The Global Discussion

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

In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins talks with Roger Spitz, an expert in strategic foresight and systems innovation. Roger's career spans investment banking, climate strategy, and thought leadership, making him a key figure in understanding and managing disruption in today's world. From Finance to Foresight Roger began his career in investment banking, where he held senior roles for nearly two decades, including Global Head of Mergers and Acquisitions at BNP Paribas, advising on $25 billion in deals. In 2017, his growing interest in the dynamics of change led him to shift his focus. This shift resulted in his roles as President of Techistential and Chair of the Disruptive Futures Institute, where he now explores how organizations can better prepare for an unpredictable future. The Disruptive Futures Institute Roger leads initiatives at the Disruptive Futures Institute (DFI) to help organizations navigate a complex, ever-changing world. DFI offers educational programs that equip leaders with the tools to manage uncertainty. The institute's leading publication, The Definitive Guide to Thriving on Disruption, provides strategies for managing disruption in areas like AI, climate change, and societal shifts. Preparing for the Future Roger emphasizes the importance of preparing for the future, especially with the rapid rise of technologies like AI. He discusses AI's challenges, including ethical concerns and its impact on the workforce, while recognizing its opportunities. Roger introduces the concept of "Techistentialism," which examines the risks and benefits of emerging technologies. He stresses the need for continuous learning and adaptability for individuals and organizations. Commitment to Education Roger's dedication to education is reflected in his speaking engagements and executive programs. His upcoming book, Disrupt With Impact: Achieve Business Success in an Unpredictable World, will offer strategies for thriving amidst disruption. His involvement with the World Economic Forum's Global Foresight Network and various boards further demonstrates his influence in shaping future strategies for business and society. Looking Ahead Roger focuses on helping organizations and individuals build resilience, particularly in the face of climate change. Initiatives like the DFI Sustainability & Climate Academy aim to speed up the energy transition for a sustainable future. Roger also plans to make DFI's educational offerings more accessible through digital courses, aligning with his goal of democratizing essential knowledge. Conclusion Roger Spitz's insights on The Global Discussion are invaluable for those interested in navigating the future. His expertise in strategic foresight, combined with his experience in investment banking and climate strategy, positions him as a leading voice in managing disruption and fostering innovation. For more on Roger's work, follow the Disruptive Futures Institute on LinkedIn or visit their website. His upcoming book, Disrupt With Impact, is also highly anticipated as a guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. 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

Simon Penson, the Founder and Managing Partner of Scaled Consulting, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With a wealth of experience as an exited agency founder, angel investor, and board member, Simon Penson shares invaluable insights on scaling digital businesses, the intricacies of M&A, and the importance of aligning purpose with business success. From Journalism to Digital Pioneering Simon Penson's journey began in the mid-90s when he started his career in journalism. This period, coinciding with the rise of the Internet, sparked his interest in digital transformation. Simon quickly recognized the shifting patterns in how people consumed information and seized the opportunity to create content-driven affiliate sites. His early ventures laid the groundwork for a career in digital marketing and business leadership. Reflecting on his early days, Simon remarked, "I was born at the right time, right when the Internet was becoming a thing. My journalism background taught me the importance of audience creation, which is at the core of everything I've done since." Scaling and Exiting: Lessons Learned Throughout the discussion, Simon emphasized the importance of strategic growth and the art of scaling businesses effectively. He shared his experiences building and successfully exiting two digital businesses, most notably Zazzle Media, where he grew from a small team to a formidable digital content marketing agency. Zazzle Media's success culminated in its acquisition by IPG Mediabrands, a significant milestone in Simon's career. The Birth of Scaled Consulting Simon's passion for helping other entrepreneurs led to the creation of Scaled Consulting, a firm dedicated to guiding the next generation of agency leaders. At Scaled, Simon and his team provide tailored strategies to help businesses grow efficiently and prepare for successful exits. This consultancy is a culmination of Simon's years of experience in digital marketing, business strategy, and M&A. "Scaled was born from my desire to help others navigate the complex journey of building and scaling a business. We provide simple roadmaps to growth, and we roll up our sleeves to ensure those plans are executed effectively," Simon explained during the podcast. Investing in People and Technology Beyond his work at Scaled, Simon is a partner at Haatch Ventures, focusing on early-stage investments in high-growth B2B SaaS businesses. He also serves as an advisor and board member for several companies, leveraging his expertise to support founders in realizing their visions. When discussing the role of technology in business, Simon pointed out the potential pitfalls of "software bloat" and emphasized the importance of strategic planning over-reliance on tools. "Technology is crucial, but it's the strategy and execution that truly drive success. You need great people at the beginning and end of every process," he noted. A Purpose-Driven Approach to Business A recurring theme throughout the episode was Simon's belief in aligning business with purpose. After his successful exit, Simon asked deeper questions about his identity and purpose beyond business. This introspection has driven his passion for helping other entrepreneurs succeed financially and find fulfilment through their work. 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

Karena Bell, the Founder and CEO of ProfitLinz Solutions, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With over three decades of experience in enterprise IT, systems, process, and financial optimization, Karena has carved out a reputation as a leader in turning business complexities into opportunities for growth and profitability. From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurial Vision Karena's journey from the corporate world to founding her own company is inspiring and instructive. After spending years advising C-suite leaders at Fortune 500 companies, Karena recognized that while corporations often made significant strides, they frequently left potential untapped. This realization fueled her desire to create ProfitLinz Solutions, a firm that doesn't just consult but partners with businesses to maximize their profitability. ProfitLinz Solutions: More Than Just Consulting At the heart of ProfitLinz Solutions is a unique approach to business consulting. Rather than offering generic advice, Karena and her team dive deep into the specifics of each client's operations, applying a forensic level of detail to financial analysis. This method uncovers inefficiencies and new revenue streams that businesses might overlook. Karena's philosophy is clear: profitability is not just about cutting costs. It's about aligning revenue and expenses so that both grow in tandem. Through innovative strategies such as AI strategic planning and personalized consulting, ProfitLinz Solutions helps businesses achieve this balance. In this episode, Karena likened her approach to profit optimization to a diamond, where various facets—like cost control, revenue generation, and AI implementation—contribute to creating a valuable and sustainable business. The Human Factor in Profitability A standout feature of Karena's approach is her unwavering dedication to maintaining the human factor in business operations. While she recognizes the power of AI and automation, Karena advocates for using them as tools that complement and amplify human efforts rather than replace them. This strategy not only safeguards jobs but also preserves the invaluable creativity and intellectual capital that employees bring to an organization. Karena also highlights the importance of internal talent development. Rather than resorting to layoffs, she advocates for re-skilling and re-assigning employees to roles where they can add the most value. This people-first strategy not only maintains morale but also drives long-term profitability. The Future of New Services As ProfitLinz Solutions prepares for a new brand launch, Karena focuses on expanding her company's services. With about 80 to 90 different solutions available, she continues to seek innovative methodologies that can further boost profitability for her clients. Her advice to business leaders? Cultivate a sense of curiosity. By constantly questioning the status quo and exploring new possibilities, businesses can uncover untapped opportunities that lead to sustainable growth and success. 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

Mark Redmond joins Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion. Mark shares his journey from being the Chief Executive of the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland to founding his own venture, Redmond Coaching for Impact. With decades of experience working alongside some of the world's most influential organizations, Mark's insights into leadership, strategy, and personal development are both timely and transformative. A Career Rooted in Service and Impact Mark's early experience at Price Waterhouse (now PwC) set the stage for a lifelong commitment to client service and leadership development. Reflecting on his journey, Mark emphasized the importance of learning and development, noting, "I was always kind of passionate about learning and development and realizing people's potential." This passion led him to pivotal roles, including a near-decade tenure as Chief Executive of the Irish Tax Institute and, later, a decade-long role leading the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland. Transforming Leadership in a Complex World One of the most striking aspects of Mark's career is his ability to navigate complex environments and empower others to do the same. At the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland, he was at the forefront of fostering U.S.-Ireland relations, working closely with multinational corporations to drive economic growth and innovation. His insights into the unique relationship between the U.S. and Ireland offer valuable lessons on the power of strategic partnerships and leadership. During the podcast, Mark shared his belief that the world is facing a leadership crisis. He pointed out that authentic leadership is about service, not self-interest, and that the best leaders are those who are deeply reflective and committed to uncovering the truth in all situations. The Vision Behind Redmond Coaching for Impact In 2023, Mark transitioned into a new chapter by launching Redmond Coaching for Impact. This venture is not just a business but a mission to give back to current and future leaders by sharing the lessons he's learned over his illustrious career. The focus of Redmond Coaching is clear: helping individuals and teams enhance their self-belief, confidence, impact, and performance. Strategic Leadership: Simplicity and Agility A key takeaway from Mark's conversation on The Global Discussion is his perspective on strategy. He advocates for a simplified approach, where leaders focus on the essentials: understanding the vision, clearly defining roles, and measuring progress with actual data. Mark also highlighted the importance of agility in leadership, noting that the best organizations can pivot and adapt when necessary. A Call for Purpose-Driven Leadership As the conversation draws to a close, Mark leaves the audience with a powerful message about the future of leadership. He called for leaders to focus on democracy, truth, and understanding, quoting the Irish author Claire Keegan: "To fail to understand another, to fail to imagine another's life, spells the death of civilization." 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

In branding, standing out is no longer just a goal—it's a necessity. This was the central theme when Julie Cottineau, Founder and CEO of BrandTwist and Creator and Dean of Brand School, joined Simon Hodgkins, Host of The Global Discussion. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Julie's insights into branding are as interesting as they are revolutionary, offering a fresh perspective that can help any business or personal brand thrive. A Passion for Branding Julie's journey in branding began long before she held high-profile positions at global giants like Richard Branson's Virgin Group, Interbrand, and Grey Global. From a young age, she demonstrated an innate ability to innovate, as evidenced by her childhood creation of the "Pet Rock" long before it became a cultural phenomenon. This early example of creativity and resourcefulness set the stage for a career dedicated to pushing the boundaries of branding. "I've always been passionate about branding," Julie shared during the podcast. "It's about finding that unique angle—what I call the 'TWIST'—that makes a brand truly stand out in a crowded market." The TWIST: A Game-Changer in Branding Julie's proprietary "TWIST" methodology is the cornerstone of her branding philosophy. The TWIST involves looking outside your industry or category for inspiration, allowing you to bring fresh, unexpected ideas into your brand strategy. This approach has proven successful across various industries, helping brands like Virgin Hotels, Tyra Banks' personal brand, and Discovery Network achieve breakthrough results. Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, or someone looking to refine your personal brand, Julie's TWIST approach offers a roadmap to creating a distinctive and compelling brand identity. By drawing inspiration from unexpected places, brands can find new ways to connect with their audience, energize their employees, and, ultimately, drive business success. Embracing the Human Element in the Age of AI One of the most intriguing parts of the conversation was Julie's take on the role of AI in branding. As AI continues to shape the future of industries worldwide, Julie sees it as both a challenge and an opportunity. She emphasized the importance of using AI as a tool to enhance creativity rather than letting it dilute the human element that makes a brand unique. "AI can be a friend or foe in branding," Julie noted. "It's all about how you use it. Be the creative director—guide AI to reflect your brand's unique twist rather than letting it lead you down the path of mediocrity." Personal Branding: The CEO's Secret Weapon Julie didn't just stop at corporate branding. She also discussed the critical role of personal branding, particularly for CEOs and business leaders. According to Julie, a CEO's personal brand can significantly impact a company's overall brand perception and success. "People buy from people," Julie said. "It's crucial for CEOs to align their personal brand with their company's values and vision. This not only builds trust but also attracts top talent and loyal customers." Julie's book, TWIST: How Fresh Perspectives Build Breakthrough Brands, is a must-read. It's packed with actionable insights, real-world examples, and practical exercises that make branding not just a strategy but an engaging, creative process. 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