The Global Discussion

Mack Garrison, Co-Founder of Dash Studio, a high-end animation and motion design agency, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Mack's passion for creativity, problem-solving, and community-building shone through as he shared insights on the evolving landscape of motion design, marketing, and the power of authentic storytelling.00:00 - Introduction00:26 - How Mack Garrison Got Into Motion Design03:10 - What Is High-End Animation and Motion Design05:55 - The Secret to High-End Content & Authenticity09:10 - The Changing Marketing Landscape & The Digital Shelf14:11 - The Future of Creative Work & Remote Collaboration18:37 - AI in Motion Design: Opportunity or Threat?Listen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Jaime Schwarz joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins, offering deep insights into the future of branding, AI-driven brand identity, and the evolving role of businesses in a post-AI world. His journey—from a successful career in advertising to pioneering brand therapy and digital authentication—reveals a visionary approach to brand-building that prioritizes authenticity, adaptability, and technological evolution.00:00 - Welcome & Introduction01:00 - From Psychology to Advertising03:15 - Brand Therapy - Empowering Brands to Listen and Speak06:30 - How AI is Changing Branding10:45 - The Power of Team Flow in Business15:20 - Web3 & The Future of Digital Ownership18:50 - The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Founders vs. Business BuildersListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Billy Samoa Saleebey, Co-Founder and CEO of Podify, joins Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Billy shared his incredible journey—from making films in Hollywood to revolutionizing onboarding at Tesla and now leading the charge in the podcasting industry.00:00 - Welcome & Introduction00:54 - From Hollywood to Solar Energy03:11 - Working at Tesla & Creating a Global Onboarding Program04:18 - The Shift to Podcasting & Founding Podify06:54 - Lessons from Podcasting & First Principles Thinking10:53 - The Secret to Podcast Growth & What Makes a Show Shareable22:37 - Why YouTube is Essential for Podcasters30:31 - Final Thoughts & How to Connect with BillyListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Erica Orange, Partner at The Future Hunters, a leading futurist consulting firm, joined host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion podcast for an insightful conversation on the future of AI, human adaptability, and the evolving landscape of truth. With nearly two decades of experience, Erica brings a deep understanding of sociocultural, technological, economic, geopolitical, and environmental trends—translating them into actionable strategies for organizations worldwide.00:00 - Introduction & Welcome to The Global Discussion00:22 - Erica Orange on Becoming a Futurist & The Future Hunters03:32 - AI, Time, Trust & Truth: Exploring AI and the New Human Frontier06:44 - Separating AI Hype from Reality: What Can & Can’t AI Do?10:28 - The Challenge of Misinformation & The Carnival Funhouse Effect14:26 - The Future of Power: Billionaires, Governments & AI20:51 - The Rise of Digital Labor & The Neo-Human Workforce25:59 - Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for the FutureListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Mine Dedekoca is the Founder and Chief Happiness Officer of Happy Work Studio, with over a decade of experience in remote work and a passion for fostering positive workplace cultures. Host Simon Hodgkins meets with Mine on this episode of The Global Discussion, where Mine shares her insights on the evolving work landscape and the importance of well-being in professional settings. A Remote Work Expert Mine's journey into remote work began in 2012, long before it became as widespread as it is today. Serving as a Country Manager for various organizations, she embraced fully distributed teams, gaining invaluable experience in managing remote operations. This early adoption gave her a unique perspective on the benefits and challenges of remote work. The Launch of Happy Work Studio Recognizing the need for a structured approach to remote work and employee well-being, Mine founded Happy Work Studio. The organization is dedicated to helping companies and individuals adapt to new ways of working, focusing not just on where work is done but how it's accomplished. By emphasizing effective strategies to reduce burnout and increase happiness, Happy Work Studio aims to create thriving work environments. Redefining Productivity and Flexibility During the podcast, Mine highlighted a common misconception about productivity. She emphasized that true productivity isn't about working longer hours but achieving more with less input. By redesigning work processes and embracing flexibility, companies can enhance employee well-being and drive innovation. This approach leads to higher engagement, increased creativity, and improved retention rates. The Rise of Digital Nomadism The conversation also touched upon the growing trend of digital nomadism. Mine noted that today's digital nomads are often highly skilled professionals who choose not to be tied to a specific location. Countries like Turkey are recognizing this shift, introducing digital nomad visas to attract such talent. Mine actively contributes to this movement by organizing events like the upcoming Digital Nomad Fest in Turkey, aiming to foster community and support for location-independent professionals. Looking Ahead As for future endeavors, Mine plans to continue balancing her roles in technology and well-being. Her roadmap includes organizing events focused on remote work and happiness, mentoring startups, and engaging in social responsibility projects to enhance digital literacy among disadvantaged groups. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

The Global Discussion welcomes a true expert in digital marketing—Gavin Duff, the Head of Digital at Friday Agency, Lecturer, Keynote Speaker, and Author of the brilliantly titled book Hiding Dead Bodies: Your No-Nonsense Path to SEO Glory. Gavin catches up with Host Simon Hodgkins for a compelling discussion. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in digital strategy, SEO, analytics, and e-commerce, Gavin has worked with some of the most recognized brands. Clients have included Bord Gáis, Bus Éireann, The Irish Times, AIB, Danone, Mason Hayes & Curran, Heineken, 3, Mazda, Dominos Pizza, AXA Insurance, 123•ie, Amazon, DIT, Sunway Holidays, Daft•ie, Temple Street. Barrettstown, Matheson, Dublin Business School, Oxfam, Harry Corry, Newstalk, 98FM, Gaiety Theatre, Aer Lingus, Hilton Hotels, HSBC, Ford, TV3, Tayto, permanent tsb, the HSE, MyHome•ie, Trinity College, and many more. His insights into search marketing and human interaction with technology are not just theoretical—they are battle-tested in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. A Career Built on SEO, Strategy, and Cyberpsychology From his early days working with Yahoo—back when it was a major player in search—Gavin developed a deep-rooted expertise in SEO, content strategy, and search advertising. His experience spans client- and agency-side work, allowing him to advise businesses on creating winning strategies in an increasingly competitive online landscape. Not only does he lead digital marketing efforts at Friday Agency, but he also shares his knowledge through lecturing at Trinity College and speaking at industry conferences. His ability to blend marketing psychology with technical SEO makes him a sought-after expert in the field. The Story Behind Hiding Dead BodiesOne of the most intriguing parts of the conversation was Gavin's book title—Hiding Dead Bodies. While it might raise eyebrows when read in public, the phrase is an inside joke in SEO circles: "The best place to hide a dead body is page two of Google." The book isn't just a guide to SEO; it's a no-nonsense approach to helping businesses outmaneuver competitors, build trust signals, and ensure their content ranks where it matters—on page one. Written in a practical and engaging style, it's designed for marketing professionals who want to understand SEO without getting lost in jargon. AI and the Future of SEO With the rise of AI, many marketers are wondering: What does this mean for SEO? Gavin addressed this head-on, explaining that while AI is being rapidly integrated into digital platforms, the core principles of SEO remain unchanged: Trust signals still matter – AI tools will prioritize content from authoritative, well-linked sources. User engagement will shape rankings – Platforms like ChatGPT and Google's AI will soon analyze how users interact with content. AI is a tool, not a replacement – While AI can help generate ideas and optimize content, it should not be relied upon to fully write SEO-friendly content. For businesses looking to future-proof their SEO strategy, Gavin recommends focusing on quality content, strategic distribution, and optimizing for engagement rather than chasing quick AI-generated solutions. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with Anne Ravanona, CEO and Founder of Global Invest Her, to discuss her groundbreaking work in tackling one of the world's most persistent inequalities—the funding gap for women entrepreneurs. Anne's passion for empowering women entrepreneurs is palpable. With a bold mission to fund one million women entrepreneurs by 2030, she is spearheading a global movement to address the systemic biases and barriers that have kept women underfunded, underestimated, and overlooked in the business world. A Problem Too Big to Ignore Anne's advocacy is driven by shocking statistics. "Only 2% of venture capital worldwide goes to women-owned businesses, and less than 1% of corporate and government procurement budgets are allocated to them," she explained. Moreover, the global credit gap between male and female entrepreneurs, which stood at $300 billion in 2013, has now ballooned to $1.7 trillion. Anne doesn't mince words: "The world is missing out on innovation, social impact, and $28 trillion in global economic growth by failing to fund women entrepreneurs at the same level as men. This is not just a women's issue—it's a global opportunity." The Three Pillars of Change Anne's approach to addressing this inequality is as multifaceted as the problem itself. She describes her strategy as a "three-legged stool" that balances practical solutions, policy shaping, and advocacy. 1. Practical Solutions Through Global Invest Her Anne's platform, Global Invest Her, offers tools to demystify the funding process, boost confidence, and connect women entrepreneurs with funders. Two flagship initiatives are gaining traction: The Deal Flow Directory: A curated platform for investors to discover high-potential, women-led ventures. Buy From Her Marketplace: A global directory and marketplace where consumers, corporations, and governments can consciously choose to support women-owned businesses. 2. Shaping Policy for Systemic Change Anne is a prominent voice in policy-making circles, serving on the EU delegation of the W20, an official G20 engagement group. Her team crafts actionable recommendations for governments, focusing on tax incentives, access to collateral, and entrepreneurial education. "We can't solve this overnight," she says, "but systemic change starts with informed policies." 3. Advocacy and Mind-Shifting Through public speaking engagements, her podcast (Invest Her), and collaborations with global organizations, Anne amplifies the stories of women entrepreneurs and challenges societal biases. Her TEDx talk and appearances at the United Nations, European Parliament, and other global stages have established her as a leading voice in the fight for gender equality in entrepreneurship. A Movement Built on Community Anne emphasized the importance of collective action. "We can't do this alone," she said. "Global Invest Her is about connecting the dots—bringing together founders, funders, and policy-makers to drive real change." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Tatiana Mirska, Chief Marketing Officer of CHI Software, shares her inspiring career journey across diverse industries like consumer goods, banking, eSports, and software. She discusses her role as a change agent, leading organizations through transformation while navigating challenges and cultural differences. Tatiana highlights CHI Software’s transition into AI-driven solutions, showcasing innovative products like customizable AI assistants. 00:00 - Tatiana Mirska, CMO 01:02 - Starting a Career in Marketing 03:20 - From Consumer Goods to eSports 06:45 - Lessons in Change Management 09:11 - Working Across Cultures 15:21 - Embracing AI at CHI Software 23:42 - Advice for Marketing Leaders 32:04 - Patience and Leadership in Change Listen to The Global Discussion on… • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Samantha Jewel, CEO of Urth, joined The Global Discussion to share her journey and solutions for addressing climate challenges. Her passion for soil health and her focus on action stand out as practical and impactful. From Restaurants to Regenerative Farming Samantha’s family founded Australia’s first restaurant chain in 1965. By the late 1990s, they served over 50,000 meals a week. While running the business, Samantha began to question farming practices. She was shocked by what she discovered—chemicals, GMOs, and practices harming food and health. This questioning led her to explore organics and regenerative farming. In 2006, she purchased Australia’s first soil carbon credit, setting the stage for her work in carbon markets. The Power of Soil Soil is at the center of Samantha’s work. She sees it as the key to solving issues like food security, climate change, and water management. Healthy soil absorbs carbon, improves biodiversity, and helps plants thrive. Samantha’s message is simple: carbon is not a problem—it’s a solution. By focusing on soil health, we can draw carbon from the atmosphere and store it in the ground. This benefits both the planet and the farmers working the land. Urth: Bridging the Gap Through her company, Urth, Samantha helps farmers and businesses work together. Farmers improve their soil and earn money by selling carbon credits. Businesses offset their emissions and support regenerative practices. Urth’s “Putting nature on the balance sheet” tagline reflects Samantha’s mission. Urth creates financial incentives for sustainable farming by making carbon measurable and tradable. Changing Mindsets Samantha knows farmers face challenges. Changing practices can feel risky, especially with unpredictable weather and financial pressures. But she emphasizes the rewards—better yields, healthier soil, and long-term stability. She also helps businesses understand the value of carbon credits. Her work connects these two worlds, driving change and creating opportunities for both sides. A Vision for Action Samantha’s book, Carbon is Not a Dirty Word, is designed to be an easy read. It breaks down the complex world of carbon markets into straightforward steps. Whether you’re a farmer, business leader, or policymaker, the book offers practical guidance. In the months and years ahead, Samantha plans to: - Expand regenerative farming projects worldwide. - Partner with governments and organizations to scale solutions. - Educate more people about the power of soil and carbon. What Can You Do? Samantha believes everyone can contribute. You can make informed choices about the food you buy. Businesses can measure their carbon footprint and explore offsets. Farmers can explore new practices to improve soil health. Where to Learn More You can find Samantha’s book and learn about Urth at: - Urth.io - SamJewel.com Samantha is also active on LinkedIn and Instagram, sharing insights and updates. Her message is clear: the tools to heal the planet exist. The next step is action. How will you contribute? Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

We welcome inspiring guest Tiphany Kane, CEO of KaSa Media Productions and a powerhouse in audio and video production, to this episode of The Global Discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins. Tiphany's story is not just about building a cutting-edge studio; it's about resilience, creativity, and a passion for empowering others. If you are into audio, podcasting, and everything sound-related, keep listening (or watching!) From Passionate Beginnings to Industry Pioneer Tiphany Kane's journey to becoming a leader in media production is as compelling as it is inspiring. She transitioned from a successful career in education to the demanding and dynamic world of media after being told she was "too passionate." Instead of dimming her light, Tiphany channeled that passion into podcasting, creating a space for her voice and helping others do the same. Her venture into podcasting sparked a transformation—not just for her but countless others who now look to her for mentorship, guidance, and expertise. Tiphany's belief that "everyone's voice matters" underpins everything she does, from hosting award-winning podcasts to founding KaSa Media Productions, a company that specializes in empowering creators to share their stories. A Game-Changing Studio: Just Four Feet Studio A highlight of the episode was the unveiling of Tiphany's ambitious new project: Just Four Feet Studio. Located in Laguna Hills, California, the studio is a first-of-its-kind in Orange County, offering an unparalleled range of audio and video production services. What began as a modest idea evolved into a sprawling 5,500-square-foot facility featuring: • Dolby Atmos Mixing Stages: Including a theatrical stage for cinema-quality sound production. • Voiceover and ADR Rooms: Designed for seamless dialogue recording and post-production. • Virtual Production Room: A state-of-the-art green screen space powered by Unreal Engine. • Community Education Space: A 1,000-square-foot area for training, workshops, and internships aimed at fostering the next generation of creatives. Tiphany shared the story behind the studio's name, Just Four Feet Studio, which stemmed from a decision to expand a room by a mere four feet to accommodate Dolby theatrical certification. That small adjustment turned into a massive endeavor, showcasing Tiphany's determination to push boundaries and exceed expectations. Amplifying Voices Through Awards and Advocacy In addition to her studio work, Tiphany is a passionate advocate for underrepresented voices in podcasting. She co-founded the Sonic Bloom Awards, an initiative recognizing creators for their impact rather than their download numbers. The awards celebrate contributions to diverse communities, including LGBTQIA+, differently-abled individuals, and women of color. This initiative complements Tiphany's other accolades, including multiple industry awards like the Davey Award and the Communicator Award. Her dedication to elevating others reflects her belief that everyone's story has value and the power to inspire. A Roadmap to Success and Community Impact Looking ahead, Tiphany envisions her studio as more than a business—it's a community hub. She plans to host educational events, internships, and collaborations with major industry players. Her ultimate goal? To make Just Four Feet Studio a premier destination for creatives while nurturing an inclusive, inspiring environment. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook