Value on Talks: Leading a New Wave of Responsible AI to Empower the Future and Tackle Global Challenges
Did you
know the AI industry is projected to contribute more than $15 trillion to the
global economy by 2030? From
detecting early signs of Alzheimer’s disease to finding innovative solutions
for climate change and automation, artificial intelligence is reshaping the
world in extraordinary ways. Yet, alongside these breakthroughs comes the
growing concern of AI misuse, particularly around privacy, security, and
ethics.
Amid this
landscape, Value on Talks, a pioneering Palo Alto–based company, is on a
mission to ensure AI becomes a force for good. Founded by visionary
entrepreneur Ritesh Kumar, the company is at the forefront of developing
responsible AI solutions that address some of society’s most pressing
challenges.
Value on
Talks has already achieved major recognition, including honors such as Best
AI Startup, Startup of the Week, Top 25 AI Solutions Provider,
the AI Excellence Award, and Best Use of AI by Audience Poll.
Their innovations—like a hate speech filter and a behavioral trait
analyzer for teenagers—are transforming lives, building safer communities,
and fostering positive digital interactions.
As part
of The 10 Most Influential Entrepreneurs of the Year 2024 edition,
Tycoon Insights sat down with Ritesh Kumar to explore his
entrepreneurial journey, leadership insights, and bold vision for the future of
AI.
Tycoon Insights: How did Value on Talks begin?
Ritesh
Kumar:
Companies are born when ideas resonate deeply with people. For us, it started
with a conversation about the harmful impact of hate speech on social media. My
colleagues and I realized this was an urgent problem that needed an immediate
solution. That shared passion became the seed of Value on Talks. Soon,
like-minded people joined us, all driven by the common goal of creating AI that
makes a real difference.
Tycoon Insights: How do you manage work-life
balance?
Ritesh
Kumar: To be
honest, we don’t think of it as work versus life. Our mission is so close to
our hearts that the two naturally blend together. Our team feels like a family,
bound by a shared sense of purpose. It’s not about following a strict schedule
but about focusing on what matters most at the moment—whether that’s supporting
a colleague, serving our community, or pushing forward with innovation.
Tycoon Insights: How is your story of struggle
unique compared to other CEOs?
Ritesh
Kumar: I
wouldn’t say my struggles are unique—struggle is part of every journey. What
makes it meaningful is when the struggle is for a cause that truly matters. I
was fortunate to have mentors who taught me that while challenges are
inevitable, the sense of purpose behind them is what gives you strength and
satisfaction.
Tycoon Insights: How do you stay ahead of market
trends?
Ritesh
Kumar: In a
field as dynamic as AI, staying relevant is critical. We constantly monitor
global tech developments, and having our tech team based in Israel gives us a
unique edge. Israel’s startup ecosystem is ambitious, fast-moving, and
trendsetting. This exposure helps us anticipate shifts and stay at the
forefront of innovation.
Tycoon Insights: What role does R&D play in
your growth?
Ritesh
Kumar: R&D
is our backbone. From the start, our work in AI has been deeply tied to
research, and we see it as part of our DNA. It’s not just about keeping up—it’s
about pushing boundaries, experimenting, and shaping the future. Without
R&D, innovation simply wouldn’t be possible.
Tycoon Insights: Has the competitive landscape for
CEOs changed?
Ritesh
Kumar:
Absolutely. It’s no longer just about competition; it’s about staying
relevant. Technology evolves so quickly that CEOs must constantly adapt,
innovate, and lead with agility. Relevance is the new benchmark for leadership.
Tycoon Insights: How important is employee
satisfaction to you?
Ritesh
Kumar: Very
important. Employees do their best work when they feel happy, confident, and
challenged in the right way. We’ve built a supportive environment with modern
HR policies that reflect the energy of our young team. We set ambitious goals,
but we also ensure that our employees feel respected and valued.
Tycoon Insights: Who are your role models?
Ritesh
Kumar: I’ve had
many mentors, but one who stands out is Bharat Vijay, who played a
pivotal role in bringing Yahoo and later Amazon to India. His journey taught me
the importance of staying humble regardless of success. That humility, combined
with persistence, is something I try to carry with me and pass on to others.
For younger entrepreneurs, my message is simple: stay grounded and believe
deeply in your work.
Tycoon Insights: What are your views on CEOs and
entrepreneurship?
Ritesh
Kumar: Today,
every CEO must also be an entrepreneur. Our job is to inspire our teams to
think like entrepreneurs themselves—to innovate, take ownership, and lead
within their roles. During tough times, my role often shifts to mentorship,
helping my team navigate challenges while encouraging them to grow as leaders.
Tycoon Insights: What would you say to CEOs who
give up on their dreams?
Ritesh
Kumar: I
believe, “Once a CEO, always a CEO.” Even if you move on from one idea, the
entrepreneurial mindset stays with you. You’ll continue to think and act like a
leader, no matter where you go. And as for motivation—social media is already
full of quotes. What matters most is staying true to your vision and values.
Tycoon Insights: What does the future hold for
Value on Talks?
Ritesh
Kumar: We’re
only scratching the surface. We aim to tackle bigger global challenges using AI
and data analysis, expand internationally, and balance purpose with
profitability. Our vision is to be recognized both as a socially responsible
company and as a strong revenue generator.
Tycoon Insights: What achievements are you most
proud of?
Ritesh
Kumar: Being
recognized as a Best AI Startup, AI Excellence Award winner, and more is
encouraging. But what makes me truly proud is our work in addressing teenage
depression through AI. Seeing the positive impact on hundreds of families
reinforces why we do what we do.
Tycoon Insights: Any final message for our readers?
Ritesh
Kumar: Tycoon
Insights has a talent for discovering inspiring stories that truly resonate
with entrepreneurs. I believe your readers will find not just motivation but
also a sense of connection in these stories. Entrepreneurship can be a lonely
journey, but platforms like this create bridges—linking aspiring entrepreneurs
with mentors, guidance, and a sense of shared purpose.
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