324 - Breaking the Mold: How a Young Girl Became a Business Powerhouse
Navigating Leadership and Entrepreneurship at a Young Age: Insights from Nikita Khandheria, Founder and CEO of Eria
In this episode of Listening with Leaders, host Doug Noll has a dynamic conversation with 22-year-old entrepreneur Nikita Khandheria, Founder and CEO of Eria. Nikita’s journey from a young, ambitious student to a successful businesswoman in the food service industry offers a fresh perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship. In this episode, she shares valuable insights into how she built her businesses, navigated leadership challenges, and harnessed her adaptability to drive growth and innovation.
Nikita Khandheria's Entrepreneurial Journey: Leadership at a Young Age
Nikita’s entrepreneurial spirit was sparked at an early age, deeply influenced by her South Asian heritage and exposure to business environments. At just 17, she attended a conference in India with her father where she met investors impressed by her vision, which led to the launch of her first restaurant in San Francisco. This early exposure to opportunities outside of her local community helped her recognize the potential for growth and taught her the importance of seizing unexpected opportunities.
Despite juggling her academic commitments at St. Andrews and William & Mary, Nikita continued to lead and grow her businesses. She identified a gap in the market for gluten-free products and took action by acquiring Judy's Breadsticks, a 30-year-old company, and founding her food supply company, Aria, to ensure product quality. Nikita’s ability to spot market gaps, make strategic acquisitions, and maintain product standards has been key to her business success.
Nikita's leadership philosophy is grounded in adaptability and actively seeking customer feedback. She has learned that success in business requires continuous learning and an openness to pivot based on market demands. Her studies in math and computer science, paired with her analytical skills, have enabled her to turn struggling companies into profitable ventures, proving the importance of data-driven decision-making in entrepreneurship.
About Nikita Khandheria
Nikita Khandheria is the Founder and CEO of Eria, a company focused on delivering high-quality, handmade food products. With a passion for innovation and sustainability, Nikita leads the way in providing customers with clean, sustainable food options while growing her business to new heights. Her entrepreneurial journey is driven by a commitment to quality, sustainability, and continuous personal and professional development.
About Eria
Eria is dedicated to providing delicious, handmade, and sustainable food products. The company aims to create a positive impact on both customers and the environment by focusing on clean, ethically sourced ingredients. With a strong commitment to quality and sustainability, Eria is redefining how consumers engage with food and wellness.
Links Mentioned in This Episode
Key Episode Highlights:
Nikita’s journey from a young entrepreneur to the founder of a successful business.
The importance of spotting market gaps and acting on them to drive business growth.
How adaptability and customer feedback shape effective leadership and business strategies.
The role of data-driven decision-making and analytical skills in transforming distressed companies.
Nikita’s vision for sustainable food production and the future of her businesses.
Conclusion
Nikita Khandheria’s entrepreneurial story is a powerful example of how age is no barrier to success. Her journey illustrates the importance of adaptability, seizing opportunities, and continuously learning in the face of challenges. With a focus on sustainability, quality, and innovation, Nikita is building a brand that is set to thrive in the competitive food industry. Her leadership and vision for the future serve as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.
Ready to explore more leadership insights? Visit Doug Noll’s website to learn more, and if you’re a leader with valuable experience, apply to be a guest on Listening with Leaders here.
