Episódios
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Can ambition be sustainable? Can AI scale without consequence?
In this powerful episode of the xMonks Drive Podcast, host Gaurav Arora sits down with Gaurav Singh, founder of Verloop, for an unfiltered conversation on building in the age of AI.
From growing up in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, to coding at 10, launching his first projects by 13, and now leading one of India’s most ambitious AI startups, Gaurav shares what most founders won’t:
🔥 Why fundraising is easier than building
💥 Why he stopped seeking validation early
🧠 The cost of obsession—and what “9 to 5” can’t give you
🌍 The hidden environmental impact of artificial intelligence
🚀 How to build a real company in a world chasing hype00:00 - Fundraising vs Building a Startup
00:25 - From Rewa to Building an AI Company
01:30 - Small-Town Childhood & Memories
03:40 - Discovering Coding at Age 10
06:30 - Making Projects by 13 & Early Hustle
08:20 - Freelancing in College & Startup Spirit
10:50 - StockNinja: First Attempt & Lessons
13:10 - Stopping Validation-Seeking
15:25 - Leveraging College Infrastructure
17:25 - Deep Friendships & Focus
18:50 - IITs, Networks & Reality Check
20:00 - BPO Lessons Spark AI Vision
22:25 - Startup Glamour vs Reality
24:00 - Building a Generational Company
26:00 - Naivety & Landing Nykaa
28:45 - Support Systems & Personal Struggles
31:20 - Global Tech Culture Differences
34:30 - US vs India vs UAE: Mindset Differences
37:50 - Work-Life Balance Myth?
41:30 - AI’s Future: Intelligence On Demand
44:30 - Passion, Purpose & Inner Drive
47:00 - Work vs Life vs Passion Debate
50:00 - Redefining Education, Experience & Value
53:00 - Imagination Economy & Job Displacement
56:00 - Building with Focus & Tiny Iterations
59:00 - Climate, Energy & Startup Choices
01:02:00 - Future of Value: What Will Be Premium?
01:05:00 - Physical Health, Supplements & Optimization
01:08:00 - A Day in Gaurav’s Life: Routines & Reflections
01:10:30 - Closing Thoughts: Note-taking & Reflection
01:11:00 - Outro & Thank You
Whether you’re a tech founder, builder, or just curious about the future of work and AI, this episode will challenge how you think about ambition, identity, and what it really means to create something meaningful.
🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
What does it mean to give forward?
In this deeply reflective episode of xMonks Drive, Govind Iyer—Independent Director at Infosys, Chairperson of Social Venture Partners India, and board member at Give India and Karmayogi Bharat—joins Gaurav Arora for a conversation that bridges corporate clarity with soulful leadership.
Govind shares the philosophy that guides his life today: don’t give back… give forward. Together, they explore the culture of leadership without hierarchy, the power of authentic relationships, and what it truly means to lead with love.
From his early days at Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, to 23 years at Egon Zehnder, to pledging half his wealth toward social impact, Govind opens up about the choices, mentors, and moments that have shaped him.
This episode is an invitation—to slow down, reflect, and reimagine the relationship between success and service.
⏱️ Episode Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
02:10 – Govind’s farewell story
04:20 – Early family influences
06:00 – A turning point at Mobius
07:45 – “Give forward” vs. “give back”
09:00 – Staying 23 years at Egon Zehnder
12:30 – A firm with no bosses or competition
15:45 – Fulfillment vs. performance
20:00 – Leadership culture at Unilever, McKinsey, and Teach For India
21:15 – What fulfilled leaders have in common
23:00 – Learning calmness from Nithya Shanti
24:45 – Why CEOs fail: EQ over IQ
26:30 – Shrinking CEO tenures
29:30 – Integration in work and life
30:30 – Shifting from corporate to social sector
33:00 – The discipline of deep listening
35:30 – Lessons from early philanthropic mistakes
40:30 – What Govind is learning from Gen Z
41:30 – Why SVP India feels different
43:00 – Philanthropy as leadership development
45:00 – Capacity vs. capability in NGOs
47:00 – The value of time over money
48:20 – Final reflections on presence and love🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
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Why did a Greek psychology professor surrender to a Hindu guru?
Watch as Dino Petridis, a London-based academic, shares his incredible spiritual journey—from academia to devotion! He reveals how he found Bhagwan Nithyananda, why he never wavered despite controversy, and what made him leave Western logic behind for deep faith. This is not just a story—it’s a transformation!
🔥 Topics Covered:
✔️ Greek professor becomes Hindu devotee
✔️ Finding a spiritual guru in India
✔️ Nithyananda controversy: His response
✔️ Hinduism vs. Western spirituality
✔️ Overcoming ego & surrendering🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Breaking Barriers: Shalini Singh on Thriving in a Male-Dominated Industry
Shalini Singh, Chief of Corporate Communications & Sustainability at Tata Power, is a force of impact and innovation. From leading award-winning initiatives like Club Enerji and Greenolution to earning a board seat at just 40, she has paved the way for change.
In this conversation, she shares her journey of working in a male-dominated industry, the doubts she faced, and how listening became her biggest strength. A TEDx speaker and passionate sustainability advocate, she continues to drive real change—one initiative at a time.
🔔 Watch now for insights on leadership, resilience, and breaking barriers! #ShaliniSingh #Leadership #Sustainability #WomenInPower🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Is our life written in the stars, or do we have the power to change it? In this episode of xMonks Drive, Gaurav Arora sits down with astrologer Dr. Sundeep Kochar to explore the age-old debate between destiny and free will—with a fresh, modern perspective.
They dive into:
🌟 What astrology really is (beyond the daily horoscopes)
🌟 Do planetary positions actually influence your thoughts and decisions?
🌟 The fine line between destiny and the choices we make
🌟 Why some people thrive in one job but struggle in another
🌟 The cosmic tug-of-war between illusion (Rahu) and detachment (Ketu)Sundeep shares incredible real-life stories—like how astrology once surprised a BBC anchor live on air—and breaks down how understanding your timeline can help you navigate life’s big decisions. Whether you’re a firm believer, a skeptic, or just curious, this conversation is packed with mind-expanding insights that might just change the way you see your own journey.
Hit play, and let’s explore the magic (and science) of the universe! 🎧
🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
In this powerful episode of The xMonks Drive, Gaurav Arora sits down with Neeraj Yadav, a celebrated para-athlete known for his resilience and extraordinary achievements. Neeraj shares his journey from facing paralysis to winning gold medals on the global stage, the pride of representing India, and the pain of being accused of doping despite his innocence.
He discusses how faith in Bajrang Bali and support from loved ones kept him strong through moments of doubt. Neeraj’s vow to return stronger and win another gold medal is a testament to his indomitable spirit.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation about courage, hope, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
From a Small Town to Breaking Barriers in the Auto Industry!
What does it take for a woman to thrive in a male-dominated industry? Meet Muskan, an entrepreneur who went from being doubted to leading one of India's most trusted car servicing brands.
In this episode of the xMonks Drive, Muskan shares:
- Her journey from a small town in Punjab to the auto industry
- The biases she faced in investor meetings & boardrooms
- Balancing motherhood & leadership in a high-pressure field
- Why hard work is the ultimate game-changer
She was once asked if she’d return to work after having twins. Years later, she asked her boss the same question! Now that’s what breaking stereotypes looks like.
🎙️ Listen now & get inspired!🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
The Gen. Bali saga continues.
In Part II of our podcast with Maj. Gen. Neeraj Bali, we take a deeper dive into the lessons corporates can draw from the Indian army.
Gen. Bali spills his thoughts on Ukraine, Palestine, and the geopolitical scenario of the world.
Watch the entire episode, it’s a bucket full of stories, inspiration, and moments that changed the course of history.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
I drew a lot of inspiration from the Indian Army growing up. They were my real-life heroes.
When I got the opportunity to interview Maj. Gen Neeraj Bali on the xMonks Drive podcast, it was like traveling an entire circle of life.
The episode is filled with everything you can imagine and more, from the triumphs of Kargil to the glorious life of Sam Manekshaw.
This is an episode packed with insights that can be drawn from the Indian army and how those can be incorporated into our lives.
Listen to the entire episode, it is worth every second invested.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Yes, we finally have him here.
This is indeed one of the most special episodes we have shot on the xMonks Drive, because today we have a guest known to most of us, a personality that has captivated millions of people online making them financially sound.
If you haven't guessed already it's none other than Mr. Ankur Warikoo,
The idea behind this episode was not just to bring Ankur to the camera and ask questions about finance or his life as an influencer, but to peep inside the the human side of this flamboyant, aspirational personality that everyone desires.
So tune in until the very end because this episode is full of value, entertainment, and crores and crores.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Passing the civil services exam is one of the most esteemed achievements in our country, a true testament to dedication and excellence.
This week on The xMonks Drive podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Vivek Srivastava, an IPS officer whose remarkable career spans over two decades of service to the nation.
Some stories don’t just inspire, they captivate. Vivek’s journey is one such tale. From serving under three prime ministers, including Mr. Narendra Modi, to facing life-or-death challenges in the line of duty, his experiences are nothing short of extraordinary.
In this riveting episode, Vivek shares his firsthand accounts of pivotal moments in India’s history, from navigating the chaos of the Babri Masjid riots to orchestrating the high-stakes arrest of Yaseen Bhatkal. It’s a story filled with courage, drama, and an unshakable commitment to justice.
Tune in for a conversation that’s as inspiring as it is thrilling.
Don’t miss it, this is a story you’ll remember.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
What happens when the title on your business card no longer defines you?
In this riveting episode, Amit Malik invites us to reflect on the essence of identity and success beyond accolades and job roles. From the exhilarating highs of being a CEO to the humbling process of rediscovery, Amit's journey is as relatable as it is inspiring.
He also explores the magic of inclusive growth, turning generational diversity into strength and building cultures where everyone thrives, from the cha-cha of the sixties to today’s Swifties.
Packed with insights and inspiration, this episode will challenge you to rethink what truly matters.
Tune in!🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
What if life was simply a summary of your experiences?
In this heartfelt conversation, Gaurav and Anupam take you on a journey filled with life’s profound truths, leadership lessons, and the beauty of embracing uncertainty.
From navigating the highs and lows of life to scaling a company from scratch, Anupam shares his real and raw story—complete with moments of doubt, imposter syndrome, and ultimately, growth.
Here’s what you can look forward to:
🔸 How impermanence shapes our greatest joys and struggles.
🔸 The incredible journey of being the first CEO of Ventura—and the unexpected challenges that came with it.
🔸 Why unlearning is just as important as learning in today’s fast-changing world.
🔸 The secret to being a great leader (hint: it starts with being human).
🔸 And the magic of childlike wonder and the glorious uncertainty of tomorrow.
This isn’t just about leadership or success—it’s about being human, evolving, and finding meaning in the unexpected.
So, grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for an inspiring ride. This episode is packed with stories, insights, and reflections that might just change how you see your own journey.
What resonates most with you? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
What does it take to walk away from a successful global business and dive into a world of startups and impact-driven ventures? In this episode of The xMonks Drive, I had the privilege of sitting down with Srini Vitoba, a man whose journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Srini opened up about why he left behind a listed company to follow his inner calling, the bold decisions he made as an entrepreneur, and his advice for anyone building their dream. We dug deep into:
👉 Why he believes you should never chase money (this hit hard!)
👉 His controversial take on Shark Tank—he’s not a fan, and wait till you hear why.
👉 The million-dollar advice every entrepreneur needs: “Never dilute your equity for working capital!”
👉 How startups can overcome the struggle to scale with the right mentorship.
👉 The incredible vision behind his latest venture, Jiva.Srini’s insights are raw, practical, and straight from the heart. Plus, his passion for creating meaningful impact left me inspired and hopeful.
What resonated most with you? Is it the advice on equity, his take on startups, or his bold vision for Jeeva? Let me know in the comments below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
🌟 Hit play and join us on this thought-provoking journey.
Trust me, you don’t want to miss this one!🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
India is fast becoming the diabetes capital of the world and the concern is on a red alert now.
This episode of the xMonks drive is primarily based around raising awareness for the same.
We have with us Dr. Jasjeet Wasir who is the Director of Endocrinology and Diabetology in the world-renowned Mendanta.
Join us in this educational dialogue and learn from the very best Dr. Jasjeet Wasir about the how’s and why’s of Diabetes.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Between Triumph and Turmoil: The Corporate Journey of a True Believer
In this episode of the xMonks Drive podcast, Rajeev Dubey opens up about the extraordinary highs and devastating lows of his corporate journey.
From devoting his career to Tata for nearly three decades, to his unexpected resignation as Managing Director of Rallis India, he shares how life threw him a curveball at the pinnacle of his career, thrusting him into uncertainty.But there’s much more to Rajeev’s story than the corporate ladder. Guided by principles of Satya (Truth), Prem (Love), and Seva (Service), he reflects on the forces that held him together during trying times—and what kept him grounded in the corporate world.
From the brink of giving it all up, Rajeev reemerged, inspired by an unforgettable mentor: Anand Mahindra. Described as a rare blend of “head, heart, and soul,” Mahindra became a north star in Rajeev’s path, embodying authenticity and trust in every aspect of leadership.Join us for this inspiring conversation as Rajeev reveals his journey of transformation: learning self-acceptance, facing the feeling of inadequacy, and ultimately embracing life after retirement.
This episode is a deep dive into what it means to pursue success while staying true to oneself, featuring reflections that will resonate with anyone navigating their own career, purpose, or journey of self-discovery.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
5 people sharing a room to living in multi-million mansions.
This episode of the xMonks Drive is special, it features the one and only Sunil Tulsiani, a real estate mogul, a bestselling author, a former detective, and a mentor to many.
Join us, as we dig deeper into an exciting, emotional, and most importantly inspirational journey of a man who refused to give up, a man who envisioned his goal and chased it until glory.
Listen till the very end, because Sunil is on a pursuit to make 100 more millionaires walk the planet.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
We all know about Srikanth Bolla and his chronicles.
This episode of the xMonks Drive features the man behind Srikanth Bolla's success.
Ravi Gundlapalli.
In this conversation, Ravi reflects on the importance of mentorship and his mission to build Mentorcloud, a platform that fosters meaningful, borderless connections.
He emphasizes the impact of a strong support system. He challenges the myth of the "self-made" entrepreneur and highlights the silent, inner strength of successful leaders.
Tune in to hear Ravi’s inspiring insights on leadership, mentorship, and investing time in what truly matters.🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
250₹ in his pocket and a life going nowhere.
Ankit Jhamb has been a dear friend and one of the most hardworking hustling humans I know.
This episode of The xMonks Drive is about the journey of a guy who stood tall at his worst, the result?
Join me in this intimate conversation with Ankit as he unfolds chapters of his life that are worth taking note of.
Hope you stick till the very end!🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com -
Imagine being on the battlefield on 26/11.
This episode of the xMonks Drive is about decisions, decisions that can make or break what is ahead of us.
Featuring, Former Intelligence Officer Prabhakar Aloka this episode is a gold mine of experiences that are beyond our constricted imagination.
Prabhakar takes us back to the dark night, of 26/11, and shares a piece of information still unheard of.
Want to know what happens next? Join us and find out🔗 Connect with us:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gauravaroragrv
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspirewithgrv
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7vdhTjZlhltIt4e9YiBgMF?si=92853a15e3584866
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-xmonks-drive/id1549886334
Website: https://xmonks.com - Mostrar mais
