The AI CEO with Seema Alexander

Seema Alexander
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Sep 3, 2024 • 58min

A Bootstrapped SaaS Journey To 1.3 Million Users with the CEO of Upace, Rachel Koretsky

📌Make sure to check out UPACE https://rachel-koretsky.squarespace.com/ In this episode of 'From Spaghetti to Growth,' host Seema Alexander, president of Virgent AI and co-chair DC Startup Week, explores the entrepreneurial journey of Rachel Koretsky, the CEO of UpACE and co-chair of DC Startup Week. Rachel shares insights on how she grew her startup from zero to nearly 5 million users, discussing the challenges of being a non-technical founder, securing pilot programs, and pivoting business strategies. The episode delves into the intricacies of building a SaaS platform for community rec centers, the importance of understanding customer needs, and leveraging technology for member engagement. In addition, the two co-chairs also have some bonus content as they discuss the growth trajectory and vision of DC Startup Week, emphasizing the significance of community and support in the entrepreneurial ecosystem --and their upcoming 9th annual conference from October 21-25 in Washington DC Metro area. 👉 In this episode (01:19) Meet Rachel Koretsky: CEO of Upace (02:05) Rachel's Entrepreneurial Journey (04:07) Identifying and Solving the Initial Problem (07:12) Challenges of a Non-Technical Founder (09:20) Building the First Client Base (16:24) Leveraging University Resources (21:51) Navigating the Impact of COVID-19 (26:07) Utilizing Predictive Analytics for Growth (29:55) Challenges of a Non-Technical Founder (31:11) Finding the Right Technical Partner (32:30) Trusting Your Gut in Business Decisions (33:26) The Journey to Finding a CTO (34:11) Empowering Female Founders (35:24) The Importance of Community Support (38:47) The Birth of DC Startup Week (45:24) The Vision for DC Startup Week (48:32) Advice for Aspiring Founders (55:19) Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🌎Reach out to Rachel Koretsky LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelkoretsky Website https://rachel-koretsky.squarespace.com/new-index 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ Production Studio: Legacy Session
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Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 7min

Special Episode: VeeCon Recap - Insights form Top Entrepreneurs in the World

In this special episode of the From Spaghetti to Growth podcast, host Seema Alexander recaps her transformative experience attending VeeCon 2024, a conference hosted by Gary Vaynerchuk. Seema shares her businewss insights and memorable moments from the event, which featured a diverse lineup of speakers including entrepreneurs, technologists, and entertainers. Key highlights include talks by Will Guidara on 'unreasonable hospitality,' Howie Mandel's emerging tech holograms, Nick Cannon's viewpoints on hustle, and Will.i.am's exploration of AI in creative spaces. Seema also reflects on building community through GaryVee's inspiring VeeCon, networking with impactful individuals, and the importance of integrating new knowledge into personal and professional growth. Ending with T Pain's performance, the episode underscores the continual evolution and commitment of the VeeFriends community. 👉 In this episode (00:17) Gary Vaynerchuk and VeeCon Overview (02:16) The Birth of VeeFriends and Community Building (05:22) Experiences and Insights from VCon (06:31) Personal Reflections and Key Takeaways (08:27) Pre-VeeCon Events and Networking (13:03) Highlights from VeeCon Speakers (14:44) Unforgettable Moments and Lessons (35:52) AI and Longevity: A New Partnership (38:36) Jay Shetty and Bob Pittman: Insights and Reflections (40:24) Cody Sanchez: Investing in Boring Businesses (42:02) Mike Posner: Lessons from a 3000-Mile Walk (47:19) Lewis Howes: The School of Greatness (52:19) Tom Ferry: How to Make $20 Million A Year for Three Decades (58:25) T-Pain and the VCon Experience (01:00:29) Community and Networking Highlights (01:05:01) Concluding Thoughts and Future VeeCon Announcements 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Virgent AI: www.virgent.ai Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. Podcast Studio: Legacy Sessions 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting
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Aug 20, 2024 • 1h 9min

Building a Fast Casual Empire with the RASA Founders

📌Make sure to check out Rasa (Indi via https://www.rasa.co/ In this episode of the From Spaghetti to Growth podcast, host Seema Alexander interviews Sahil and Rahul, co-founders of Rasa, a fast-casual Indian restaurant chain. They delve into their transition from corporate careers to entrepreneurship, fueled by their immigrant backgrounds and family influences. The discussion covers strategic choices in location selection and funding, the effects of COVID-19, and maintaining a robust company culture. Additionally, they explore their innovative use of AI and technology to streamline operations. This episode offers valuable insights into resilience, innovation, and the dynamic challenges of the fast-casual dining industry. 👉 In this episode (01:33) Meet the Co-Founders of Rasa (01:53) The Vision Behind Rasa (02:54) The Journey of Rasa's Co-Founders (04:00) Cultural Perceptions and Indian Cuisine (07:49) The Rise of Indian Culture (12:34) From Corporate Jobs to Entrepreneurship (23:13) Navigating the Pandemic (29:05) Fundraising Challenges (31:26) Investor Relations and Building in the Open (32:48) Pitching and Brand Awareness (34:07) First Restaurant Opening Challenges (36:21) Choosing the Right Location (39:11) Growth Strategy and Team Building (44:14) Leadership and Company Culture (53:30) Embracing Technology and AI (01:00:42) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (01:05:08) Future Vision for Rasa 🌎Reach out to Sahil Rahman and Rahul Vinod Sahil Rahman IG https://www.instagram.com/_sahilrahman/ LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/sahrahman Website https://sahilrahman.com/about/ Rahul Vinod LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahulvinod IG https://www.instagram.com/rvinod/?hl=en 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. ✅ About Seema Alexander. Welcome to my channel, Seema Alexander"! I'm your host—Seema Alexander, President of Virgent AI, co-chair of DC Startup Week, and creator of the U.N.I.Q.U.E. MethodTM. In each episode of the From Spaghetti to Growth" podcast, I have unfiltered conversations with successful founders, CEOs, and experts. We discuss their personal business journeys and strategies that took them from chaos to growth and everything in between. Suppose you are an entrepreneur seeking strategies to take your business to the next level, incorporating the future of AI into your business, and turning your spaghetti into growth. In that case, this is the podcast for you. Now, let's start growing! For Collaboration and Business inquiries, please use the contact information below: 📩 Email: info@disruptive.ceo #businessgrowth #entrepreneurship #inc5000 #yellowtailtech #scalingbusiness #techcareers © Seema Alexander Podcast Studio: Legacy Sessions (Washington DC) 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting
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Aug 8, 2024 • 57min

How to Grow a Services Company to INC. 5000 with Jubee Vilceus

📌Make sure to check out Yellowtail Tech https://yellowtail.tech/ In this episode of the FSG podcast, you'll dive into an insightful conversation with Jubee Leroy Vilceus, CEO of Yellowtail Tech, as he shares his journey of transforming a brick-and-mortar business into a thriving online platform. From overcoming imposter syndrome to redefining the company's offerings, Jubee's experiences offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of scaling a referral-based business. He emphasizes the importance of personal branding, understanding customer pain points, and the transformative potential of AI in business. Through his practical insights and strategic decision-making, Jubee provides a roadmap for streamlining business growth If you're an entrepreneur in the early stages, struggling with scaling a referral-based model, this is the epsiode for you. 👉 In this episode (09:14) - Finding Product-Market Fit and Repositioning (12:58) - Importance of Personal Branding and Face of the Brand (15:35) - Iterative Product Improvement and Business Scalability (16:06) - Resistance to moving online (18:27) - Pivot to online during COVID-19 (20:32) - Importance of continuous learning (23:03) - Productizing the service (28:14) - Building strategic partnerships (31:43) - Expanding Geographically (37:27) - Building a Tech Community (43:50) - Identifying Pain Points (44:15) - Validating the Community Idea (46:30) - Testing Initial Interest (47:26) - Community feedback and involvement (48:19) - Integration of AI in business (51:38) - Customizing AI solutions (52:31) - Seeking specific mentorship (55:48) - Impact on individuals 🌎Reach out to Jubee Leroy Vilceus LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/jubee-leroy-vilceus IG: https://www.instagram.com/jubee.vilceus/ 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. 🎤 Podcast Production Studio Legacy Sessions 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting ✨ Find out how AI can change your business. Check it out here: http://www.virgent.ai/ ✨ Unlock the secrets to business success with expert insights. Explore now at http://www.disruptive.ceo/ 🔔 Discover the secrets to business breakthroughs! Subscribe for exclusive interviews with founders sharing their path to success and how AI is transforming their strategies! https://www.youtube.com/@FromSpaghettiToGrowth/?sub_confirmation=1 ✅ Important Link to Follow 🔗 Linktree https://linktr.ee/seemaalexander 👥 Follow Me on Social Media: 👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/disruptiveceo/ 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en 👉 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@seemaalexander 👉 Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/SeemaAlexander 👉 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander/ 👉 Website (Virgent AI): http://www.virgent.ai/ 👉 Website (Disruptive CEO Advisory): http://www.disuprtive.ceo/ 📩 For Business Inquiries: info@disruptive.ceo ============================= 🎬 Recommended Playlists 👉 Podcast https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLohO9RT6Hiy8xpJS79KIrlZJeKc2EblYT 👉 Shorts https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLohO9RT6Hiy9dvWDaDsr6LFckxZ3CiLOt 🎬 WATCH MY OTHER VIDEOS: 👉 Leverage AI In Your Business or Risk Becoming Absolute w/ Jesse Alton of Virgent AI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjR5vKgcTW0 👉 Insider Tips from a Shark Tank Casting Director, Brandon Andrews https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aagh7YKHnsg 👉 Season 2: How to Build Brands to Disrupt Markets with Maha Abouelenein https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIx5TaADMk8 👉 Journey Of A 4x Serial Internet Marketer, Exits, Pivots & More https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvG1R6OSSTQ 👉 The CEO's Journey of Creating Disruptive Innovation ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFbD27hB9FY ============================= 🔔 Curious about AI's impact on business? Subscribe for engaging podcast interviews on inspiring founder stories and essential insights into adopting AI for future success! https://www.youtube.com/@FromSpaghettiToGrowth/?sub_confirmation=1 ================================= #entrepreneurship#podcast #inc5000 ⚠️ Disclaimer: I do not accept any liability for any loss or damage incurred from you acting or not acting as a result of watching any of my publications. You acknowledge that you use the information I provide at your own risk. Do your research. Copyright Notice: This video and my YouTube channel contain dialogue, music, and images that are the property of Seema Alexander. You are authorized to share the video link and channel and embed this video in your website or others as long as a link back to my YouTube channel is provided. © Seema Alexander
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Jul 30, 2024 • 60min

Building Social Impact Companies to Scale with Wa'il Ashshowwaf

📌Check out Wa'il's justice start-up Reyets out here: https://www.reyets.com/ 👉 In this episode In this episode of the From Spaghetti to Growth podcast, host Seema Alexander converses with Wa'il Ashshowwaf, a seasoned entrepreneur and ecosystem builder. The discussion revolves around the entrepreneurial journey, the importance of early customer acquisition, and building products that solve real problems. Weil explains how his experience led to the creation of the rights advocacy app, Reyets, and the lessons learned transitioning to a new AI-powered justice initiative. The conversation also touches on the role of Unstuck Labs in helping startups navigate the spaghetti phase through actionable insights and support, emphasizing the growing inevitability of AI in business. (02:05) Wa'il's Entrepreneurial Journey (04:21) The Birth of Reyets (06:19) Challenges and Strategies for Reyets (14:03) Fundraising and Experimentation (17:00) The Future of Justice and AI (32:36) AI-Driven Proposal Creation (32:59) The Power of Asking for Help (34:50) Early Days of the New Startup (36:03) Protecting AI Innovations (37:15) Finding Traction and Product-Market Fit (40:54) Unstuck Labs: Helping Startups Succeed (53:14) The Impact of AI on All Industries (55:01) Advice for Founders in the Spaghetti Phase (57:26) Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🌎Reach out to W'ail AshshowroffIG: @worldzmine LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/wail Website https://www.wail.ceo/Twitter https://twitter.com/wailashshowwaf 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Please subscribe and leave us a review and rating! That's the only way we can grow! Episode Produced by Legacy Sessions 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting
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Jul 23, 2024 • 55min

Building to a $50 Million Valuation with Mariam Nusrat

📌Make sure to check out Breshna.io at https://breshna.io/ Mariam Nasrat on Breshna.io's Explosive Growth and Strategic Focus In this episode of the 'From Spaghetti to Growth' podcast, Seema interviews Mariam Nusrat, CEO of Breshna.io, continuing their conversation from a year ago. Mariam shares key insights behind Breshna's journey, transitioning from 37,000 to over 176,000 users creating more than 160,000 video games. Key topics include their $2.5 million seed funding round, the effectiveness of their ambassador program, and the exploration of various markets including telcos and airlines. The discussion also delves into the strategic integration of Web3 and AI technologies to enhance user experience and streamline game creation. Mariam emphasizes the importance of staying disciplined, focusing on core objectives, and the value of community engagement through crowdfunding. 👉 In this episode (01:14) Meet Mariam Nusrat: CEO of Breshna.io (03:23) The Journey from World Bank to Gaming (04:48) Explosive Growth and User Engagement (05:55) The Power of Seed Funding (10:25) Building and Fundraising Simultaneously (12:39) Understanding the User Persona (16:19) B2B Model and Unexpected Success (19:42) Pitch Competitions and Brand Awareness (26:01) Global Expansion and Market Focus (27:38) Classroom Project Ideas with Kahoot (28:31) The Aha Moment and Game Making for All (29:32) Vision and Resilience as a Founder (34:34) Crowdfunding Success and Community Building (40:03) Web3 and Blockchain Integration (45:54) AI and No-Code Game Creation (49:41) Focus and Discipline for Growth (53:31) Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks 🌎Reach out to Mariam Nusrat LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariamnusrat Twitter: @gamingfordevBreshna.io https://breshna.io/IG: https://www.instagram.com/mariamnusrat/?hl=en 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Virgent AI www.virgent.ai Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. Produced by: Legacy Session 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting
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Jul 15, 2024 • 2h 36min

Leverage AI in Your Business or Risk Becoming Obsolete With Jesse Alton, CEO Virgent AI

Leverage AI In Your Business or Risk Becoming Obsolete w/ Jesse Alton of Virgent AI 📌Make sure to check out Virgent.ai https://virgent.ai/ In this episode of the 'From Spaghetti to Growth' podcast, host Seema Alexander and her co-founder and CEO of Virgent AI, Jesse Alton, explore the transformative power of AI in entrepreneurship and various industries. The discussion includes Sam Altman's predictions about billion-dollar solo AI startups, the inception of their venture Virgent AI, industry examples of AI agents and AI-enabled solutions, discussions on cyber security and privacy and more. They delve into the practical applications of AI tools like ChatGPT, Midjourney, and Runway ML in streamlining workflows across media production, grant writing, legal, cybersecurity, and finance. Emphasis is placed on the significance of merging human and AI intelligence, addressing ethical challenges, privacy concerns, and the necessity of realistic expectations. The episode concludes with a call to leverage AI for operational efficiency and better customer experiences, while continuously testing and iterating AI solutions. 👉 In this episode (02:10) How Seema and Jesse Met (05:41) Jesse's Entrepreneurial Journey (08:43) From Flip Flops to the Metaverse (11:41) The Challenges of Being a Visionary (19:01) The Birth of OMI and Open Metaverse (25:36) Magic ML: Bridging AI and Business (39:49) Understanding AI Agents (40:06) Chatbots and Their Evolution (45:00) Coordination Agents: Personalized Assistance (49:46) The Future of AI in Business (52:02) AI Tools and Integration (55:59) AI in Real Estate and Beyond (01:01:58) Human-AI Collaboration (01:03:57) Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency (01:06:59) The Role of APIs and Zapier (01:09:34) AI in Creative Industries (01:13:31) AI in Business Development (01:18:10) Creating Custom AI Models (01:19:48) AI in Grant Deployment (01:21:49) AI for Workflow Automation (01:22:36) Privacy and Security in AI (01:32:20) AI in Cybersecurity (01:37:42) Quantum Computing and AI (01:42:04) AI in Precision Medicine (01:49:22) Top AI Tools for Everyday Use (01:59:22) AI-Powered Workshops with FigJam (01:59:52) AI as a Co-Founder: Getting Started (02:01:10) The Importance of Prototyping (02:02:18) Discovery and Design Sprints (02:04:21) AI in Business: Opportunities and Challenges (02:06:28) The Future of AI: Hopes and Fears (02:17:07) AI Solutions Across Industries 🌎Reach out to Jesse Alton, CEO, Virgent AI Website: www.Virgent.AI LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmetaverse Instagram @mrmetaverse https://www.instagram.com/mrmetaverse/ 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Website: www.Virgent.AI Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. Produced By: Legacy Sessions Podcast Post-Production: EZPZ Podcasting
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Jul 4, 2024 • 1h 4min

Insider Tips from a Shark Tank Casting Director Brandon Andrews

In this episode of the 'From Spaghetti to Growth' podcast, host Seema Alexander is joined by Brandon Andrews, co-founder of Gauge.ai, Chief Product Officer; CEO, The Inexorable; and a Shark Tank casting director. 📌Gauge AI is a software + service platform that conducts mobile focus groups and market research with tastemakers and experts in key communities. Find out more: https://gauge.ai/ The conversation delves into Brandon's journey from growing up in Alabama, working on Capitol Hill, to becoming an influential figure in the world of entrepreneurship and AI. He shares insights into the importance of passion and effective communication for entrepreneurs, the inner workings of Shark Tank casting, and his experiences with AI in business. The episode also covers practical advice for startups on utilizing AI for growth, the significance of lifelong learning, and Brandon's contributions to global AI education. 👉 In this episode Meet Brandon Andrews: Co-Founder and Shark Tank Casting Director (02:09) Brandon's Journey to Entrepreneurship (04:30) The Importance of Communication Skills (06:27) Casting for Shark Tank: What We Look For (09:27) The Privilege and Process of Shark Tank Casting (15:29) From Capitol Hill to Entrepreneurship (26:09) The Birth of Gauge AI: A Market Research Platform (30:33) Feedback from the Pilot Phase (31:01) Building Relationships and Adding Value (31:26) Starting with Minimal Viable Product (MVP) (32:29) Leveraging AI for Efficiency (33:30) Recruitment and Influence Scoring (36:20) Real-Time Feedback and Client Engagement (38:21) AI's Role in Business Transformation (41:54) Global AI Education and Diplomacy (49:45) The Future of AI and Human Agency (54:45) Advice for Entrepreneurs on AI and Communication 🌎Reach out to Brandon Andrews LinkedIN / mrbrandonandrews Gauge AI https://gauge.ai/ YouTube / @globalbrandon Twitter https://twitter.com/brandontalk?lang=en 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Virgent AI: www.Virgent.AI Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: / seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexan... Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. Produced by Legacy Sessions Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting
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Jun 27, 2024 • 47min

How to Build Brands to Disrupt Markets with Maha Abouelenein

📌Check out's Maha's upcoming book release "7 Rules of Self-Reliance". Pre-order her book on Amazon today. In this opening episode for Season 2, host Seema Alexander, president of Virgent AI, talks with Maha Abouelenein, CEO and founder of Digital & Savvy about how to build brands to disrupt markets and all things in between. Maha shares her journey from working in corporate roles at companies like General Mills, Google, and Netflix, to starting her own business and becoming one of the top global communication strategist in the world. She discusses her strategy and experiences in emerging tech fields like mobile, social media, and web3, emphasizing the importance of education and storytelling. Maha also offers practical advice on entrepreneurship, the significance of personal branding for CEOs, scaling service-based companies, and the transformative potential of AI. Lastly, she highlights key insights from her upcoming book, 'The Seven Rules of Self-Reliance: 'How to Stay Low, Keep Moving, Invest in Yourself, and Own Your Future.' 👉 In this episode (01:07) Meet Maha Abouelenein (04:30) Maha's Early Career and Move to Egypt (07:14) Building a Career in the Middle East (11:02) Entrepreneurial Insights and Tech Communications (17:35) The Importance of Storytelling and Personal Branding (22:26) Founding Digital & Savvy (23:56) Strategic Communications and Training (24:19) Journey to Entrepreneurship (24:59) Building the First Client Base (26:22) Leveraging Cultural Identity (29:03) Training and Trusting Your Team (33:57) Pricing Strategies for Service Businesses (36:56) Embracing AI in Business (41:49) The Importance of Self-Reliance (46:07) Conclusion and Final Thoughts 🌎Reach out to Maha LinkedIN Instagram @mahagaber Twitter / X @mahagaber Digital&Savvy Maha's personal website 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Virgent AI: https://www.virgent.ai/ Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Subscribe and leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. Episode Produced by Legacy Sessions Podcast Post-production by EZPZ Podcasting
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Oct 22, 2023 • 53min

From Pilot to Autonomous Drones CEO: Growing an Emerging Tech Company with Pramod Raheja

📌Today's guest on the From Spaghetti to Growth podcast is founder Pramod Raheja. Pramod is a trained pilot who now operates the emerging tech company Airgility, which produces autonomous drones. In this insightful episode, we cover the important lessons Pramod took from his earlier aviation career into the world of entrepreneurship and what it takes to pivot into new and daring industries, even if your business plan isn't quite fleshed out when you get going. Sometimes the opportunities reveal themselves as you go along. We discuss the importance of knowing your target customer inside and out, raising money for emerging tech projects and how Pramod approaches the typical day to day ups and downs of being a founder. 🌎Reach out to Pramod: Airgility.coLinkedINTwitter Instagram In this episode: 👉Pramod's lessons from his years as a pilot and what he learned about leadership 👉Taking the first plunge into small business endeavours on the way to founding Agility 👉Operating a company in the field of emerginc tech 👉How to raise money to develop advanced technology 👉The importance of customer discovery to any business Some key points: (03:46) What led Pramod to go into business in the first place? (05:03) Pramod started out as a pilot (07:18) Lessons in leadership from a pilot's career (09:06) As a pilot, many instinctive decisions are required (13:24) If you are ahead of a trend, how do you build a business around that? (15:42) Trying to convince your spouse to invest in a risky business (17:49) Lessons from navigating a business in a competitive environment (20:35) Pivoting into emerging tech and autonomous drones (23:18) Getting grant funding for emerging tech projects (26:09) Sometimes the technology emerges before the use case (30:16) Trying to determine your ideal client within a brand new innovative space can be tricky (38:27) Client paying up front for features that they desire (40:55) New products can spawn off your foundational products. But how do you know which to pursue? (42:58) Getting investors on board with cutting edge tech (45:16) Expect the unexpected (46:32) Pramod's proudest moment at Airgility (48:30) Going from spaghetti to growth at Airgility (50:14) Stressing the importance of knowing your customer when starting out 🌎Reach out to Seema Ponda Alexander Disruptive CEO Advisory https://www.disruptive.ceo/LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemaalexander IG: https://www.instagram.com/seemaalexander/?hl=en Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple podcasts by clicking here. 🎤 Podcast post-production EZPZ Podcasting

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