InnoWin | Solving problems from the fundamentals, not the surface

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In this edition of InnoWin, we speak with Deepak, Co-founder of GreenPod Labs, who is leveraging innovative solutions to tackle post-harvest losses and drive sustainability in agriculture.

Driven by a problem-first mindset, Deepak focuses on solving challenges from their absolute fundamentals. GreenPod Labs utilizes biomimicry and first-principles thinking to create long-term impact in the agri-tech ecosystem.

In this conversation, Deepak shares lessons on handling failure, and what it takes to sustain as an entrepreneur.

Text: ✍🏼 In Conversation with Deepak, Co-founder, GreenPod Labs

What does disruptive innovation mean to you?

Disruptive innovation solves a problem from the fundamentals rather than at the surface level. It provides value 10X better than the closest competitor.

Innovation is hard and often leads to failure. What kept you going?

Failure is part of the process when innovating. Elon Musk said, “Increase your number of iterations and make significant progress between the iterations.” From this perspective, every failure is a data point to make progress and keep moving forward.

What are some unexpected places to find inspiration for innovation?

At GreenPod Labs, we use the First Principle Thinking to break down everything from the basic truth. This process helps us tremendously. We also use Biomimicry—learning from nature to gain new perspectives.

How can entrepreneurs self-evaluate?

Stay close to your customers and ask if they would pay for your solution. Until money is involved, everyone gives good feedback.

How do you learn to let go of an idea that didn’t work?

As entrepreneurs, we must be obsessed with the problem, not the solution. This ensures we don’t get stuck with the wrong idea. If a product isn’t solving the core problem, there is no business.

What’s more important—collaboration or competition?

It depends. Collaboration that reduces cost, time, or effort to reach the next phase is great, but collaboration for its own sake isn’t valuable. A great competitor keeps you on your toes, but I prefer a blue ocean over a red ocean.

What qualities do you look for when hiring?

Cultural fit is primary: high agency, integrity/transparency, and a growth mindset. The rest can be taught.

What advice do you have for Gen-Z entrepreneurs in sustainability?

I’m still learning, but my advice is to be obsessed with the problem—the rest will work out.

How can organisations remain agile in rapidly growing sectors like agri-tech?

If the company has a “bias towards action” and views failure as a learning opportunity rather than a mistake, it will remain extremely agile.

What characteristics lead to sustainable success for entrepreneurs?

Tolerance toward pain and grit are critical to sustain as an entrepreneur. You are pushed to your limits daily. Since 90% of startups fail, resilience is essential to be in that 10%.

Tell us about a habit that changed your life.

I listen to an hour of podcasts and read at least fifteen pages daily. 

What have you been reading lately?

I am currently reading “Leonardo da Vinci” by Walter Isaacson—an amazing book so far.

What does your morning routine look like?

Three days a week I train Muay Thai, and three days I do strength training. It gives me an early start and keeps me super focused all day.

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