Have you ever thought that a failed startup could be the stepping stone to building a billion-dollar business? Such is the story of Spencer Skates, who built a $1.4 billion product analytics company called Amplitude — and that too after his first company failed.
His journey is not just the story of an AI product or a tech startup , but a roadmap that every aspiring founder can learn from.
The Startup Failed… And That’s Where the Billion Dollar Idea Came From!
Spencer had previously built a voice-to-text startup called Sonalight, which failed. But during this time he noticed that he was not able to understand his users properly. And this is where he got the idea of Amplitude , an analytics tool that tells how the user is using your product and where there is a disconnect.
Listen to the Customer First
Spencer says, “Founders are often busy with the product, but forget the real thing, which is listening to the customers.” Early feedback gave him the right direction. His mantra was:
“First ask what the user wants, then make the product — not the other way around.”
Charge Users from The First Day
Spencer quickly realized the importance of charging for his product from the beginning. “The first paying customer is the biggest validation ,” he said. Many founders are afraid of pricing, but early monetization played a big role in Amplitude’s success.
How to Get Ahead of Your Competitors?
The product analytics market was already crowded — big names like Mixpanel, Google Analytics were already there. But Amplitude focused on deeper user insights and product-led growth. The result? Slowly, they created their own identity.
Preserving Culture While Scaling Is the Biggest Challenge
As a company expands, one of the hardest challenges is keeping its internal culture intact. Spencer explained how he created leadership processes so that whether the team is small or large – both value and execution remain consistent. Moving out of the startup matrix and creating a sustainable company is a big transition in itself.
Don’t be afraid to fail , but learn from it and pivot.
Before developing an AI feature or product, understand the user’s need.
There is no better teacher than early feedback.
Think monetization from day one , the free model is not always scalable.
From startup to scale , it is important to take the team and culture along.
How I Built A $1.4B Software Giant Called AmplitudeㅣSpenser Skates, Amplitude
In this fascinating interview, Dr. Rahul Jandial—a brain surgeon and neuroscientist—slips into the mysterious world of dreams. He explains the science behind why we dream, what dreams mean, and how they impact our emotions and thinking. The discussion covers everything from why we have nightmares to the phenomenon of lucid dreaming and even practical ways to remember our dreams better. Dr. Jandial also explores how dreams could be used for therapy and gives tips on how to tap into their potential benefits.
What Dreams Are:Dreams are a vivid mental state where our brains process emotions and experiences. They occupy about one-third of our lives, creating a unique state of consciousness that’s different from when we’re awake.
Why We Have Nightmares:Although they seem scary, nightmares help us deal with fears and anxieties. They’re especially common in children and play a role in their emotional growth.
Lucid Dreaming:Lucid dreaming happens when a person realizes they’re dreaming and can control parts of the dream. During lucid dreams, brain activity shows that people can make conscious decisions, unlike in regular dreams.
Remembering Dreams:Techniques like focusing on how you fall asleep and wake up can help you remember dreams better. Writing in a journal right after waking up also helps capture what happened in the dream.
Dreams Reflect Daily Life:Dreams often reflect the stresses and situations we face in real life, giving us a space to process emotions or solve problems creatively. They can reveal hidden fears or desires, helping us understand our subconscious better.
The Dream Expert: What Your Dreams Are Trying to Tell You | Dr. Rahul Jandial
Nowadays listening to podcasts is not just a trend; it has become a smart life hack. Whether you are travelling or want to relax a bit before going to sleep – just put on earphones and connect with the best things in the world.
Here are 7 reasons that will make you start listening to podcasts today!
1. Podcasts – Your New Friends!
The best part about podcasts is that you can listen to them anywhere, anytime – while driving, cleaning the house or just making an excuse to go to the gym. They are available for free everywhere – on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or SoundCloud.
2. Become Smart Without Studying!
Podcasts give you the knowledge that is usually found in books, but without reading! By listening to experts, you can become the smartest person in the room – and no one will even know.
Podcasts are not boring. The most interesting part of them is their storytelling . Real life stories, crime thrillers or startup journeys – whatever it is, they stay in the mind.
Like The Moth – where people share their true stories, which will make you emotional as well as inspired.
4. You Form Your Own Podcast Family
Podcasts aren’t just something to listen to – they create a mini community. People discuss episodes, share reels and connect over common interests.
In mental health podcasts, supportive communities are often formed that understand each other.
5. A New Way of Looking at the World
Podcasts introduce you to voices and ideas you might not encounter in your daily life. Shows like Code Switch make you think about race, identity, and social dynamics in new ways.
6. Podcasts = Brain Relaxation
In a stressful world, listening to podcasts works like a brain massage. Studies say that they help reduce anxiety.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-white-shirt-using-silver-macbook-3794188/
7. Podcast Hosts Are Like Your Friends
When you listen to a podcast regularly, you develop a connection with the host – it’s like they’re speaking to you. Hosts like Brené Brown or Tim Ferriss talk so real that it feels like a friend is telling your story.
Why Podcasts are the New Age Super Hack
Podcasts are the most underrated tool of today – learn, understand, think and connect – all while multitasking! So the next time you are bored at work, just put on your headphones and press play – podcasts are ready to add value to your life!
In this DOAC podcast, Jessie Inchauspé (Glucose Goddess) talks about how it affects everything from aging to weight loss and even chronic diseases. She gives you easy-to-follow tips and tricks for eating right and living a healthier life. You’ll be surprised to learn how much sugar is hiding in everyday foods and how it can mess with your body. It’s like a secret weapon for feeling better and looking great!
Abhijit Chavda is a theoretical physicist, historian, geopolitical analyst, writer, and podcaster. He’s good at explaining complicated things in a way that’s easy to understand. People like his thoughts because he’s brilliant and has strong opinions. His YouTube channel and podcasts have gained substantial traction due to his deep analysis of India’s geopolitical stance, world history, and cutting-edge science. Known for his critical thinking, Chavda has emerged as a key influencer in India, using his platforms to discuss everything from ancient Indian history to contemporary global strategies.
1. Mysteries Of The Universe: Broken Down By Science | Abhijit Chavda | The Ranveer Show
This is one of the most engaging episodes of ‘The Ranveer Show’ I’ve ever heard. Abhijit Chavda joined Ranveer for a fascinating discussion on a wide range of topics, including planets, galaxies, aliens, and the mysteries of the cosmos.
Some key points from the podcast:
The future of humanity: Abhijit talks about how humans might live on other planets one day and the difficulties we would face to make that happen.
Dark matter: Abhijit explains what dark matter is and how we know it’s real. He also talks about the problems scientists have in trying to detect and study dark matter.
The origins of the universe: He discusses the Big Bang theory and the evidence that supports it. He also looks into the idea that there could be many universes, not just ours.
Life from outer space: They talk about the Drake equation, which helps predict how likely it is that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe. He also discusses how hard it is to search for life beyond Earth.
Mysteries Of The Universe – Broken Down By Science | Abhijit Chavda | The Ranveer Show
2. Mind-Bending Indian History – Secrets Never Heard Before | Surya Roy on Abhijit Chavda Podcast 65
Surya Roy is a dedicated researcher and conservationist who studies the history and culture of various regions in India. He is passionate about preserving ancient manuscripts and archaeological sites. As a member of INTACH and ICOMOS, he works to protect India’s heritage. He has also been appointed as the Director of North India Operations for IHAR, an organization that supports Indian heritage research and provides scholarships to students.
Mind-Bending Indian History – Secrets Never Heard Before | Surya Roy on Abhijit Chavda Podcast 65
3. GRAVE WARNING to India: Prepare For WAR with Neighbours
Vinamre Kasanaa, a writer and content creator with a background in advertising and religion from Boston University, has built a respected conversation network in India. Known for his thorough research, he recently hosted Abhijit on his podcast, where they discussed various complex geopolitical topics. They covered the political situation in Bangladesh, including America’s influence and its relationship with India, the challenges faced by Narendra Modi, and India’s potential expansionist role. They also jumped to global issues such as the Israel-Palestine conflict, Iran’s involvement, and the influence of the US on various countries like Japan and South America.
Some key points from the podcast:
The situation in Bangladesh: Who is orchestrating the coup there?
Is the US secretly targeting India, and is this the toughest phase for Modi?
The Israel-Palestine conflict: What is Iran’s role in it?
Is Japan under US control?
Trump’s assassination: Will Trump or Kamala Harris be the next president?
The true nature of NATO, the EU, and global sovereignty.
GRAVE WARNING to India: Prepare For WAR with Neighbors
4. Israel-Iran and World War 3 with Geopolitics Expert Abhijit Chavda
Prakhar Gupta, who’s always got something interesting to say as a YouTuber, podcaster, and author, had a super intense chat with Abhijit on his latest podcast. They got into the scary possibility of World War III and how things are heating up between countries like the US, China, Russia, and Iran. Honestly, it sounds like we’re closer to a major conflict than we’d like to think. They also talked about how wars aren’t even fought the same way anymore—now it’s all about drones and AI taking over the battlefield. Pretty wild stuff!
Some key points from the podcast:
The role of India: India is playing a more active role in global affairs, but its sovereignty is still limited by its dependence on other countries.
Rising tensions: The world is experiencing a number of geopolitical flashpoints, including the war in Ukraine, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the tensions between China and Taiwan.
Changing nature of warfare: Warfare is becoming increasingly sophisticated, with the use of drones, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies.
Geopolitical power dynamics: The balance of power between major nations is shifting, with China and Russia becoming more assertive on the world stage.
Israel-Iran and World War 3 with Geopolitics Expert Abhijit Chavda
5. Abhijit Chavda on Science VS. Religion | God & Mysteries of Universe | Gaurav Thakur Show
In this super interesting podcast, Gaurav Thakur sits down with Abhijit, and they travel into some seriously mind-blowing stuff like dark matter, quantum mechanics, and even whether consciousness is a real thing. The cool part? Chavda explains it all in a way that makes sense, mixing science with some deep philosophical takes. It’s one of those conversations that’ll leave you thinking long after it’s over!
Some key points from the podcast:
The weirdness of quantum mechanics: Chavda explains why it’s so hard to grasp the quantum world, where particles can be in two places at once!
Science and religion: He explores how science and religion can coexist, arguing that a deep understanding of both is crucial.
The mysteries of the mind: Chavda discusses the nature of consciousness and whether we could ever create artificial minds.
Our future in space: He talks about the exciting possibilities of space exploration and the mind-boggling concept of Dyson spheres.
If you’re curious about the universe and the big questions of life, this podcast is a must-listen!
Abhijit Chavda on Science VS. Religion | God & Mysteries of Universe | Gaurav Thakur Show
Abhijit Chavda’s podcasts are a goldmine when it comes to breaking down big topics like global issues, history, science, and geopolitics. He has this amazing way of taking complicated stuff and making it super easy to understand, so whether you’re into history, science, or just curious about what’s going on in the world, these six episodes are a must-listen.
We curated this amazing podcast to share an inspirational story with all of you about Sabeer Bhatia, the co-founder of Hotmail, COO of Biscuit Labs, and co-founder of ShowReel. With his incredible knowledge of the global market, business building, and entrepreneurship, Sabeer discusses his journey in Silicon Valley, including how he came up with the idea and name for Hotmail, built the company, raised funds from VCs, and eventually sold Hotmail to Microsoft for an estimated $400 million. In this episode, he also pointed out TikTok’s impact on kids in the US, his meeting with Bill Gates, what he did with the money from Hotmail’s sale, and his life realizations.
If you want to make 2025 your best year, then just making a resolution is not enough – you have to take action, and that too in the right direction! Here we have brought 5 such powerful TED Talks, which will inspire you, change your thinking, and bring out the best version hidden inside you.
1. Sheryl Lee Ralph: Learn to Trust Yourself – in 3 Easy Steps!
From Broadway to TV, Sheryl‘s journey is full of inspiration. In this energetic talk, she tells how she learned to believe in herself while fighting self-doubt. Want self-confidence? Then this talk is for you.
2. Krista Tippett: 3 Ways to Understand Life More Deeply
On Being Podcast host Krista explains what it means to be human in today’s world. She shares 3 practices that will strengthen both your mindset and your connections.Watch this talk full of wisdom and humanity.
3. Emmanuel Acho: Forget the Goals, Real Growth Is Here!
Ex-NFL player Emmanuel says that just setting goals is not enough. He tells us what we should focus on if we really want to excel. This talk that breaks the goal setting myth will force you to think from a new perspective.
4. Wendy Suzuki: Make Anxiety Your Superpower!
Are you troubled by anxiety? Neuroscientist Wendy Suzuki has a practical solution for this. Small habits like breathing and movement can not only help you stay busy, but can also increase your creativity and productivity.
5. Dr. Becky Kennedy: The Most Important Thing in Parenting Is Connection
Anger is normal in parenting, but how to deal with guilt? Dr. Becky teaches you how to rebuild a strong bond with your children—and this applies to every relationship. Need parenting hacks? Don’t miss this talk.
These TED Talks have everything you need—confidence, clarity, compassion, and control. Want to make 2025 your transformation year? Start listening to these amazing talks today. Put on your headphones, absorb the inspiration, and become the best version of yourself!
Nowadays, one question definitely comes to everyone’s mind – should we read books or listen to podcasts? Some people say that listening to podcasts is just a time pass, while some believe that reading books has become outdated and boring. But which one is more beneficial? Which method can change your thinking and bring a real difference in your life? Let’s find out who is the real winner in this battle of books vs podcasts , and who will give you more knowledge, clarity and motivation!
Benefits of Reading a Book
1. Increases Mental Stimulation
When you read a good book, your mind becomes active and your way of thinking becomes more positive. There is an old saying, “If you are confused, open a book” and it still rings true today.
2. Knowledge Increases
Books can make you an expert on any topic. By reading each chapter, you improve your vocabulary, and gradually your thinking becomes sharp. Communication skills also improve and people start giving importance to your opinion.
3. Memory Becomes Faster
Connecting stories and ideas in books strengthens your brain. Memory becomes sharper, and you start remembering things quickly.
4. Helps in Analytical Thinking
Reading polishes your critical thinking skills. By knowing different perspectives, you can understand anything deeply and can speak more confidently on any topic.
5. Concentration Improves
When you immerse yourself in an interesting book, your focus automatically increases. This practice later helps you in increasing concentration in the rest of your life as well.
Benefits of Listening to Podcasts
1. Accessible From Anywhere
Podcasts can be listened to at any time – while travelling, in the gym or even in between office tasks. It is the best option for multitasking! Simply plug in your earphones and dive into expert conversations. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet village, podcasts have become a go-to choice for listeners everywhere these days. Apps like Spotify also recommend podcasts according to the mood.
2. Listening Skills Improve
Listening to podcasts also strengthens your listening ability. When you learn to listen carefully, you are able to understand what others say better and are also able to give better answers yourself.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-sitting-on-couch-3768158
4. Expert Knowledge, That Too for Free!
Podcasts give you the experience and real insights of top experts — all without paying a dime. Business podcasts, motivational shows, or tech interviews , all in one click!
5. Community Feeling
Listening to podcasts makes you feel like you are part of a special community. People with the same interests connect, discuss, and become part of a shared journey.
6. Help in Personal Growth
Podcasts expand your horizons. New ideas, different perspectives, and deep topics — all of these can take your self-growth to the next level.
At Last
To be honest… both are great! Books are great if you have the time and want to dive deep. But if you want to learn on-the-go, podcasts are the modern solution, so why not combine the two? Books will provide depth and podcasts will boost daily learning. Win-win situation!
In this podcast, Ranveer engages in a conversation with Arunabh Kumar, the Founder of The Viral Fever (TVF). Arunabh is an Indian entrepreneur, producer, director, screenwriter, and actor, best known for his role as Yogi in TVF Pitchers. He began his career by working with Farah Khan and Shah Rukh Khan in the film “Om Shanti Om.”
Arunabh Kumar: TVF’s Founders UNTOLD Success Story | The Ranveer Show
