Start-Up Environment
October 24, 2025

Building a Start-up Based on Delivering Value | with Ashok Rajan

In this episode of the 1% Edge Podcast, Carlos Nouche and Ashok Rajan discuss the importance of building a startup focused on delivering value rather than just technology.
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In this episode of the 1% Edge Podcast, Carlos Nouche and Ashok Rajan discuss the importance of building a startup focused on delivering value rather than just technology. They explore the significance of understanding ROI from the customer's perspective, navigating the committee buying process, and the challenges founders face in balancing their passion for technology with the need to address customer pain points. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in modern startups and the necessity of purposeful data solutions to drive value creation.

Takeaways

  • The best companies focus on outcomes and value delivery.
  • Understanding ROI is crucial for both buyers and sellers.
  • Buying decisions are often made by committees with diverse perspectives.
  • Founders must balance their passion for technology with customer needs.
  • Identifying intense customer pain points is key to value creation.
  • Cultural knowledge about value should permeate the organization.
  • Listening to customers is essential for product development.
  • AI is transforming how startups operate and deliver value.
  • Purposeful data is critical for effective AI solutions.
  • Preparation is vital for successful sales interactions.

Titles

  • Building a Value-Centric Startup
  • Understanding ROI in Business

Sound Bites

  • "What's my ROI?"
  • "You need to know your ICP."
  • "Garbage in, garbage out."

Chapters

[00:00] The Value-Centric Startup Approach

[03:01] Understanding ROI and Buyer Perspectives

[05:45] Navigating the Buying Committee Dynamics

[09:11] The Founder’s Dilemma: Tech vs. Value

[11:48] Identifying Pain Points and Customer Needs

[14:59] Cultural Knowledge and Value Creation

[17:58] The Importance of Listening to Customers

[21:04] AI's Role in Modern Startups

[23:47] Building Purposeful Data for AI

[26:50] Ashok's Journey and Current Endeavors

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