TheCconnects: Bindi Thakkar, thank you for joining us today. To begin, could you share a bit about your professional journey and the path that led you to found Machismo?
Bindi Thakkar: Thank you for having me. My career started in the corporate corridors of India’s leading financial institutions, where I spent over 15 years in marketing and corporate communications. This experience taught me the art of storytelling, branding, and strategic communication. However, entrepreneurship was always on the cards. And it all began when I Clearly saw a gap, the personal care market for Indian men was largely underserved. Coupled with my passion for skincare and grooming, I decided to take a leap of faith and channel my expertise into entrepreneurship. Machismo was born out of the realization that men deserve simple, effective, and natural grooming solutions tailored to their unique needs. It wasn’t just a business decision; it was a mission to redefine what male self-care could look like.
TheCconnects: That’s such a refreshing perspective. Transitioning from a corporate role to founding your own brand must have come with numerous challenges. What were some of the biggest obstacles you encountered along the way, and how did you navigate through them?
Bindi Thakkar: The transition was indeed challenging, as it required a fundamental shift not only in my career approach but also in overcoming societal expectations. One significant barrier was breaking through the traditional norms, both within the corporate world and in the grooming industry, which was largely male-dominated. As a woman launching a brand for men, I faced skepticism on various fronts. However, my passion for innovation and a strong belief in the vision behind Machismo kept me motivated. I embraced these challenges by leveraging my deep consumer insights and empathy to connect with our audience. I also surrounding myself with a team that believed in redefining norms, so we tackled each challenge together by remaining agile, focused and committed to quality.
TheCconnects: It’s inspiring to see how you transformed challenges into opportunities. On a more personal note, who has been your greatest influence in life, and how did that influence shape your approach to business and leadership?
Bindi Thakkar: I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors and role models throughout my journey, but if I had to pinpoint one, it would be my family. Their resilience, vision and unwavering support taught me that leadership isn’t defined solely by one’s role or gender, it’s all about empathy, honesty and the courage to pursue what others might consider unconventional. I always believed that real leadership involves nurturing others and leading by example. This influenced my decision to step into an industry that was not only new to me but also to many, and it helped me build a business that truly prioritizes the well-being of its customers.
TheCconnects: It seems that your personal values are deeply intertwined with your professional endeavors, which brings us to an important aspect, lessons learned. Could you share some key insights from your career that have contributed to your success?
Bindi Thakkar: Certainly. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying customer-centric. Every decision we make at Machismo is rooted in understanding the real needs and challenges of our community. Another lesson is the power of adaptability. In today’s fast-changing market landscape, being agile and willing to rethink traditional strategies is essential. I also learned that success isn’t measured solely by revenue or market share but by the impact you create. Cultivating trust, maintaining transparency and always being ready to listen, not just to market trends but to your consumer’s voices, are the foundations of sustainable growth.
TheCconnects: Your insights certainly reflect deep wisdom. Shifting our focus to today’s digital era, what do you see as the biggest challenge for brands in the digital space, especially in the grooming industry?
Bindi Thakkar: The digital space is both a vast opportunity and a complex challenge. Brands today must cut through the digital noise to connect authentically with their audience. For the grooming sector, this means not only promoting products but also educating consumers about their skin health, self-care practices and building better skincare habits. A significant challenge is building credibility online, as many products are marketed with bold claims that don’t always meet consumer expectations. At Machismo, we address this by ensuring our products stand true to its claims. Moreover, transparency in our digital communications has been key to fostering trust and loyalty among our customers.
TheCconnects: That focus on authenticity and education seems central to your brand’s ethos. Could you delve a little deeper into how Machismo’s products and services effectively address your customers’ pain points?
Bindi Thakkar: Absolutely. We recognized early on that Indian men needed grooming products designed specifically for their skin types, lifestyles, and environmental factors. Our formulations are free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, and harmful chemicals, ensuring that they’re not only effective but also safe for everyday use. We also emphasize ease of use, our products are crafted to integrate seamlessly into a man’s daily routine without complicating his lifestyle. Beyond the products, we provide a wealth of digital content and educational resources aimed at demystifying skincare. This holistic approach empowers our customers to make informed decisions and take charge of their grooming rituals, ultimately boosting their confidence and well-being.
TheCconnects: That’s a holistic and much-needed approach. Outside the realm of professional pursuits, how do you unwind? What are some of your passions and hobbies that keep you inspired and balanced?
Bindi Thakkar: I always make time for what brings me joy. Traveling is one of my greatest passions, exploring new cultures, meeting diverse people, and experiencing different ways of life not only refreshes my mind but also inspires creativity. These personal experiences often provide new perspectives that I can channel into innovation at Machismo. In essence, my hobbies are a constant reminder that creativity and growth stem from experiences that broaden our horizons.
TheCconnects: Traveling and immersing yourself in culture indeed sounds like a potent source of creativity. In light of your multifaceted journey, what advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those looking to break barriers in their industries?
Bindi Thakkar: My advice is simple, never be afraid to challenge the status quo. Embrace failure as part of the journey and always learn from your mistakes. For anyone venturing into entrepreneurship, it’s crucial to be deeply attuned to the needs of your target audience. Listen actively, ask the right questions, and use those insights to build solutions that are both innovative and meaningful. Also, surround yourself with a supportive network. Whether it’s mentors, peers, or a strong team, the right people can propel you forward during difficult times. Lastly, authenticity is key. Stay true to your vision, and let your passion shine through in every decision you make.
TheCconnects: That’s incredibly empowering advice. Thinking about the future, what trends do you foresee impacting the grooming and skincare industry, especially with technological innovations and changing consumer behaviors?
Bindi Thakkar: We’re at a very exciting crossroads where technology and personal care intersect. Trends such as personalization powered by AI, data-driven product development, and the rise of virtual consultations are reshaping the industry. Consumers are increasingly looking for products that are tailored to their unique needs, and technology is making it possible to deliver on that promise. Additionally, there’s a growing focus on sustainability and transparency, a shift towards clean, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly products is not just a trend but a necessary evolution in today’s market. At Machismo, we’re continually exploring how these innovations can help us better serve our customers and lead the conversation in a meaningful direction.
TheCconnects: It sounds like you have your finger firmly on the pulse of both consumer needs and technological developments. How do you ensure that Machismo stays ahead in such a fast-evolving landscape?
Bindi Thakkar: Innovation is a core value at Machismo. Add international trends (keeping an eye on)This commitment allows us to iterate our product offerings continuously. We also maintain an open channel of communication with our community, through surveys, social media engagements, and direct feedback, which helps us understand emerging trends and adjust our strategies promptly. Additionally, fostering a company culture that encourages creativity and agility is key. We hold brainstorming sessions and internal workshops that bring fresh ideas to the table, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed the evolving expectations of our customers.
TheCconnects: Your proactive approach to innovation and engagement is definitely commendable. Finally, as someone who has navigated the often turbulent waters of entrepreneurship and market disruption, what is the one mantra or philosophy that you hold dear in both your professional and personal life?
Bindi Thakkar: For me, it all boils down to authenticity and persistence. Authenticity in staying true to who you are and what you believe in, even when faced with adversity or skepticism. And persistence, keeping the momentum going, regardless of the challenges, because every setback is just a setup for a greater comeback. These principles have been my guiding light, whether in the boardroom or while formulating the next big idea for Machismo.
TheCconnects: Bindi, it’s been incredibly enlightening discussing your journey, insights, and vision for the future. Your story is not only a testament to entrepreneurial spirit but also a masterclass in authentic leadership. Thank you for sharing your invaluable experience with our readers.
Bindi Thakkar: Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. I hope my journey inspires others to embrace challenges with courage and build a future that defies conventional boundaries. The conversation doesn’t end here, there’s always more to learn, and I’m excited for what the future holds.
Connect with Bindi Thakkar on LinkedIn and check out Machismo on Instagram to shop for their products.
