MAM
Big FM launches TheSocialStar podcast showcasing influencer journeys
MUMBAI: Big FM has introduced an exclusive podcast series, TheSocialStar, offering an inside look at the rise of India’s most influential digital creators. Hosted by RJ Megha, the talk show uncovers the strategies, challenges, and defining moments that shaped their success.
The first season features an impressive lineup, including Sonal Kaushal, Simran Balar Jain, Prince Gupta, Aditi Agrawal, Shivani Kapila, Sonika Khurana Sethi, and CA Twinkle Jain. Each episode takes listeners on an unfiltered journey through their early struggles, breakthrough moments, and strategies for building engaged communities and monetising their influence.
Blending radio with digital storytelling, TheSocialStar aims to inspire aspiring creators, brands, and marketers by providing valuable insights into the creator economy.
“As the creator economy continues to thrive, digital influencers have become powerful storytellers, shaping new trends and conversations. At Big FM, we have always championed innovation and adaptability and TheSocialStar is an extension of that vision. By bringing these incredible creators to our platform, we aim to celebrate their journeys while offering valuable insights for aspiring content creators and brands looking to navigate the digital space,” said Big FM COO Sunil Kumaran.
Strengthening its digital focus, Big FM seeks to connect with younger audiences through TheSocialStar. The podcast is now streaming on Big FM’s Youtube channel and major audio platforms, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Gaana, Jiosaavn, Wynk, Hungama, Google Podcasts, Saregama, and Amazon Prime Music.
Brands
Pocket FM elevates Lalit Gangwar to COO to drive global growth
Founding member to lead operations, monetisation and expansion across markets
MUMBAI: Pocket FM has elevated Lalit Gangwar to chief operating officer, tasking the founding team member with leading global business operations as the company sharpens its international growth strategy.
In his new role, Gangwar will oversee end-to-end operations across markets, including growth, monetisation and execution for the company’s audio business. The appointment comes as Pocket FM looks to strengthen its operating foundation and build a more predictable, scalable global business.
Gangwar has been closely involved in shaping the company’s trajectory from its early days. He played a key role in building the growth and marketing playbook in India, helping the platform scale to over 150 million users within its first year and establish a strong foothold in the audio storytelling category.
He later led Pocket FM’s expansion into the United States, where he set up teams, defined market strategy and drove scale, contributing significantly to the company’s international ambitions.
Pocket FM co-founder and CEO Rohan Nayak said, “Lalit has been central to Pocket FM’s journey from the very beginning. He has built our growth engine and scaled our business across markets.” He added that the company’s focus on nurturing internal talent makes Gangwar a natural choice to lead the next phase.
Gangwar said, “Pocket FM has always been driven by a simple belief that powerful stories can travel across borders and create meaningful impact.” He noted that the company will continue to focus on scaling markets, investing in AI-led storytelling and strengthening monetisation.
As COO, Gangwar is expected to bring greater operating discipline while building systems, talent and processes to support long-term growth.
With leadership continuity and a clear global focus, Pocket FM appears to be turning the page to its next chapter, one that aims to take its storytelling playbook well beyond home turf.
