LevelUp with Devansh Lakhani

In today’s episode, the founder of House of Biryani (HOB) shares the incredible journey behind building one of India’s most loved cloud kitchen brands. 

0:00 - Trailer  
1:14 - Introductions  
1:20 - What is HOB?  
2:52 - Life before HOB  
6:29 - Starting the HOB journey  
10:56 - Why kids love Biryani  
12:18 - Did SRK inspire your style?  
16:01 - Lessons from your grandfather  
17:09 - Why is 'I' missing in House of Biryani?  
23:10 - How do you retain customers?  
26:34 - Standing out from competitors  
28:19 - Challenges while building HOB  
30:55 - Why cloud kitchens struggle in India  
40:10 - Key investments for new stores  
42:08 - Steps to start a cloud kitchen  
45:05 - Automation in cloud kitchens explained  
46:02 - How HOB convinced investors for funding  
51:42 - Investor journey and value they bring  
55:26 - Funniest customer stories  
56:55 - Rapid-fire questions  
58:04 - HOB’s 3-5 year vision  
58:42 - Closing thought  

We dive into how HOB started, the inspiration behind its unique style, and the challenges faced while scaling in India’s competitive food industry.

We also explore why kids love biryani, how HOB retains customers, and the secrets behind standing out from competitors. Plus, we discuss cloud kitchens' real struggles in India, key investments for new stores, and how automation is transforming food businesses.

Towards the end, we dive into HOB’s funding journey, how they attracted investors, and what the future looks like for the brand over the next 3-5 years. You won’t want to miss this insightful episode on building a successful food business in India!

Hi, LFS & SpTBI has launched our 3-month acceleration cohort batch to help deep tech startups build, scale, and raise funds. If you're a deep tech/AI/ML founder apply now - https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScMYE0vXxCmC4VFKQrJ-Eihmecqgl9cDnYNkBNCuhP8zQ8ikg/viewform 💫

Regards,
Devansh Lakhani 
LFS

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In today’s episode, we have Ankit Kumar, the visionary behind Skye Air, one of India’s leading drone delivery companies. He shares how drones are revolutionizing industries and how Skye Air is at the forefront of this change.

0:00 - Trailer
1:35 - Introductions
1:42 - Changing the future of drones
2:34 - How many drones fly daily?
3:55 - Life before Skye Air
10:38 - AI in drone automation
14:32 - How do drones work?
16:22 - Have you met the PM?
20:15 - Govt support for drones
22:11 - Drones delivering chai in traffic?
29:07 - Drone regulations in India
31:44 - Handling competition as a founder
37:50 - Future sectors for Skye Air
39:08 - Skye Air’s daily orders
41:37 - Drone unit economics explained
47:39 - How much funding raised?
54:03 - Top 3 VCs look for in founders
56:17 - A crazy drone incident
1:01:22 - Rapid-fire questions
1:04:35 - Skye Air’s 3-5 year vision
1:05:28 - Final thoughts

We discuss how AI powers Skye Air’s automation, how drones are used for deliveries (even chai in traffic!), and the current state of drone regulations in India. The conversation also covers government support, competition handling, and the future sectors Skye Air targets.

Plus, we dive into the economics behind running a drone delivery business, the company’s daily order volume, and the top things VCs look for in founders. And don’t miss an exciting story about a crazy drone incident that will leave you amazed!

Toward the end, we explore Skye Air’s 3-5-year vision for expanding its impact on logistics, healthcare, and beyond industries.

This is a must-watch episode for anyone curious about how drones are shaping our future. Don’t miss out!

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We dive deep into the secrets of building a ₹300 crore brand with one of the brightest minds in the business world. We cover everything from turning a ₹10K investment into a massive empire to navigating cultural challenges and competition! Learn about the nuances of India's growing market and why manufacturing locally can be a game-changer for businesses.

0:00 - Trailer  
0:57 - Introductions  
0:59 - How to build a ₹300 Cr brand  
2:06 - What is the PLI scheme?  
5:29 - Turning ₹10,000 into ₹300CR  
8:43 - First trade experience  
23:33 - Facing cultural misunderstandings?  
26:28 - Why manufacture in India?  
31:15 - China’s tech in your product? Reebok & Adidas too?  
36:54 - Why founders still struggle with products  
43:56 - Best-selling product on your website?  
45:39 - Competing with celeb-backed brands  
47:51 - Business economics breakdown  
52:55 - Online vs. offline market in tech  
56:22 - What is the China+ strategy?  
1:02:17 - Step-by-step brand-building process  
1:05:32 - Funniest customer feedback ever  
1:07:52 - Why you need a strong team to scale  
1:11:11 - Rapid fire round!  
1:12:30 - Technosport’s vision for 3-5 years  
1:14:31 - Final thoughts  

Discover the step-by-step process of brand-building, valuable insights into the China+ strategy, and how to thrive in both online and offline markets. We also explore the economics of business and discuss how founders can avoid common pitfalls and scale successfully.

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]
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LinkedIn: / devanshlakhani-financial-services

This Podcast is sponsored by 'The International School of Finance and Economics (ISFE)', in partnership with Nagindas Khandwala College and the University of Mumbai, which is the country's first FinTech school. 

Enroll for ISFEET - https://app.gradeazy.com/join/isfeet/660d418bb8ae86b151f4b433

In this episode of Figuring Out, we dive into the journey of Arjun Rastogi, co-founder of Naagin Sauce, India’s homegrown hot sauce brand making waves in the food industry. 🌶️🔥

Arjun shares how he turned his passion for spice into a successful business, the challenges of launching a D2C brand, and how Naagin Sauce disrupts the Indian market. He also reveals how Abhishek Bachchan became an investor and what it takes to scale a premium food brand in a competitive space.

From pricing strategies to product margins, business family background, and the importance of understanding your target audience, this conversation is packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs. 

00:00 - Trailer  
00:54 - Introduction  
03:29 - Was ‘Naagin’ inspired by Ekta Kapoor?  
04:54 - Pre-Naagin Sauce Story  
07:50 - Your Experience in the US  
10:30 - Recovered Parents' Investment?  
15:32 - Arjun’s First Business Venture  
20:08 - Are You From a Business Family Background?  
22:51 - How Did You Meet Your Co-founders?  
29:15 - Amitabh Bachchan’s Story  
33:11 - Naagin’s Way of Appreciating Customers  
36:00 - Insights on Hot Sauce Market  
43:27 - Naagin’s Target Audience  
50:29 - Product Margins Explained  
1:05:28 - Pricing Strategy of Your Product  
1:22:11 - Challenges during Fund Raising  
1:31:21 - How Did You Onboard Abhishek Bachchan as an investor?  
1:43:42 - Rapid Fire Round  
1:45:30 - What Is Your Vision For Naagin Sauce?  
1:46:50 - Wrap up  

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

[INFORMATION]

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

Follow on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshlakhani 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lakhani-Financial-Services/100092155680359/?mibextid=ZbWKwL 

Website: https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devanshlakhani-financial-services/
………

[email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshl...
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LinkedIn: / devanshlakhani-financial-services

This Podcast is sponsored by 'The International School of Finance and Economics (ISFE)', in partnership with Nagindas Khandwala College and the University of Mumbai, which is the country's first FinTech school. 

Our B.Sc. Finance and Analytics (FinTech) is a four-year program combining finance, technology, and data analytics to prepare students for careers in financial technology.

Enroll for ISFEET - https://app.gradeazy.com/join/isfeet/660d418bb8ae86b151f4b433

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

In this podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of GetePay, a startup redefining business growth across Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities in India. Hear directly from the founder as he shares his early struggles, the mindset he used to overcome them, and how he built a scalable business model that now empowers countless entrepreneurs.

We look closer at the challenges faced during fundraising, including how cricket legend Virendra Sehwag became a key investor and the vision that made GetePay stand out in the competitive startup ecosystem. The clip also dives into the strategies for turning innovative ideas into impactful services and the importance of having the right team to achieve long-term success.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about what goes into building a startup, this story will leave you inspired. Learn about GetePay’s innovative services, the founder's tips for thriving in entrepreneurship, and the lessons he learned.

If you enjoy behind-the-scenes stories of startups, practical business insights, and tips for navigating the entrepreneurial world, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more such content. Your next big idea might just be one podcast away!

[INFORMATION]

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

Follow on social media to stay updated:
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Website: https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devanshlakhani-financial-services/

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In this episode of Level Up, we are joined by the visionary Shrikant, a trailblazer in India’s electric vehicle (EV) revolution and the force behind the Hala EV. 

From his early days in tech to building one of India’s largest EV fleets, Shrikant’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

In today’s insightful conversation, Shrikant traces his remarkable career—from navigating European culture and sealing the BigBasket deal to returning to India to lead the EV sector. 

We uncover the challenges and opportunities shaping India’s EV market, including government policies, financial hurdles, and the country’s dependency on China for batteries.

Whether you're an EV enthusiast, a budding entrepreneur, or someone curious about the future of transportation, this episode provides a front-row seat to the dynamics of India’s EV space in 2024 and beyond. 

Don’t miss Shrikant’s expert insights, rapid-fire responses, and vision for Hala EV’s role in shaping a sustainable future.

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

[INFORMATION]

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

Follow on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshlakhani 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lakhani-Financial-Services/100092155680359/?mibextid=ZbWKwL 

Website: https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devanshlakhani-financial-services/

………

*Disclaimer:* This video is for educational use and is designed to share knowledge in the business realm. The views expressed are personal and meant to empower students and professionals alike. We respect all brands and individuals mentioned and aim to foster informed decision-making.
………

[email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshl...
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LinkedIn: / devanshlakhani-financial-services

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

Discover how The Souled Store, India’s favorite pop culture merchandise brand, disrupted the D2C industry to become a ₹1300 crore powerhouse. In this exclusive podcast, co-founder Harsh Lal reveals the brand’s journey from near failure to massive success, their game-changing licensing deals with Netflix and Hardik Pandya, and the secrets behind their industry-leading repeat customer rate and low return rates.

Learn how TSS built a beloved brand, scaled their operations, and cracked the code to customer loyalty in India’s competitive e-commerce space. 

So whether you’re a business founder, marketer, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights on brand building, funding strategies, and navigating the challenges of scaling a D2C business.

🔗 Topics Covered:
1. How TSS secured Hardik Pandya as a brand ambassador and investor
2. The secret to achieving 50% repeat customers
3. How TSS built a ₹1300 crore brand through licensing and partnerships
4. Lessons on marketing, retention, and scaling a D2C business

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

Follow on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshlakhani 

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Website: https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devanshlakhani-financial-services/

………

*Disclaimer:* This video is for educational use and is designed to share knowledge in the business realm. The views expressed are personal and meant to empower students and professionals alike. We respect all brands and individuals mentioned and aim solely to foster informed decision-making.

[email protected]
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshl...
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LinkedIn: / devanshlakhani-financial-services

0:00 - Introduction
1:46 - Overview of Hesa
6:40 - Challenges in village life
9:34 -  Vamsi’s passion for rural economy
11:46 - Building Hesa
17:24 - Selling ₹1 crore solar products
24:39 - Experiences from 2016-17
26:56 - Learnings from visiting 10,000 villages across India
28:54 - Insights around rural life
32:38 - Advice for aspiring farmers
36:33 - Future of Indian Farming 
39:33 - The Jio effect in rural India
41:45 - Unknown Facts About Rural Life
46:31 - What Hesa does?
51:57 - How many villages/farmers are in your network?
54:44 - Government recognition for efforts
55:44 - $7 million round
1:04:05 - Advice for young entrepreneurs
1:06:31 - Startup challenges and solutions
1:08:39 - What money means to you?
1:11:00 - Rapid fire round
1:13:18 - Closing thoughts 

In this episode, we are joined by the visionary Vamsi Udayagiri, founder and CEO of Hesa, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing rural commerce in India. 

In this enriching conversation, Vamsi takes us through his inspiring journey of transforming rural economies. From his early days of visiting over 10,000 villages to co-creating agriculture, employment, and healthcare solutions, Vamsi shares fascinating insights about life in India’s rural heartlands. 

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com/lets-talk/ 

for any business-related questions:
E-mail: [email protected]

Follow on social media to stay updated:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ca_devanshlakhani 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lakhani-Financial-Services/100092155680359/?mibextid=ZbWKwL 

Website: https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devanshlakhani-financial-services/

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0:00 - Introduction
1:15 - Doctor or Engineer: Career choices
3:22 - Doctor turned technology enthu
4:59 - Defining true health
10:23 - India’s Diabetes Epidemic
12:05 - What Does Fitterfly Do?
17:10 - How Much Sleep Is Enough?
21:36 - Inspiration from a Legless Hero
24:43 - Ideal Nutrition Explained
30:33 - Kids, Athletes, and 6-Pack Goals
35:40 - What Makes Fitterfly Special?
40:13 - Lessons learned from running multiple startups
47:50 - Advice for New Founders
1:00:35 - How You Raised 120 Cr
1:04:24 - Handling Investor Money Wisely
1:09:45 - What Money Means Today
1:15:35 - Wrap-Up

In this episode, we have an insightful conversation with Dr. Arbinder Singal, the visionary founder of Fitterfly, who is transforming how India approaches health and wellness.

If you're a startup looking to raise funds do submit your information here - https://www.lakhanifinancialservices.... 

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3:34 - Journey from Software engineer to Building D2C Brand
5:58 - Learnings from the early days
11:33 - What led to “SuperBottoms”
17:38 - Kunal Bahl (Founder, Snapdeal): The unexpected investor
19:08 - Vision when SuperBottoms was bootstrapped
20:15 - Beyond money, what did investors bring to the table?
22:40 - The SuperCouples who run SuperBottoms
24:22 - Business during Covid
26:50 - Transformation from Passion to Purpose
30:59 - Why SuperBottoms over the regular diaper?
32:35 - How to make a brand?
35:48 - Breaking down sales of SuperBottoms
37:08 - How SuperBottoms is making a mark in the unorganized market
39:57 - Onboarding Alia Bhat as a brand ambassador & investor
42:10 - How does a good ambassador help in brand sales?
50:14 - Learnings from SuperBottoms $5 million round
53:52 - How did you reach out to VCs
54:58 - Pros & Cons of fundraising
1:00:54 - What does money mean to you?
1:02:04 - Rapid fire with Pallavi
1:05:43 - Closing thought

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