India's Agnikul Becomes First In The World To 3D Print Rocket Engines! | Roundup #153 The Startup Operator podcast

48:03

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. Topics 00:00 Sneak Peek 01:00 Introduction – From Founder to Investor 03:45 Why Healthcare Is Unlike Any Other Sector 07:50 India’s Unique Healthcare Economics 10:55 Why Copy-Paste Models Don’t Work in India 14:40 Choosing Your Audience: 1M vs 500M 17:10 The Real Challenge: Building Trust, Not Just Tech 21:00 Post-Covid Shift: Health Awareness and Consumer Behavior 24:30 Has the Quantified Self Movement Peaked? 29:00 What’s Missing in Mental Health Startups 31:25 EEG Wearables, AI Therapy & Future of Wellness 33:10 Ayurveda, Quacks & the Problem of Outcomes 34:50 How to Find Your Own Healthcare Startup Idea 37:00 Why Trust Is the Ultimate Moat in Healthtech 39:30 Healthcare Needs Patient Capital, Not Just VC 41:00 Dilip’s Personal Health Transformation Journey 44:15 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!…

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252: Secrets Behind Building Planes in India – What You Didn't Know | Venkatesh Mudragalla(Jeh Aerospace) 43:47

14 weeks ago43:47

43:47

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 peak 01:06 Introduction 03:28 Challenges and Evolution in the Aerospace Industry 04:40 Impact of Supply Chain on Aerospace 11:23 India's Role in the Global Aerospace Market 12:35 The Origin Story of J Aerospace 14:18 Starting Up in Aerospace: Challenges and Strategies 19:43 Technical Nuances in Aerospace Manufacturing 22:36 Partnering with Academia for Industry-Relevant Education 23:35 The Evolution and Current State of Industry 4.0 24:07 Balancing Automation and Workforce in Aerospace 25:51 Leveraging India's Jugaad Mentality in Aerospace 27:36 Challenges in Indian Aerospace Manufacturing 28:45 Targeting Mid-Market Companies for Growth 29:56 Building Trust in Indian Manufacturing 32:17 Government Support and Ecosystem Growth 34:29 VC Interest and Funding Challenges 36:10 Rapid Fire: Future Technologies and Aspirations 40:29 Advice for Aspiring Aerospace Entrepreneurs 43:03 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!…

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251: The Winning Formula to Build Billion-Dollar Businesses | Ganesh Krishnan (Serial Entrepreneur) 1:07:27

17 weeks ago1:07:27

1:07:27

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 Introduction 00:50 Guest Background 02:15 Staying Relevant in the Startup Ecosystem 08:10 Building Scalable and Exitable Businesses 24:26 Changing Consumer Behavior 30:25 Storytelling for Investors 32:15 Choosing the Right Investor 33:46 Understanding Investor Motivation 34:44 Challenges in the Indian Market 44:01 The Importance of Timing in Exits 50:31 Emerging Sectors and Opportunities 56:40 Mastering Disruption: Key Takeaways 01:05:10 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts…

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250 : Solving the Impossible: Teaching Robots to See | Gokul NA (Founder,CynLr) 1:50:17

20 weeks ago1:50:17

1:50:17

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 Sneakpeak 01:03 The Journey of CynLr's Founders 03:06 Vision Systems and Robotics 06:49 The Evolution of Robotics 19:48 Building a Universal Factory 25:21 Starting a Robotics Company 37:38 Challenges with Vision-Based Systems 38:27 Understanding Customer Needs and Supply Chain 38:42 Navigating Organizational Dynamics 43:18 Identifying and Solving Profitable Problems 49:39 Manufacturing Complexities and Vendor Relations 01:04:42 Iterating in Hardware Development 01:08:21 Leveraging Industry Infrastructure 01:13:31 Dust and Shoes: The Unexpected Connection 01:14:20 The Future of Factories: Micro and Universal 01:15:06 Standardization Challenges in Robotics 01:15:48 Navigating Tech and Application Layers 01:17:23 The Patience Game: Building an Industry 01:18:30 Vision for Robots: Technical Challenges 01:20:15 Depth Perception: Human vs. Machine 01:28:11 Building a Talented Team 01:34:14 Fundraising for Deep Tech Startups 01:43:48 The Future of Humans and Technology 01:49:26 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!…

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249: The Truth About Getting Hired in 2024 | FULL | Divesh Dhawan (Founder, Meyrahkee Advisors) 51:22

27 weeks ago51:22

51:22

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 Introduction 01:41 Current Hiring Trends in Startups 03:56 Tips for Job Candidates 07:38 Evaluating Company Culture 11:24 Top Startups to Work For 14:39 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!…

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Why Freshworks Fired 1000+ (While Buying Back Stock) | Roundup #165 | Startup Operator 26:55

28 weeks ago26:55

26:55

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 Introduction 00:44 Opening comments 01:19 Major Headlines 02:28 US Elections and Tech Influence 06:05 Swiggy's Market Debut 09:22 Zomato's New Features 12:39 Freshworks Layoffs and Buyback 17:43 ISRO and IIT Madras Partnership 19:44 Starlink's Entry into India 23:11 Stoa's Shutdown and Reflections 25:53 Weekly Fundraisers and Wrap-Up ------------------------------------- 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!…

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248: 100% Made-in-India Guns, The SSS Defence Story | Vivek & Dinesh (Founders, SSS Defence) 1:44:01

31 weeks ago1:44:01

1:44:01

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 Peak 00:43 Introduction 03:03 The Origin of SSS Defense 3:18 Starting up in the guns and ammunitions space 16:15 Product thinking in manufacturing 27:16 Defence procurement value chains 43:01 Building arms for export & domestic consumption 54:55 Forging strategic partnerships 1:09:05 Role of DRDO & Ordinance factories 1:16:40 Global benchmarks 1:24:07 Upcoming opportunities 1:31:20 Wisdom for defence startups 1:40:38 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!…

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Is India's Data REALLY Secure? | Roundup #164 | The Startup Operator 33:20

32 weeks ago33:20

33:20

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/1844384368338551250 Balaji Srinivasan's Tweet: https://x.com/balajis/status/1762777110626914509 Roshan'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!…

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247: How Infinyte is helping startup employees become millionaires! | Joy Saldanha & Ankita Tandon (Founders, Infinyte Club) 1:10:42

33 weeks ago1:10:42

1:10:42

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!…

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Will India Disrupt & Dominate the Space Industry? | Roundup #163 | The Startup Operator 59:53

35 weeks ago59:53

59:53

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 Introduction 01:47 Topics and Opening comments 06:48 EY Suicide Case and Work Culture 11:13 E-commerce Festive Season Preparations 14:37 Men's XP separating from Mensa Brands 17:27 GoKwik's International Expansion 23:21 Government Initiatives to simplify moving overseas startups 30:52 India's Space Ambitions 31:21 Technological and Geopolitical Implications 32:42 Challenges and Comparisons in Space Exploration 37:09 Accel's New Pre-Seed Accelerator Program: Accel Atoms 38:45 Recent Fundraises and Market Trends 41:55 Nike's new CEO's career 45:25 Lessons from China's Startup Ecosystem 48:54 Ather's Onam "Controversy" 58:10 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes…

The Startup Operator

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246: How Alyve Health is Boosting Insurance Access with User-Centric Solutions | Shashank Avadhani (Co-founder, Alyve Health) 1:37:49

36 weeks ago1:37:49

1:37:49

In this episode Roshan engages with Shashank Avdhani, Co-founder of Alyve Health, an insurtech startup. The conversation uncovers the intricacies of the Indian health insurance landscape, focusing on customer-centric products, under coverage issues, and the impact of COVID-19. Shashank discusses his transition from consulting to founding Alyve, emphasizing collaboration with incumbents and navigating regulatory complexities. The episode also examines the role of regulatory bodies like the IRDA, the necessity for specialized licenses, and the prospects for reducing GST on health plans. 00:00 Introduction 01:17 Shashank's Background and Founding Journey 02:29 Understanding the Health Insurance Market 03:34 Customer Experience in Insurance 05:10 The Problem of Under Coverage 16:45 Comparing Global Healthcare Systems 24:27 Building a Customer-Centric Product 26:42 Collaborating with Incumbents 39:06 Managing Customer Experience 46:55 User-Centric Network Philosophy 47:16 Challenges in Insurance Alignment 47:59 Inpatient vs. Outpatient Worlds 48:43 Technological Integrations and Claims Processing 49:50 Health Claims Exchange Explained 54:41 Billing Code Harmonization 01:01:57 Platform Business Insights 01:07:08 Navigating Regulatory Landscape 01:18:47 Growth Strategies and Market Expansion 01:27:00 Startup Challenges and Sustainability 01:33:51 Recommended Reads 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!…

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Why is Anil Kapoor AI's most influential people? | Roundup #162 | The Startup Operator 49:12

37 weeks ago49:12

49:12

In this episode of the Startup Operator Roundup, Roshan and Gunjan celebrate Startup Operator's top ranking on Chartable and discuss significant events and trends in India's startup ecosystem. They cover highlights from the Global FinTech Festival in Mumbai. Then they delve into Time Magazine's 100 most influential people in AI, the arrest of Telegram's CEO Pavel Durov, and Insurance Dekho's new SaaS platform. Additionally, they discuss upcoming IPOs in the FinTech sector, notable fundraisers by Rapido and Zepto, and unique consumer tech innovations. The episode ends with a discussion on the founder mode versus manager mode in startups and a light-hearted segment on OnlyFans' staggering financial performance. 00:00 Introduction 00:10 Celebrating #1 01:14 Global FinTech Festival Highlights 01:51 Time's 100 Most Influential in AI including Anil Kapoor 02:21 Arrest of Telegram CEO 02:51 Insurance Dekho's New SaaS Platform 03:28 Upcoming FinTech IPOs 03:39 Angel Investing Success Stories 23:43 InfoEdge's Impressive Portfolio 23:59 Rapido Joins the Unicorn Club 26:29 Zepto's Remarkable Fundraising 28:00 Quick Roundup of Fundraisers 28:36 SSI's Billion Dollar Seed Round 31:43 OnlyFans' Financial Success 33:15 Boldcare's Viral Marketing Stunt 35:25 Innovative Consumer Tech Products 38:08 Shopify's Market Insight 42:30 Founder Mode vs. Manager Mode 48:08 Conclusion and closing comments ------------------------------------- Click here to get regular WhatsApp updates: https://wa.me/message/ZUZQQGKCZTADL1 ------------------------------------- Connect with Us: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-operator Twitter: https://twitter.com/OperatorStartup ------------------------------------- Talk of the Town Tweets: Consumer Tech: https://x.com/ritwikpavan/status/1832061056447033377 OnlyFans Revenue: https://x.com/ParikPatelCFA/status/1832126344177791011 Tobi Lutke : https://x.com/StartupArchive_/status/1828399599415107809 1x Neo : https://x.com/minchoi/status/1829931741219602739 Boldcare Marketing: https://x.com/oneandonlyrk/status/1830585560060289428 Paul Graham's Founder mode essay: https://x.com/paulg/status/1830146241054834858 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!…

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245: How Venture Capital Funding is Changing | Devendra Agrawal (Founder - Dexter Capital) 1:27:21

39 weeks ago1:27:21

1:27:21

In this episode, Roshan talks to Devendra Agrawal, Founder of Dexter Capital. Having dedicated over five years to investments and two years in a senior corporate finance position, Devendra embraced the entrepreneurial journey as the founder of Dexter Capital, a boutique investment bank. The conversation encompasses the various factors that shaped today's outlook into startup investing. Tune in for a deep-dive into -- 00:00 - Introduction 1:13 - Recent Developments in startup Investing 11:27 - Startup Ecosystem and the Indian Economy 16:04 - Power Dynamics Between Founders and Investors 25:26 - Key Developments in the 2021 Startup Ecosystem 31:42 - Building Successful Startups 33:45 - Key Considerations in Equity Sharing and Fundraising 43:30 - Risks of Accepting High Valuations 48:41 - Revising the Current Incentive Structures 56:06 - Incentive Models 01:01:01 - Equity Pledging in Conventional Companies 01:03:12 - Reasons Behind the Surge in Startup Funding 01:14:35 - Characteristics of a Successful Fund 01:20:23 - Supporting Founders ------------------------------------- Click here to get regular WhatsApp updates: https://wa.me/message/ZUZQQGKCZTADL1 ------------------------------------- Connect with Devedra Agrawal, Founder - Dexter Capital Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devendra-agrawal-85144598…

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244: Can Devotion Drive Digital Innovation? | Prashant Sachan (Co-founder, Apps for Bharat) 1:21:29

40 weeks ago1:21:29

1:21:29

In this episode Roshan talks to Prashant Sachan, co-founder of Apps for Bharat, to explore the dynamic landscape of India's consumer market and his successful journey with the Srimandir app. With over 3 crore downloads and 3 million monthly users, Prashanth discusses the art of building engaging app-led businesses, the role of monetization, and delivering unique user experiences. The conversation delves into user engagement, iterative experimentation, and scaling challenges, particularly amidst the digital adaptation of religious practices during the pandemic. Additionally, the episode provides practical fundraising advice for startups and insights on operating through economic downturns, stressing the importance of trust, authenticity, and financial discipline. Topics: 00:00 Introduction 02:27 Starting a Business: Key Insights 05:09 Building for the Masses 07:05 Experimenting with Ideas 09:05 Understanding User Needs 16:13 Validating App Ideas 24:27 Growth Strategies and User Engagement 36:52 Monetization and User Feedback 41:37 Building Without Bias 42:19 Commitment to User Needs 43:11 Business Model Innovation 44:26 Monetizing Devotion 46:23 Digital Spiritual Tourism 49:07 Empowering Lesser-Known Temples 58:10 The Role of Devotion in Society 01:11:07 Navigating Market Challenges 01:11:31 Fundraising Insights 01:14:34 App Store Challenges 01:18:07 Advice for Founders 01:19:49 Recommended Reads for Founders 01:21:17 Conclusion and Farewell ------------------------------------- Click here to get regular WhatsApp updates: https://wa.me/message/ZUZQQGKCZTADL1 ------------------------------------- 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!…

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India's Gaming Future: Will Krafton's R&D bet payoff? | Roundup #161 | The Startup Operator 26:09

41 weeks ago26:09