The Global Discussion

The host of The Global Discussion, Simon Hodgkins, speaks with Antonio Vieira Santos, an industry veteran who advocates for accessibility, inclusivity, and innovative digital transformation. Antonio, currently serving as Senior Business Intelligence and Innovation Evangelist at Eviden and Co-Founder of AXSChat, shared insights from his extensive experience in tech, corporate strategy, and digital transformation, all through the lens of accessibility and inclusivity. Antonio's career spans numerous roles and industries, including telecommunications, business intelligence, and workplace innovation. Now based in Cork, Ireland, he brings unique perspectives on the future of work, the transformative power of AI, and, most importantly, a commitment to accessibility-centric innovation. His work has consistently advocated for a digital world that leaves no one behind. At Eviden, part of the Atos group, Antonio ensures that digital tools cater to everyone, especially those with disabilities—a mission he passionately elaborated on during his conversation with Simon. Accessibility-Centric Innovation: A Key FocusFor Antonio, accessibility isn't just a checkbox in product development—it's the core of what true digital innovation should aim for. During the episode, he highlighted a pressing issue: around 80% of websites are still inaccessible to people with disabilities. "The web isn't new anymore," Antonio stated, "yet the tools we use still fall short for a large part of the population."Antonio argues that "being accessibility-centric" should mean involving people with disabilities from the outset. This proactive approach ensures that digital solutions are not only inclusive but also practical for diverse users. As he put it, prioritizing accessibility prevents "digital pollution," where innovations inadvertently create barriers instead of breaking them down. Insights on AI: Enhancing Accessibility and Business IntelligenceAs an advocate for responsible AI, Antonio views artificial intelligence as a powerful tool for creating a more inclusive digital environment. An Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building Community Through Innovation Antonio has also been a dedicated entrepreneur, founding several companies and initiatives over the years, including a coworking startup in Cork. He shared that his ventures outside his corporate role have allowed him to experiment, connect with different generations, and gain insights that inform his work in innovation and digital transformation. Championing Inclusivity in Tech and Workplaces Antonio serves on the advisory board of Women in Tech and co-founded The Digital Transformation Lab at University College Cork. His work in these organizations focuses on increasing diversity in tech, fostering inclusive workplace policies, and building support networks for underrepresented groups. The Future of Work: Flexibility and Inclusivity at the Core Antonio believes hybrid and remote work setups can be powerful tools for inclusivity, enabling more diverse and flexible work environments. "Without proper onboarding and support," he warned, "we risk leaving young professionals feeling isolated." His recommendation? Companies should go beyond technical training to offer robust communication, collaboration, and mental health support programs. 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 DiscussionWeb: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussionOthers: X, Instagram, and Facebook

The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, catches up with Steve Gee, Co-Founder and CEO of Blend, a cutting-edge executive membership community aimed at revolutionizing how senior leaders connect, learn, and grow. In this episode, we discuss Steve's vision for fostering cognitive diversity among leaders of the world's largest enterprises. The Story Behind Blend: A Journey Rooted in Experience Steve Gee has spent over two decades bringing senior leaders together, creating valuable networking opportunities, and curating impactful discussions. Starting his career by organizing major industry events like the Mobile World Congress, Steve's extensive experience has given him deep insights into the challenges executives face as they climb the corporate ladder. "One of the biggest hurdles leaders face is moving beyond their functional expertise and understanding the bigger picture of the business. It's that lack of cross-functional knowledge that often leads to imposter syndrome among executives," Steve shared. This realization led Steve and his co-founder to create Blend—an executive membership community transcending traditional networking. With hubs in major global cities like London, San Francisco, Toronto, and New York, Blend aims to break down silos within organizations and foster meaningful connections across industries and geographies. Why Cognitive Diversity Matters At the core of Blend's mission is the concept of cognitive diversity. Steve explains that when organizations embrace diverse ideas, experiences, and perspectives, they are better equipped to solve complex problems and innovate effectively. It's not just about diversity in appearance or background; it's about diversity in thought. Blend's approach is a direct response to the well-known issue of organizational silos. Large enterprises, Steve argues, often separate teams into functional units, creating environments where leaders rarely interact with colleagues outside their immediate business areas. Blend aims to provide a platform where senior executives can break free from this isolation, gain new perspectives, and build long-lasting, valuable relationships. More Than a Membership: The Blend Experience Blend is not just another networking platform—it's a thoughtfully curated experience for senior executives. Steve emphasized that Blend offers a range of benefits to its members, including monthly in-person meetings in major cities, access to masterclasses, and exclusive events featuring renowned thought leaders and experts. Whether it's a discussion on AI ethics in London with Lord Tim Clement-Jones or an insightful session with a Wharton Business School professor in New York, Blend ensures that members are continuously challenged and engaged. Inclusive Is The New Exclusive One of Blend's most compelling taglines is, "Inclusive is the new exclusive." But what does that mean in practice? According to Steve, it's about creating a community that values inclusivity of thought, not exclusivity based on titles or financial contributions. Balancing Physical and Digital: The Blend App While Blend emphasizes the importance of in-person connections, it also integrates technology to keep members connected between events. The Blend app offers executives access to valuable resources, including book clubs, masterclasses, and virtual discussions on trending business topics. 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 Host, Simon Hodgkins, is joined by the remarkable world record holder and business owner Jenn Drummond. A car accident left Jenn Drummond awestruck and emboldened. Rescue workers couldn't imagine any scenario in which she came out of it alive, but she did. That's when she realized that you don't get to choose when you leave this life…but you sure can choose how you live it. Strengthened by this awareness, she set out to live more authentically and adventurously. Inspired to climb a mountain for her birthday, her son raised the stakes by suggesting Mount Everest. Not one to back down from a challenge, she accepted the pursuit. During her training, her coach upped the ante and proposed that she go for a Guinness World Record and become the first woman to climb the seven second summits. The pursuit matched her desire to live a life of significance, not just success. Today, Jenn is a world record holder who elevates others to master their own summit in life. She's a successful business owner and Mom of seven remarkable children. Jenn is also an international speaker, author, and Host of the Seek Your Next Summit podcast. A Turning Point: The Car Accident That Changed Everything Jenn's story begins with a pivotal moment in 2018—a car accident that could have taken her life. This life-changing event became a catalyst, pushing her to reassess her goals and redefine her path. Climbing for a Cause: The Seven Second Summits Inspired by her surroundings in Park City, home to North America's largest ski resort, Jenn initially planned to climb a mountain for her 40th birthday. However, when COVID-19 interrupted her plans, an unexpected challenge from one of her sons set her on a new path. After he questioned why she wasn't climbing something "real" like Everest, Jenn felt motivated to take on the iconic peak and prove that "we could climb our Everest, no matter where we were." This led to her embarking on an even greater mission: to become the first woman to summit the second-highest peak on each of the seven continents. Known as the Seven Second Summits, this monumental challenge had only been completed by one male climber before her. Break Proof: Building Resilience Jenn's philosophy extends beyond climbing. As an author, her book Break Proof dives into the lessons learned from her experiences. The book's central theme is that life will inevitably present challenges that may seem like breaking points. Jenn believes it's not about avoiding these breaks but understanding that they provide "proof" of what's working, what's not, and what needs to change to move forward. It's a message that resonates deeply with high achievers, entrepreneurs, and anyone striving to overcome obstacles. From Climber to Podcaster: Seek Your Summit Jenn's storytelling doesn't end with her book. Her podcast, Seek Your Summit, is another platform where she engages with inspiring individuals who have faced challenges and emerged stronger! In all her ventures, the number seven remains a guiding theme for Jenn. Whether it's her seven children, seven mountains, or the seven-step guides featured on her blog, this number symbolizes balance and completeness. "The world is hard enough. The climb is hard enough. You being hard on yourself doesn't help," Jenn explains. 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

Networking isn't just about business cards and handshakes—it's about creating lasting relationships that drive opportunities and growth. In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with the "Connections Queen," Tracey Currell, to explore the world of strategic networking, entrepreneurship, and the power of human connection. As the Director and Founder of Introbiz and Youthbiz, Tracey has built a thriving global network that transforms businesses, connects people, and opens doors to meaningful collaborations. The Journey: From Sales Rookie to Connections Queen Tracey's story began when she was tasked with networking for an advertising role. Like many newcomers to the networking scene, she started with a hard-sell approach that didn't yield the results she was hoping for. But instead of giving up, Tracey sought feedback and learned that the key to successful networking was a genuine human connection, not just hitting targets. This shift in perspective led her to found Introbiz, a strategic business network designed to connect professionals with their ideal clients and collaborators. What started as a local venture has since grown into an international community that hosts multiple monthly events, both online and in person. Today, Introbiz boasts partnerships and collaborations worldwide, including networks in Dubai and the Netherlands. Pivoting: A Masterclass in Adaptability When the pandemic hit, Tracey's business—like so many others—faced a critical turning point. With all events traditionally held in person, she had to adapt quickly, transitioning her network online. This move saved her business and expanded Introbiz's reach beyond geographical boundaries. Today, the network offers eight monthly online events, providing members with global opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow their businesses. Building a Global Community: The Introbiz Philosophy At the heart of Introbiz's success is its core philosophy: creating win-win relationships. Tracey emphasizes that networking isn't about taking—it's about giving. Whether through connecting people with valuable resources, offering introductions to key players in their industry, or collaborating with international networks, Tracey ensures that Introbiz adds value for all its members. Her advice for anyone stepping into the networking world is simple yet profound: "Show up consistently and offer value. The fortune is in the follow-up." This ethos has attracted a community of like-minded professionals who share Tracey's passion for meaningful connection and collaboration. Expanding Opportunities: Events, Summits, and International Reach Tracey's expertise doesn't stop at networking events. Introbiz has evolved to offer a wide range of experiences, including business exhibitions, sporting events, and even an upcoming singles event designed to connect people on a personal level. Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs In addition to leading Introbiz, Tracey also spearheads Youthbiz, a platform to nurture young entrepreneurs and provide them with the tools and connections they need to succeed. She's also an author, TEDx speaker, and investor, further showcasing her dedication to empowering others through knowledge and experience. 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

Leslie Zane, the President and Founder of Triggers® Brand Consulting, TEDx Speaker, and author of The Power of Instinct, Joins Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion for an engaging conversation. Zane, a trailblazer in marketing and brand strategy, shared her insights on how businesses can harness the power of the unconscious mind to accelerate growth, build stronger brands, and drive real change. From Harvard Business School to Cracking the Code on Brand Growth Leslie Zane’s journey started at Harvard Business School and continued through high-profile roles at industry giants like P&G. Along her journey, she noticed a critical gap: many businesses struggled to grow despite their marketing prowess. Realizing the need for a repeatable process for growth, she left the corporate world in 1995 to establish her own company, Triggers® Brand Consulting. Her mission was clear—to develop a scientific, reliable approach to brand growth that businesses of all sizes could apply. Over the last 30 years, Zane has cracked the code, and now, through her book, she aims to make these transformative techniques accessible to everyone. The Power of Instinct: A New Era of Marketing Zane’s book, The Power of Instinct, is a comprehensive guide that flips the traditional marketing script on its head. Rather than relying on persuasion and conventional tactics that appeal to the conscious mind—often with limited success—Zane encourages marketers to tap into the instinctive mind, which drives 95% of human decision-making. “Think of the conscious mind as the path of greatest resistance,” Zane explains. “The unconscious mind is the path of least resistance, and that’s where the power lies.” By leveraging cognitive shortcuts, Zane’s method enables brands to bypass the skepticism and rigidity of the conscious mind, creating an instinctual connection that drives faster, more effective results. The Brand Connectome: Building Strong, Instinctive Connections One of the most compelling concepts Zane introduced during the episode is the Brand Connectome. This unique model, trademarked by her firm, represents the cumulative memories and associations that a brand builds over time in the consumer’s mind. This network of connections ultimately dictates which products or services a consumer instinctively reaches for. Why Emotional Advertising Misses the Mark In a marketing landscape dominated by emotional advertising, Zane challenges the status quo. Leslie shares that emotions—while powerful in the moment—often fail to create lasting connections. Instead, she advocates for the use of memorable verbal and visual assets that become embedded in the consumer’s subconscious. AI, Neuroscience, and the Future of Marketing Zane also discussed the parallels between AI and the human brain, noting that AI’s ability to connect millions of dots in real time is similar to how the instinctive mind works. “The brain is a connection machine,” she says, emphasizing that AI and the brand connectome operate on the principle of making associations. By understanding these connections, brands can more effectively manage their growth and overcome obstacles. 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

Chris Goor is the personal branding, authenticity, and video strategy guru. His experienced approach to personal branding is why his philosophy resonates with individuals, businesses, and creatives worldwide. Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with Chris on this episode of The Global Discussion. We look into his journey, expertise, and the transformative power of using video to create impactful brands. Who is Chris Goor? Chris Goor is a seasoned video and branding expert. He is a Personal Branding Expert and Creator at Brand Video Pro (the Studio), Co-founder and Brand and Video Strategist at Rusty Monkey, and a broadcast camera supervisor who has worked with high-profile clients like the BBC, ITV, Netflix, Channel 4, Samsung, National Theatre and the Royal Opera House. Chris's portfolio is as diverse as it is impressive. Yet, his passion extends beyond big-name brands. Chris is also committed to helping smaller companies and entrepreneurs make a difference by embracing authenticity and using video strategically to tell their stories. In his own words, Chris believes that "the smaller companies can beat the bigger conglomerates through the use of soul in their marketing." This philosophy—putting heart and soul into branding—shapes his work and helps clients, big and small, showcase their authentic selves. The Power of Authenticity in Video Marketing During his conversation on The Global Discussion, Chris emphasized the importance of showing the real you. He encouraged brands and entrepreneurs to abandon polished, overly staged content in favor of honest, engaging videos that reveal the personality and passion behind a business. Chris's journey began when he decided to post daily on social media as an experiment. With no specific agenda other than consistently showing up, Chris discovered the power of connecting with audiences through genuine and valuable content. This approach boosted his brand and laid the foundation for his community, The Studio. Introducing The Studio: A Hub for Personal Branding and Video Strategy One of the most exciting aspects of Chris's current work is The Studio, an online space designed to help entrepreneurs build their brands through social media and video. From business coaches to personal trainers and mortgage brokers, The Studio has attracted a diverse community of individuals committed to transforming their businesses and reaching wider audiences. Chris offers hands-on guidance through one-on-one sessions, community events, and valuable insights tailored to each member's unique needs. Key Takeaways: How to Build a Personal Brand that Resonates Chris shared actionable tips and insights throughout the episode for anyone looking to grow their brand and audience. Consistency is Key Focus on the Audience's Needs Experiment and Adjust Embrace Imperfection Chris Goor's Vision for the Future As he continues to grow The Studio and work with clients across the globe, Chris's focus remains clear: to empower as many people as possible through video and branding. By creating a supportive community that prioritizes authenticity and real-world value, Chris ensures that each member of The Studio gains marketing skills and the confidence to connect with their audience in meaningful ways. 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

Natalie McGuinness, the Marketing Strategy and Business Development Director at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, shared her remarkable professional journey and valuable insights in this episode of The Global Discussion, hosted by Simon Hodgkins. Known for her dynamic approach and strategic thinking, Natalie shared her career path, the evolving role of marketing in today's world, and the importance of staying curious in an increasingly complex business landscape. A Career Built on Curiosity and Connection Natalie McGuinness has had an impressive career trajectory, from selling mobile phones to her role today as a key player at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP, one of Ireland's leading law firms. Under her direction, the firm has tripled both in size and revenue—a testament to her ability to align marketing with broader business goals. What sets Natalie apart is her relentless curiosity. "I never grew out of the why phase," she explained during the discussion. This insatiable desire to understand the world has shaped her career and fueled her commitment to continuous learning. A three-time graduate from University College Dublin, Natalie emphasized how her MBA gave her the "language of business" to advocate for the power of marketing in driving value, particularly in sectors like energy, technology, and healthcare. Driving Sector-Focused Strategies A crucial part of Natalie's success at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP has been her ability to pivot the firm's marketing strategy from a traditional, department-focused approach to one that's deeply embedded in sector expertise. She spearheaded a shift towards aligning the firm's messaging and services with the specific needs of industries like energy, financial services, and healthcare. She noted that clients have little patience for a learning curve. They want partners who understand their business challenges and can offer tailored solutions. By reshaping the firm's content strategy to make complex legal knowledge more digestible, Natalie has helped Mason Hayes & Curran stand out in a competitive marketplace, underscoring how this shift in focus has become a major differentiator for the firm. Planning for the Future: AI and Staying Human in a Digital World As businesses around the globe grapple with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), Natalie is already thinking ahead. In her current role, she is overseeing the creation of Mason Hayes & Curran's private cloud and the implementation of AI tools that will improve the firm's ability to serve international clients. While AI presents incredible opportunities, Natalie stressed the need to balance technological innovation with a focus on people. Leading Through Engagement and Fresh Perspectives In addition to her role at Mason Hayes & Curran, Natalie sits on the boards of several influential organizations, including the St. Patrick's Day Festival and the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. Her involvement in these boards allows her to stay connected to diverse sectors and keeps her engaged with the broader business community. 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

Guest Lisa Callaghan joined Host Simon Hodgkins to discuss her work in the arts and mental health sector. This episode covers Lisa's passion for creativity, her journey through challenges, and her dedication to helping others heal through artistic expression. A Multifaceted Artist on a Mission Lisa Callaghan wears many hats, each reflective of her commitment to using art for connection and healing. As the Grants and Development Coordinator at Helium Arts, Lisa plays a vital role in an organization that brings creativity into the lives of children with lifelong health conditions. Beyond her work with Helium Arts, Lisa is also the founder of Expressive Minds, an initiative dedicated to enhancing mental health through art. It was born from her own experiences of recovery through creativity. With a rich history that spans media, international education, and the arts, Lisa brings a wealth of varied experience to her projects. Lisa has learned to blend structure and creativity from her time at media agencies in Dublin to working in Italian language schools. It was during her stay in Italy that a pivotal moment changed her life. After experiencing a sudden health crisis, Lisa discovered the transformative power of art, not only as an emotional outlet but also as a therapeutic tool that could help others. Art as a Lifeline: The Birth of Expressive Minds Lisa shares her journey through mental health challenges, specifically her experience with psychosis while living abroad. Through this deeply personal story, Lisa explained how art played a crucial role in her recovery. She found a sense of belonging and self-expression by joining art groups, which inspired her to start Expressive Minds. Expressive Minds is designed to connect experienced artists with mental health services in the Sligo-Leitrim area of Ireland, creating a space for individuals to experience the benefits of art in a structured but nurturing environment. The Healing Power of Art: Helium Arts and Beyond Lisa's role at Helium Arts also speaks to her passion for the therapeutic aspects of creativity. Helium Arts is an Irish charity that works with children living with lifelong physical health conditions, bringing art into hospital clinics and community spaces. As Lisa discussed, the "Create While You Wait" initiative provides a beautiful way for children to explore their creativity while waiting for outpatient appointments, transforming an otherwise stressful experience into a calming and enjoyable one. Art, Nature, and Community Lisa also touched on the importance of nature in her artistic and personal life. She spoke about her experiences leading workshops that combine printmaking with elements of nature—using leaves, flowers, and natural textures to create art that's beautiful and deeply connected to the world around us. It's about getting back to basics, stepping away from our screens, and allowing ourselves to play—just like we did as children. Lisa remains focused on expanding Expressive Minds and ensuring that mental health services and creative arts become more sustainable and intertwined. 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

Eugina Jordan is a three-time award-winning author, respected speaker, and member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council. She joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Eugina's story is one of breaking barriers and becoming a powerful voice in the fields of telecom, AI, and executive leadership. From Receptionist to CMO: A Journey Fueled by Resilience Eugina's journey began in 1970s Russia, where her mother worked tirelessly to provide Eugina with the best education possible. Through sheer grit, Eugina's mother managed to send her daughter to Canada, an opportunity that would transform Eugina's life forever. During her discussion with Simon, Eugina spoke warmly of her mother's sacrifices, noting how they laid the foundation for her success today. Her career in telecommunications started humbly as a receptionist at a small startup—a position from which she ascended to lead significant company transformations, including taking the startup public and its subsequent acquisition by Cisco. This path was just the beginning of Eugina's phenomenal career, which has included roles in major companies like Cisco, where she launched their 2012 global rebrand, and Parallel Wireless, where her strategic marketing initiatives were downloaded over a million times. The Power of Storytelling in a Tech World Eugina's unique blend of technical knowledge and strategic storytelling sets her apart in an industry often dominated by numbers and technology. Her passion for storytelling is not just about selling a product—it's about articulating the "so what" of a brand, turning technology into a narrative that resonates with people. During her conversation with Simon, Eugina discussed her passion for building—whether it's a company, a team, or a culture. This vision is clear in her achievements: 12 patents, creating new market categories, and executing successful go-to-market strategies for companies aiming for IPOs or acquisitions. She has also made her mark as an advocate for women in tech. Eugina has established mentorship programs, led initiatives to bring more female voices to telecom panels, and continuously emphasizes a people-first work culture. This commitment to others drove her to write her book, "UNLIMITED: The Seventeen Proven Laws for Success in a Workplace Not Designed for You." It has not only won multiple awards but has also been instrumental in helping women and immigrants believe in their limitless potential. UNLIMITED: A Book for the Dreamers and Doers Written as a guide for immigrants and women who want to break the glass ceiling, UNLIMITED offers practical advice on topics like negotiating, speaking up in meetings, and building effective networks. Eugina's mission is clear: the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves. It's a message for emerging leaders and those in positions of power, encouraging them to uplift the next generation of talent. Trailblazing AI Innovation in Telecom Eugina was recently recognized with the AI Trailblazer Award at the AI Revenue Summit—a particularly meaningful honor, given it was based on community votes. While she's passionate about her work at TIP, her newsletter, and her ongoing advocacy for AI, she also knows the value of stepping back. "You can't pour from an empty cup," she wisely noted, emphasizing her commitment to spending quality time with family and friends. 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 future of work is already here, and Anna Maria Kochanska is leading the way. As the Founder and CEO of The Remote Impact, Anna Maria helps governments, brands, and organizations navigate the evolving landscape of digital nomadism and remote work. Host Simon Hodgkins welcomed Anna to this episode of The Global Discussion, where she shared invaluable insights into the transformation of work, the impact of digital nomad communities, and how remote work has the potential to reshape entire societies. From Early Remote Worker to Global Consultant Long before the world was forced into remote work by the pandemic, Anna Maria was already paving the way. She became the first person in her company to adopt remote working, leading by example and proving the value of flexibility in the workplace. When COVID-19 made remote work mainstream, Anna Maria took her experience to the next level—launching The Remote Impact, a consultancy designed to help governments, companies, and organizations harness the potential of remote workers and digital nomads. Breaking Stereotypes About Digital Nomadism During the show, we addressed the misconceptions often accompanying the digital nomad lifestyle. Many imagine digital nomads lounging on a beach with a laptop, but as Anna Maria explained, "That image of a laptop under a palm tree is just a stereotype. Most of us, 99% of the time, are working from our home bases, co-working spaces, or even hotels—somewhere stable where we can focus." The digital nomad community has also evolved significantly. Pre-pandemic, it was often characterized as primarily young white men in tech. Today, it's far more diverse, encompassing people from finance, marketing, design, and other sectors, with around 50% of digital nomads now being women. The community is also growing, and recent estimates suggest there are approximately 35 million digital nomads globally—a group that has expanded well beyond the initial niche, partly due to increased remote work opportunities during the pandemic. Digital Nomadism and Its Societal Impact One of the most powerful insights Anna Maria shared was how remote work and digital nomadism can significantly impact societies at large. Governments around the world are starting to realize the potential benefits of attracting digital nomads. In fact, over 65 countries have introduced digital nomad visas in recent years as they recognize the economic and social opportunities remote workers bring. Anna helps governments develop strategies to attract digital nomads, emphasizing their unique advantages: They bring income and contribute to innovation, yet they do not compete for local jobs. Digital nomads can be a key factor in revitalizing areas experiencing depopulation, such as small towns or villages that young people have moved away from in search of opportunities. A Call for Data-Driven Understanding Anna Maria also stressed the importance of relying on data to understand the impact of remote work accurately. Misconceptions are still prevalent—often perpetuated by sensationalist media depictions. She advocates for a more critical approach: "We need data to show the real impact of remote work—economically, socially, and culturally. When people start to see the numbers, we can have a deeper, more meaningful conversation." 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