Join us for an engaging conversation with Suhasini Sampath, the dynamic co-founder of Yoga Bar, a brand that has revolutionised the healthy snack market in India.

Listen as Sharavana Raghavan delves into Suhasini's journey from being a Chartered Accountant to an innovative entrepreneur in the FMCG sector. Suhasini shares her inspiring story, from her initial inspiration during a yoga class in the US to creating a successful health food brand that emphasises clean and healthy ingredients.

Suhasini begins by discussing her transition from finance to entrepreneurship, influenced by her father's entrepreneurial spirit. She reflects on the pivotal moments that led to the creation of Yoga Bar, including the early challenges and their first significant order from Indigo Airlines.

The conversation then shifts to the growth story of Yoga Bar, where Suhasini highlights key milestones and strategies that set the brand apart in a competitive market. She emphasises the importance of trademarking the name 'Yoga Bar' early on and differentiating the brand with a focus on clean, healthy ingredients.

Suhasini also shares her insights on distribution strategies, starting with offline distribution and expanding city by city. She discusses the challenges of convincing shopkeepers and the significance of in-store presence for brand visibility.

A significant part of the discussion revolves around Suhasini’s natural affinity for marketing despite her finance background. She talks about the importance of product quality over advertising and how word-of-mouth and customer trust played crucial roles in Yoga Bar's success.

The episode further explores the challenges of maintaining quality and managing production in-house, balancing business with personal life, and the stress of entrepreneurship. Suhasini candidly shares her thoughts on the evolving FMCG landscape, the role of D2C brands, and her plans for the future, including a focus on non-profit work and education.

In the final segment, Suhasini offers invaluable advice to emerging entrepreneurs in the food industry. She stresses the importance of understanding customer expectations, maintaining high product quality, and the significance of building strong client relationships.

Tune in to this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast for an enriching dialogue filled with insights, stories, and wisdom from one of the industry’s most inspiring leaders.

Listen Now!

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

CREDITS:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

Join us for this compelling conversation with Mr. Murali Mahadevan, the visionary leader behind Sri Krishna Sweets, a brand that has become synonymous with delightful taste and high quality in the Indian sweets market.

Listen as Sharavana Raghavan engages Mr. Murali in a deep dive into the fascinating journey of Sri Krishna Sweets, from its humble beginnings as a restaurant in Coimbatore to its status as a leading sweets brand with national and international acclaim.

Mr. Murali begins by sharing his earliest memories of the business, reflecting on the pivotal decision to shift the focus from a restaurant to a sweet shop. He candidly discusses the challenges faced in the early stages and the strategies that propelled SKS from a local favourite to a global brand.

The discussion then transitions to the brand’s growth story, where Mr. Murali highlights key milestones and the principles that ensured consistency and quality across multiple locations. He explains what sets the SKS brand apart in a highly competitive and commoditised market, emphasising the significance of their flagship product, Mysurpa, and the steps taken to protect its legacy.

Moving on to leadership and service consistency, Mr. Murali elaborates on his leadership style, the culture of excellent service he has instilled across all SKS locations, and the core principles that align his team’s values with the company’s mission.

A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to Mr. Murali’s deep-rooted commitment to social service and spirituality. He provides insights into the ‘Salute to Mothers’ programme, his innovative approach to social responsibility, and his efforts to inculcate spirituality and social responsibility in young minds.

The episode also delves into Mr. Murali’s continuous drive for innovation in a category with no proprietary technology. He shares recent innovations at SKS, including the unique concept of Murali’s Market, and discusses the biggest failed innovation and the lessons learned from it.

Looking ahead, Mr. Murali outlines his plans for SKS in terms of expansion and product diversification. He talks about targeting new markets, leveraging digital and distribution channels, and his vision for the future of the brand.

In the final segment, Mr. Murali offers invaluable advice to emerging entrepreneurs in the food industry. He stresses the importance of understanding customer expectations, maintaining a surplus in quality, and the significance of robust client relationships.

Tune in to this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast for an enriching dialogue filled with insights, stories, and wisdom from one of the industry’s most inspiring leaders.

Listen Now!

Connect With Mr. Murali Mahadevan:

Personal Website (under construction)

Business Website

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠ & Kaushik Adithan

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

Join Sharavana Raghavan for the continuation of an enlightening conversation with Kiran Reddy, the visionary behind Sathyam Cinemas, as they delve deeper into the transformative strategies that shaped an iconic cinema brand.

In this episode, Kiran discusses the aftermath of his decision to sell Sathyam Cinemas, reflecting on the dynamics of making choices that are right for the business but personally challenging. He shares insights on how he navigated the complexities of branding and marketing in a cluttered and often manipulative advertising environment.

Listeners will explore:

Kiran also talks about the societal impacts of advertising, the role of a business in shaping societal behaviours, and how he used marketing as a tool to enhance rather than exploit consumer experiences.

Tune in to the Vitral Tamil Podcast for a profound discussion that goes beyond business, touching on personal growth, societal values, and the subtle art of letting go.

Listen now to understand how Sathyam Cinemas became more than a cinema but a catalyst for cultural pride and social reflection.

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠⁠Vitral Brand Expertise ⁠

Follow ⁠⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠.⁠

CREDITS

Recorded at ⁠⁠Ting Studios⁠⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

Join us for an engaging and insightful conversation with Mr. Kiran Reddy, the visionary former owner and CEO of Sathyam Cinemas. Dive deep into how Kiran transformed a family-run cinema into an iconic brand that redefined the movie-going experience in Chennai and beyond.

In this episode, Kiran shares his initial challenges and the unconventional journey from a business graduate to a cinema magnate. He discusses the pivotal moments when Sathyam Cinemas was just a dream under threat of being demolished, and how his personal touch and attention to minute details turned it into a beloved cultural landmark.

Kiran's narrative is rich with stories of innovation and community building, focusing on customer experience over profit, which inadvertently led to Sathyam Cinemas becoming a powerhouse in the entertainment industry. He stresses the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere that resonates with patrons, turning them into advocates for the brand.

Throughout the conversation, Kiran provides invaluable insights into maintaining integrity and purpose in business, emphasising that true success comes from serving and enhancing community experiences. He reflects on his philosophy of abundance and gratitude, and how these principles can transform not just businesses but personal lives as well.

Listeners will gain a deep understanding of how thoughtful leadership and a focus on service can create a legacy that impacts a city’s cultural fabric and pride.

Tune into the Vitral Tamil Podcast to explore the art of cinema and business with one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.

Listen now to discover the story behind Chennai’s pride – Sathyam Cinemas.

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠.

CREDITS

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

Join us for this insightful conversation with the advertising and brand building veteran, Ambi Parameswaran.

Listen as Sharavana Raghavan gets Ambi to delve into the transformative shifts in Indian advertising, the nuances of brand building, and the evolving dynamics of consumer engagement.

Ambi opens the discussion by tracing his entry into the branding field, reflecting on the mentors and experiences that shaped his illustrious career. He shares his perspective on choosing between the paths of advertising and consulting, highlighting key moments that defined his journey.

The conversation progresses to the evolution of branding and marketing in India, where Ambi provides a detailed analysis of how societal changes have influenced advertising narratives, especially in the portrayal of women and families. He recalls groundbreaking campaigns that have redefined consumer expectations and behaviour.

Diving deeper into the mechanics of brand building, Ambi articulates the distinctions and synergies between branding, marketing, and advertising. He addresses today’s biggest challenges in creating standout brands, discussing strategies for success both online and offline in a digital-first marketplace.

Listeners will gain a unique view into Ambi’s professional experiences, including his work with underdog brands that have taken on industry giants. He reflects on the highs and lows of his career, sharing personal stories of campaigns that left a mark and the lessons learned from occasional setbacks.

As the episode nears its conclusion, Ambi offers sage advice to both agencies and young marketers on fostering robust client relationships and developing resilient personal and professional brands. He also touches upon his writing career, giving insights into the motivations behind his books and his upcoming projects.

Tune in to this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast for an enriching dialogue filled with invaluable insights and stories from one of the industry’s most seasoned voices.

Listen Now!

Connect with Ambi Parameswaran

Connect with us:

Website

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

Join Sharavana Raghavan in this stimulating episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast featuring Venu Srinivasan, CEO of Leo Coffee. This discussion delves into Leo Coffee’s journey from a family-run business to a modern FMCG brand.

Venu shares his upbringing in a coffee-centric family and pivotal business lessons learned. He then discusses Leo Coffee’s evolution, maintaining traditions while embracing innovation, and the significance of filter coffee in India.

Sharavana and Venu explore challenges in sustaining a legacy brand and highlight key milestones in Leo Coffee’s growth. The conversation shifts to branding, where Venu defines Leo Coffee’s identity and reveals effective marketing strategies they've employed.

Addressing consumer trends, Venu comments on the rise of coffee culture in India and how Leo Coffee stands out in a competitive market. He also offers insights on the industry’s future and Leo Coffee’s role.

The episode touches on market expansion, with Venu discussing strategies to overcome challenges faced by regional brands like Leo Coffee in national scaling.

Concluding, Venu provides advice for aspiring FMCG entrepreneurs and shares a personal value crucial to his success. He also gives tips for starting in the coffee business.

Tune in to this Vitral Tamil Podcast episode for a comprehensive insight into building a family-run legacy brand in today’s FMCG market.

Listen Now!

Connect with Venu Srinivasan:

Venu Srinivasan on LinkedIn

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

In this captivating episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast, host Sharavana Raghavan welcomes the esteemed Karthik Srinivasan, a communications consultant, Personal Branding Coach and a key LinkedIn influencer. Dive into a candid conversation where Karthik shares his experiences and wisdom on personal branding, advertising critiques, and the importance of language in business.

Karthik embarks on a journey through his professional life, unveiling the narrative behind his renowned blog, Beast of Traal, and his impactful presence on LinkedIn as a content creator. This discussion provides a rare glimpse into the mind of a branding expert.

The conversation pivots to the intricate details of personal branding, where Karthik shares his profound insights and experiences. His approach to building and nurturing a powerful personal brand in today’s digital world is laced with practical strategies and real-world examples.

Sharavana then pops a surprise and gets Karthik to analyse a few Ads on the spot, adding an analytical flavour to the discussion. This segment is a treat for anyone curious about the intersection of creativity and strategy in the world of advertising.

Tune in to this episode of Vitral Tamil Podcast for an enlightening session that blends expertise, experience, and insightful narratives, offering a comprehensive look at the world of personal branding and communications.

You will be treated to valuable ungoogle-able takeaways, on communications in general and building your personal brand in specific.

Listen Now!

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Be Social: Building Brand YOU Online - Karthik’s Book on Personal Branding

The Advertiser's Guide to the Galaxy - Karthik's Podcast

Beast of Traal - ⁠Karthik’s Blog⁠

Krish Ashok’s Linkedin Profile

Krish Ashok’s Instagram Profile

CONNECT WITH KARTHIK

Karthik on Twitter

Karthik on LinkedIn

CONNECT WITH US

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

CREDITS

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠ -

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

In this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast, host Sharavana Raghavan sits down with Rati Shetty, Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of BankBazaar.com.

Despite being a Tamil podcast, this episode predominantly unfolds in English – a little twist for our listeners who might find themselves thinking in Tamil but speaking in the language of global business! 😊

Rati shares her journey to the top of the FinTech world, from the early inspirations behind BankBazaar to her evolving role as CPO. Sharavana delves into the core of BankBazaar, exploring its offerings and the vision driving its product line.

The conversation then shifts to the unique challenges and evolution of FinTech in India, with Rati providing insights into brand building in this dynamic sector. She opens up about her approach to leadership, team alignment, and engaging narratives in FinTech marketing.

Listeners will gain valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and learn about upcoming trends in the industry, particularly the role of AI. The episode wraps up with Rati's personal reflections on her journey and how she is prepping for the IPO later this year.

Tune in for an episode that's a blend of expertise, practical insights, and a touch of humor, essential for anyone interested in the FinTech space. Remember, it's all in English, with the spirit of Tamil at its heart!

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise⁠

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠.

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

In this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast, host Sharavana Raghavan delves into the world of legacy branding with Jayaram Rajaram, the strategic mind behind Bril's multifaceted expansion.

Jayaram, a third-generation leader of this iconic stationery brand, now navigating new territories in home care, reveals the evolution of Bril from its inception.

This episode is a treasure trove for entrepreneurs and brand enthusiasts aiming to understand the transformation of a traditional brand in modern times. Sharavana adeptly steers the conversation through Jayaram's experiences, uncovering the delicate balance between upholding family legacy and infusing innovation.

The discussion artfully navigates through the challenges of diversifying a legacy brand and the emerging trends in the FMCG sector. It offers a nuanced perspective on the Indian brand landscape, emphasizing the significance of adaptability and consumer-centric approaches in evolving markets.

Jayaram imparts crucial strategies for brand growth and sustainability, making this episode an essential listen for those aspiring to scale and evolve their businesses in competitive markets. His journey and insights provide not only motivation but a tangible blueprint for thriving in the ever-changing realm of FMCG branding.

Links to books written by Jayaram at the below links:

You can reach Jayaram on Linkedin

Connect with us:

Website

LinkedIn

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: Vignesh LK⁠

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: #Uppbeat | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD

In this episode of the Vitral Tamil Podcast, host Sharavana Raghavan engages in an enlightening conversation with Krishna, an accomplished actor, writer, and ad-film director. Krishna, the visionary behind Black Box Films, unravels his journey into the realm of ad filmmaking and the inspiration behind his creative venture.

This episode is a goldmine for young marketers and advertising enthusiasts keen to understand the intricacies of ad film production. Sharavana skillfully guides the discussion through Krishna's multi-faceted career, exploring the delicate art of balancing brand messages with engaging and original content.

The dialogue seamlessly weaves through the challenges and evolving trends in ad filmmaking, offering a unique perspective on the Tamil Nadu and Indian brand ecosystem. It's a blend of artistic insight and strategic wisdom, highlighting the importance of localised narratives in global brand strategies.

Krishna shares valuable tips for crafting compelling brand stories, making this episode an indispensable resource for those aspiring to excel in the creative world of advertising and brand building. His journey and insights provide not just inspiration but also a practical framework for success in the dynamic field of ad filmmaking.

Connect with us:

Website: ⁠Vitral Brand Expertise

Follow ⁠Sharavana Raghavan on LinkedIn⁠

Credits:

Recorded at ⁠Ting Studios⁠

Producer: ⁠LK Vignesh

Editor: ⁠Arul Gnanasekaran⁠

Music from: ⁠#Uppbeat⁠ | License code: CIBMYAVOQXE2IUDD