The Global Discussion

Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes David Galea, a prominent figure in digital transformation and emerging technologies, to The Global Discussion. David, who holds multiple influential roles, including Board Member at the Smart Cities Alliance EU Tech Chamber, Director at Centigo, and Group CEO of BEAT Limited, Malta, shared his extensive experience and visionary insights into the future of technology and its impact on business and society. A Passion for Change A pursuit of change and improvement characterizes David Galea's career. With over 25 years of experience, David has been at the forefront of guiding startups and established businesses through the complexities of digital transformation. His approach is grounded in the belief that technology, while not a magic wand, is a crucial enabler of change. "Technology is a key enabler of change, providing opportunities for organizations to innovate and drive progress," Galea emphasized during the podcast. From Startups to Global Giants Galea's portfolio is diverse. He has mentored digital startups across various sectors, including education, health tech, and fintech. His work extends to large-scale corporate projects and public sector initiatives, notably in setting up a Programme Management Office for British Petroleum's technology functions and managing the rollout of the 4G network in the UK. He has spearheaded digital projects in Malta that have transformed industries and government services. His passion for helping in the business world—startups and SMEs—is evident. He finds smaller entities' agility and innovative spirit particularly rewarding, as they often have the potential to outmaneuver more prominent and established competitors. Digital Made Simple One of the highlights of Galea's career is his book, "Digital Made Simple." This best-selling book, which has won the Axiom Business Book Award, distills the complexities of digital transformation into practical, actionable insights. "Today's problem is not the lack of information but the overload of it. My book aims to help sift through the noise and focus on what really matters," Galea explained. The book advocates for simplicity in digital strategies, emphasizing the need for organizations to focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) that truly drive success rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary complexity. Smart Cities and the Future of Work A portion of the podcast discussed the future of work and smart cities. Galea challenges the conventional term "smart cities," preferring "smart communities" to emphasize the centrality of human needs. "The focus should be on building cities around the needs of people – as consumers, citizens, and employees," Galea stated. David also highlighted the importance of fostering trust and relationships in remote work settings, essential for driving innovation and creativity. He believes that the future of work will increasingly require organizations to become learning entities, constantly adapting and evolving in response to new information and technologies. Looking Ahead As David looks to the future, he focuses on mentoring and coaching decision-makers to design and implement sustainable digital transformation programs. His approach is pragmatic, built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of 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

Host Simon Hodgkins chats with Cat Johnson, the Founder of Cat Johnson Co and author of The Daily Co, on this episode of The Global Discussion. With a rich community building and content marketing background, Cat has dedicated over a decade to transforming coworking spaces into vibrant, purpose-driven communities. A Journey Rooted in Community Cat Johnson's passion for coworking began in an unlikely place: a record store. For 20 years, she immersed herself in the music scene, transitioning into freelance music writing and eventually discovering the world of coworking. This shift was transformative. "I'm a product of coworking," she shared. Her firsthand experience of the community's power to activate potential and drive personal and professional growth fuels her dedication to supporting coworking space operators. Cat Johnson is on a mission to elevate coworking spaces everywhere. The Lab: A Hub for Indie Coworking Spaces Cat launched The Lab, a marketing club for indie coworking spaces during the pandemic. This initiative, born out of a desire to build rather than cope during crises, has grown into a thriving membership community. "We have creeping up on 80 members from around the world," Cat noted. The Lab provides educational resources, marketing strategies, and a strong sense of community for coworking operators who often find themselves isolated despite their community-centric roles. Coworking Convos: Sharing Knowledge and Building Connections Coworking Convos is another cornerstone of Cat's business. It is a monthly virtual event series designed to help coworking space operators learn, share, and connect. These sessions feature experts who discuss topics ranging from giving great tours to handling leases. The goal is to elevate the entire coworking industry by sharing knowledge and best practices. "If everyone gets better, coworking as a whole rises," Cat emphasized. Over 7,000 people have attended Coworking Convos, The Daily Co: A Bite-Sized Guide for Community Builders Cat's book, The Daily Co, offers coworking space operators daily inspiration and practical advice. Written in short, digestible segments, it serves as a daily reminder of the importance of community and the transformational potential of coworking. Cat's writing aims to support community builders through their work's challenges and triumphs, reinforcing their vital role in fostering connected, engaged, and productive communities. Looking Ahead: Mastermind Programs and Beyond Constantly innovating, Cat hinted at the launch of mastermind programs designed for deeper dives into essential topics for coworking operators. These sessions will leverage the collective experience of The Lab's community, offering more personalized and intensive support. Connect with Cat JohnsonTo connect with Cat, visit https://catjohnson.co. You can also find her on LinkedIn. Final Thoughts As coworking spaces evolve, leaders like Cat pave the way for more connected, collaborative, and thriving work environments. Join Cat and other coworking leaders in creating a brighter, more connected future for workspaces worldwide. Cat Johnson's insights and resources offer invaluable support and inspiration. 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 DiscussionWeb: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠ Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Episode 200 of The Global Discussion features an exceptional guest, David Bickford. David, a former Under Secretary of State and Legal Director to the British Intelligence Agencies MI5 & MI6, offers a unique perspective on the murky worlds of terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His illustrious career and transition to a successful author make for a captivating story. A Distinguished Career in Intelligence David Bickford's journey is anything but ordinary. With a background in law, David initially worked as a legal advisor to the Turks and Caicos Islands government before joining the British Foreign Office. Before being invited to join MI5 and MI6 as their Legal Director, his work spanned human rights, defence, and even Space Law. His path to the intelligence agencies was unconventional, yet his contributions were monumental. In his role, David was at the forefront of the battle against international terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His groundbreaking solutions and strategic insights earned him the Companion of the Order of the Bath, a prestigious honour recognising his exceptional service. Integrity and Courage: Hallmarks of an Intelligence Officer David's admiration for the intelligence officers he worked with is palpable. He speaks highly of their integrity, courage, and determination. "The very top quality that the agencies look for is integrity," David emphasises. This integrity is crucial as intelligence officers navigate the dangerous and complex world of espionage, ensuring that their actions are both necessary and proportional. He also highlights women's unique strengths in intelligence work, noting their remarkable ability to think simultaneously about multiple aspects of a situation and synthesise these threads into actionable intelligence. Transition to Authorship After an illustrious career in intelligence, David transitioned to authorship, bringing his rich experience into the world of espionage fiction. His novels, co-written with his wife, Cary, introduce readers to the world of Katya, a Russian intelligence agent navigating the perilous landscapes of terrorism and organised crimes Insights into Modern Threats David shares his insights on modern global threats. He discusses the complexities introduced by cyber terrorism, artificial intelligence, and fake news. David's experience underscores the importance of balancing individual rights with national security. His work with the intelligence agencies involved meticulously planning operations within a legislative framework, ensuring that the rights of individuals were respected even in the pursuit of national security. Looking Ahead David and Cary continue to write, with new projects on the horizon. The next instalment of Katya is called Arctic Betrayal, set in the Laptev Sea in northern Siberia, and a novel focusing on another major character from the Katya series. Final Thoughts David Bickford's journey from the secretive tunnels of MI5 and MI6 to the imaginative realms of espionage fiction is fascinating. His dedication to integrity, balanced rights, and storytelling excellence offer his readers and listeners a compelling narrative. Find more about David Bickford: https://davidbickford.co.uk/career https://davidbickford.co.uk/espionage-and-spy-thrillers 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

Gemma Allen is a Director at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP and a contributor to Forbes and Nasdaq. Gemma was a former board member of the Foreign Trade Commissioners Association in New York and Vice President of B2C Technology Portfolio at IDA Ireland following her extensive roles at Microsoft. Gemma's journey into writing is nothing short of inspiring, marked by a blend of fortuitous events and bold moves. A Writer with a Purpose After participating in a virtual panel on remote working, Gemma was approached to write about female imposter syndrome. This event marked the beginning of her writing career, which led to her ongoing contributions to Nasdaq and Forbes. Making Waves in the Corporate World Gemma's articles for Nasdaq and Forbes have garnered significant attention. She has written extensively about AI, female investors, and the glaring disparities in venture capital funding for female-founded businesses. Her insights into the lack of diversity and equity in tech and finance are thought-provoking and crucial. In one of her recent pieces for Nasdaq, Gemma highlighted the potential of AI as a tool for good, especially in demystifying investment and financial management for women. She emphasized the need for greater representation of women and minorities in developing AI technologies to ensure ethical and inclusive advancements. One notable point Gemma shared during the podcast was her passion for promoting financial literacy among women. Inspired by her experiences and alarming statistics on female investment, she underscored the importance of educating women about financial management and investment opportunities. She believes that tools like AI can play a pivotal role in making financial literacy more accessible and empowering women to take control of their financial futures. The Power of Networking and Advocacy Beyond her writing, Gemma is a staunch advocate for women's empowerment. She is a member of Chief, a network designed to support women in executive roles. Chief provides a platform for peer advisory, networking, and mentorship, helping women navigate the complexities of the corporate world. Gemma's involvement with Chief has been instrumental in her professional growth. She values the opportunity to connect with like-minded women and participate in meaningful discussions that drive change. A Message to Young Women Gemma's journey is a testament to the power of courage and self-belief. Her advice to young women is simple yet profound: "Be courageous. If you don't believe in yourself, nobody will. Take risks and step out of your 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

Anna Cleary, an AI Marketing Consultant and the Global Strategic Marketing Program Director at Software AG speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With over 20 years of experience in the B2B IT industry, Anna's insights into the evolving world of AI in marketing are invaluable. A Journey from Traditional Marketing to AI Integration Anna's career is a fascinating journey through various international landscapes. She has significant experience in digital and field marketing. Her experience included working with Software AG, a prominent B2B software company based in Germany. Acquired by IBM, Software AG is at the forefront of enterprise solutions, ranging from API and data integration to business process management and IoT. Anna's experience at Software AG involves managing global marketing campaigns across different business units. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective on AI's transformative impact in marketing. Recognized AI Influencer on LinkedIn Anna's foray into AI began with a personal curiosity that grew into a professional passion. She immersed herself in learning about AI's potential to revolutionize marketing, leading her to become a top voice on LinkedIn. Her posts, which blend practical insights with visionary ideas, have garnered widespread recognition, positioning her as a leading authority in AI marketing. The Disruptive Power of AI in Marketing During the discussion, Anna emphasized that we are merely at the beginning of AI's impact on the enterprise sector. She likened AI's transformative potential to the internet or mobile phones, underscoring that its influence is only set to grow. AI offers businesses unprecedented opportunities to scale operations, optimize processes, and enhance customer engagement. Custom GPTs: The Future of AI Marketing One of the standout points from the conversation was Anna's use of custom GPTs (Generative Pre-trained Transformers). These tailored AI models can perform a wide range of marketing functions, from content creation to SEO analysis and campaign planning. By developing custom GPTs for different customer profiles, businesses can achieve a level of personalization and efficiency that was previously unimaginable. Anna's approach involves breaking down marketing tasks into specific functions and creating GPTs to handle each. This practice saves time and allows small and medium-sized businesses to compete with larger enterprises by leveraging AI's capabilities. Staying Ahead in the AI Game Anna advises those new to AI against trying to "boil the ocean." Instead, she recommends focusing on specific use cases and mastering the tools relevant to those needs. By building a solid foundation and gradually expanding one's AI toolkit, businesses can effectively navigate the rapid advancements in AI technology. Final Thoughts Anna Cleary's expertise and passion for AI in marketing offer a glimpse into the future of this dynamic field. As AI continues to evolve, thought leaders like Anna will undoubtedly play a crucial role in guiding businesses through the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead 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

When Garvan Callen, a distinguished strategist, innovator, and transformation advisor at ONEZERO1, joined Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion podcast, the conversation was bound to be insightful. Garvan, who also holds teaching and advisory roles at esteemed institutions such as Trinity Business School and the Institute of Banking, discussed the dynamic landscape of business strategy and innovation, sharing his extensive expertise and forward-thinking perspectives. From Financial Services to Strategic Leadership Garvan Callen's journey is a testament to his diverse and extensive experience in the financial services industry. Garvan has led transformative initiatives across multiple domains and geographies. His career began in commercial roles, managing clients and teams, and evolved into leadership positions at major banks like Bank of Ireland, Danske Bank, and Ulster Bank/RBS. These roles honed his strategy, innovation, customer experience (CX), digital transformation, business development, and wealth management expertise. ONEZERO1: A New Chapter Garvan's current venture, ONEZERO1, is where he channels his vast experience to help leaders and businesses navigate the complexities of the digital age. ONEZERO1 focuses on commercial, customer, and cultural strategies, leveraging digital tools, artificial intelligence, and innovative methodologies. The Digital Business Strategy Book Garvan discusses his book, "Digital Business Strategy," which has been shortlisted for the Business Book Awards. He emphasizes the need for businesses to adopt a comprehensive strategy for the digital age. Garvan introduced the concept of "Stratability," a term he uses to describe the need for frequent, agile reassessment of business strategies. Unlike traditional long-term planning, Stratability involves evaluating and recalibrating strategies every few months to keep pace with rapid technological advancements and market shifts. The Role of AI and Capability Building Garvan discussed artificial intelligence's (AI) transformative potential in modern business. He noted that while AI has been around for some time, its recent advancements have significantly impacted C-suites and business leaders. Learning and Experimentation: Keys to Future Success A recurring theme in Garvan's discussion was the importance of learning and experimentation. He shared his current project of integrating his book's content into GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) to explore new ways of delivering educational content. This initiative reflects his commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation and sharing his knowledge with a broader audience. Garvan also emphasized the value of experiential learning for boards and executive teams. He advocates for getting out of the boardroom and engaging directly with customers, employees, and other organizations to gain deeper insights and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Looking Ahead: A Call for Bravery and Stewardship As he looks to the future, Garvan's focus remains on learning and adapting. He believes that in a world of rapid change and abundant opportunities, leaders must be brave, open to experimentation, and willing to engage in honest conversations about their challenges and aspirations. 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 talks with Sharon Mooney, the dynamic Managing Partner of Hyphen. Renowned for her ability to bring together the right people, ideas, and perspectives, Sharon has been a transformative force in the agency world for over two decades. Her experience spans leadership roles at Publicis Groupe, Target McConnells (Merged with DDFH&B to become JWT Folk, which became Folk Wunderman Thompson), and In the Company of Huskies (Part of F&B/Forsman & Bodenfors), where she drove business breakthroughs and amassed a collection of local and international awards. From Publicis Groupe to Founding Hyphen Sharon's journey is a testament to her versatility and vision. At Target McConnell’s, she worked on iconic brands like Diageo's Guinness and Circle K's loyalty program. Her career led her to Huskies, where she focused on digital strategy and content production. Most notably, as Managing Director at global consultancy Teneo, Sharon established a digital and creative content hub that became a cornerstone for Teneo's international reputation. In 2022, she co-founded Hyphen with her longtime colleague, James Dunne. James is one of Adland's original digital disruptors; he has led strategic planning in some of Ireland's and Europe's most effective creative agencies. Hyphen stands out as a hybrid agency-consultancy that merges creative agility with strategic depth. This innovative approach reflects Sharon and James's belief in fusing ad agency creativity with the strategic rigor of management consulting. Creating Edge: Hyphen's Unique Approach During the discussion, Sharon elaborated on Hyphen's unique methodology, particularly their concept of "creating an edge." She explained how Hyphen disrupts flat categories like fintech and engineering by introducing even a slight edge, which can make a significant impact. This approach is rooted in storytelling and emotional connection, which Sharon emphasized as crucial for cutting through the noise in B2B and B2G (Business to Government) communications. "Humanity hits harder than logic," Sharon noted, highlighting the importance of emotional resonance over purely rational messaging. This philosophy guides Hyphen's campaigns, ensuring they are not only attention-grabbing but also deeply engaging and impactful. Expanding Horizons: International Growth Hyphen's success has not been confined to Ireland. Sharon shared exciting news about Hyphen's expansion, including the establishment of an office in Brussels. This move aligns with Hyphen's growing public affairs and government relations work, particularly within the EU. Sharon also hinted at potential future expansions into markets like Amsterdam and London, underscoring Hyphen's ambition to scale their innovative model internationally. Recognizing Excellence: Awards and Accolades Sharon's leadership and Hyphen's innovative work have not gone unnoticed. Recently, Sharon was recognized in the prestigious Image Magazine and PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards, where Hyphen was shortlisted in the Startup of the Year category. This accolade is a testament to Hyphen's impact and promise under Sharon's guidance. The Future of Hyphen As Hyphen grows, Sharon and James remain laser-focused on building a lean, high-performing team of senior strategists. Their goal is to deepen their expertise in brand strategy, campaigning, political strategy, and culture strategy, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry innovation. Sharon also touched on the importance of maintaining a balance between professional and personal well-being, a lesson she has learned through her entrepreneurial journey. She emphasized the support of her family and the positive impact of surrounding herself with a network of encouraging and energizing people. Connect with Hyphen For those interested in learning more about Hyphen's groundbreaking work, Sharon and her team can be reached via their website, Hyphen Strategy (https://hyphenstrategy.com), or LinkedIn. 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 Gabe Saglie, the Senior Editor at Travelzoo and an acclaimed travel content producer and host. Gabe, who boasts an extensive background in broadcast journalism and an unparalleled passion for travel, shared his unique insights on the evolving landscape of global travel and content creation. A Life on the Move Born in Norway to Chilean parents, he grew up in Chile before moving to Southern California at the age of eight. This diverse upbringing instilled in him a love for travel that has only grown over the years. With a Master's in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Southern California, Gabe initially carved a niche for himself as a weatherman in Santa Barbara. This role not only honed his ad-lib skills but also paved the way for his foray into the travel industry. Joining Travelzoo, Gabe has become a prominent figure in travel journalism, contributing to various broadcast outlets across the USA. His role at Travelzoo involves not only reporting on travel trends but also engaging in first-hand travel experiences, which he passionately shares with audiences nationwide. The Post-Pandemic Travel Boom During the podcast, Gabe highlighted the significant changes in travel behavior following the pandemic. Travel reached a standstill during the pandemic and has bounced back with unprecedented vigor. Gabe attributes this boom to several factors. First, realizing that the ability to travel can be suddenly taken away has led people to seize every opportunity to explore. Second, the integration of work and leisure has become more common. The flexibility of remote work allows people to extend business trips into vacations, making the most of their time away from home. The Content Creation Side of Travel Gabe's expertise isn't limited to travel alone; he is also deeply involved in the world of content production. His work with television stations across the USA involves creating tailored segments that cater to specific regional audiences. This work requires meticulous planning and coordination with producers, reporters, and anchors to deliver relevant and engaging content. Gabe also emphasized the importance of integrating traditional broadcast media with social media platforms. Broadcasters can extend their reach and engage with a broader audience by repurposing content for platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook. Looking Ahead When asked about his future plans, Gabe revealed a busy and exciting schedule filled with travel and new projects. His calendar, driven by seasonal trends and the specific needs of the places he promotes, is crafted in close collaboration with international partners and various destinations. Gabe also shared a thoughtful message on mindful travel. Drawing inspiration from the Hawaiian concept of "Malama," which means to care for and respect, he encouraged travelers to minimize their impact and leave destinations as they found them, or even better. Stay Connected with Gabe Saglie To keep up with Gabe's adventures and insights, visit the Travelzoo website or follow him on various social media platforms, including his website, Gabe the Travel Guy. (https://gabesaglie.com) 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

Dr. Michael Gerharz, a distinguished communication advisor to C-Suite executives, entrepreneurs, and their teams, catches up with Host Simon Hodgkins. With a wealth of experience in mentoring and keynote speaking, Dr. Gerharz delves into the transformative power of words in leadership and business. An Expert in Communication Dr. Gerharz's journey is nothing short of fascinating. He transitioned from attending countless conferences and meetings to realizing a critical gap in how ideas are communicated. "I help people find the right words because I believe that the words you use can make all the difference between your idea making an impact and being forgotten," says Dr. Gerharz. His mission is clear: to ensure brilliant ideas receive the attention and recognition they deserve through effective communication. The Shift in Leadership Communication Dr. Gerharz highlights a significant shift in leadership styles, moving from command-and-control to a more communicative and inclusive approach. He explains, "It's never been more instrumental than today for leaders to be good at communicating." This shift sees leaders lighting the path rather than dictating directions, aligning their teams on a common goal through clear and compelling communication. Stop Persuading, Start Resonating One of the most profound insights Dr. Gerharz shares is his mantra: "Don't persuade harder, resonate stronger." He emphasizes the importance of finding words that matter to the audience and aligning messages with their values and motivations. This approach not only fosters stronger connections but also propels ideas forward in a meaningful way. Embracing AI in Communication In a world increasingly influenced by AI, Dr. Gerharz sees technology as a powerful tool to enhance, not replace, human creativity. AI can assist in generating ideas and examples, taking away the "blank sheet of paper moment," but it's the human experience and unique perspectives that truly bring words to life. "Your experiences are what make you unique," he notes, underscoring the irreplaceable value of human insight in communication. Irresistible Communications Podcast Dr. Gerharz also hosts the "Irresistible Communications" podcast, a compendium of insights into the art of communication. With nearly 300 episodes, this short-form podcast offers bite-sized wisdom designed to make listeners reflect on and improve their communication strategies. "It's intended to give you a pause about one specific aspect of your communication," Dr. Gerharz explains. The Path to Strategic Impact The latest book, The Path to Strategic Impact, is designed to equip leaders with the tools to craft effective strategies and ensure their teams grasp and implement these plans successfully. Reflecting on the creative journey, Dr. Gerharz remarks, "This book felt like it was already written in my mind; I just needed to put it on paper." Final Thoughts Dr. Gerharz leaves us with a powerful message: "If more people would stop trying to be right and start getting it right, the world would be a better place." His dedication to improving communication in leadership is not only inspiring but also a vital reminder of the impact our words can have. 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, Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Josh Golden, the Chief Marketing Officer of Quad. With over three decades of award-winning experience in brand marketing, advertising, creative development, technology, and production, Josh has a wealth of knowledge and insights that are both inspiring and educational. A Storied Career in Marketing and Innovation Josh Golden's career is a fascinating journey through various facets of the marketing world. Starting in film and TV, he held his first significant role at Paramount as the head PA for the John Tesh and Leeza Gibbons Show. He then transitioned into consulting, even working on the OJ Simpson trial, where he was responsible for creating graphic exhibits. His career continued to evolve as he moved into the agency side, working with renowned agencies. Later, he took on significant roles at major brands such as Xerox and NBC Universal. At NBC Universal, Josh was instrumental in driving the digital revolution, including the launch of Hulu. In his role at Quad, Josh oversees a company that supports a wide array of marketing services, from direct mail and magazines to digital and creative production. Quad's transformation from a manufacturing and printing company to a comprehensive marketing solutions provider is a testament to Josh's visionary leadership. Insights on the Modern CMO Role During this episode, Josh shared valuable insights into the evolving role of the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). He highlighted the increasing complexity and demands of the position, driven by the rapid pace of technological advancements and the need for continuous adaptation. Josh emphasized the importance of understanding the marketer's pain points and providing solutions that make their jobs easier. The Human Element in Marketing One of the standout moments in the discussion was Josh's emphasis on the human element in marketing. He believes that enjoying the work you do and the people you work with is crucial to success. Josh shared his philosophy of fostering a collaborative and enjoyable work environment where different thinkers can come together to solve problems creatively. He also touched on the importance of gratitude and humility in professional relationships, advising young marketers always to express appreciation and maintain a learner's mindset. His message resonated deeply, highlighting that the relationships and joy derived from working with a dedicated team are at the core of successful marketing. Exciting Times Ahead for Quad The episode was particularly special as it coincided with the launch of Quad's new creative agency, Betty, named after the mother of Quad's founder. This new initiative aims to provide 24/7 global production and creative quality, further enhancing Quad's ability to deliver comprehensive marketing solutions. Josh's enthusiasm for Quad's future was palpable. He spoke about the company's innovative offerings, including in-store digital displays and AI components that enhance marketing services. It's clear that Quad is positioned for continued growth and success, driven by a commitment to innovation and excellence. 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