Founders on Fire with Aleksandr Ragel, CEO of Leil Storage

In this episode of Founders on Fire, host Rose Ross speaks with Aleksandr Ragel, CEO of Leil Storage, winner of the Storage Trailblazers Award. Leil Storage is transforming large-scale, sustainable, and energy-efficient data storage, making hyperscale technologies accessible to enterprises that need on-premise solutions.

Aleksandr shares how Leil Storage spun off from Daiwee, a global system integration company, to address a critical gap in the market—bringing high-performance, cost-effective storage to businesses outside of the hyperscale giants like Amazon, Microsoft, and Alibaba. He explains how Leil Storage is fine-tuning software to maximize hardware performance, ensuring optimal efficiency for active archive, backup, and AI-driven workloads.

The conversation covers the challenges of launching a startup, including navigating economic uncertainty, embracing lean business strategies, and staying laser-focused on delivering real value. Aleksandr also discusses Leil Storage’s groundbreaking ICE technology (Infinite Cold Engine), which is set to reduce energy consumption by up to 70% by 2026—making sustainable storage a reality.

Tune in now to hear how Leil Storage is redefining hyperscale efficiency for the masses!

Standout Quotes from Aleksandr Ragel

On Storage Innovation & Hyperscale Efficiency

“We’re unlocking hyperscale efficiency—bringing the technologies used by Amazon and Microsoft to businesses that need on-premise storage solutions.”

“Storage is like bread—everyone needs it. But not everyone has access to the best ingredients. We’re making high-performance, sustainable storage available to the broader market.”

On Startup Challenges & Economic Uncertainty

“The biggest challenge for any startup isn’t what to do—it’s what NOT to do. Choosing the right path is critical for long-term success.”

“Embrace uncertainty. The days of planning years ahead are gone. The new reality is adapting quickly and staying resilient.”

On Energy Efficiency & Sustainability

“Our ICE technology will allow data centers to consume up to 70% less energy compared to competitor products. That’s a game-changer for sustainability.”

“Data centers already consume as much electricity as the aviation industry—and that was before the AI boom. Energy-efficient storage is no longer optional; it’s essential.”

On Industry Recognition & Partnerships

“Being invited to speak at SNIA’s Storage Developer Conference three years in a row is a huge validation of our technology and innovation.”

“Western Digital independently validated our product, proving that our technology delivers on its promises. That’s a milestone we’re incredibly proud of.”

On Advice for Founders

“Be lean and mean. Focus on what truly benefits your business in the short, mid, and long term.”

“Stay laser-focused on what your product actually delivers—not just marketing hype. Real value is what drives success.”

These quotes highlight Leil Storage’s vision, expertise, and impact, making them perfect for marketing, social media, and promotional materials