Innside Scoop with Anant Kumar

Anant Kumar
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Innside Scoop is the ULTIMATE podcast for hospitality enthusiasts, aspiring hoteliers, and industry professionals. Hosted by Anant Kumar, co-founder of Brij Hotels, this podcast is designed to provide deep insights and expert advice for those entering or already in the hospitality industry. Why Listen to Innside Scoop Podcast? * Expert Host: Anant Kumar brings years of experience and a wealth of knowledge to the table. Learn from his journey and the invaluable lessons he’s gathered along the way. * Industry Secrets: Discover the untold stories, insider tips, and strategies that drive succes

  1. Patu Keswani on The Lemon Tree Hotels Story | Anant Kumar | EP 14 | Innside Scoop

    JAN 23

    Patu Keswani on The Lemon Tree Hotels Story | Anant Kumar | EP 14 | Innside Scoop

    In this episode of Innside Scoop, we sit down with Patu Keswani, the visionary founder of Lemon Tree Hotels, to explore how he built one of India’s most respected hospitality brands. This is not just an inspiring story – it is also the most information-packed episode yet. From the economics of hotel growth to the realities of entry-level work, Patu shares candid insights into the hospitality industry in India, leadership, and building a purpose-driven company. What you’ll learn in this episode: How the Indian hospitality industry has evolved and where it’s heading The realities of working in hotels at the ground level Why Lemon Tree Hotels made inclusion and dignity of work its foundation Leadership lessons on humility, growth, and purpose Practical takeaways for entrepreneurs building in IndiaTimestamps:00:00 | Introduction03:13 | Early life and family values shaping leadership05:45 | Lessons from Tata and Taj06:17 | Entry-level hotel work11:23 | Building company culture13:52 | Mentors and leadership lessons19:26 | Pet-friendly hotels & inclusion24:56 | Passion for pets27:56 | Funding Lemon Tree31:47 | Taking Lemon Tree public42:03 | Future plans & expansion51:00 | Family influences & legacy54:23 | Industry myths & lessons57:43 | Creating leaders01:01:28 | Books & business challenges01:04:54 | Reflections01:07:18 | Advice for youngsters01:09:56 | Favourite hotel stays & closing thoughts Follow Innside Scoop:YouTube | Instagram Guest Suggestions: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Lemon Tree Hotels:YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Website Host - Anant Apurv Kumar:LinkedIn Tune in and get the insights you need to excel in the world of hospitality.

    1h 12m
  2. From $10 Million Exit Talks to Raising $3 Billion: The Deep Kalra Story | MakeMyTrip | Anant Kumar | Udit Kumar | EP 13

    JAN 9

    From $10 Million Exit Talks to Raising $3 Billion: The Deep Kalra Story | MakeMyTrip | Anant Kumar | Udit Kumar | EP 13

    How do you go from sleeping in second-class train containers to raising a $3.1 billion fund? In this power-packed episode, host Anant Kumar and his brother Udit Kumar—co-founders of Brij Hotels—sit down with Deep Kalra, the legendary founder of MakeMyTrip, to unpack his gritty entrepreneurial story, hard-won fundraising lessons, and the leadership mindset behind building a global travel giant. What you’ll learn Early struggles, bold bets & the vision that launched MakeMyTrip. How MMT scaled into a global travel leader—wins, pivots, and near-misses. Fundraising principles every founder should know. Actionable insights on hospitality, travel, culture, and leadership. If you’re an aspiring hotelier, a startup founder, or just love stories of grit and execution—this episode is a goldmine. Chapters 00:00 | Introduction 02:45 | The Founding Story of MakeMyTrip 09:55 | Rajesh Magow’s IPO Roadshow Experience 17:45 | Deep Kalra’s Biggest Regret 18:42 | Offsites in Second-Class Trains: Humble Beginnings 20:52 | Building Ebookers: The Full Journey 24:55 | Why Deep Quit Banking (and Family Support) 31:33 | Is Deep Protective About the MMT Brand? 33:36 | MakeMyTrip Almost Sold for $10M? 37:18 | Deep’s Toughest Decision 41:14 | Risk vs Opportunity in AI: MMT’s Move 44:28 | Building MMT’s Work Culture 48:57 | Staying Composed in Adversity 52:39 | Does Deep Face Imposter Syndrome? 56:16 | A Day Off in Deep’s Life 58:43 | Why MakeMyTrip & Goibibo Merged 01:04:27 | What Led to the Ctrip Buyout? 01:05:02 | Transitioning from CEO to Chairman 01:07:03 | MakeMyTrip’s Next 25 Years 01:08:17 | The Story Behind Ashoka University 01:11:50 | Deep vs. Rajesh: Who’s Better at What? 01:12:34 | 25 Years of Trust: What Customers Say 01:15:36 | Gut Instinct: When It Works (& When It Doesn’t) 01:17:16 | Slippery Slope: Fast-Paced Q&A Watch & follow YouTube (Innside Scoop): youtube.com/@UCjEI8Hl3bFNm9_ZBFtxx_nw Instagram (Innside Scoop): @innsidescoop_podcast Guest: Deep Kalra Instagram: @deepkalra__ X: @deepkalrammt LinkedIn: Deep Kalra MakeMyTrip YouTube: @MakeMyTripOfficial Instagram: @makemytrip Website: makemytrip.com Hosts: Anant & Udit Kumar LinkedIn (Anant): @anant-apurv-kumar Instagram (Udit): @tidukumar

    1h 26m
  3. Meet the Woman Who Brought Boutique Hotels to India ft. Priya Paul | THE Park Hotels | EP 12 | Innside Scoop

    12/26/2025

    Meet the Woman Who Brought Boutique Hotels to India ft. Priya Paul | THE Park Hotels | EP 12 | Innside Scoop

    At just 23, Priya Paul stepped into the family business at Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels and began a journey that would redefine Indian hospitality. From introducing boutique hotels to India to transforming them into vibrant cultural hubs, she has shaped The Park Hotels into an experience where art, design, and community meet. In this conversation, she reflects on her path, the challenges of leading change, and the creativity that continues to inspire her work today. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn hotels into cultural landmarks, this is a story worth hearing. 🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell icon to catch the full episode. Video Chapters 00:00 | Introduction to Priya Paul & The Park Hotels 02:09 | Starting in Hospitality at 23: Priya Paul’s Early Journey 05:04 | Lessons from Leading The Park Hotels: The First Lady of Indian Hospitality 06:48 | Redefining Hotel Design: Priya Paul’s Vision for Indian Hospitality 10:26 | Iconic Architecture of The Park Hotels: A Design-Driven Approach 15:13 | Growth Strategy Behind The Park Hotels’ Success 17:29 | How The Park Hotels Achieves the Highest Occupancy in India 18:58 | Challenges as a Woman in Indian Hospitality: Priya Paul’s Perspective 20:35 | Joining the Family Business: Priya Paul’s Career Story 26:14 | Running a Family Business vs. a Listed Company in Hospitality 30:49 | The Park Hotels’ Succession Planning Explained 32:55 | Receiving the Padma Shri: Priya Paul’s Proud Moment 33:57 | The Park Hotels’ Tie-ups with International Brands & Loyalty Programs 35:10 | Toughest Times in Hospitality: Priya Paul’s Leadership Lessons 39:38 | Expanding The Park Hotels Across India: State-by-State Challenges 40:25 | Slippery Slope Contact & Guest Suggestions If you have any guest suggestions for our podcast, mail us at: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Innside Scoop YouTube Instagram Email: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Priya Paul Instagram Follow The Park Hotels YouTube Instagram Website Follow Apeejay Group Instagram Website Follow Flurys Instagram Website Follow Brij Hotels LinkedIn: @anant-apurv-kumar YouTube: @brijhotels672 Instagram: @brijhotels Website: Brij Hotels #innsidescooppodcast #innsidescoop #brijhotels #anantkumar #clarks #hospitalitypodcast #hotel #PriyaPaul #TheParkHotels #InnsideScoop #IndianHospitality #WomenInHospitality #LeadershipJourney #YoungLeaders #PodcastClip #AnantKumar #BrijHotels #WomenEntrepreneurs #HotelIndustry

    46 min
  4. How AI is Revolutionizing Hospitality? ft. Dilip Puri, Founder of ISH | EP 11 | Innside Scoop with Anant Kumar and Aryavir Kumar

    12/12/2025

    How AI is Revolutionizing Hospitality? ft. Dilip Puri, Founder of ISH | EP 11 | Innside Scoop with Anant Kumar and Aryavir Kumar

    Step into the Future of Hospitality with Dilip Puri | Innside Scoop Podcast Step into the future of hospitality in this powerful conversation with Dilip Puri, founder of the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH). In this episode of Innside Scoop, hosted by Anant Kumar (Co-founder of Brij Hotels) and Aryavir Kumar (Managing Director at The Clarks Hotels & Resorts), we explore how AI is transforming the hospitality sector, redefining customer experience, and reshaping how we educate future leaders. Discover how data, sustainability, and automation intersect with human-centric service, and gain insights into: How AI will impact hotel management, training, and decision-making How hospitality education must evolve How future-ready hoteliers can thrive in this digital age 🔔 Subscribe for more behind-the-scenes insights and expert advice in the world of hospitality. 📩 Guest Suggestions? Email us at: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com 🔗 Follow Innside Scoop: YouTube Instagram 🔗 Follow Dilip Puri: Instagram LinkedIn 🔗 Follow Indian School of Hospitality (ISH): YouTube Facebook Instagram Website 🔗 Follow Anant Kumar: LinkedIn Instagram 🔗 Follow Brij Hotels: YouTube Instagram Website 🔗 Follow Aryavir Kumar: LinkedIn Instagram 🔗 Follow The Clarks Hotels and Resorts: Website Instagram 🎯 Hashtags: #hospitalityindustry #AIinhospitality #ISH #DilipPuri #hoteltech #futureofhospitality #innsidescooppodcast #innsidescoop #brijhotels #anantkumar #clarks #hospitalitypodcast #hotel

    1h 38m
  5. StayVista’s 3% Marketing Secret: Scaling to 90,000 Room-Nights ft. Founder of StayVista - Amit Damani | Innside Scoop EP 10

    11/28/2025

    StayVista’s 3% Marketing Secret: Scaling to 90,000 Room-Nights ft. Founder of StayVista - Amit Damani | Innside Scoop EP 10

    Anant Kumar (Founder, Brij Hotels) dives deep with Amit Damani, Co-founder of StayVista, to uncover: The 3 biggest pivots in StayVista’s journey (from near-death moments to ₹200Cr revenue!) Luxury segmentation: Vieda (₹10K+/night) vs. Vista vs. VEO – what’s the difference? Weirdest guest request they’ve handled (Spoiler: A shower crisis went viral!) AI in hospitality: How StayVista uses AI to transform operations Why they’re NOT expanding internationally yet ("India has unlimited potential!") We hope you enjoy this episode — let us know your thoughts in the comments! 🔔 Subscribe for more hospitality gold: YouTube Channel 📌 Follow Amit Damani Instagram X (Twitter) LinkedIn 📌 Follow StayVista Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Website 🎬 Video Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:17 - StayVista’s pivots: From budget hotels to luxury villas 00:08:14 - The founders of StayVista 00:09:37 - Vacation rental market overview 00:15:26 - Unit Economics: How Homeowners Earn ₹1L/Month 00:21:57 - Marketing Magic: How StayVista Spends Only 3% on Ads 00:28:57 - Unit economics of StayVista 00:38:51 - StayVista Segmentation: Vieda vs. Vista vs. VEO Explained 00:43:28 - AI in Hospitality: StayVista’s Tech Edge 00:51:46 - Weirdest Guest Request: The Shower Crisis Story 00:52:45 - Slippery Slope: Amit’s Favorite Travel Spot, Book, and Motto 📌 Follow Anant Kumar & Brij Hotels LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Website About Innside Scoop 🎙️ Innside Scoop is the ULTIMATE podcast for hospitality enthusiasts, aspiring hoteliers, and industry professionals. Hosted by Anant Kumar, co-founder of Brij Hotels, this podcast provides deep insights and expert advice for those entering or already thriving in the hospitality industry. Why Listen to Innside Scoop Podcast? Expert Host: Anant Kumar brings years of experience and knowledge to the table. Industry Secrets: Discover untold stories, insider tips, and strategies for success. Diverse Perspectives: Insights from industry leaders mentored by top professionals. Target Audience: Perfect for travel lovers, aspiring hoteliers, vacation rental owners, and hospitality entrepreneurs.

    1 hr

  6. 11/14/2025

    The Treebo story: Sidharth Gupta’s unfiltered startup journey | EP 9 | Innside Scoop

    Sidharth Gupta, Founder of Treebo Hotels — the man behind India’s largest budget hotel chain with 800+ properties! In this explosive episode, Sidharth reveals how he built Treebo from scratch, survived a $50M funding crash, battled the pandemic, and continues to compete not with big brands — but with what he calls "local heroes." 🔥 Key Takeaways: Scaling to 800 Hotels: How Treebo dominates the ₹2,000/night market with 16,500+ keys Near-Death Moments: The $50M investor fallout & pandemic survival tactics Real Competition? “Local independent heroes” – not hotel giants Leadership Secrets: Why nurturing talent is Sidharth’s #1 focus Mid-Market Play: Treebo’s ₹3,000-6,000 brands (Medallion & Radisson collab)📌 Timestamps:00:00 - From McKinsey to Treebo’s audacious ₹2,000 vision05:32 - “Local heroes are our REAL competitors”12:45 - $50M funding crash & profitability hacks18:20 - Why Treebo’s tech is a “secret weapon”25:10 - Leadership philosophy: “Make yourself redundant”32:00 - IPO or acquisition? Sidharth’s exit plan 💬 Question: Would you stay at a ₹2,000/night hotel? Why or why not? 🔔 Subscribe for more raw founder stories: @innsidescoop_podcast Follow Innside Scoop:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCjEI8Hl3bFNm9_ZBFtxx_nwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innsidescoop_podcastEmail: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Sidharth Gupta:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mailsidharth/X: https://x.com/sidtreeboLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guptasidharth/ Follow Treebo Hotels:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCtCYOISTOUQFh9mJiGBEsngInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/treebo_hotels/Website: https://www.treebo.com/ About Innside Scoop:Innside Scoop is the ultimate podcast for hospitality professionals, aspiring hoteliers, and travel entrepreneurs. Hosted by Anant Kumar (Co-founder, Brij Hotels), the show uncovers real stories, failures, and strategies from industry leaders. Tune in to level up your hospitality journey!

    47 min
  7. Business lessons from the director of Suba Group of Hotels ft. Mansur Mehta | EP 8 | Innside Scoop

    10/31/2025

    Business lessons from the director of Suba Group of Hotels ft. Mansur Mehta | EP 8 | Innside Scoop

    Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Mansur Mehta, Director of Suba Hotels and Mehta Roadlines. From starting as a truck driver at 16 to leading one of India’s fastest-growing hotel chains, Mansur’s story is a masterclass in perseverance, leadership, and strategic growth. 🔥 Key Takeaways: How Mansur started working at 16 and built his career from the ground up His 18-hour workdays in logistics before transitioning to hospitality The guiding principle from his father: “Work above the ground, rest below it” How Suba Hotels grew from 1 to 125+ properties Becoming the master franchisor of Choice Hotels in India Acquiring 1589 Hotels as a major expansion milestone His 3-question formula for every business decision Why he built a nearly debt-free business modelWe hope you enjoy this episode — let us know your thoughts in the comments! Video Chapters:00:00 | Introduction03:14 | Mansur Mehta's career journey04:15 | Taking over the family business06:08 | How the Suba Group of Hotels started?10:30 | Business lessons from Mansur’s father14:55 | Overcoming struggles (ages 18–30)18:19 | Business values from his upbringing20:27 | Why ‘Suba’ and the move to Click Hotels22:01 | Acquiring Choice Hotels22:55 | Choice vs Click Hotels24:08 | His hospitality vision26:18 | Advice for asset owners27:49 | Will Suba go public?30:20 | Coldrush Logistics33:40 | Time management secrets36:14 | Mubeen Mehta’s role37:17 | His philosophy on debt39:04 | Competitors of Suba Group42:24 | COVID and the toughest times Guest Suggestions? Email: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Innside Scoop:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCjEI8Hl3bFNm9_ZBFtxx_nwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innsidescoop_podcast Follow Mansur Mehta:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mansur.mehta/LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/mansur-mehta-5874b535 Follow Suba Hotels:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SubaGroupofHotels/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesubagroupWebsite: https://www.subahotels.com/ About Innside Scoop:Innside Scoop is the ultimate podcast for hospitality enthusiasts, aspiring hoteliers, and industry professionals. Hosted by Anant Kumar (Co-founder of Brij Hotels), it brings insider knowledge, entrepreneurial wisdom, and inspiring stories from leaders across the hospitality industry.

    52 min
  8. Actor, Director, Founder @TeamworkArts & Producer of Jaipur Literature Festival ft Sanjoy Roy | EP 7 | Innside Scoop

    10/17/2025

    Actor, Director, Founder @TeamworkArts & Producer of Jaipur Literature Festival ft Sanjoy Roy | EP 7 | Innside Scoop

    Get ready for the Jaipur Literature Festival 2025! In this exclusive episode of Innside Scoop, we host the visionary founder of @TeamworksProductions, Sanjoy Roy. As the mastermind behind the world’s largest literature festival @JprLitFest, Sanjoy shares his inspiring journey — from its humble beginnings to global acclaim. 🎙️ What’s Inside: The story behind Teamwork Arts and its rise to international acclaim The evolution of the Jaipur Literature Festival and its impact on Jaipur’s economy and tourism Sanjoy’s passion for theatre, acting, and directing The Kahani Festival at Dantewada — its vision and importance Exclusive insights into JLF 2025 featuring Justice Albie Sachs, Tina Brown, Anthony Sattin, Sudha Murty & more!Stay till the end for a rapid-fire Q&A and Sanjoy’s top book recommendations! 📚 💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments! Video Chapters:00:00 | Introduction02:19 | How Teamwork Arts started and reached the world?09:10 | How Jaipur Literature Festival started?12:17 | First passion: Actor, Director, Producer or Founder?13:29 | Is Sanjoy Roy planning to act again?15:15 | The Journey of the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF)22:20 | The Economic Impact of JLF on Jaipur24:59 | The Expansion of the Jaipur Literature Festival28:58 | What will be Teamwork Arts' lasting legacy?36:56 | Kahani Festival at Dantewada39:05 | How Teamwork Arts' team is so strong?43:58 | Sanjoy Roy on Teamwork Arts' JLF International Necessity46:06 | Sanjoy Roy on Jaigarh Heritage Festival48:51 | Sanjoy Roy on JLF 2025: Key Attractions51:00 | Sanjoy Roy's Favorite Reads53:37 | Slippery Slope: Rapid Fire with Sanjoy Roy59:13 | Sanjoy Roy on relationship with Sanjay Aggarwal Guest Suggestions? Email us at: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Innside Scoop:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCjEI8Hl3bFNm9_ZBFtxx_nwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innsidescoop_podcastEmail: innsidescooppodcast@gmail.com Follow Sanjoy Roy:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanjoykroy/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sanjoy.k.roy.54X: https://x.com/SanjoyRoyTWALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjoy-roy-424a7790 Follow Teamwork Arts:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teamworkarts/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC4wNWIsVCJayAw5lhwA3ikgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/teamworkarts/Website: https://teamworkarts.com/ Follow Jaipur Literature Festival:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaipurLitFest/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/@UCKTmQriO9OorGm-YfaRDNegInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaipurlitfest/Website: https://jaipurliteraturefestival.org/

    1h 8m
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Innside Scoop is the ULTIMATE podcast for hospitality enthusiasts, aspiring hoteliers, and industry professionals. Hosted by Anant Kumar, co-founder of Brij Hotels, this podcast is designed to provide deep insights and expert advice for those entering or already in the hospitality industry. Why Listen to Innside Scoop Podcast? * Expert Host: Anant Kumar brings years of experience and a wealth of knowledge to the table. Learn from his journey and the invaluable lessons he’s gathered along the way. * Industry Secrets: Discover the untold stories, insider tips, and strategies that drive succes

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