She lost ₹1 Crore building her startup. But that didn't stop her from building a 50Cr brand!!
In this episode of The FoundHers Podcast, Anshita, Founder of Fix My Curls, shares her biggest business failure - losing over 1 crore rupees in her entrepreneurial journey. This raw, unfiltered startup failure story reveals the painful lessons, the emotional toll, and how she bounced back stronger.
If you're an entrepreneur or startup founder in India, this story will resonate deeply. Learn what went wrong, how to avoid similar mistakes, and why failure is often the best teacher in business.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
00:10 - The 1 Crore Loss Revealed
01:30 - What Led to the Failure
02:18 - Packaging Error
02:51 - Lessons Learned
📢 Subscribe for more entrepreneur stories, startup lessons, and business insights from Indian founders.
Watch the full episode with Anshita here: https://youtu.be/w_VP32f-DTo
About Anshita Mehrotra:
Anshita Mehrotra, founder of Fix My Curls, turned a personal frustration into a thriving brand, now spanning 11 countries in just 5 years. She saw the gap in affordable curly haircare in India and set out to change that with her brand - Fix My Curls. Fix My Curls is a curly & wavy haircare brand - made to help wavy, curly & coily people embrace their natural hair!
#entrepreneur #startup #startupfailure #indianstartups #founderstory
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Anshita Mehrotra, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/anshiq/
https://fixmycurls.com/
What does Gen Z really want from fashion in 2025?
If you’re a founder, creator, or brand trying to crack Gen Z - this episode is your cheat code.
We sat down with Nefertari Joshi, founder of Nef’s Finds, a brand that started as a private thrift page and grew into one of the most loved Gen Z fashion labels online.
In this conversation, Nefertari breaks down how she stays relevant in a brutally competitive market. From concert-themed fashion drops to reinventing Indian wear and accessories for a younger audience, she is standing out.
Here’s what we covered:
• How to stay relevant in a fast, competitive, trend-driven market
• What categories Gen Z is currently shopping
• The kind of fashion content Gen Z actually consumes
• How to build a loyal customer base purely through Instagram
• Actionable Gen Z customer insights for founders and creators
• What helps a brand genuinely connect with young audiences
Nefertari Joshi is the founder of Nef’s Finds, a fashion label that started as a thrift page and grew into a full-fledged brand known for its bold, experimental, and Gen Z-driven aesthetic. With experience across editorial and retail, she’s built Nef’s Finds into a community-led label that blends creativity, culture, and commerce.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Building a fashion brand with a private account
02:35 Rejecting followers on Instagram
05:37 Facing backlash from customers
07:23 How to retain customers in fashion?
09:05 How to sell to Gen Z?
10:40 Can Gen Z purchasing be influenced?
12:00 Spotted at Coldplay concert
12:56 Westside's Gen Z campaign
16:35 What content does Gen Z consume?
18:56 Funny customer experience
20:00 3 tips for selling to Gen Z
23:35 Rapid Fire with Nef
26:56 Conclusion
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Nefertari Joshi
https://www.instagram.com/nefsfinds/
https://www.instagram.com/nefertarijoshi/
When is the right time to get funding for your business?
That’s where most founders get stuck, and this episode finally answers the question.
We sat down with Priyanka Agrawal, who has spent 20+ years helping women founders and early-stage startups get investment-ready. This is just an honest conversation about the questions every early-stage founder has but rarely finds clear answers to.
Here's what you will learn:
• Key essentials for a winning pitch deck
• What investors are actually looking for?
• How long does funding take?
• Government schemes and programs worth exploring
• How to stand your ground as a woman founder
If you’re a founder or someone starting their business journey, this episode gives you the answers you’ve been looking for.
Our guest, Priyanka Agrawal, is the co-founder of Punt Partners, a marketing and technology company helping brands scale through strategy, data, and creative innovation. She brings extensive experience across marketing, operations, and venture building, having worked closely with startups and large enterprises to drive sustainable growth.
Here are the links for the government schemes available for women entrepreneurs:
1. Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups - https://www.startupindia.gov.in/content/sih/en/credit-guarantee-scheme-for-startups.html
2. Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana - https://www.mudra.org.in/
3. Stand-Up India Scheme - https://www.standupmitra.in/Home/SUISchemes
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:50 Being a rebel kid
02:26 3 things businesses are getting wrong
07:56 When is the right time to get funding?
09:40 How to track PMF?
10:54 Things founders get wrong about funding
13:23 What should your pitch deck have?
16:08 What is the duration of a funding journey?
18:26 The funding story of Bartisans
21:25 Is Shark Tank funding real?
23:08 Government schemes for women founders
25:34 The gap in funding
29:59 Female trait that is a superpower
31:47 What is some advice to your younger self?
33:43 Conclusion
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Priyanka Agrawal, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/agrawalpriyanka/
Real Indian women founders share what actually works in business, marketing, and scaling.
Here’s a compilation of the most powerful startup advice shared by entrepreneurs on The FoundHers Podcast.
If you’re building a business, or dreaming of one, these tips are for you. From scaling smart to balancing family and work, each insight comes straight from real founder experiences.
Learn how to navigate challenges, scale sustainably, and build a brand that lasts. Sometimes, the best answers are simpler than you think.
🎙️Featured Episodes:
1. Mixing business with family: https://youtu.be/u-Q07sUi_lo
2. Building a ₹50Cr company: https://youtu.be/w_VP32f-DTo
3. How to Design Packaging: https://youtu.be/y-kvn4tK8hw
4. Restaurant Business Success: https://youtu.be/GFYtAYMQcpI
5. How to grow your Personal Brand?: https://youtu.be/y5PfY90xLCc
6. How to build a ₹100Cr business: https://youtu.be/PRamIHdv02o
7. How to tackle B2B and B2C?: https://youtu.be/b9XN1cERqRk
8. Viral Marketing Campaigns: https://youtu.be/CmU4tV5SFoI
9. Consulting at 21: https://youtu.be/FzCZGOAdAo0
10. Building a business as a new mom: https://youtu.be/bxK5xE2kGGo
🔔 New episodes every alternate week on Wednesdays!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:10 #01 Startups give you experience
00:29 #02 The best tip to go global
01:07 #03 This is your best salesperson
02:22 #04 Getting the basics right
03:30 #05 Importance of branding
04:33 #06 Quality over quantity
05:20 #07 The role of a mentor
06:15 #08 Tips on negotiation
07:07 #09 Being a friendly leader
08:00 #10 Finding your customers
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
#StartupAdvice #WomenEntrepreneurs #BusinessTips #IndianStartups #FounderStories #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #StartupIndia
What happens when marketers celebrate Diwali? Chaos and way too many ad references.
In this festive special, Hinal sits down with her team members, Shakera and Mehek, to chat about Diwali marketing, nostalgic brand campaigns, and why emotion continues to be the heart of every great Indian ad.
The conversation starts with what Diwali really looks like at a startup (hint: chaos), and slowly moves into what it means for brands. Because while Diwali is about family, lights, and endless mithai - for marketers, there’s just one word that defines it all: Emotion.
If you love ads, brand strategy, or just want some feel-good festive nostalgia - this one’s for you!
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:02 Our favourite Diwali moments
04:41 What do we miss about Diwali?
06:38 Which festival stops Mumbai?
10:58 Washing Powder Nirma! - The jingle we can't forget
12:55 Emotion sells in India
15:57 The Vodafone Diwali ad that defined emotional branding
17:19 Best brand sale
18:05 Best Diwali gift
19:24 Conclusion
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Shakera Reshamvala, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shakera-reshamvala/
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
Mehek Mehta, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehekmehta12/
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
1 in 4 people will face a mental health challenge in their lifetime.
The question is - how can we support them?
Trigger Warning
This episode discusses suicide and mental health issues. Please listen with care.
We sat down with Neha Kirpal, the woman behind Amaha Health, to understand the acceptance of mental health in India. From the pressure parents unknowingly put on children to the hesitation around seeking therapy, this conversation dives deep into the stigma surrounding mental health and how families can play a stronger role in supporting their loved ones. With over 5 years of experience in the mental health space, Neha shares:
•What therapy really looks like in India
•How to approach your first therapy session
•Why family acceptance is crucial for recovery
Neha Kirpal is the co-founder of Amaha Health, India’s largest private sector mental health service. A World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and Nari Shakti Award recipient, she is one of India’s leading voices in mental health advocacy. She recently co-authored Homecoming, a collection of lived experiences of women navigating severe mental health conditions, challenging stigma and reshaping perspectives on healing and wholeness.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for support:
📞 Helpline: 1-800 891 4416
🌐 Online Help: https://www.amahahealth.com/
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:39 Story of building India's leading mental health organisation
03:20 How can a family support someone in need?
05:15 Is mental health genetic?
06:22 Mental health v/s mental illness
09:29 About Neha's book: Homecoming
10:36 What are the different kinds of therapy?
14:21 What should you do on the first therapy session?
15:54 Childhood pressure can lead to mental health issues
19:38 What recovery really looks like
21:36 Stories that inspire
25:04 Actionable mental health tips you can use today
27:28 Conclusion
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Neha Kirpal, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nehakirpal1/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/amaha/
What if the real secret behind Mumbai’s most iconic restaurants wasn’t just the food, but actually smaller details like the washroom??🤯
In this episode, we sit down with Nikita Harisinghani, the vision behind Late Checkout, Gigi, Eve, Blah, Donna Deli to understand the restaurant business in India
We start with the story behind Late Checkout, how Nikita spotted a gap others ignored, and the little details that transformed it into a larger-than-life experience. She then pulls back the curtain on the numbers from operational costs to profit margins, and why so many restaurants struggle to remain in business.
We also dive into the shift in India’s dine-in vs. delivery culture, the rise of QSRs, and what the future of eating out looks like. To close, Nikita shares her advice for anyone dreaming of opening their own place.
Hope you enjoy this conversation! Subscribe and turn on your notifications so you don't miss out on the next episode☺️
Nikita Harisinghani is the co-founder and creative force behind Chrome Hospitality, the group behind iconic restaurants like Late Checkout, Gigi, Eve and more. In just three years, she has built one of India’s most exciting hospitality portfolios, while also making her mark as a self-taught designer whose work on Gigi won the ET Award for Best Design.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:53 The concept behind Late Checkout
05:07 What makes restaurants successful?
07:29 Washrooms at Eve (details)
09:53 What made Gigi so popular?
13:35 Gathering consumer insights
17:35 What are the operational expenses for a restaurant?
20:42 How much working capital should a restaurant have?
22:26 Funniest customer review
24:32 Festivals' Impact
25:59 Zomato/Swiggy v/s Dine-in
29:28 Unique Restaurant Experiences
32:06 What do you need to open a restaurant?
34:50 Untapped opportunity in hospitality
35:19 What's next for Chrome Hospitality?
36:24 Conclusion
About the show:
Bringing women founders, leaders and experts together to share their experience and business journeys.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Nikita Harisinghani, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/nikitaharisinghani/
https://www.instagram.com/chromehospitality/
Two sisters. One business. Total chaos! Ever wondered what REALLY happens when siblings work together?
In this episode, Hinal sits down with her sister to spill the truth about the ups and downs of running a business together. From exposing each other’s secrets to sharing the real downsides (yes, there are many!), they get honest about what works and what definitely doesn’t!
You can expect:
• Hilarious sibling stories
• Teasing, chaos, and drama
• The surprising story behind this podcast
• Tips for surviving (and thriving) in a family business
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
00:51 How is it working with family?
02:37 The downside of working as a family
03:34 Always discussing business
04:37 Friends questioning the business
05:41 Funniest joke on the business
06:32 Being poles apart helps
07:56 Being overprotective of each other
09:10 Getting married and leaving
10:05 Roles reversed
11:46 Working on the podcast together
15:04 Does this have an expiration date?
16:19 Taking leaves and WFH
18:09 Chaotic Never Have I Ever
22:40 Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Mehek Mehta, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehekmehta12/
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
Bollywood sold us a fairytale, but here’s what love in India actually looks like!
In this episode, Naina opens up about everything, from kundli-obsessed parents to the strangest breakup stories. She also shares practical relationship advice that can actually help you navigate love today.
We talk about first date tips that actually work, spotting red flags early, and whether every relationship really needs to end in marriage. If you’re single, taken, or just here for the drama, you’ll love this one!!
Naina Hiranandani is the co-founder of Sirf Coffee, a global bespoke matchmaking service established in 2010. With over a decade of experience in fostering meaningful connections, her perspectives on modern love have been featured in The Times of India, Mint Lounge, GQ, Vogue India and the Economic Times. Drawing on her background in journalism, Naina combines keen observation with deep empathy to navigate the nuanced world of human relationships.
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
01:02 What is love?
01:57 What is compatibility in love?
07:09 Is the end goal marriage?
11:00 Does kundli play a role in marriage?
13:43 Weird request from clients
16:48 Breakup Stories
20:01 Dating disasters and red flags
21:41 First date tips from a matchmaker
27:23 Modern dating terms
31:49 About Sirf Coffee
35:19 Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Naina Hiranandani, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nainahiranandani/
https://sirfcoffee.com/
It’s a podcast crossover! We’ve got the host of Aleena Dissects on the couch with us.
In this video, Aleena is sharing her top podcasting secrets that have helped her grow her audience. From shooting with Imran Khan, Kalki Koechlin, Orry, Jonty Rhodes and more, to the one episode she chose never to release, Aleena is giving us the full behind-the-scenes.
She also talks about building Social Media Dissects into one of the most-followed marketing platforms, calling out brands without holding back, and why she made the big move to shut her agency and focus completely on podcasting. If you've ever wondered what a podcaster's life is like or how they navigate getting big guests, don't miss this!
Aleena is the founder of Social Media Dissect, a platform that breaks down the best (and worst) of digital campaigns. She’s also the host of Aleena Dissects, a weekly podcast where she sits down with voices from media, marketing, entertainment, and business to curate the sharpest insights and lessons learned!
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
01:24 Two women hosts together
02:00 How to land guests like Orry & Imran Khan?
03:28 How to prepare yourself as a podcaster?
05:51 Shooting with Orry
08:15 Quirks while recording
09:41 Dealing with backlash
12:20 Negative comments on Manav Manglani's episode
14:35 The episode that did not make the cut
16:04 How did Social Media Dissect start?
17:57 How to reach your consumers?
22:28 What helped grow the company?
24:39 Founder Failure
31:39 Rapid Fire
35:20 Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Aleena Dissects, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/aleenadissects/
https://www.instagram.com/socialmediadissect/
How much money does an influencer make?
We got @Aashi Adani on the podcast and made her answer everything! From how much creators make to the messy brand deals that no one talks about, she’s giving us the real tea.☕️
Aashi talks about how she’s built a career through changing trends, algorithm shifts, and the constant pressure to reinvent. Being in the industry for over 11 years now, she speaks on how creators can confidently price their work, build long-term partnerships, and grow a community. Aashi also opens up about the not-so-glamorous side of brand deals falling through and unrealistic expectations, to navigating copycats.
Aashi Adani has been creating content for nearly a decade, starting with blogs and now leading the YouTube & Instagram beauty space with 500K+ followers combined. From honest reviews to trustworthy skincare advice, her audience loves her for keeping it real. She’s also loved by the brands she works with. She was one of 15 creators to represent India at a Garnier Sunscreen launch in Asia. She’s won The Times Power Creator Award in the beauty category.
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
00:47 Introduction
01:40 Aashi's journey
02:36 How has content evolved?
03:41 Red flags for a brand
04:13 First paycheck
06:42 Trend that needs to be banned
07:29 A product to stop your periods??
08:16 Influencers are not doctors
10:08 Funny fan encounters
11:32 How much money do influencers make?
13:17 How do influencers charge for collabs?
15:13 Influencers at Cannes Film Festival
17:46 Deals gone bad
22:59 Collab with Typsy Beauty
25:17 Content getting copied
27:27 Influencer Icks
28:40 Aashi Adani's fans
32:10 What's next for Aashi?
32:29 What we don't know about Aashi
33:29 Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Aashi Adani, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/aashiadani/
https://www.youtube.com/@AashiAdani
Your skin and business plan are about to become so much clearer after this episode!
We sat down with Aakriti and asked her the real questions - WHAT IS SPF and do you need to reapply it so often?? Or are we all just falling for marketing gimmicks🫠
She shares some great tips for clear and healthy skin that don't burn your pocket and are highly effective. It's not all skincare; we also get into the story of building a 100 CR brand in India.
We got into SPF myths, getting listed on Zepto & Blinkit, handling negative reviews, and even how to become an Amazon Choice product. It’s part skin, part strategy, and super fun all the way through.
Aakriti Suri is redefining beauty in India through her two fast-growing consumer brands. She built Gubb, a ₹125 Cr + grooming tools brand, and Happier, an SPF lifestyle brand changing how India thinks about sunscreen. With a focus on holistic beauty, Aakriti is on a mission to build thoughtful, accessible products that empower everyday self-care.
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
00:36 Introduction
00:53 Building a 100 CR company
02:50 Quick Commerce Success
05:40 When should a brand pivot?
07:27 Do you need multiple SKUs to grow?
10:43 How to get listed on Zepto & Blinkit?
14:23 How to make your listings stronger?
16:35 How to become an Amazon Choice product?
19:36 Negative reviews
22:13 Margins while selling online
25:44 Is skincare for men & women different?
29:13 What is SPF?
33:38 How often do you need to apply sunscreen?
38:48 Skincare rapid fire
40:13 Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Aakriti Suri, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aakriti-suri-09345abb/
https://www.gubbworld.com/collections/shop-all
https://www.behappier.com/collections/all
Can travel give you the best memories of your life? We've got double trouble on the mic for this conversation.
Expect PUNbelievable jokes, chaotic energy, and a whole lot of insight into how life experiences can shape you. We sit down with Priyal & Priyanka, the twin duo behind Organised Chaos and discuss everything from travelling across countries, studying on a ship, volunteering at the Syrian Refugee Camp and organising chaos through their venture!
Packed with puns, chaos, and stories that'll leave you laughing, crying, and questioning everything - this conversation is something you shouldn't miss.
Grab some popcorn and enjoy this masala-filled conversation that is sure to lift your mood!
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
00:43 Introducing the "Priya" guests
01:20 Has your friendship survived a trip?
03:47 Studying on a ship (Semester at Sea)
06:54 Bartending, working at Disneyland & Hollister
10:44 ROMO - Relief of Missing Out
16:22 Growing up with grandparents
20:05 Volunteering at the Syrian Refugee Camp
37:10 Sisters working together - possible?
48:53 Chaotic Conclusion
About the show:
For the women’s perspective that has long been missing from the world, we are bringing leaders, experts and professionals to voice their experience and insights!
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Priyanka Shah, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/thisispshah/
https://www.instagram.com/organisedchaos.ind/
Priyal Shah, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/priyal.s23/
https://www.instagram.com/organisedchaos.ind/
From PPEs to creating a community for the medicos - this is the story of Vanshika Kaji, co-founder of Knya!
This episode is all you need if you are looking for the motivation to start something. Vanshika is a co-founder, mompreneur, Forbes 30U30, wife, and so much more. Working through pregnancy and returning to her desk three months after giving birth, Vanshika shares some powerful insights on what it's like to raise twins and build a business. With a supportive husband/co-founder, she has been able to scale Knya and make it the go-to brand for all healthcare professionals in India.
We discuss everything from inventory issues to mom guilt and having your husband as your co-founder!
Vanshika Kaji is the co-founder of Knya, a medical apparel brand. A fourth-generation textile entrepreneur and mompreneur, she’s redefining workwear for healthcare professionals with comfort, function, and style at the core. In this episode, she shares her journey of building a niche brand that's changing how medics show up to work.
About the show:
The FoundHers Podcast, hosted by StartInc, is a podcast for women in business. This is an unfiltered space where women founders and experts share the raw, untold truths of entrepreneurship.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Vanshika Kaji, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanshika-kaji-46054134/
https://knyamed.com/
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/
How can you use AI in business? Is AI going to replace jobs? Is AI only for tech people?
If you've had these questions and more, this episode is for you. We've got an AI expert and consultant who breaks down AI in simple terms and explains how Chatgpt, Gemini, and Perplexity work. From the Ghibli trend to Chatgpt becoming a therapist for people, AI is so much more than we know.
This episode simply explains what is AI, what the difference is between AR, VR, MR and more. If you have been scared to use AI or are worried about how your data gets used, just watch this episode.
Jisha Nenwani Sharma, founder of Vida, is an AI expert who helps businesses turn technology into profit. From leading global AI upskilling at McKinsey to building game-changing tools in fashion and retail, she’s on a mission to make AI practical, powerful, and revenue-driven. She is building her own AI tech model in the fashion world with virtual try-ons to combat the return issue, which is currently valued as a $300 million problem.
About the show:
The FoundHers Podcast, hosted by StartInc, is a podcast for women in business. This is an unfiltered space where women founders and experts share the raw, untold truths of entrepreneurship.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Jisha Nenwani Sharma, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jishasharma/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/stylebyvida/
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/
What if profit wasn’t just about money but about creating social impact?
In Episode #5 of The FoundHers Podcast, we’re discussing the world of social impact. We’re joined by Beverly Louis, who shares how she balances running an NGO and building a thriving social enterprise, all while staying true to her mission.
Beverly saw what many overlook, that people with disabilities (PWD) aren’t limited by their challenges, they’re limited by opportunities. She realised early on that PWD have the skills to do far more than just art or workshop activities. With the right training, they are just as capable as anyone else. This led her to start initiatives that train and place PWD into companies like PVR, INOX, and Lemon Tree Hotels.
For her, the real "profit" isn’t just money, it's seeing these individuals build independent, fulfilling lives through their own strengths.
In this episode, we break down:
→How to price products for a social enterprise
→What "profit" really means in the social impact world
→How NGOs can collaborate with corporations
→Tips on scaling an NGO
If you're a social entrepreneur, run an NGO, or dream of building a venture that makes a difference then this conversation is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.
Beverly Louis is the co-founder of Mann and Karmann, two ventures focused on disability inclusion. For over 20 years, she’s been training and placing people with disabilities into jobs, and now also runs an apparel and accessories brand powered by the very people she’s helped upskill.
About the show:
The FoundHers Podcast, hosted by StartInc, is a podcast for women in business. This is an unfiltered space where women founders and experts share the raw, untold truths of entrepreneurship.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Beverly Louis, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverly-louis-disabilityinclusion/
https://karmann.co.in/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacYp7mGrbsbfEGX5gsIlqFP_gjky5LCxuUQ8L4xLa2NNDw_uJblfka_NiTVsw_aem_P7yWj422iCw2gaIlUZCmcA
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/
Can you build a niche and take over the world? Short answer: Yes. Long answer? This episode.
In Lesson #4 of The FoundHers Podcast, we sit down with Anshita Mehrotra, the girl with curls disrupting the haircare industry. She breaks down what it actually takes to build a beauty brand from the ground up.
From market research to funding to scaling - this episode is a playbook on how she turned a niche problem into a $6.81M+ business.
Here's what we discuss:
· Raising VC money & what really happens post-funding
· Customer behaviour in the beauty industry
· The gritty details behind expansion, sampling & distributors
· Should your brand go full throttle on performance marketing?
It’s curly, it’s clever, and it’s packed with insights!
Anshita Mehrotra, founder of Fix My Curls, turned a personal frustration into a thriving brand, now spanning 11 countries in just 5 years. She saw the gap in affordable curly haircare in India and set out to change that with her brand - Fix My Curls. Fix My Curls is a curly & wavy haircare brand - made to help wavy, curly & coily people embrace their natural hair!
Chapters:
00:00 Preview
00:54 Introduction
1:35 Forbes 30U30
2:49 How to apply for Forbes 30U30?
4:34 Building in a niche
7:27 How to pitch to VC's?
10:52 What happens after funding?
13:18 The biggest loss faced
16:34 Is performance marketing a myth?
21:20 Do customers care about sustainability?
24:21 What do customers value in beauty?
25:43 The new influencer: EGC
28:04 How does Q-comm help D2C brands?
31:19 How to scale your business?
34:11 Rapid Fire
36:50 Conclusion
About the show:
The FoundHers Podcast, hosted by StartInc, is a podcast for women in business. This is an unfiltered space where women founders and experts share the raw, untold truths of entrepreneurship.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/posts/?feedView=all
Anshita Mehrohtra, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/anshiq/
https://fixmycurls.com/
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/
What’s the secret to scaling a brand—sales, marketing, or partnerships?
In Lesson #3 of The FoundHers Podcast, we sit down with two absolute pros who’ve worked on partnerships with Shah Rukh Khan, Zomato, CRED, and more. From Indigo X Mokobara to the Barbie movie’s marketing genius, we discuss what exactly makes a collaboration a success.
This episode covers:
About our Guests:
Vishakha Acharya, founder of Partner Pod, is a partnerships expert who has worked with brands like CRED, Zomato, and Epigamia to drive growth through strategic collaborations. With a decade of experience, she knows how to turn connections into impact.
Bhavna Jeswani is the co-founder of Rock Paper Rum, India’s homegrown craft rum brand that recently made waves on Shark Tank India. With 17 years of experience in Media & Entertainment marketing, she has worked with some of the industry's biggest names, including Red Chillies Entertainment, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Junglee Pictures. Now, alongside her husband Lalit Kalani, she is on a mission to put Rock Paper Rum on the global spirits map, redefining India’s rum culture with innovation and storytelling.
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
https://startinc.in/podcast/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
StartInc
https://www.instagram.com/startinc.in/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/startinc/
Vishkha Acharya, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishakha-acharya/
Bhavna Jeswani, Guest
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhavna-jeswani-445a369/
https://www.instagram.com/rockpaperrum/
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/
What if your packaging could do the selling for you?
Your product might be great, but if your packaging doesn’t stand out - you’re losing sales.
In Lesson #2 of The FoundHers Podcast, we sit down with Briana Chandiramani, co-founder of GoToCo. She breaks down what makes packaging design powerful. She shares how a simple redesign helped Diaspora Co. 10x their sales and why Gen Z prefers subtle designs over loud, flashy ones. We also chat about the viral Milk X Sephora experiential packaging that took over the internet.
We’re also answering the big questions no one explains - What is KLD? Why do small packaging orders cost more? How do you balance aesthetics with function? And we’re taking notes from brands like Chanel, Gisou, and Whole Truth Foods, who know how to make packaging unforgettable.
Briana Chandiramani is redefining packaging with her brand, GoToCo. Built alongside her mother, GoToCo has collaborated with industry-leading brands like 82°E, Kylie Cosmetics, Milk, and Diaspora. With a passion for branding and an eye for design, Briana has turned her love for aesthetically driven packaging into a thriving and creative business.
About the show:
The FoundHers Podcast, hosted by StartInc, is a podcast for women in business. This is an unfiltered space where women founders and experts share the raw, untold truths of entrepreneurship.
https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
Hinal Mehta, Host
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
Briana Chandiramani, Guest
https://www.instagram.com/brianachandiramaniii/
https://www.instagram.com/thegotoco/
Gifting Partner for Season 2:
Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair
Can you build a personal brand without turning your entire life into content? Or are we all just caught in an endless cycle of oversharing, chasing trends, and competing with celebrity brands?
Lesson #1 is all about The Business of Being Seen - what it really takes to stand out as a founder. We’re breaking down the real cost of personal branding—the time, money, and mental energy it demands. What does it take to build a brand that actually connects with people, beyond just LinkedIn marketing and viral trends? And for women founders, navigating negative comments isn’t just frustrating—it’s part of the game. So how do you handle it and still show up?
We’re taking notes from Masaba Gupta, Pooja Dhingra, Ragini Das, and Parul Gulati, who’ve mastered the game. From how to build a personal brand to steps to branding your business, this episode is your guide to making an impact, without losing yourself in the process.
Our guest, Komal Ramani-Makhija is a Brand Strategist helping founders craft their legacy brand. As the Founder of PROJEKT, she specializes in Brand Strategy, Logo Design, Brand Identity & Packaging. In the past two years, she has built a strong personal brand and engaged community of 15,000+ followers on LinkedIn. When she’s not building brands, she’s exploring new coffee spots to unwind and read.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefoundherspodcast_/
Hinal Mehta, Host: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hinalmehta15/
Gifting Partner for this season: Harkoi - A beauty brand solving problems for Indian skin & hair https://www.instagram.com/harkoi_life/