<p>This episode is a personal one. Kuldeep Jain, Founder and MD at CleanMax | Former Partner at McKinsey &amp; Company, was Shantanu Deshpande’s senior at McKinsey. They share a close bond, and Kuldeep has also invested in Bombay Shaving Company. That trust makes this conversation unusually honest.</p><p>Kuldeep talks about leaving the safe path, early mistakes, and the phase where he lost 80–90% of his savings. He explains how CleanMax found its direction, how he thinks about hiring and culture, and what the IPO journey really looks like, including roadshows and pricing.</p><p>What you’ll get from this episode:</p><p>- Early failure, fear, and staying in the game</p><p>- Hiring principles and culture built on trust</p><p>- IPO reality, roadshows, and how pricing works</p><p>They break down the IPO process for what it is: rigorous, compliance heavy, and all about trust. Even pricing is part art.</p><p>If you want to build something that lasts, this episode is a blueprint.</p><p>Link to DRHP: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.sebi.gov.in/filings/public-issues/aug-2025/clean-max-enviro-energy-solutions-limited_96203.html">https://www.sebi.gov.in/filings/public-issues/aug-2025/clean-max-enviro-energy-solutions-limited_96203.html</a></p><p></p><p>00:00 Trailer</p><p>01:30 Early days at McKinsey</p><p>07:10 Why CleanMax was needed</p><p>11:13 CleanMax turning point</p><p>14:20 How to build a strong company culture</p><p>19:58 What is Ashirvad Day?</p><p>27:53 From McKinsey colleagues to founders</p><p>32:47 How to take your company to an IPO</p><p>36:30 When to decide your company is ready to go public</p><p>43:34 Going public and who plans to buy the shares</p><p>51:52 Closing thoughts</p>