Click here to VOTE for us at the Asia Podcast Awards with Radio Info and Radio Days: https://lnkd.in/gVCdHQug We'd be so grateful for your votes in two categories 1. Best Interview Podcast (The Forward Podcast) 2. Best Money and Business Podcast (The Forward Podcast) Thank you!! Now, enough about us. Please meet our next brilliant guest:  Andre Menezes started his first business at 12 years old and looked at life, processes, and products with a simple question: Is there a better way? Years later, this question led him from engineering to co-founding TiNDLE, which raised $130 million in capital, setting the record for the largest “Seed and Series A” ever raised by a plant-based meat company. So, what was the recipe for success that took TiNDLE from starting from scratch during a global pandemic to becoming a world record breaker for funding? And what’s next for Andre? 📈 How can the lessons learned from this venture help businesses move forward? 🥩➡️🌿 What is the future of the meat industry in the face of plant-based alternatives? 🤔 How can businesses tackle the challenges of changing consumer habits? In this episode, we dive into his incredible journey—from overcoming the challenges of starting a business from scratch to his strategies for success, his predictions for the future of the food industry, and the emerging trends in consumer behavior. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Tech vs. Food Challenges 00:47 Guest Intro: AndresAndre Menezes 03:49 Starting the Plant-Based Protein Venture 06:23 Teamwork in Business Challenges 09:07 Flaws in Animal Food Production 13:12 Changing Views on Meat Consumption 16:08 Insights on Future Food Leadership 19:45 Navigating Startup Uncertainty 23:00 Success in Rapid Growth 28:11 Expanding Business Internationally 34:18 Trends in Consumer Health 43:36 Defining Leadership in Business

“Brands are challenged when it comes to #Web3 concepts, #metaverseplatforms, and #gaming. But guess what? That's your job. Brands need to pay more attention to this.” In this exciting episode, we dive into the world of emerging technologies with Catherine D. Henry, a pioneer in spatial computing and a top global expert on the Metaverse and Web3. Catherine takes us through the journey of how immersive and interactive experiences have evolved, from the early days of gaming to the widespread adoption of AI, virtual reality, and augmented reality. We’ll discuss how the pandemic accelerated the convergence of these technologies, leading to long-term shifts in how we live and interact with digital media. Catherine shares her insights on the latest trends, the impact of major players like Meta and Apple, and the importance of being ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing landscape. We also explore Catherine's impressive background, including her education in marketing and economics, and her passion for trend forecasting and how that has allowed her to create her own dream job and lead to her writing the best-selling book “Virtual Natives” This episode is a must-listen for businesses, entrepreneurs, tech fans, and anyone curious about the future: 🔮 “Gen Z represents 50% of the global workforce and will be at the beginning of their peak earning years by 2030, which is just four and a half years away. We need to think about how we will prepare for this new generation. Gaming is a fundamental part of where our customers are” 🎮 “Every company will need a gaming division because this is the new media platform.” 🔄”What does reciprocity look like for your brand? Instead of crafting a perfect message, maybe let your audience create something new with it. Let people play and enjoy your brand.” Key moments: 00:00 - Introduction: VR passion and undervaluation of technology 04:10 - Acceleration of AI and spatial computing 07:50 - Challenges in retail and dominance of UGC 10:33 - Importance of online brand communities and fandom 13:02 - Shifting focus to Gen Z and future customers 15:21 - Embracing reciprocity and evolving with culture 18:03 - Importance of community and adaptable tools for Gen Alpha 20:08 - Disruptive education and cross-generational learning experiences 21:39 - Changing expectations of future employees and office culture 23:36 - Gen Alpha's emphasis on community, inclusivity, reciprocity 26:04 - Identifying new talent and embracing multiple careers 28:19 - Advice for the future and staying curious

Supply chain logistics is a messy place right now. So what does the future hold?  When it comes to transformation and digital development the Supply Chain industry is one of the slowest sectors to progress, so we’ll be speaking to someone who has spent two decades frivolously learning and seeking to create change in logistics infrastructure, customs compliance, shipping, and supply chain technology.   A self-described industry busybody, Jeffrey Tan wears many hats. Currently, as the president of the Singapore Computer Society’s Supply Chain Management Chapter, leading efforts in technology adoption within the industry and shaking up the status quo.  In his episode, we look at the current pain points and future challenges for global supply chains and logistics. We’ll be exploring how new retail and startups may impact legacy systems and looking to the future of what needs to be done and changed within this space.  ✅ The missing pieces for driving successful transformation within the supply chain and logistics industry ✅Singapore's journey as a logistics powerhouse and its role in reshaping global trade ✅ Can blockchain really create the change that it has been hyped to create within the industry? ✅ How Southeast Asia is reshaping the manufacturing landscape and what it means for regional economies ✅The impact of eCommerce and smaller businesses on global supply chains and logistics ✅ The hidden world of logistics and discover how it shapes our everyday experiences ✅ Embracing failure and learning from losses Chapters: 00:00 - Challenges and progress in the logistics industry 06:42 - Career journey and industry development involvement 15:54 - Importance of networking and pro bono work 23:40 - Impact of COVID-19 on logistics sector 1:01:00 - Relocation of manufacturing to Southeast Asia 1:10:37 - Adoption of technology and new retail model 1:18:05 - Importance of agility and entrepreneurship in organizations 1:26:42 - Strategic partnerships and soft skills in organizations 1:35:01 - Slow adoption of technology in logistics sector 1:43:02 - Importance of resources and business models 1:52:15 - The future of logistics and supply chain 2:00:06 - Embracing curiosity and continuous learning in life About The Forward Podcast: In a world where technology intertwines with every aspect of our lives, how do industry experts and leaders plan to navigate forward? Explore bold moves and strategies for success amid constant disruption. Learn the ideas, behaviors, tools, and trends they'll leave behind, and those they'll carry forward to shape the future of work, life, and leadership. About SmartOSC: With 18 years in operation, SmartOSC is an award-winning digital commerce agency of 1,000+ experts, across seven countries including Vietnam, Australia, Singapore, Japan, Thailand, the US, and the UK. Check out our website: smartosc.com

“I'm a true believer that you can't force an audience.” How can brands navigate unpredictable times when connecting with their audience? By staying true to yourself, letting go of vanity, being authentic, and cutting out the BS (Bullshit)! In this episode of The Forward Podcast from SmartOSC, we are thrilled to welcome Natalie Dau, a renowned Media Creator, Athlete, and Co-Author of 'Run Like A Woman'. With over 20 years in Asia and 25 years consulting with some of the world's biggest brands, Natalie shares her incredible journey from corporate consultant to ultra-marathon athlete and influential content creator. Natalie has amassed over 700,000 followers as @RockstarArms, traveling the world to deliver powerful talks and inspiring countless individuals. In this candid conversation, we delve into: How to bring a sporting spirit to your work Connecting with audiences authentically and effectively Overcoming outdated preconceptions women face in the workplace The power of vulnerability and inspiration in leadership Trusting your gut and being true to yourself Challenging societal norms and gender stereotypes Continuous self-evolution and rewriting your story Embracing failure and learning from losses

“Banking business used to be low risk and low return. But we don't believe it's going to stay like that.” What rewards await those brave enough to swim against the current? We explore this question further while speaking to Dennis Trawnitschek, the CTO of SCBX. SCBX is described as the mothership of the financial technology business, comprising 12 subsidiary companies that operate across key business pillars: Banking Business, Consumer and Digital Finance Business, and Platform and Technology Business. In our latest episode of The Forward Podcast, we delved into this transformation alongside the cultural shift required for it and how to navigate the changing landscape of banking. Renowned for his forward-thinking approach to technology adoption and AI integration, Dennis shares the captivating story of how SCBX is becoming the mothership of financial technology while still staying true to its 100-year heritage. A significant part of this transformation involves integrating AI into the core of SCBX's operations. So, how can organizations make AI change a real change? In this episode, you’ll hear about that and… ✅The importance of embracing change ✅Navigating AI-driven disruptions ✅Innovation through risk & experimentation ✅Creating a culture of adaption and cross-learning

After 10 years of rocket growth within the eCommerce space, businesses are asking how they can become more profitable. Effective data is a start. But as more and more technologies and tools emerge that promise businesses the world, it is more important than ever to ensure that you are using quality rather than quantity.  Today we’re exploring Using Data & Insights for Profit: What's Now and Next for Southeast Asia with the brilliant Simon Torring the Co-founder of Cube Asia, a market intelligence company focused on Southeast Asia’s digital economy. Before founding Cube Asia, Simon spent the last 10 years in Southeast Asia’s retail and eCommerce space. His experience includes stints with beauty eCommerce startup Luxola.com and world-leading beauty retailer Sephora, where he led Omnichannel development for APAC ex-China. Today, Cube Asia helps consumer brands, retailers, and investors understand the online selling environment better through more reliable, granular, and timely market data and insights. In this episode, we cover: What makes a great leader? Honest insights you need to hear Lessons on market feedback and decision-making Hallucinogenic data and the quest for validation Emerging trends in Southeast Asian social commerce Key drivers of eCommerce growth and profitability The need for speed in business decision-making Driving innovation in e-commerce strategies Overcoming bottlenecks and building great teams And so much more!

What does it take to truly transform yourself and your organization from the inside out? Being completely honest with yourself is a start. And who better to share their honest stories of progression than our next guest? Andy Chang has spent the last two decades working with global organizations to transform and construct their customer interactions and in turn, has worked to tirelessly transform himself and his mindset.  As a technologist and computer science alumni, Andy's journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a deep-seated belief in the power of technology to shape human experiences. Now as the Head of Marketing Technology, Engagement Solutions at Electrolux Group, Andy joins us today to share the winding path of his career journey, and the evolving landscape of MarTech, and to discuss both the exciting opportunities and the realities that lie ahead.   In this episode, we cover: Seizing Opportunities and Navigating Career Paths The Expectations VS Reality of Computer Science & Software Engineering Enhancing Consumer Experience with Personalization The Cost of Transforming into a Data-driven Organization The Untold Stories about Modern Marketing Dynamics between marketing and technology teams The Calling for Marketing Technologists and Industry Maturity in MarTech Importance of Transparency in Consumer Experiences Adapting to future trends and technological disruptions Leadership of the Future Advice to Future Self  

Mint Kaewmanorom lives a life filled with curiosity, consistently looking at the bigger picture she moves forward by wondering how she can tackle problems with new solutions. So it comes as no surprise that she finds herself in one of the most interesting areas for the future, the Internet of Things.  As Asia embraces digitalization, IoT stands poised to transform industries, offering a glimpse into a future marked by enhanced efficiency and connectivity.  In this episode, we’ll hear about the work that True Digital is doing with leveraging IoT technology in Thailand and how they plan to solve some of the pain points that people and businesses face. Moving beyond the idea that IoT is gadgets and gizmos – Mint, the Head of Marketing and IoT Solutions at True Digital shines a light on how they are working with entire industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, city management, and entertainment. Described as being “limited only by the human imagination”, the rise of IoT technology presents unprecedented opportunities for innovation and connectivity - at the center of bringing these to life in Thailand, is True Digital.

Cut The Onion is a playful acronym for CTO (Chief Technology Officer), reflecting the multifaceted nature of the role. Like an onion, the CTO role has layers that, when peeled back, reveal even more beneath the surface.  In this mini-series, we’ll explore the core of tech roles that can often be misunderstood and explore the stories of those working in tech across a multitude of industries. We'll bring you honest takes, trends, and tips for moving forward. 

How many of us really speak directly to our customers and when was the last time we went on their customer journey? In this episode of Commerce Talk we are talking all about filtered-down insights, the need for psychological safety in innovation, and why it’s important to just be quiet in meetings every once in a while! With agility in its DNA, across 60 years of business, GQ Thailand has been evolving and shedding its roots from being known as an apparel brand to a problem-solving tech brand that is there to help change your life by simply listening. With a focus on insights-led product development, GQ's viral product launches have been successful because they resonate with consumers and address the real problems they face. From white shirts that get easily stained, to boxers that are really warm and uncomfortable, GQ Thailand takes pain-points and removes them for their customers. From the GQWhite Shirt - the Ultimate White Shirt & GQWhite Masks - The #1 selling reusable face mask in the region, GQ Perfect Polo, GQ Perfect Pants, and GQ Cool Tech Underwear, and more, GQ Thailand has managed to sell without having to adhere to the time consumption that fashion-based retailers usually face.  In this episode of Commerce Talk, we are sitting down with George Hartel,  the Chief Commercial Officer for Supara Group - GQ Thailand, Southeast Asia's Leading Technical Apparel Brand. Specializing in innovative apparel that solves everyday problems. With over 20 years of transformation and multinational business experience, George brings a rare and refreshing outlook that challenges the status quo of traditional retail, advertising, marketing, and leadership.  From advocating for more “ugly advertising” to removing the filters on what it takes to really understand your customer's journey and needs. We’ll chat about all of that and we’ll delve into…  ✅ The importance of reconnecting with consumers and understanding their challenges  ✅ Why authenticity and rawness in advertising can be more effective than polished and perfect content ✅How to create a safe and innovative culture within a company is essential for growth ✅Why leaders must actively listen and engage with their teams and consumers ✅GQ's focus on synthesizing innovation rather than predicting the future has been a successful approach