The Startup Operator

In this episode of the Startup Operator Podcast, Roshan sits down with Dilip Kumar, investor at Rainmatter, to unpack the complex world of healthcare startups in India. The conversation dives into the fundamental challenges of building trust, why tech solutions often fall short, and the cultural and structural nuances that make healthcare a uniquely difficult sector to crack. Dilip shares his journey from founder to investor, the gaps in India’s healthcare infrastructure, and why founders must rethink traditional VC playbooks if they want to build for Bharat.Whether you’re building in healthtech or just curious about India’s evolving startup landscape, this episode is packed with sharp, first-principles insights.Topics00:00 Sneak Peek01:00 Introduction – From Founder to Investor03:45 Why Healthcare Is Unlike Any Other Sector07:50 India’s Unique Healthcare Economics10:55 Why Copy-Paste Models Don’t Work in India14:40 Choosing Your Audience: 1M vs 500M17:10 The Real Challenge: Building Trust, Not Just Tech21:00 Post-Covid Shift: Health Awareness and Consumer Behavior24:30 Has the Quantified Self Movement Peaked?29:00 What’s Missing in Mental Health Startups31:25 EEG Wearables, AI Therapy & Future of Wellness33:10 Ayurveda, Quacks & the Problem of Outcomes34:50 How to Find Your Own Healthcare Startup Idea37:00 Why Trust Is the Ultimate Moat in Healthtech39:30 Healthcare Needs Patient Capital, Not Just VC41:00 Dilip’s Personal Health Transformation Journey44:15 Push-Up Challenge & Sign Off 💪-------------------------------------Connect with Us: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this episode of the Startup Operator Podcast, Roshan sits down with Venkatesh Mudragalla, co-founder of Jeh Aerospace, to discuss the intricacies of the aerospace industry. The conversation covers a variety of topics, including the challenges Boeing faced, the impact of supply chain constraints, and the critical nature of manufacturing in the aerospace sector. Venkatesh shares his journey from working with Tata to starting J Aerospace in 2022, the importance of advanced manufacturing, and how India is poised to become a global aerospace hub.Topics:00:00 Sneak peak01:06 Introduction03:28 Challenges and Evolution in the Aerospace Industry04:40 Impact of Supply Chain on Aerospace11:23 India's Role in the Global Aerospace Market12:35 The Origin Story of J Aerospace14:18 Starting Up in Aerospace: Challenges and Strategies19:43 Technical Nuances in Aerospace Manufacturing22:36 Partnering with Academia for Industry-Relevant Education23:35 The Evolution and Current State of Industry 4.024:07 Balancing Automation and Workforce in Aerospace25:51 Leveraging India's Jugaad Mentality in Aerospace27:36 Challenges in Indian Aerospace Manufacturing28:45 Targeting Mid-Market Companies for Growth29:56 Building Trust in Indian Manufacturing32:17 Government Support and Ecosystem Growth34:29 VC Interest and Funding Challenges36:10 Rapid Fire: Future Technologies and Aspirations40:29 Advice for Aspiring Aerospace Entrepreneurs43:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator ​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this episode of The Startup Operator Podcast, Roshan sits down with K. Ganesh, the serial entrepreneur behind BigBasket, Portea, Bluestone, and HomeLane. They delve into topics like staying relevant in the ever-changing startup ecosystem, the importance of focusing on large, core sectors, and the reality of embracing both failures and small successes in entrepreneurship. Ganesh shares his insights on potential sectors for future startups, including green energy, climate tech, and space tech, while emphasizing the need for passion and a bit of foolishness in believing in one's ideas. They also discuss the importance of planning for exits, how to build scalable businesses, and leveraging the latest technological disruptions like Generative AI. This episode is filled with practical advice and frameworks for aspiring and current entrepreneurs.Topics:00:00 Introduction00:50 Guest Background02:15 Staying Relevant in the Startup Ecosystem08:10 Building Scalable and Exitable Businesses24:26 Changing Consumer Behavior30:25 Storytelling for Investors32:15 Choosing the Right Investor33:46 Understanding Investor Motivation34:44 Challenges in the Indian Market44:01 The Importance of Timing in Exits50:31 Emerging Sectors and Opportunities56:40 Mastering Disruption: Key Takeaways01:05:10 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

Join us for an intriguing episode of the Startup Operator Podcast as Roshan talks to Gokul, the founder of CynLr, a pioneering deep tech robotics startup. Discover how CynLr is transforming the way machines recognize and handle objects through advanced vision systems. Gokul shares the challenges of hardware manufacturability, innovation in automation, and insights into the future of robotics and human life. Learn about the journey of building a deep tech startup, fundraising intricacies, and fostering interdisciplinary talent to solve complex problems in the robotics industry.00:00 Sneakpeak01:03 The Journey of CynLr's Founders03:06 Vision Systems and Robotics06:49 The Evolution of Robotics19:48 Building a Universal Factory25:21 Starting a Robotics Company37:38 Challenges with Vision-Based Systems38:27 Understanding Customer Needs and Supply Chain38:42 Navigating Organizational Dynamics43:18 Identifying and Solving Profitable Problems49:39 Manufacturing Complexities and Vendor Relations01:04:42 Iterating in Hardware Development01:08:21 Leveraging Industry Infrastructure01:13:31 Dust and Shoes: The Unexpected Connection01:14:20 The Future of Factories: Micro and Universal01:15:06 Standardization Challenges in Robotics01:15:48 Navigating Tech and Application Layers01:17:23 The Patience Game: Building an Industry01:18:30 Vision for Robots: Technical Challenges01:20:15 Depth Perception: Human vs. Machine01:28:11 Building a Talented Team01:34:14 Fundraising for Deep Tech Startups01:43:48 The Future of Humans and Technology01:49:26 Conclusion and Reflections------------------------------------- Connect with Us: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator ​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​ -------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this episode of The Startup Operator Podcast, host Roshan sits down with Divesh Dhawan, founder of Meyrahkee Advisors, to discuss the evolving landscape of hiring in startups. They delve into the importance of understanding Gen Z workers, the sectors currently in high demand, and valuable tips for candidates to get shortlisted. They also touch on the cultural aspects that influence hiring decisions and share some of the top startups known for their exceptional work environments.00:00 Introduction01:41 Current Hiring Trends in Startups03:56 Tips for Job Candidates07:38 Evaluating Company Culture11:24 Top Startups to Work For14:39 Funny Interview Stories-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this episode of the Startup Operator Roundup, Roshan and Gunjan cover the latest and most impactful headlines from India's startup ecosystem. They start with Swiggy's second-largest IPO of the year, Zomato's innovations, Freshworks' recent layoffs and simultaneous stock buyback, and ISRO's new partnership with IIT Madras. They also discuss Elon Musk's Starlink seeking permission for satellite broadband in India and the closure of Stowa's alternate MBA program.Topics:00:00 Introduction00:44 Opening comments01:19 Major Headlines02:28 US Elections and Tech Influence06:05 Swiggy's Market Debut09:22 Zomato's New Features12:39 Freshworks Layoffs and Buyback17:43 ISRO and IIT Madras Partnership19:44 Starlink's Entry into India23:11 Stoa's Shutdown and Reflections25:53 Weekly Fundraisers and Wrap-Up-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operatorTwitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this special episode of the Startup Operator Podcast, we venture out to meet the dynamic team behind SSS Defense, an emerging defense manufacturer in India specializing in small arms and ammunition. Join us for an in-depth conversation with co-founders Vivek and Dinesh as they share insights on building a defense company from the ground up, the challenges of operating in the defense sector, the intricacies of procurement, and their ambitious plans for the future.Topics:00:00 Sneak Peak00:43 Introduction03:03 The Origin of SSS Defense3:18 Starting up in the guns and ammunitions space16:15 Product thinking in manufacturing27:16 Defence procurement value chains43:01 Building arms for export & domestic consumption54:55 Forging strategic partnerships1:09:05 Role of DRDO & Ordinance factories1:16:40 Global benchmarks1:24:07 Upcoming opportunities1:31:20 Wisdom for defence startups1:40:38 Recommended resources-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this roundup, Roshan and Gunjan delve into the evolving landscape of India's startup ecosystem. They honor the late Ratan Tata, reflecting on his monumental contributions and the lasting impact of the Tata brand. The conversation shifts to India's ambitious plans to become a global semiconductor hub by 2025. They then discuss Elon Musk's technological advancements, like Starship and autonomous cybercabs, and their implications for India's labor market. Concerns over India's technological lag and Security issues, highlighted by data breaches like DotPay and Star Health Insurance are also discussed. It concludes with humorous insights on cultural events such as BookMyShow's Coldplay concert ticket fiasco and the significance of choosing the right partner.Topics:(00:00) Introduction(01:04) Reflecting on Ratan Tata's Legacy(08:39) Elon Musk's Latest Innovations(14:43) India's Technological Challenges and Opportunities(18:24) Rethinking Innovation Culture in India(20:07) Data Breaches and Security Concerns(23:28) The Fall of Topline and Startup Struggles(25:37) Big Fundraisers and Success Stories(29:12) Operator Talent Density Problem in Startups(32:34) Concluding Thoughts and Life Advice-------------------------------------Relevant Links:Lt. Gen Hooda's Tweet: https://x.com/LtGenHooda/status/1844384368338551250Balaji Srinivasan's Tweet: https://x.com/balajis/status/1762777110626914509Roshan's Tweet: https://x.com/RoshanCariappa/status/1844643870409359671-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator ​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this episode of the startup operator podcast, Roshan hosts co-founders Joy Saldanha and Ankita Tandon as they chronicle their journey with Infinyte Club, a groundbreaking platform for startup operators. This episode delves into their strategic expansion into comprehensive wealth management, stressing the importance of execution beyond ideas. They aim to empower startup professionals with robust tools for managing ESOPs and investments, adopting a 'compound startup' approach that marries technical expertise with emotional resilience. Highlighting the Moneyball product and strategic diversification, Infinyte seeks to transform into a holistic wealth management platform, offering diversified equity and comprehensive asset management solutions.Topics:(00:00) Sneak Peak(01:02) Introduction(02:11) Meet the Founders: Joy and Ankita(02:56) The Journey to Founding Infinyte Club(06:20) Challenges and Insights in Wealth Tech(18:14) Building the Product: From Idea to Execution(27:15) User Research and Early Customer Acquisition(34:08) The Importance of Founder-Led Sales(34:37) Building for One Before Building for Many(35:46) Navigating Compliance in Startup Investing(37:39) The Role of Alternative Investment Funds(39:09) The Challenges and Rewards of Startup Investing(43:10) The Importance of a Multifaceted Team(44:50) The Evolution of Product Management(54:15) Shipping Fast and Efficiently(59:49) Adapting to Market Changes(01:03:35) Future Plans and Exciting Developments(01:06:20) Recommended Books and Podcasts-------------------------------------Connect with Us:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator​Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup​​-------------------------------------If you liked this episode, let us know by hitting the like button and share with your friends and family. Please also remember to subscribe to our channel and switch on the notifications to never miss an episode!

In this Roundup, hosts Roshan Cariappa and Gunjan Saha discuss the latest headlines in India's startup ecosystem, covering topics such as the Great Indian Shopping Festival on eCommerce apps, separation talks between Mensa Brands and Men's XP, and GoKwik's acquisition of Return Prime. The episode also highlights government initiatives to simplify processes for overseas startups shifting domicile back to India. Additionally, the conversation touches on India's plans to establish a self-sustained space station by 2035 and land on the moon by 2040, the launch of Accel's new pre-seed accelerator program for Bharat startups. The episode wraps up with an entertaining discussion on cultural sensitivity at Ather Energy and the achievements of Sourabh Netravalkar, the star cricketer and Oracle employee.00:00 Introduction01:47 Topics and Opening comments06:48 EY Suicide Case and Work Culture11:13 E-commerce Festive Season Preparations14:37 Men's XP separating from Mensa Brands17:27 GoKwik's International Expansion23:21 Government Initiatives to simplify moving overseas startups30:52 India's Space Ambitions31:21 Technological and Geopolitical Implications32:42 Challenges and Comparisons in Space Exploration37:09 Accel's New Pre-Seed Accelerator Program: Accel Atoms38:45 Recent Fundraises and Market Trends41:55 Nike's new CEO's career45:25 Lessons from China's Startup Ecosystem48:54 Ather's Onam "Controversy"58:10 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes