, I sit down with Sandeep Chopra, co-founder & CEO of Metafin, to unpack how solar financing for rural MSMEs is reshaping livelihoods, powering micro-enterprises, and quietly shifting India’s clean-energy future. We dive into why solar energy in India is exploding across the Global South, how decentralised power beats unreliable grids, and what it takes to underwrite credit for first-time borrowers in remote villages.From surviving COVID...
2025-12-0943 min
In Our DefenceINS Aridhaman coming soon: Inside India's Secret Nuclear Submarine Project | S3 | Ep 32India is set to commission its third -- and most powerful -- nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, the INS Aridhaman (codename: S4). But this isn't just another ship joining the fleet, it marks a critical tipping point in India's national security architecture. INS Aridhaman is the most complex and devastating weapon to exist in India's weapons arsenal. In this episode of In Our Defence, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Sandeep Unnithan decode the secrecy shrouding the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project. They explain the "Rule of Three" (why you need three subs to keep one at...
2025-12-0557 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by DharmikvibesThe Most Stunning Shiva Temples in India to Explore for Divine ExperienceIndia’s spiritual landscape is deeply intertwined with the worship of Lord Shiva - the cosmic ascetic, the destroyer of ignorance, the source of divine energy, and the eternal yogi. From Himalayan heights where the air whispers mantras to ancient stone temples along the coastline where the sea chants in unison, Shiva temples in India reflect centuries of devotion, intricate architectural mastery, and sacred symbolism.Unlike any other deity, Shiva is worshipped in countless forms - lingam, jyotirlinga, swayambhu, ice formations, and sculptural grandeur. Each temple carries a distinct aura, born of mythological relevance, geographic sanctity, and ri...
2025-11-1407 min
In Our DefenceTwo Seas, Two Stories: India's Navy Between Pakistan and China | S3 | Ep 27India's Navy faces two very different fronts at sea. To the west, it has history and geography on its side against Pakistan -- think Karachi aflame in 1971 and quiet coercion in Kargil. To the east, a bigger, busier chessboard: the Chinese PLAN surging into the Indian Ocean and sniffing around the Bay of Bengal. On this episode, national security expert Sandeep Unnithan joins host Dev Goswami to separate swagger from substance: Pakistan's problem of not enough 'sea room', what the Indian Navy did in 1971 and Kargil, how INS Vikrant shaped the '71 East theatre, and whether modern India...
2025-10-3155 min
Hard Truths By VertexWhy Consumer Is India VC’s Forever Bet | Ben Mathias, Managing Partner at VVSEAIWhat’s it like to bet big on beauty brands, snacks, and even quick commerce in India? In this episode, I sit down with Ben Mathias, Managing Partner at Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India, to unpack his journey of spotting consumer opportunities where others only saw risk. Ben shares how he went from backing early players like FirstCry to today’s digital-first names such as Pilgrim, Kapiva and Licious. We talk about why mass premium products matter, how India’s quick commerce boom is reshaping shopping, and what makes a startup truly venture-backable.
2025-09-1838 min
In Our DefenceGreat Nicobar Explained: Project That Could Change Everything for India |S3 | Ep 22India is betting big on the Holistic Development of Great Nicobar Island, a decades-long project to build a massive transshipment port, a new airport, a power plant, a township, and associated military build-up at the doorstep of the Strait of Malacca, the world’s busiest shipping lane.The project had been flying under the radar until this month when concerns of ecological damage and impact on tribal population put the spotlight on this venture.On this episode, host Dev Goswami and national security expert Sandeep Unnithan dive deep into this project and explore why this could be...
2025-09-1249 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by Dharmikvibes10 Most Famous & Powerful Ganesha Temples in IndiaGanesh Chaturthi is one of the most awaited festivals in India, celebrated with grandeur across states. While homes welcome clay idols of Lord Ganesha, millions of devotees also throng ancient and powerful temples dedicated to Him. Each of these temples has a unique story, rituals that have been followed for centuries, and local traditions that make them special. With Ganesh Chaturthi just around the corner, let us explore ten of the most revered Ganesha temples in India, their histories, hidden facts, and how they become centers of spiritual energy during the festival.1) Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai (Maharashtra)
2025-08-2211 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by DharmikvibesGanesh Chaturthi 2025: A Journey Through Iconic Ganesha Temples in India and Across the WorldGanesh Chaturthi, the vibrant Hindu festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ganesha, transforms cities, towns, and villages into hubs of devotion and cultural expression. The air resonates with chants of “Ganpati Bappa Morya”, processions parade magnificently decorated idols, and temples become epicentres of spiritual activity.While the festival has its roots in India, the devotion to Ganesha has crossed oceans, with grand celebrations in temples across the world. This article is your detailed guide to must-visit temples - both in India and abroad - offering history, insights, and travel-worthy experiences.The Spiritual Essence of Ganesh Chat...
2025-08-1515 min
Hard Truths By Vertex10 Years, 10 Contradictions: What Venture Capital Really Teaches YouWhat is it really like to be a VC when you're not from finance—or even from “the club”? In this episode, I speak with Puiyan Leung, who’s spent the last 10 years in venture capital, after starting out in a corporate role. She opens up about feeling like an outsider, learning to trust her gut, and what it means to support founders through both the highs and the heartbreaks.We talk about mental agility, making tough calls, and why being a VC is sometimes a team sport—and sometimes a lonely solo climb.IN THIS E...
2025-07-3143 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by DharmikvibesChar Dham Yatra – The Sacred Journey Across BharatThe Char Dham Yatra is not merely a pilgrimage—It is a spiritual odyssey that threads the divine geography of India into a timeless narrative of faith, liberation, and unity.Spanning the four sacred abodes—Badrinath (North), Dwarka (West), Puri (East), and Rameswaram (South)—this pilgrimage circuit is a sanctified journey that encapsulates the spiritual DNA of Bharat.✨ A Journey Across Time and TerrainFor centuries, kings, saints, seekers, and everyday devotees have undertaken this sacred route.Their feet traced trails through forests, mountains, coastal towns, and riverbanks—not to chase comfort, b...
2025-06-2422 min
Hard Truths By VertexThe IIT Engineer Who Cracked India’s Beauty MarketWhat would make an IIT Bombay graduate ditch a high-paying finance job to start a beauty brand?In this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex, I sit down with Gagandeep, co-founder of Pilgrim, to unpack his unconventional journey—from engineering and investment banking to building a ₹700 crore beauty empire. He shares the moment he secretly quit his job, the challenges of launching a brand no one knew, and how Pilgrim is making global beauty secrets affordable in India.Tune in for a candid conversation on risk, reinvention, and what it really takes to build a su...
2025-06-2431 min
Interpreting IndiaInterpreting China: From the LAC to Taiwan – Mapping China’s AssertivenessIn this conversation, Aadil Brar and Saheb Singh Chadha examine how China's strategic behavior across the India-China border, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea reflects a broader effort to create regional influence and redefine border security under Xi Jinping. Aadil explains how Beijing frames these actions as issues of national sovereignty, using military presence and political rhetoric to entrench its claims.They explore the “chain reaction” thesis, which suggests that China prepares for simultaneous tensions on multiple fronts in anticipation of external responses—especially in the event of a Taiwan contingency. This perspective, Aadil argues, helps explain China’...
2025-06-1238 min
Interpreting IndiaInterpreting China: The People’s Liberation Army—Reforms and ChallengesSaheb and Suyash begin by laying out where the PLA stands today in terms of its strengths, weaknesses, and the factors driving its evolution. While the PLA has made major strides in modernizing across land, air, sea, space, and cyber, it still struggles with issues like deep-rooted corruption, a lack of well-trained personnel, and delays in meeting its own ambitious goals.The discussion dives into how the PLA is preparing for a potential Taiwan contingency through new mobilization efforts, localized recruitment (especially in border regions like Tibet), and more frequent joint military exercises. Suyash argues that despite...
2025-05-2940 min
Hard Truths By VertexS3E5 | We Don’t Build Restaurants, We Buy Them | DailyCo’s 100 KWhat happens when a founder thinks long-term in a trend-chasing industry?I sat down with Kelvin Subowo, the founder and CEO of DailyCo—Indonesia’s fastest-growing multi-brand F&B company. We talked about his journey from launching a single rice box brand to building a business that serves millions of meals every month. He shared how acquisitions, not hype, drive sustainable growth, and why he always keeps the original founders involved. This one’s all about consistency, strategy, and feeding a nation—literally.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) – What makes a founder truly worth backing?(00:45) – Is acquisiti...
2025-05-2237 min
Niti ShastraSouth China Sea: The Flashpoint in Asia-PacificNamaskarIn this podcast “South China Sea: The Flashpoint in Asia-Pacific”, we discuss the flash point in South China Sea today represents far more than a regional maritime dispute it has become the defining faultline where the future of global power is being contested. In this episode, we delve deep into how China's aggressive reclamation and militarization, America's persistent naval operations, and the growing alignment of Indo-Pacific powers like India, Japan, Australia, and the Philippines are transforming these waters into the most volatile battleground of the 21st century. We also explore India's expanding role...
2025-04-3018 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by DharmikvibesTiruchendur Murugan Temple: A Complete and Detailed GuideTiruchendur Murugan Temple, also known as Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya or Subramaniya) in Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the six abodes of Murugan (Arupadai Veedu) and holds immense significance in Tamil culture, mythology, and spirituality.Unlike most Murugan temples located atop hills, Tiruchendur Temple is uniquely situated along the seashore, facing the Bay of Bengal, in the town of Tiruchendur, Thoothukudi District.Historical Background* Ancient Origins: The temple's history dates back to ancient times, with references...
2025-04-2700 min
Hard Truths By VertexS3E4 | How This Indian Startup Made $6M+ Selling AI to US Car Dealers (Without a US Team)How is an Indian business dominating the U.S. market without a single person on the ground there?Today on "Hard Truths by Vertex," I'm sitting down with Sanjay, the innovative co-founder and CEO at Spyne, who's going to share just how they pulled it off. Spyne isn't just another software company; it's revolutionizing how car dealerships use AI to transform simple car photos into stunning, studio-quality visuals. Dive into Sanjay's journey from starting with a broad focus in product photography to zeroing in on the automotive niche, drastically scaling their operations, and redefining online car merchandising!
2025-04-1633 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by Dharmikvibes🕉️ Nishkalank Mahadev Sea Temple – The Submerged Sanctum of Lord Shiva 🌊📍 Location: Koliyak Beach, Bhavnagar District, Gujarat🛕 Deity: Lord Shiva (Mahadev)🔱 Significance: One of India’s most mystical Shiva temples, revealed only during low tide🧭 Origin & Mythological BackgroundThe Nishkalank Mahadev Temple traces its spiritual foundation to the Mahabharata era. After the great war of Kurukshetra, the Pandavas were overwhelmed with guilt and spiritual unrest for the bloodshed they had caused — even though they fought for righteousness (dharma). To absolve themselves of sin, they sought the guidance of Lord Krishna.Lord Krishna advised the Pandavas to carry a black flag and a cow and tr...
2025-04-1301 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by Dharmikvibes🛕 Dwarkadhish Temple: The Eternal Kingdom of Lord KrishnaIn the western tip of India, where the Gomti River meets the Arabian Sea, lies the sacred city of Dwarka—a place that echoes with chants of "Jai Dwarkadhish!" and vibrates with the footsteps of countless pilgrims. At its heart stands the Dwarkadhish Temple, also known as Jagat Mandir, one of the most revered Vaishnavite shrines in India and an eternal symbol of Krishna Bhakti.This article explores every layer of this divine destination—its origin, mythology, rituals, aarti, architecture, and travel guide—so that every seeker can walk the divine path with complete understanding.📜 The Origi...
2025-04-0300 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by Dharmikvibes🔱 Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple, Dwarka – Where the Sea Performs Abhishekam of Lord Shiva🕉️ Tucked away on the western shores of India, in the sacred town of Dwarka, Gujarat, stands Bhadkeshwar Mahadev Temple — a humble yet powerful shrine of Lord Shiva. Unlike other grand temples, this one holds its glory through nature’s devotion: the Arabian Sea itself performs daily Abhishekam (sacred bathing) of the Shivling during high tides.It is a place where time, tide, and divinity converge in the most magical form.📜 Mythological & Historical Background🔸 Mythological Legends:* According to local legends, the Shivlinga at Bhadkeshwar emerged on its own (Swayambhu), discovered centuries ago b...
2025-03-2700 min
Hard Truths By VertexS3E3 | Lessons from Indonesia’s Startup Crash and the Road to a Stronger FutureIn this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex, Gary Khoeng, partner at Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India, joins host Rahul Thayyalamkandy to explore the Indonesian startup ecosystem. They discuss the recent decline in capital flows, attributing it to global macroeconomic conditions, underperforming IPOs, and election uncertainties. Gary also addresses corporate governance issues and fraudulent activities, highlighting the need for investors to take a more active role. The conversation also covers the ongoing tech talent shortage and potential for AI to bridge the gap. Despite challenges, Gary expresses cautious optimism, pointing to Indonesia's strengths in natural resources and its...
2025-03-2630 min
Sacred Rituals & Devotion of India by DharmikvibesMurudeshwar Temple: The Majestic Abode of Lord Shiva by the Arabian SeaMurudeshwar Temple is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated in the coastal town of Murudeshwar, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, India. Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the temple is famous for its massive 123-feet Shiva statue, the second tallest in the world, and a 237-feet high Rajagopuram (temple tower) that dominates the skyline.This temple is steeped in Hindu mythology, particularly the legend of the Atma Linga, which connects it to the great epic Ramayana. Apart from its spiritual significance, Murudeshwar offers breathtaking views, making it a perfect blend of...
2025-03-2100 min
Economic Sutra: Timeless Insights from Ancient IndiaTrade and Commerce: India’s Global FootprintWelcome to Economic Sutra: Timeless Insights from Ancient India! In this episode, we uncover the fascinating story of ancient India’s global trade network, highlighting its pivotal role in shaping early globalization. Explore how Indian merchants and craftsmen connected the world through goods, innovation, and culture, leaving an enduring legacy.
This episode sheds light on how India became a global hub for trade, fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. Discover lessons from history that resonate with today’s interconnected economy.
Books for Further Exploration (Buy Online):
The Sea and Civilization: A Maritime History of the...
2025-02-0116 min
Economic Sutra: Timeless Insights from Ancient IndiaLabor and Guilds: The Origins of IndustryIn this episode of Economic Sutra: Timeless Insights from Ancient India, we examine the innovative labor systems and trade guilds (Shrenis) that laid the foundation for organized industry in ancient India. These systems emphasized collaboration, skill development, and economic efficiency, setting the stage for sustainable economic growth and community welfare.
Discover how these principles influenced not just ancient Indian society but also modern labor practices and trade unions.
Books Mentioned in This Episode
Economic Sutra: Ancient Indian Antecedents to Economic Thought - Link to Buy 🛒 :- https://amzn.to/3V5TpGS
The...
2024-12-2821 min
Hard Truths By VertexS3E2 | Burnout, Feedback, and the Making of a Leader: PatSnap CEO’s StoryEver been told you’re not fit for the job? That’s exactly what happened to Jeffrey during a pivotal moment early in his journey as the CEO of PatSnap.In this episode, I sit down with Jeffrey to explore how he turned tough feedback into fuel for growth. From starting PatSnap right out of university to leading a global tech company, he shares candid lessons about leadership, building strong teams, and navigating challenges.Tune in to hear Jeffrey’s honest take on what it really takes to grow as a leader—mistakes...
2024-12-1736 min
In Our DefenceIndian Navy submarine hits fishing boat: Exploring anatomy of sea collisions | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 49Off the coast of Goa, a tragic collision between the Indian Navy submarine INS Karanj and a fishing boat left two fishermen dead, while 11 others survived. The crash caused ₹10 crore worth of damage to the submarine, and the fallout has raised some big questions.In this episode of In Our Defence, Dev Goswami and Shiv Aroor deeply dive into this incident. They break down how collisions like these happen and why they’re so hard to avoid. The submarine was at periscope depth, recharging its batteries, and visibility was poor—so what went wrong? Why did the Navy file a...
2024-12-0556 min
Hard Truths By VertexS3E1 | Will India hit its EV Targets? | Akshay Shekhar from KazamAre you ready for a future where electric vehicles are the norm? In this episode, we chat with Akshay, co-founder of Kazam, who’s on a mission to revolutionize how we think about EVs and energy. From leasing EVs to building cutting-edge charging infrastructure, Akshay shares his journey of tackling India’s EV challenges and scaling solutions globally. Discover how his startup is making EV adoption easier and why he believes energy management is the next big frontier. Tune in to learn how the EV landscape is changing—and what it means for you!IN...
2024-11-2746 min
A Century Of StoriesIndia’s Longest Sea Bridge | IndiaWelcome back to A Century Of Stories: India presented by IDFC FIRST Bank! This week, join Kunal as he takes you on a ride across the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link - India's longest sea bridge, and a landmark infrastructure project connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai across the Arabian Sea. Stretching over 21.8 kms, this ambitious bridge reduces travel time between the two cities to under 20 minutes, easing congestion and offering a vital new route for commuters. Designed to withstand high-speed winds and seismic activity, the MTHL is set to bolster economic growth, improve connectivity, and further M...
2024-11-0407 minA Century Of StoriesIndia’s Longest Sea Bridge | IndiaWelcome back to A Century Of Stories: India presented by IDFC FIRST Bank! This week, join Kunal as he takes you on a ride across the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link - India's longest sea bridge, and a landmark infrastructure project connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai across the Arabian Sea. Stretching over 21.8 kms, this ambitious bridge reduces travel time between the two cities to under 20 minutes, easing congestion and offering a vital new route for commuters. Designed to withstand high-speed winds and seismic activity, the MTHL is set to bolster economic growth, improve connectivity, and further M...
2024-11-0407 min
In Our DefenceMQ-9 Reaper deal almost done: How it will help India become 'super supremely aware’ | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 41Recently, an MQ-9B Predator drone leased to the Indian Navy by the US crashed into the sea off the Chennai coast due to a failure of its power generators and onboard batteries.It was leased from the American firm General Atomics and suffered a power generator and battery failure, leading to a "controlled ditching" into the sea off the Chennai coast.What does "ditched in a controlled manner" mean, and is this crash a concern for India?Besides, the US has also approved the sale of 31 MQ-9 B-armed drones to India at an...
2024-09-261h 01
In Our DefenceIconic Sea Harrier to upcoming Rafale: Deep dive into Indian Navy's fighter jets | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 39The Indian Navy is set to finalise the procurement of 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets by the end of this financial year. Indian Navy plans to equip the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant with these planes and develop a vital capability for the force on the maritime front. Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor explore the evolution of naval fighter jets in the Indian Navy—a subject that might seem niche but is crucial to India’s defence. The hosts walk through the history of India's naval aviation, starting with the acquisition of the British aircraft carr...
2024-09-121h 03
In Our DefenceDeep dive on India's nuclear submarines and why SSNs are need of the hour | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 22In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into India's nuclear submarine program, discussing its limited fleet despite a vast coastline of 6700 km. Why does a country with such a significant maritime border suffer from "sea blindness"? The Indian Navy, the smallest among the three armed forces, seems disproportionally under-equipped given the strategic importance of its maritime domain. So, what factors contributed to this stagnation?India currently boasts only two nuclear submarines, INS Arihant and INS Arighat. But what sets nuclear submarines apart from their conventional and diesel-electric counterparts?Consider this a...
2024-05-0253 min
Sledging RoomIPL 2024: Vintage Dhoni is back, Pant fulfills India's dream | Sledging Room, S2, Ep 18Vintage MS Dhoni is back? Did the Super King underestimate himself? After not getting an opportunity to bat at home in Chennai's first two IPL 2024 matches, Dhoni lit up Visakhapatnam with a sensational knock of 36 from just 17 balls. Chennai lost to Delhi, but CSK fans celebrated the final six from Dhoni as the decibel levels hit the roof in Vizag. Just a reminder, the Sledging Room podcast will have two episodes per week during the duration of the IPL. Dhoni's 3 sixes were enough paisa-vasool for the Sea of Yellow in Vizag as they cared very little...
2024-04-0126 min
Interpreting IndiaAjay Kumar on Defense Innovation in IndiaThe recent war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East have provided valuable lessons when it comes to the nature of future military modernisation and defense innovation. While traditional warfare remains relevant, we are seeing a shift towards multi-domain operations that are more kinetic and are increasingly utilizing autonomous weapons. As India seeks to boost its defence exports, its domestic industry will have a role to play. Several factors have played a role in the recent spike in defence exports—regulatory initiatives, enhanced capability of the private sector, and the desire among other countries to...
2024-03-1428 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E9 | She dropped out of Harvard to change the lives of 600M women in India — Achitha JacobWhat motivated Achitha Jacob to shift her focus from a career in a Fortune 500 healthcare company to founding Proactive for Her, and how does she envision the impact of her work on women's health in India?Join us as we delve into the journey of Achitha Jacob, the founder of Proactive for Her. Discover how Achitha's passion for women's health led her to build a platform empowering Indian women to prioritize their own well-being. From overcoming challenges to fostering a thriving company culture, Achitha's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of putting...
2024-03-0540 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E8 | How Guan Dian built a Tech Unicorn from Ground up to address the Trillion-dollar R&D marketImagine building a global tech powerhouse from scratch. That's the story of Guan Dian, cofounder, CMO and APAC GM of Patsnap, a pioneer in AI-powered patent search and analytics. From humble beginnings in China to leading a global tech team, Guan Dian's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of service excellence.Tune in to hear how Guan Dian transformed Patsnap from a small startup into a dominant force in the tech industry through her visionary leadership and strategic partnerships. Discover how she navigated cutthroat competition, industry disruption, and even global pandemics to propel...
2024-02-2044 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E7 | How Roshni went from babysitting to owning SEA's largest parenting empireWhat does it take to go from an idea to owning the Southeast Asia Parenting space? In this episode, we have a conversation with Roshni Mahtani Cheung, the founder and CEO of The Parentinc, a pioneering parent-tech leader renowned for owning the largest content-community-commerce online platform for parents in the region. The Parentinc recently made waves with the acquisition of Mothers Work in Singapore, marking their foray into physical retail.Roshni reflects on the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, the importance of a supportive community, and the transformative power of building a business rooted in authentic passion...
2024-02-0642 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E6 | PayPal Mafia Insider on Winning In a Tough Market | Jack SelbyJoin host Elise Tan in this special episode of the Hard Truths by Vertex podcast, as she sits down with member of the PayPal mafia, Jack Selby, venture investor and independent film director. Discover the untold stories of PayPal's early days, including the merger with X.com and the birth of the pioneering digital payment giant.Jack shares valuable insights on the current investment landscape, exploring business cycles, and the hard truths for both early-stage founders and investors. Plus, delve into the fascinating world of independent filmmaking and learn why Jack finds it a refreshing departure from...
2024-01-2324 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E5 | Unlocking the trillion dollar Indian startup ecosystem with Nikhil MarwahaIn this episode, Nikhil Marwaha, Senior Executive Director, shares his extensive investment journey spanning early and later-stage companies in sectors like consumer, B2B enterprise, and healthcare. Learn about his experiences with growth equity funds, insights into venture investing, and the exciting trends in the Indian startup ecosystem. Based in Gurgaon, he sees a different set but nevertheless exciting venture opportunities.Stay tuned for discussions on emerging themes, including enterprise B2B SaaS, manufacturing in India, and the rise of electric vehicles in India. Discover the unique stories of Vertex's portfolio companies, such as Ace Turtle, Certa and...
2024-01-0933 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E4 | Unlocking the Trillion dollar SEA Startup Ecosystem - the Malaysia's context with Chan Yip PangIn this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex podcast, Chan Yip Pang, Executive Director at Vertex Ventures SEA & India, explores the Malaysian startup ecosystem, delving into his journey and the three phases of Malaysian tech development. The conversation covers notable investments, the strengths of the Malaysian ecosystem, and Vertex's investment thesis, offering insights for ambitious founders in Southeast Asia. Join Chan Yip and host Elise Tan as they discuss hard truths and valuable advice for entrepreneurs aiming to make their mark in the Malaysian startup scene.IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) Journey from an electrician's son to...
2023-12-0527 min
MoonshotPioneering Payments: Amrish Rau’s FinTech JourneyPaying for things digitally is now a part of daily life – but this wasn’t always the case. In 2013, long before the reality of cashless payments had become the norm in many parts of India and the world, Amrish Rau co-founded Citrus Pay, an online payment provider built with a mobile-first focus. This was one of many ventures in his two-decades-long journey to pioneer India’s payment ecosystem in the digital age, culminating in his most recent appointment as CEO of Pine Labs. On this episode of Moonshot, Peak XV Managing Director, Shailendra Singh, speaks with Amrish about his early...
2023-11-2235 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E3 | Unlocking the Trillion dollar SEA Startup Ecosystem - the Indonesia's context with Gary KhoengIndonesia is the largest market in Southeast Asia but with a nascent startup ecosystem, how can entrepreneurs navigate rapid growth while ensuring bottom-line profitability? In this episode, Gary Khoeng shares insights on Indonesia's startup landscape. Covering topics across profitability, unit economics, and internal governance, Gary provides a pragmatic understanding for navigating the challenges of the evolving market. This episode offers key considerations for those aiming to tap into Indonesia's startup opportunities within the broader Southeast Asian context. Tune in now!In This Episode(00:00) Starting the Vertex Journey(04:57) Growth of Fintech in Indonesia(09:37) What are...
2023-11-2132 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E2 | Hard Truths About Minting the Next Indian Unicorn w/ Piyush KharbandaHow do Indian startups navigate constraints and build innovative businesses? In this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex podcast, Elise Tan and Piyush Kharbanda discuss the challenges and opportunities in the Indian startup ecosystem, drawing insights from successful ventures like KukuFM and Kissht. Explore the unique dynamics of the Indian ecosystem and the path to success in a dynamic market. Tune in now!IN THIS EPISODE(00:00) How did Piyush come across Vertex?(02:01) How has the Indian ecosystem grown since his joining?(04:12) What are the...
2023-11-0741 min
Hard Truths By VertexS2E1 | Unlocking the Trillion-Dollar SEA Startup Ecosystem - The Singapore Context w/ Carmen YuenWhat are the evolving trends in the Southeast Asia startup ecosystem? In this episode of Hard Truths by Vertex podcast, Carmen Yuen, General Partner at Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India, shares her journey from government-backed initiatives to becoming a key player and rare woman partner in the startup landscape. Get into the mind of a prominent investor and your questions answered - how to navigate this challenging economic and slow funding period? What are the best strategies going forward for your startup? Tune in for a conversation that delves into the heart of the startup world!
2023-10-2427 min
Nothing But The TruthThe Gaza War: Why India Should Worry | Nothing But The Truth, S2, Ep 09What we are all watching in Israel are tragic scenes of death and devastation. Hamas militants fired more than 5,000 missiles on major Israeli population centres, accompanied by land and sea offensives. The attack left more than 1,200 Israelis dead and another 2,700 wounded. What was astounding was the failure of the Israeli defence, intelligence and security apparatus. Israel had in the past few decades had built up a fearsome reputation of its ability to defend itself and launch pre-emptive strikes against groups antagonistic to its interests, such as the Hamas. But with the Hamas attack, the Israeli intelligence n...
2023-10-1319 min
THE ONE'S CHANGING THE WORLD -PODCASTDECENTRALIZED SATELLITE DATA & MITIGATING SPACE DEBRIS DANGERS- DR. MORIBA JAH- CSO: PRIVATEER SPACE#satellite #space #spaceexploration #sustainability
Dr. Moriba Jah is a motivational speaker, storyteller, professor, astrodynamist, and teacher who shares inspiring stories and practical, actionable methods to improve life and business so people can feel empowered to achieve awesome things and save the world in the process. He believes that the greatest chance we have to save our world is empathy in action. Moriba Jah is one of the most sought-after astrodynamists in the world who believes that traditional ecological knowledge holds the keys to humans shifting from the mindset of ownership to stewardship in order to work harmoniously with the...
2023-09-1822 min
Geeta's WorldUkraine Peace Talks: Russia's Absence Key To Success? Why Can't India Be Peacemaker?| Geeta's World, Ep 56Russia's relentless war in Ukraine shows no signs of abating, extending over 500 days since its invasion. The devastating war, characterized by air, land, and sea attacks, has caused the loss of hundreds of lives and inflicted suffering upon more than 44 million people. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, a staggering 24.7 million border crossings have been recorded since the invasion began in February 2022, with countless individuals seeking refuge in neighboring countries. Russia’s war on Ukraine has led to spikes in food and energy prices, national currencies have been affected, and made it worse for...
2023-08-0858 min
MoonshotMad Street Den: Enterprise AI for the World, Built Out of ChennaiThe dawn of AI is upon us and Enterprise AI is finally getting its time in the sun. With more people experimenting with the likes of Chat GPT, Dall-E, and Midjourney, companies are also moving swiftly to implement AI tools to help them drive productivity and efficiency. One person who’s been building AI tools for over a decade is Ashwini Asokan. In 2013, she left her job as a designer at Intel and teamed up with her husband, Anand Chandrasekaran, a neuroscientist, to launch Mad Street Den, a computer vision and artificial intelligence company. On this episode of Moonshot, we...
2023-07-2639 min
Geeta's WorldASEAN 2023: Will Ethnic Conflict In Manipur Affect India's 'Look-East' Diplomacy For Southeast Asia? | Geeta's World, Ep 53Last week witnessed a momentous occasion in Jakarta, Indonesia, as top diplomats from across the globe gathered for the 56th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers meeting. This high-level meeting centered on addressing pressing security concerns in the Asia-Pacific region. Distinguished foreign ministers from influential nations such as India, China, the United States, South Korea, Australia, and even North Korea participated in the discussions.The core focus of the talks revolved around several critical issues affecting the region. Among them were North Korea's ballistic missile launches in the South China Sea, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine...
2023-07-1856 min
Semester at Sea Wavelengths PodcastNavigating India’s Economic Sea Change with Nisha Agrawal: The Intersection of Development, Inequality, and PovertyIf you or someone you know wishes to apply please visit:
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Join Indian Interport Lecturer, Nisha Agrawal, as she charts the course of India's economic history from its monumental 1991 reforms to the current landscape. Serving over two decades in poverty and inequality resolution, including as CEO of Oxfam India, Nisha illuminates the impacts and consequences of India's economic liberalization on growth, p...
2023-06-2253 minSemester at Sea Wavelengths PodcastK.G. Balakrishnan, Indian Supreme Court Justice & John RosenburgIf you or someone you know wishes to apply please visit:
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The main segment this week features Justice K.G. Balakrishnan who served as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India between 2007 and 2010 and at the time of recording in 2015 was the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of India.
On the day of the MV Explorer's arrival in Cochin, Justice Balakrishnan spoke to Spring 2015 voyagers about his career a...
2023-05-2545 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E11 | Truths about Automating and Growing F&B and Retail businesses in Southeast Asia | Fong Wai HongHow do you build a business servicing a client base that operates on a fine line between survival and failure? And how do you ensure your business is not just client-churn proof but also emerges resilient towards funding challenges? Find out from Wai Hong, founder of StoreHub.In This Episode(00:55) How StoreHub got started(04:25) Hard Truths about F&B and Retail(06:43) How they create a scaled marketing and sales process (09:55) Early days of Storehub(12:18) Meeting his co-founder and CTO(14:27) Meeting Vertex(15:41) Hard truths about fund-raising(18:06) How Vertex is different from many other VCs(20:00) Product-Market Fit i...
2023-05-1735 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E10 | Truths About Modernising the $15B Ayurvedic Wellness Market | Ameve Sharma, KapivaHow do you get millennials to buy something usually recommended by their grandparents? And how do you keep their attention when the product you sell takes months to show results? How do you know when you’ve achieved product-market fit?In This Episode(01:02) Ameve’s story and the inception of Kapiva(05:38) How Kapiva Retains Customers(07:22) Vertex and Kapiva(08:49) Partnering with movie star Malaika Arora(10:40) Hard Truths about building D2C brands(13:10) Launching new products and(14:01) The case for geographic expansion(16:00) Sometimes timing beats product(17:22) A simple test for Product-Market Fit(19:33) A simple tactic for customer centricity(21:12) How...
2023-05-0331 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E9 | Truths About Empowering SEA’s 71M MSMEs Through Financial Inclusion | Nikhilesh Goel, Validus CapitalHow do you convince billion-dollar institutional investors to trust a relative upstart with their funds in a market with so much financial turmoil? And how do you plan expansions into multiple countries, all of which have entirely different regulations around your business? Where do you even begin building out such a financial portfolio?In This Episode(01:45) Nikhilesh’ story(03:42) The inception of Validus(06:02) Moving from mass to premium positioning(08:04) Localisation of their model(10:35) Hards truths about expansion(12:32) Pressing the accelerator(15:55) Getting to profitability(17:10) Making SMEs’ lives better(21:46) Current scale(22:56) Hard truths about financial digitization(24:46) Validus is secretly an i...
2023-04-1932 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E8 | Truths About Building a Billion Dollar, Profitable Content Business | Joseph Phua, 17LIVEWe often think about startups as a 0 to 1 game with a team of founders working and pivoting around one theme in the hope of finding success. But that is a highly risky way to try and build VC-scale businesses. In this episode we learn of a different model, one that has led to the creation of a billion-dollar, profitable business in the highly competitive media and content space.In This Episode(00:53) Sound On acquisition and building a portfolio of startups(03:27) How 17LIVE was formed(06:28) Vertex’s role in their success(08:55) The NYSE listing that never happened(11:32) Ha...
2023-04-0528 min
GREEN FLAGSSea Shepherd Italia - Enrico SaliernoEnrico Salierno, member of board di Sea Shepherd Italia, ha il mare nel cuore da quando era bambino. Apneista, subacqueo, canoista, ha contribuito alla nascita di Sea Shepherd in Italia e oggi conduce campagne di antibracconaggio e di rimozione attrezzi da pesca illegali dal mare.Un episodio emozionante. dal quale potrete trarre numerosi spunti e informazioni utili per fare la vostra parte per l'ambiente!Come puoi contattare Sea Shepherd Italia?https://www.seashepherd.it/Come puoi contattare me?Staff@igordindia.itwww.igordindia.itMa sono anche su Youtube...
2023-04-0327 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E7 | Truths About Helping Influencers Make a Living in the $68B SE Asian Creator Economy | Paulina Purnomowati, CMO TipTipIndonesians are voracious consumers of social media, and the creator economy is set to grow massively in the coming years. As the industry grows, unmet needs in engaging and monetizing their content arise. How does TipTip as a platform better serve their needs? And what are some of the tips and best practices for creators to make money on the platform?In This Episode(01:53) First Impressions(03:41) About TipTip and their journey so far(06:49) Vertex’s Investment thesis for TipTip(09:19) How Paulina was convinced to join TipTip(12:30) Hard Truths about being a startup CMO(14:22) Vertex is indexing mo...
2023-03-2236 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E6 | Truths About Being a Female Leader in the Trillion Dollar Climate Tech Market | Natalia Rialucky, FairatmosWhat are the hard truths about building a climate tech market in a country and region where the awareness, tech and regulations are yet to mature? And how do you make massive change happen while also handling the demands of being a new mother? Hear from Ria and Puiyen as they discuss the challenges, pitfalls and the immense impact of category creation in Climate Tech.In This Episode(01:53) About FairAtmos(04:53) First impressions between Vertex and FairAtmos(07:53) Vertex’ investment thesis for FairAtmos(10:02) State of Carbon markets in SEA(11:15) How FairAtmos is trying to be an early mover in...
2023-03-1539 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E5 | Truths about Lighting Up One’s Own Path and That of 60M Workers in Indonesia | Nelly Nurmalasari, PintarnyaIt’s hard to translate vision into reality - and especially so when you are trying to help workers build a better life. But when you see it happening, the moment is magical! Listen to Nelly and Jessica discuss the highs and lows of building Pintarnya, the huge potential it has to transform blue-collar workers' lives as well as Nelly’s take on how women can be more empowered to take charge of their lives and careers.In This Episode(02:24) First impressions of Vertex and Pintarnya(05:46) How Pintarnya was conceived based on personal expe...
2023-03-0839 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E4 | Truths about Disrupting India's Age-Old Manufacturing Industry | Sonam Motwani, KarkhanaWhat are the hard truths about being a startup builder in manufacturing, and what was Vertex Ventures’ thesis for investing in such a tradition-bound and notoriously difficult space? And how does it feel to be a female only founder-investor pair in such a male-dominated world?In This Episode(01:10) Vertex and Karkhana; Meeting, first impressions and the investment thesis(08:18) How Karkhana got started(12:50) Hard Truths about building and investing in manufacturing startups(18:20) How Karkhana scaled their business(21:32) Importance of company culture...
2023-03-0132 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E3 | Opportunities in SE Asia and India | Ben MathiasVertex Ventures has been investing in South East Asia and India long before it became fashionable (!) so we know a thing or two about which sectors are on the rise. Tune in to learn how we view the key sectors of Supply Chain, Consumer and Fintech.Our GuestBen Mathias is Managing Partner at Vertex Ventures South East Asia and India. Prior to joining Vertex Ventures, he was Partner at NEA. Before joining the world of VC, he held leadership positions at E2open and i2 Technologies.In This Episode(01:00...
2023-02-1538 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E2 | Building Nium Into a Unicorn | Pratik Gandhi, COO, NiumStarting with a little office in a dilapidated old building to joining the rarefied ranks of unicorns in Southeast Asia, Nium has come a long way. But what did it take to keep it going even when the chips were down and fresh funding was hard to come by? What set them apart from their competition and what were some of the bets they had to make? And what were some of the Hard Truths they learned on the way?Our GuestsPratik Gandhi is the COO and co-Founder of Nium (formerly InstaReM), a leading...
2023-02-0139 min
Hard Truths By VertexS1E1 | Building an Enduring VC w/ Kee Lock Chua, CEO Vertex HoldingsYou might know of Vertex Ventures as a successful VC in South East Asia and India. But did you know that it had a troubled start? So how did we then go on to becoming one of the top VCs in the region with investments in Grab, Nium and PatSnap and what is our secret recipe for identifying the kinds of founders that build unicorns? What are the hard truths about building an enduring VC? Learn about these and a lot more directly from Kee Lock Chua, CEO of Vertex Holdings.Our Guests
2023-01-1829 min
Hard Truths By VertexHard Truths By Vertex: TrailerHard Truths gives you a behind the scenes view of the most exciting startups and investment opportunities in SE Asia and India. It's brought to you by Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India, an early-stage investor in the region's most promising startups and one of Southeast Asia’s oldest VC funds. If you're a startup founder, entrepreneur or startup investor, follow/ bookmark and share this show - it's one you definitely cannot miss.
2022-12-1201 min
MoonshotGroww: Increase Product Velocity by Empowering Decentralized Teams"If you are deciding everything, then you are limited by your own speed". That’s a belief Groww co-founder and CEO, Lalit Keshre, keeps front and center as he and his co-founders scale the investment platform. Keshre believes that by having a decentralized structure, team members are empowered to make quicker decisions around products. On this episode of Moonshot, we chat with Lalit Keshre and Ashish Agrawal, Managing Director at Sequoia India, about key design choices Groww made to take on a market with strong incumbents.Show Notes:Financial services is a basic human need [01:16]When en...
2022-12-0631 min
MoonshotZetwerk: Digitizing India’s Manufacturing Supply ChainIndia's manufacturing sector, which contributes 18% of the country’s GDP, is on the cusp of change. This highly labor intensive sector, which is plagued with logistical and technical issues, is undergoing a transformation as workers upskill and companies start to digitize their processes to improve efficiency. In 2018, Amrit Acharya, Srinath Ramakkrushnan, Vishal Chaudhary, and Rahul Sharma launched Zetwerk, a B2B manufacturing network that offers companies manufacturing solutions across a wide variety of products. On this episode of Moonshot, we speak with Amrit Acharya, Co-Founder and CEO of Zetwerk and Shailesh Lakhani, Managing Director at Sequoia India, about how th...
2022-09-0536 min
THE ONE'S CHANGING THE WORLD -PODCASTINDIA'S LARGEST EXISTENTIAL THREAT, CLIMATE CRISIS - SANTHOSH THANNIKAT#climatechange #climatecrisis #india #existentialcrisis #globalwarming #toctw
Climate Crisis seems to be India's largest existential threat, India lists 35 cities among the 50 Most polluted cities in the world, New Delhi has been ranked the world's most polluted capital city for a second consecutive year, Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad was ranked as the second-most polluted, after Bhiwadi in Rajasthan, out of 6,475 cities across the world in an annual air quality report prepared by Swiss organization IQAir. Air pollution caused an estimated 1.6 million deaths in 2019 in India — the highest in the world, according to a new report. The overall pollution-related deaths were...
2022-08-0850 min
MoonshotCoinSwitch: Taking the FUD Out of CryptoIn 2017, a group of hackers in India figured out a way to get the best prices on cryptocurrencies at any point in time by aggregating data from all the crypto exchanges. That was the origin of CoinSwitch, a startup with a mission to ‘make money equal for all’. The platform gained traction, went through a few pivots and soon became one of India’s largest cryptocurrency trading apps. On this episode of Moonshot, we chat with CoinSwitch co-founder and CEO Ashish Singhal and Sequoia India Managing Director Shailesh Lakhani about how the startup is taking crypto to the masses by dif...
2022-08-0130 min
MoonshotLingoAce: Accelerate Growth with Moonshot Talent"We need to do the hardest thing. If you choose the easy things to do, many people choose that way. That route is very crowded." It’s this mindset that propelled Hugh Yao to grow LingoAce into a global startup with a team of over 4,500 teachers. The EdTech platform, which was launched in 2017, started out offering Chinese language courses for kids that used gamification to make learning fun. In 2022, the platform rolled out its English program in just three months – something Hugh credits to hiring and acquiring teams quickly. On this episode of Moonshot, LingoAce founder Hugh Yao chats with...
2022-07-0122 min
The NerditoriumSecrets of the Sea MonstersTejas and Dinkar deep dive into the sea and come up with a thesis that unravels the secret motives behind the slimy and scaly mythical monsters that rule the sea. Follow us @GeekFruitHQ on Instagram and Twitter and write in to contactgeekfruit@gmail.com to join the discussion. CREDITS: Hosts: Tejas Menon, Dinkar Dwivedi This is a Maed in India production.
2022-06-1940 min
MoonshotA Quick Start Guide to Building an Enduring Company – In Conversation With Doug LeoneDoug Leone has led Sequoia Capital for over 25 years, overseeing the firm’s international expansion. Throughout his time at Sequoia, Doug formed partnerships with companies like Nubank, Medallia, ServiceNow and Wiz. He’s seen thousands of pitches and worked with hundreds of founders as they grow and scale their startups. On this episode of Moonshot, Doug chats with Sequoia India Managing Director Rajan Anandan about some of the insights he’s gained over the past two decades working with startups, common pitfalls founders should look out for, and what it takes to build a truly enduring company. The conversation took p...
2022-05-2542 min
Radio MITWS IndiaMother Day special Promo # Mere Maa - Dr. Karan Pratap Singh @ Radio MITWS IndiaMother Day special Promo # Mere Maa - Dr. Karan Pratap Singh @ Radio MITWS India :
https://open.spotify.com/episode/1a2csz2H3cbB2pYZtmu5xX?si=tz18KOo0S3K7WiXkNq9EaQ&utm_source=copy-link
Welcome friend to the promo episode for the mother day especial series of episode. In this episode I am presenting original song written and composed by me in the year 1999. On the occasion of Mother Day we at Radio MITWS India celebrating a mother week. In this week, we accept and broadcast messages and talks dedication to mothers and other dedicated messages and talks keenly...
2022-05-0812 min
MoonshotMeesho: A No-Frills Approach to Democratising E-Commerce in IndiaMillions of people across India buy and sell goods on e-commerce platform Meesho every month. The platform fulfils an average of three million orders a day. Meesho, which started off as a social commerce platform helping millions of women and homemakers run businesses from their home, is now on a mission to democratise e-commerce in India for millions more. Launched in 2017 by Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal, the platform is bringing down costs and lowering barriers to entry for many merchants – while helping them digitise, list their goods, process orders, track payments and manage inventory. On this episode of Mo...
2022-05-0543 min
Start a ripple ...Kirsty Hogben | From 1 to 1000 swimsSend a textKirsty Hogben is an open water sea swim coach who helps people Build confidence in the sea and reap the rewards in mind and body. What gives Kirsty an extra edge over any other wild swimmer I have met is that she has now swam for 1000 days conestuavey in the sea where she lives in Folkestone. When I recorded this episode with Kirsty she was just days away from completing this challenge and I am so excited for you to hear Kirsty speak about her passion for sea swimming - but just a w...
2022-04-1231 min