Ritesh from Stellaris Venture Partners Discusses What VCs Really Look for in Founders

In this episode of The Living Pod, Saurabh Arora sits down with Ritesh Banglani, Partner at Stellaris Venture Partners, for a candid, no-nonsense conversation on startup funding, venture capital, and the psychology behind investment decisions.

Ritesh shares his unconventional journey from electrical engineer to product leader, early startup hustler, and eventually one of India’s most respected VCs. Drawing from decades of experience, he breaks down why most pitch decks fail, what VCs really look for in founders, and why so-called “alpha personalities” often struggle in both venture capital and startups.

This episode goes beyond surface-level startup advice to explore the power dynamics between founders and VCs, why startups feel like pressure cookers, and how humility, curiosity, and self-awareness shape long-term success — in business and life.

Whether you’re a first-time founder, aspiring VC, MBA student, or deeply curious about the Indian startup ecosystem, this episode is a grounded masterclass in how venture capital truly works — without the glamor.