The Global Discussion

Join us for a rare glimpse into the mind of one of Ireland's most influential creative leaders, Ger Roe. In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Ger, a Board Creative Director at Publicis Dublin and an Executive Board Director at ICAD (Institute of Creative Advertising and Design). Ger Roe is a visionary in the advertising world, known for his remarkable ability to craft brand personalities and memorable experiences. "I believe in the power of creativity to leave a mark. Great creative work should move people, spark laughter, and inspire action – anything but be forgettable." - Ger Roe From Struggles to Success: The Early Creative Years Ger Roe's journey to becoming a leading creative director wasn't without its challenges. He shared candidly about growing up as a dyslexic with ADHD—a reality he once felt compelled to hide. But instead of succumbing to these struggles, Ger found solace in art, which ultimately propelled him toward his passion for advertising. A Champion for Creativity – The Role at Publicis Dublin Today, Ger leads multidisciplinary creative teams at Publicis Dublin across major accounts like Virgin Media, Heineken, AXA, and Renault. He is also a member of the Publicis Global Creative Council, a role that has taken his expertise to international stages, judging major creative festivals like Cannes Lions. Ger's mission is clear: to produce creative work that "leaves a mark." This idea runs through every campaign produced by Publicis Dublin, aiming not just to occupy mental space but to linger there. "You can pour a massive budget into a campaign, but it's far easier if the creative work itself is memorable. That's where our mantra, 'Leave a Mark,' really comes to life," explained Ger. Humor as a Creative Antidote One of the key points Ger emphasized was the evolving role of humor in advertising. He expressed concern about how, in an era of increasing cultural sensitivity, humor is often sidelined for fear of offending audiences. But he passionately argued for its comeback. Creativity as a Team Sport Ger's creative philosophy is rooted in collaboration. During the episode, he highlighted the value of working with diverse, specialized talent—those who can bring different strengths to the table. It's not just about the big idea; it's also about expert execution. The Role of Space and Balance Despite being at the forefront of the fast-paced advertising world, Ger spoke about the need for balance—a lesson he's learned from observing younger generations. "I've come to realize the value of carving out time for myself, whether it's going for a swim, spending time with family, or just stepping away from my work," he shared. "It's a reminder that great ideas aren't born from burnout, but from inspiration—and inspiration comes when we allow ourselves a little space." A Call to Creatives: Bring Back the Joy Ger left us with an inspiring call to action for creatives worldwide: bring back the joy. "The world needs humor and human connection now more than ever. Let's find ways to make people smile, to touch hearts, and to make sure our work is remembered for the right reasons," he urged. 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 Host of The Global Discussion, Simon Hodgkins, is joined by Morgan Roth, Chief Marketing Officer at the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). Morgan, who has been at the helm of MDA's marketing efforts, shared insights about the organization's journey, the evolving nature of nonprofit narratives, and her unique leadership perspective that drives MDA forward in its mission to transform lives. A Lifelong Calling in Marketing and Advocacy From the beginning of the conversation, it is evident that Morgan's role at MDA is much more than just a job—it's the culmination of a lifelong passion. As someone living with a neuromuscular disease herself, Morgan described her work as feeling like "coming home." This deep personal connection gives her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals living with neuromuscular conditions and fuels her dedication to changing lives for the better. Morgan's background in marketing spans both nonprofit and international arenas, allowing her to understand the nuances of communication across different cultures. She spoke passionately about her work at MDA, calling it a privilege to lead such an iconic brand in a new, exciting age. She emphasized the importance of connectivity—a value that has shaped her career and MDA's approach to engaging supporters, patients, and stakeholders. A Commitment to Dignified Nonprofit Narratives Morgan's commitment to reshaping nonprofit narratives was a significant theme throughout the episode. She talked about "dignified nonprofit narratives"—a shift away from outdated, exploitative methods of using guilt to raise money to something more meaningful and empowering. Morgan is a firm believer in inviting donors to be partners in a solution rather than simply making them feel pity for those in need. It's an ethos that puts people first and draws attention to the power of community-driven progress. As Morgan aptly put it, the goal is not to "throw money at a problem" but to invest in a vision that sees everyone living longer, fuller lives—"Love longer, live stronger." AI and the Future of Neuromuscular Research Morgan touched on how AI is becoming a powerful tool for MDA's mission. AI, she explained, has the potential to personalize diagnoses and future treatment options for neuromuscular diseases, which are often complex and vary significantly from person to person. Celebrating 75 Years of Legacy, Impact, and Momentum Looking ahead, Morgan shared exciting news about MDA's upcoming milestone—its 75th anniversary. This significant event is not just about marking the passage of time but also about celebrating the incredible impact and progress the organization has made. Since its inception, MDA has transformed lives, improving both longevity and quality of life for those affected by neuromuscular diseases. Leadership, Inclusivity, and Women in the Workplace Morgan also shared her experiences as a leader, particularly as a founding member of Chief, a network aimed at supporting women in executive roles. She spoke candidly about the challenges women face in leadership positions, particularly in breaking away from the expectation to always be agreeable. True leadership, she noted, is about setting boundaries, challenging norms, and being willing to step outside the comfort zone. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Host Simon Hodgkins had the pleasure of speaking with not just one but two guests—Tereza Roux and Noni Virani on this episode of The Global Discussion. Tereza Roux is the CEO and founder of Virtual Wine Concierge, a company that has been crafting memorable wine experiences for nearly a decade. With over 20 years in the wine and spirits industry and a certification from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust, Tereza has built her reputation on her expertise in food and beverage pairings, her work with high-end resorts, and her keen business acumen as a cultural curator. In this episode, Tereza shared her passion for wine, food diversity, and the exciting new venture she's co-hosting with Noni—The Global Food Network, a podcast that dives deep into food, culture, and how both impact communities worldwide. From Virtual Wine Tastings to Global Food Conversations Tereza's journey as the founder of Virtual Wine Concierge began in 2014 when she identified a gap in the market for personalized wine experiences. Her company offers both virtual and in-person wine services, including beverage consultation, education, and event management. Over the years, Tereza has worked alongside chefs, resort managers, and private clients to curate unforgettable experiences that blend the finest wines with global cuisines. Bridging Wine and Food Diversity What made this episode particularly special was the shared journey Tereza is now on with Noni Virani, the founder of O.Z.K. Studios and a DEIB Manager (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) with a passion for global food culture. Together, Tereza and Noni are co-hosting The Global Food Network, a podcast that explores the intersection of food, culture, and inclusivity. Noni Virani brought her unique perspective to the episode, drawing from her extensive experience in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). As the founder of O.Z.K. Studios, Noni is deeply committed to global inclusion and creative expression, making her the perfect partner for The Global Food Network. Noni's focus on inclusivity goes beyond food choices; she emphasizes how thoughtful planning can create a sense of belonging in any setting. Noni aims to illuminate how food connects people across borders and how we can build more inclusive environments. Tereza and Noni first connected through a LinkedIn audio event on food diversity, where Noni hosted a discussion about the challenges of ensuring food inclusivity in corporate settings—an issue Tereza had encountered herself during her years in hospitality. From there, the pair realized they shared a common mission: to spotlight how food, much like wine, can be a powerful tool for bringing people together despite cultural or dietary differences. Looking Ahead: The Global Food Network With The Global Food Network, Tereza and Noni are expanding their reach, aiming to engage listeners in discussions that range from traditional food and wine pairings to more intricate topics like the cultural significance of bread, food sustainability, and even food's role in mental health. Join the Conversation If you're a food or wine enthusiast—or simply someone who enjoys a good story over a great meal—you won't want to miss out on what Tereza and Noni have in store with The Global Food Network. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Host Simon Hodgkins joins Sally Henderson, 'The High-Stakes Leadership Mentor,' to discuss the challenges and rewards of leading at the highest levels in this episode of The Global Discussion. Sally, known for working with top-tier brands like Coca-Cola, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Forbes, shared her insights on leadership, resilience, and her unique methodology designed to help executives thrive in high-pressure environments. What is the Difference Between a Coach and a Mentor? Sally emphasized the distinction between a coach and a mentor, positioning herself firmly in the latter category. "I'm not a coach; I'm a mentor," she explained, highlighting her hands-on, results-driven approach to leadership. Sally's methodology, coined The Real Method, focuses on providing leaders with practical, real-world solutions that are immediately applicable. She says this is crucial when working with executives who often navigate complex transitions or manage significant pressure. The Real Method: A Game-Changer in Leadership One of the standout moments of the episode was Sally's deep dive into her Real Method. This methodology is specifically designed to help senior leaders not only navigate but thrive in uncertain and high-stakes environments. The Real Method is built on four pillars: Role, Emotions, Accelerators, and Leadership. Role: Understanding the true scope of an executive's job and aligning it with team and company expectations. Surprisingly, Sally pointed out that many high-level executives don't have a clear, actionable understanding of their role. Emotions: Sally emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. By acknowledging and working through emotions, leaders can make better decisions and create more cohesive teams. Accelerators: What truly motivates a leader? Sally works with tools like motivational map profiling to help executives identify and harness their driving forces. Leadership: Here, she challenges leaders to not only reflect on their current style but also think ahead, evolving their approach to meet future challenges. Sally also touched on the critical role of emotional filtering and how it shapes leadership decisions. Post-Pandemic Leadership: The Need for Change A major theme throughout the conversation was the seismic shift in leadership dynamics post-pandemic. Sally highlighted that leaders today face more complexity and pressure than ever before. From managing remote teams to handling the rapid acceleration of technology, today's executives must continuously adapt. The Roller Coaster of Leadership Sally also shared a personal reflection about the highs and lows of leadership. Drawing on her own experiences and those of her clients, she described leadership as a "roller coaster," with moments of incredible success often accompanied by periods of intense pressure and challenge. Her advice? Leaders must take time for themselves. Whether it's a sabbatical or simply stepping away for some much-needed rest and reflection, Sally believes this is crucial for long-term success. She shared that she takes August off every year to focus on her personal life and recharge—a practice she highly recommends to other leaders. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Host Simon Hodgkins is joined by Shel Israel, a seasoned writer, editor, and author with over 40 years of experience, in this episode of The Global Discussion. Shel is known for his insightful take on everything from technology to human connection. His work has been published in renowned outlets like Forbes and has helped shape conversations around key innovations, from the rise of computers to today's AI revolution. A Love of Writing Shel Israel's love for writing started in the second grade with a white lie about his summer vacation—one that earned him detention but also revealed his talent for storytelling. This spark led him to a successful career as a journalist, author, and ghostwriter. Over five decades, Shel has penned articles and books that have influenced tech startups and big-name companies, including his bestselling collaboration with Robert Scoble, The Age of Context. Shel shared with The Global Discussion how his career has evolved from a passionate second grader with a knack for storytelling to a well-respected figure in both tech and writing circles. His journey is one of success and continuous learning and adapting, a hallmark of any long-standing career. The Changing Landscape of Writing and Technology One of the key themes of the discussion was the impact of technology on writing, particularly the role of AI in the industry. Shel, who has always been at the forefront of tech trends, acknowledged that AI is transforming the way we interact with technology and even how we distinguish between reality and illusion. "AI fundamentally changes our relationships with technology," Shel explained. He described how the line between real and artificial will blur, with AI becoming sophisticated enough to deceive most of us, most of the time. This presents ethical challenges that society must grapple with, especially as AI-generated content becomes more prevalent in everything from writing to online conversations. Despite these concerns, Shel remains optimistic, viewing AI as a tool that can enhance creativity when used wisely. He encourages writers to embrace AI to improve efficiency while maintaining their unique human touch. Writing with Purpose When asked what keeps him writing after all these years, Shel's response was simple: he loves telling stories that matter. Whether ghostwriting books for tech executives or collaborating on projects that aim to decarbonize the atmosphere, Shel is driven by the idea of making a difference through words. "I love getting people to tell me their stories, including their nightmares and their dreams, and I do my very best to capture who they are," Shel said. Shel's ability to simplify the complex is one of his key strengths. As he puts it, his job is to ensure that "the dumbest person who matters can understand it on the first try, while the smartest person doesn't feel like it's been dumbed down." Looking to the Future: AI, Ethics, and Storytelling As Shel looks ahead, he sees both challenges and opportunities in the intersection of technology and storytelling. He's particularly interested in how AI will evolve and how writers can adapt to stay relevant in a world where machines are becoming more capable of generating content. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Eamonn Carey, an early-stage investor, partner, and board member at multiple companies, to The Global Discussion. Eamonn is a former Managing Director at TechStars and remains a current mentor. In addition, he is a General Partner at Tera Ventures and The Fund. Eamonn is also a Board Member at kencko and Click & Grow. Known for his keen insight into the startup ecosystem, he has invested in over 100 companies worldwide, covering industries as diverse as AI, gaming, drones, and consumer products. A Journey to Founding Startups Eamonn Carey’s entrepreneurial path took unexpected turns, starting with a passion for computers, a rockstar dream, and eventually studying journalism. His career in media led him back into the tech world as he noticed the early potential of digital platforms. During a visit to Korea in 2004, Carey’s mind was opened to the revolutionary power of mobile technology, sparking his desire to build something innovative. This inspiration led him to start his first business—a move that, at the time, was filled with uncertainty but shaped the rest of his career. Carey discusses the ups and downs of his early ventures, sharing candid stories of both success and failure. He built and scaled companies in Europe, the US, the Middle East, and Asia, learning valuable hiring, sales, and product development lessons. His resilience allowed him to emerge stronger, eventually transitioning from being a founder to an investor and mentor for the next generation of entrepreneurs. The Venture Capital Mindset As a General Partner at Tera Ventures, Carey focuses on the early stages of a business—where the magic happens. He is passionate about helping startups move from an idea to a prototype and eventually to a successful, scalable product. Carey emphasizes the importance of understanding that raising venture capital means embarking on a long journey, often filled with continuous rounds of fundraising and scaling. He draws parallels between his experiences as a founder and his role as an investor, explaining that his insight into the trials of entrepreneurship makes him a trusted guide for early-stage companies. Carey also highlights the importance of people when investing, stating, “Team is everything.” For him, the strength of the team behind a startup is more critical than the initial idea, as it is the people who adapt, pivot, and overcome challenges. He advises founders to build strong relationships, seek feedback from potential customers early, and remain curious and agile in their journey. Learning from Failure and Looking Forward One of the key takeaways from the conversation is Carey’s philosophy on failure. He believes that failure is tough but also a crucial part of growth. He encourages founders to view setbacks as learning opportunities and not be afraid to pivot when necessary. With the startup landscape evolving rapidly, particularly with advancements in AI and automation, Carey is excited to continue investing in innovative ideas while keeping an eye on the potential for deeper human connection in an increasingly digital world. Carey is excited about future projects, including a new edition of his book, The Startup Lexicon, and the potential for working hands-on with startups to continue learning and exploring new technologies. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Host Simon Hodgkins is joined on this episode of The Global Discussion by Judy Knight, founder and president of Thumbprint Coaching, Inc. Judy's experience in coaching, consulting, and facilitating leaders shines through in this conversation. With a background in technology, sales, and marketing, she now dedicates her career to helping leaders thrive in an ever-evolving workplace. The Evolution of Leadership Judy's career spans decades of change, particularly in the technology industry, where she saw firsthand how leadership needs have shifted. From managing technical teams in telecommunications and networking to now focusing on leadership development, she has always had a deep passion for making workplaces more humane. "I've worked in some really toxic environments early on in my career," Judy recalls, "and that's why I transitioned to coaching—to make a tangible difference by improving leadership practices." Judy's emphasis on humane leadership is rooted in her desire to help organizations foster cultures where empathy, trust, and clear communication are paramount. This approach is practical, particularly as many leaders grapple with remote and hybrid work challenges and increased employee expectations around flexibility and work-life balance. Navigating Leadership in a Post-Pandemic World Judy notes that leadership has changed drastically in just a few years, especially post-pandemic. The shift to remote and hybrid work models has led to new challenges in managing teams and sustaining productivity without the physical presence of employees. Judy emphasizes that leaders today need to move away from a "command and control" mindset and toward a more results-driven, empathetic approach. "Some managers struggle with not seeing their employees in the office every day, but the key is focusing on expectations and results, not hours worked," she explains. Building Trust and Psychological Safety A key theme in Judy's coaching philosophy is the importance of building trust. "If you want a strong team, it starts with trust," she says. Judy often works with teams to develop psychological safety, an important area. She stresses how crucial it is for leaders to create environments where team members feel safe enough to be honest and open, ensuring the team's overall success. Leadership in the Age of AI and Globalization Another fascinating aspect of Judy's leadership insights comes from her extensive work in the technology sector. She touches on the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, emphasizing that AI is not a threat to leadership roles but a tool that can enhance leaders' ability to focus on strategic planning and leading their teams effectively. She also reminds us that globalization has long required leaders to manage remote teams, even before the pandemic. Judy's early career managing teams across the U.S. and Europe gave her invaluable experience that now helps her guide leaders who are navigating similar challenges today. What Makes a Great Leader? When asked what qualities define a great leader in today's world, Judy's response is thoughtful and insightful. She believes that effective leaders must be strategic and people-focused, capable of empathizing with their teams while maintaining a clear vision of the organization's goals. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Lisa S. Jones joins Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Lisa, the Chief EyeMail Officer (CEO) of EyeMail Inc., shared insights into her remarkable journey from a logistics major at Alabama A&M University to becoming one of the most disruptive women in emerging tech, as well as a globally recognized email marketing innovator. Lisa is a true pioneer in digital communication. A Journey Rooted in Passion and Purpose Lisa's story is one of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Originally from Montgomery, Alabama, she began her professional journey at NASA, working in logistics and procurement. However, it was a deeply personal moment—following the passing of her mother—that redefined Lisa's purpose and fueled her passion for creating something impactful. That pivotal experience led to the birth of EyeMail Inc., a company now reshaping how organizations communicate through email by delivering immersive video experiences directly into recipients' inboxes. Lisa reflects on the moment that changed her life: "I made a commitment at my mother's gravesite to contribute more to the world and leave a legacy. That's how the concept of EyeMail came to life." She wanted to make every communication more personal, engaging, and meaningful, and her company has done just that. Disrupting Digital Communication with EyeMail EyeMail is more than just an email service. With its multi-patent-pending technology, EyeMail enables instant video play within emails across any platform—without the need for recipients to click on a link or download attachments. Lisa's innovation solves a problem every marketer faces: cutting through the clutter of crowded inboxes. EyeMail delivers captivating, high-quality video content in under 15KB, making it a game-changer in email marketing. Lisa describes EyeMail as "an immersive, captivating video that plays instantly, inspiring a call to action." This approach has attracted major partners like Porsche, Coca-Cola, WarnerMedia, and Delta Air Lines. It's also earned EyeMail recognition as one of the Top 40 Innovative Companies by the Georgia Technology Association and a spot in Catalyst Magazine's Top 300 Companies to Watch. A Global Vision for Communication Lisa's vision for EyeMail is global, and she is well on her way to realizing that goal. Her diverse and dynamic team spans multiple countries, including Canada, Pakistan, India, and the Philippines. Whether it's enhancing corporate communications, marketing campaigns, or internal employee engagement, EyeMail's versatility makes it applicable across industries. Reflecting on EyeMail's potential for growth, Lisa shared, "Regardless if you're a small business, a nonprofit, or a Fortune 500 company, we all have compelling messaging to send out. My vision for EyeMail has always been global, and we're expanding our reach worldwide." A Trailblazer for Women in Tech Beyond her business acumen, Lisa is a proud advocate for women in technology and diversity in the workplace. She serves as a board member for the Technology Association of Georgia's Diversity & Inclusion initiative, championing the need for more representation in tech. For Lisa, success isn't just about business—it's about paving the way for others, particularly women of color, to thrive in technology. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Michelle Denogean, Chief Marketing Officer at Mindtrip, Inc., and author of "Grow Up! Take Your Startup to the Next Level," joins Simon Hodgkins, Host of The Global Discussion, on this episode. Michelle shares insights on scaling startups, leveraging AI, and the importance of self-awareness for founders. A Journey Through the Startup World With over 20 years of experience, Michelle has led marketing efforts in early-stage startups and advised publicly traded companies. Her expertise isn't just in marketing but in understanding what it takes to grow a business from the ground up. During the podcast, Michelle emphasized the importance of deeply understanding customers qualitatively and quantitatively. Her marketing approach is data-driven but always focused on solving big problems for real people. "Grow Up!": A Guide for Founders Michelle's book, "Grow Up! Take Your Startup to the Next Level," is based on her observations from years of working alongside founders. Her central thesis? The traits that make someone great at starting a company may not be what makes them great at growing it. The book encourages founders to engage in self-reflection, identify their strengths—or "superpowers"—and recognize where they need to step back and empower others. The Power of Reputation and Connection One of the key topics Michelle discussed was the importance of reputation. As a "connector," Michelle's superpower lies in building and maintaining relationships that drive business success. She stressed that a strong reputation is foundational, especially in the early stages of a startup when resources are limited. Mindtrip: Revolutionizing Travel with AI Michelle is at the forefront of AI-powered innovation in the travel industry. Mindtrip is redefining how people plan and book travel experiences by providing personalized, actionable, bookable recommendations. The platform's new "Start Anywhere" feature allows users to input content from various sources, such as blogs or social media, and generate a complete travel itinerary. This innovation benefits travelers and opens up new opportunities for content creators to monetize their work. Looking Ahead Michelle sees AI as a transformative force for startups, offering unprecedented opportunities to innovate and scale. Her passion for advising startups will continue alongside her role at Mindtrip, as she aims to help as many founders as possible navigate the complexities of growth. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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

Roei Samuel, CEO and Founder of Connectd joins The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins on this episode. Roei, a seasoned entrepreneur, shared his journey from founding RealSport to creating Connectd, a platform revolutionizing how startups connect with investors and advisors. From Tech Entrepreneur to Strategic Connector Roei's entrepreneurial path began with RealSport, a platform that supported content creation in sports and gaming journalism. Under his leadership, RealSport grew to over 9 million monthly users and was eventually acquired by Gfinity in 2018. This success led Roei to the investment world, where he identified a critical gap in startup funding accessibility. In response, he founded Connectd in 2019 to democratize startup access to capital and expertise. Connectd's Impact Connectd has already made significant strides, facilitating over 30,000 connections, placing more than 950 advisors, and supporting 1,200 funding rounds. Roei highlighted the story of Limitless Travel, a startup helping differently-abled individuals experience travel. Through Connectd, Limitless Travel raised nearly £800,000 from strategic angel investors, showcasing the platform's ability to make meaningful impacts. "If we can unlock capital and expertise for businesses like that and help them with the amazing impact they're having, then we're doing something really good," Roei shared. The Role of Talent and Technology Roei emphasized that while funding is vital, connecting startups with the right talent is crucial for success. Connectd's global network supports this by integrating AI to manage data and improve investor reporting, ensuring that startups and investors can make informed decisions. "We are starting to use AI to help businesses with managing their data and understanding where they could improve through the investor reporting environment," Roei explained. Key Advice for Entrepreneurs Roei offered valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: fall in love with solving problems and focus on distribution to achieve product-market fit. He stressed that understanding how to reach and monetize customers is just as important as the product itself. "You have to fall in love with solving problems... that's the job. That's what it is. You got to find your peace there," he advised. Looking Forward Roei is focused on expanding Connectd's reach, particularly in the U.S. market. With Connectd recently achieving £7.6 million in Annual Recurring Revenue (ARR), Roei is committed to refining the platform's offerings and supporting startups throughout their growth journey. Final Thoughts Roei Samuel's journey illustrates the power of visionary entrepreneurship combined with strategic connections. Through Connectd, he is not only simplifying access to funding and expertise for startups but also fostering an ecosystem where innovative ideas can thrive. 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. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss 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