The Global Discussion

In a world where digital transformation unfolds at breakneck speed, Wanita Zoghby-Fourie emerges as a distinguished figure whose vision and leadership redefine the boundaries of what's possible. As the CEO of The Online Business Academy Ltd, Wanita has a dedication to harnessing the power of digital tools for education and empowerment. This conversation with Wanita, affectionately known in professional circles as "Wanita Z," on The Global Discussion podcast, peeled back the layers of her profound expertise and unwavering commitment. It explored how education, leadership, and digital innovation can collectively foster a more connected and enlightened world. Wanita's story is a clarion call to those looking to make a meaningful impact in the digital age, demonstrating that true transformation begins with the confluence of technology and human ingenuity. A Mission to Teach, Learn, and Inspire Wanita's "Teach Learn Inspire" mantra encapsulates her approach to navigating the digital landscape. With a rich background in managing learning teams and projects, Wanita has carved a niche as a business and training strategist, leadership coach, and motivational speaker. Her engagements alongside industry giants from Google, Yahoo, Facebook, and LinkedIn highlight her stature in the field. The Online Business Academy: Pioneering Digital Marketing Education Under Wanita's stewardship, The Online Business Academy has emerged as a cornerstone for individuals and businesses aiming to excel in social media and digital marketing. The Academy's unique blueprints, developed over many years, demystify digital marketing, enabling strategic implementation beyond mere social media presence. Wanita's approach is holistic, blending analytical and creative solutions to drive success in the digital age. A Journey Through Digital Evolution Wanita recounted the seismic shifts in the digital marketing landscape, from the nascent stages of social media to today's complex, AI-driven strategies. Her foresight in the early adoption of digital marketing strategies has positioned her as a thought leader, adept at navigating the intricate digital ecosystem. Wanita's insights into the advent of AI in digital marketing underscore the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. She emphasizes the transformative potential of AI while also cautioning against its uncritical use. Her pragmatic approach advocates for an informed application of AI technologies to enhance digital marketing strategies. A Vision for the Future Looking ahead, Wanita envisions a digital landscape enriched by AI yet grounded in human-centric values. She calls for a balanced approach to technology adoption, where innovation is matched with ethical considerations and a deep understanding of human behavior. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website. 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 Key to Revolutionizing Industries with CEO, Founder, Advisor, and Board Member Oisin Hanrahan The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, welcomes Oisin Hanrahan to the show. Oisin is a dynamic entrepreneur whose ventures span revolutionizing home services with Handy to reimagining global manufacturing with Keychain. Hanrahan's journey from Dublin to the pinnacles of the startup world in New York provides a masterclass in innovation, resilience, and the art of seizing opportunities. A Decade of Disruption Oisin Hanrahan's entrepreneurial spirit has pioneered change and fostered a new way of thinking about service and supply chains. As the CEO of Angi (formerly Angie's List) and the founder of Handy, Hanrahan transformed the home service industry by connecting professionals with homeowners through a seamless digital platform. His latest venture, Keychain, aims to rebuild the global manufacturing supply chain by facilitating direct connections between brands, retailers, and manufacturers. Meeting a Market Need During the podcast, Hanrahan recounted the inception of Handy, which was born out of a gap he observed in the market. In an era when digital platforms like Uber and Airbnb were nascent concepts, Handy introduced a revolutionary model for hiring home service professionals. Reflecting on the economic landscape of 2011-2012, Hanrahan highlighted the high unemployment rates and the technological infancy of the time, underscoring the boldness of Handy's proposition. Keychain: Pioneering a New Frontier With Keychain, Hanrahan is not merely launching another startup; he's addressing a critical inefficiency in the global supply chain. The initiative seeks to streamline the process for brands and retailers to find and collaborate with manufacturers. In discussing Keychain, Hanrahan shared insights into modern manufacturing and distribution challenges, from the complexities of finding reliable manufacturing partners to the nuances of supply chain sustainability. A Reflection on Entrepreneurship and Innovation Oisin's discussion with Simon Hodgkins went beyond business narratives, looking into the philosophy of entrepreneurship. He stressed the importance of writing down personal and professional beliefs as a compass for decision-making. This reflective practice, he suggested, can guide entrepreneurs through the uncertainties of starting and scaling a business. Oisin Hanrahan is eager to witness the next chapter in his mission to reshape the world's economic landscapes at a moment in time when innovation is both a challenge and a necessity; Oisin's story serves as a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs. His appearance on The Global Discussion shed light on his accomplishments and the mindset required to innovate and disrupt in the 21st century. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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 a particularly insightful guest, Bryan Barletta, the brain behind Sounds Profitable. Barletta, with a rich background as a former product manager and sales engineer, has etched his name as a vanguard in the podcast advertising and ad tech education realm. Sounds Profitable has rapidly become the weekly go-to for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of podcast advertising, from analytics to dynamic ad insertion, straight from the experts. Bryan's journey is a testament to resilience and passion. Transitioning from his role at Megaphone, he leveraged his layoff as a launchpad to educate the podcasting ecosystem. Sounds Profitable began as a newsletter but quickly became a comprehensive platform offering consulting, advocacy, research, and more. Today, it works with many companies, guiding them through the labyrinth of podcasting business dynamics. With Tom Webster, a titan in audio research, joining as a partner, Sounds Profitable has augmented its offerings, including newsletters, webinars, and live events. Their focus is not just on keeping the industry abreast of developments but also on enabling businesses at all levels to thrive through enhanced listenership and monetization strategies. Barletta's vision extends beyond mere content creation. The emphasis is on nurturing a well-informed podcasting community where knowledge transcends barriers, from entry-level enthusiasts to C-suite executives. The evolution of Sounds Profitable reflects a broader narrative in the podcasting world — one where education and access to information are pivotal to growth and innovation. One of the standout moments in the conversation with Simon Hodgkins was Bryan Barletta's reflection on the genesis and evolution of Sounds Profitable. What started with a commitment to education has blossomed into a multifaceted endeavor, underscoring the potential of podcasting as a medium for storytelling and robust business models. Simon and Bryan discuss the nuances of the newsletter's growth, highlighting the keen curation of content that caters specifically to those entrenched in the business side of podcasting. Barletta and his team sift through many articles daily, distilling them into digestible, impactful insights for their audience. This rigorous process ensures that Sounds Profitable remains at the forefront of delivering value, steering clear of the noise and focusing on what truly matters for podcast professionals. As The Global Discussion episode with Bryan Barletta concluded, it was clear that Sounds Profitable is not just a newsletter or consulting firm but a movement. One that champions knowledge, advocates for the advancement of podcasting, and fosters a community where the exchange of ideas propels the industry forward. Sounds Profitable is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to dive deeper into podcast advertising and ad tech. With Bryan Barletta and Tom Webster at the helm, the future of podcasting is in knowledgeable and passionate hands. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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

A Creative Discussion with Award-Winning Producer Sarah Chadwick - The Global Discussion Simon Hodgkins, host of The Global Discussion, catches up with Sarah Chadwick, an award-winning producer recognised in the advertising and creative industry. With her illustrious career as an Executive Board Member of ICAD and the Founder of Clickety Clack, Sarah shares her unique journey and insights into the advertising industry, fostering new talent and the essence of creative success. From Accidental Beginnings to Industry Leader Sarah's entry into advertising was serendipitous, stemming from her return to Ireland after a stint in Australia. Initially seeking any job to get by, she landed a temporary position at an advertising agency, which sparked a love affair with the industry that has lasted over a decade. This unexpected turn led her from reception duties at the internationally recognised agency Boys + Girls to becoming a senior producer, leaving an indelible mark on Ireland's creative landscape. Her passion for advertising and commitment to excellence is evident in her body of work, having produced award-winning campaigns recognised at Cannes Lions, D&AD, Kinsale Sharks, and more. Sarah's journey is a testament to the power of embracing the unknown and the impact of genuine passion on one's career trajectory. Fostering Creative Excellence with Clickety Clack In 2022, Sarah embarked on her most ambitious challenge by founding Clickety Clack. This venture aims to support agencies and production teams in delivering world-class creative projects. With over a decade of experience and many awards under her belt, Sarah's leadership at Clickety Clack drives the Irish creative industry forward, showcasing her commitment to innovation and quality. Championing the Next Generation of Creatives As an executive board member of ICAD, Sarah is at the forefront of nurturing and advocating for Ireland's creative talent. Her involvement in judging the Emerging Director Awards in 2023 further underscores her dedication to elevating new voices in the industry. Through her work with ICAD, Sarah champions the organisation's mission to foster, promote, and reward Irish creativity, ensuring the nation's creative sector thrives globally. Insights and Inspirations During her conversation with Simon Hodgkins, Sarah shared invaluable insights into what makes a great producer: humanity, understanding, and the ability to connect with people across all facets of a project. Her advice to be "comfortable with being uncomfortable" and to not always do what you are told reflects her philosophy of pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo to achieve creative excellence. Sarah's openness about the uncertainties of freelance work, especially in a volatile industry landscape, is both refreshing and inspiring. It highlights the importance of adaptability, networking, and finding opportunities in challenges. As we look forward to her future endeavours, Sarah's journey encourages us to seek our passions, challenge conventions, and contribute positively to our respective fields. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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 is in discussion with Salla Westerstrand, a name synonymous with pioneering efforts in AI, ethics, and responsible technology. As the founder of Harmless and an esteemed AI Ethicist, Westerstrand is at the forefront of shaping a future where artificial intelligence aligns seamlessly with societal values and ethical standards. Salla helps companies to develop and deploy ethical, societally sustainable solutions and AI governance that supports and embraces company and customer values. A Multifaceted Expertise Westerstrand's journey is a compelling narrative of bridging theory with practice. Holding a Master of Social Sciences in Political Science with a specialization in EU affairs and democracy, she is currently pursuing a PhD in Information Systems Science at the Turku School of Economics. Her research focuses on the ethical directions of AI and its impact on democratic societies, underscoring her commitment to a future where technology enhances, rather than undermines, societal well-being. The Ethical Compass of AI During the podcast, Westerstrand elucidated the complex terrain of AI ethics, emphasizing the importance of creating AI solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also ethically grounded. She advocates for a design-oriented approach to AI development, where ethical considerations are integrated from the ground up. "The goal is to develop and deploy ethical, societally sustainable solutions and AI governance that embrace both company and customer values," Westerstrand shared, highlighting her work with developer teams and her consultancy role in responsible AI strategy. Challenges and Opportunities Ahead Westerstrand's insights on the podcast revealed the delicate balance between innovation and ethical responsibility. She touched upon the evolving landscape of AI regulation, particularly the EU AI Act, and the need for companies to go beyond mere compliance towards genuine ethical engagement. A Call to Ethical Action What sets Westerstrand apart is her pragmatic optimism. She sees ethical dilemmas not as roadblocks but as opportunities for reflection and growth. "Ethics is about figuring out how to balance those trade-offs," she stated, urging companies to engage deeply with the moral implications of their AI technologies. Joining the Ethical AI Movement For those inspired by Westerstrand's vision and seeking to contribute to the ethical AI landscape, she offers a straightforward yet powerful message: educate yourself, engage with diverse perspectives, and don't be afraid to share your knowledge and insights. Whether through academic research, industry collaboration, or public discourse, every effort counts towards shaping an AI-enabled future that aligns with our collective values and ethical standards. In an era where AI's influence on society continues to grow, voices like Salla Westerstrand are essential in guiding us toward a future where technology serves humanity's highest aspirations. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website. 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

Brianna Ansaldo of Bamby Media joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Ansaldo's journey from an award-winning songwriter and touring musician to the head of a pioneering podcast and video production company illustrates a path of relentless innovation and creative passion. Crafting a Unique Sound in the Podcast World Bamby Media is a testament to Ansaldo's lifelong love affair with sound and its transformative power. Originating from a deep appreciation for audio's impact on mood and perspective, the company has developed into a global powerhouse, offering a suite of services that range from podcast production to comprehensive digital content creation. A Personal Touch in the Digital Age In her conversation with Simon, Brianna revealed the personal challenges and triumphs that shaped her journey. Her unique experience of being completely deaf in one ear never deterred her; instead, it fueled a deeper connection to the world of audio. This personal touch is evident in how Bamby Media approaches each project, ensuring a blend of technical excellence and heartfelt creativity. Embracing and Leading with Remote Work A crucial aspect of Bamby Media's success is its embracement of remote work. As Ansaldo pointed out, this strategic decision was not pandemic-driven but a conscious choice to balance professional dedication with personal well-being. The remote model has cultivated a strong team culture, allowing global flexibility and efficiency in delivering top-notch podcast content. Bridging the Gap between Technology and Creativity Ansaldo's expertise in audio production, combined with her adventurous spirit, has led Bamby Media to explore and integrate cutting-edge AI tools in their workflow. From AI-assisted editing to language translations, Bamby Media harnesses technology to enhance creativity and human connection in podcasting. Future Beats: Expanding the Horizon of Bamby Media Looking ahead, Ansaldo is keen on fostering the podcast community, particularly in Australia. Her plans to launch an independent Podcast Awards aim to celebrate the burgeoning talent of indie podcasters. Additionally, her commitment to education through courses and consulting reflects her passion for nurturing the next generation of podcast creatives. To dive deeper into the Bamby Media story, watch or listen to this episode of The Global Discussion. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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 podcast, hosted by Simon Hodgkins, we have an exclusive discussion with Sophie Cross, the visionary Editor and Publisher of Freelancer Magazine. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings and driving forces behind Freelancer Magazine, a trailblazing resource for B2B and creative freelancers across the globe. The conversation with Sophie Cross illuminated the challenges and triumphs in the freelance world, providing invaluable insights for freelancers everywhere. Sophie Cross: A Freelancer's Champion With her decade-long experience in freelancing, Sophie Cross has transitioned from a corporate role in travel and hospitality to launching a one-of-a-kind magazine. Freelancer Magazine, a quarterly print-first publication, extends beyond mere business advice, encompassing lifestyle and personal growth for freelancers. It's not just a magazine; it's a community hub and a resource for freelancers globally to connect, grow, and thrive. The Core of Freelancer Magazine Spanning 100 pages in each quarterly issue, Freelancer Magazine emerges as more than just a publication; it's a comprehensive guide bursting with business acumen, lifestyle enlightenment, and actionable marketing strategies. This publication masterfully weaves professional insights and compelling personal narratives, crafting a bespoke roadmap for the modern freelancer's journey. Expanding Horizons Beyond Print Sophie Cross's vision transcends the conventional boundaries of print media. She empowers freelancers with robust online marketing courses through the Freelancer Magazine Marketing School. These courses are meticulously designed to bolster confidence in self-promotion, enhance skills in content creation, and refine freelancers' unique service offerings, equipping them with the tools to excel in a competitive landscape. Cultivating a Vibrant Freelance Community At the core of Sophie's mission is her commitment to cultivating a strong sense of community among freelancers. Freelancer Magazine serves as a catalyst, bringing together isolated professionals through innovative virtual co-working sessions, festive gatherings, and various engaging events. These initiatives foster a supportive and interactive community, enabling freelancers to form lasting connections and friendships, enriching their professional and personal lives. Sophie's Vision and Future Plans Sophie aims to focus on marketing and distribution, enhancing the magazine's reach. She plans to introduce new courses, including one on creating online courses, drawing from her own transformative experiences. With her visionary leadership at Freelancer Magazine, Sophie has transcended the traditional role of a publication to establish a vibrant sanctuary for freelancers. It's a realm where connections flourish, professional growth is nurtured, and a profound sense of belonging is fostered. This episode is a source of inspiration and a strategic roadmap for aspiring and seasoned freelancers seeking to discover their successful paths in the rapidly expanding freelance landscape. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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

Why CMOs Need a Chief of Staff with Priscilla Gravenhorst - The Global Discussion Priscilla Gravenhorst is a dynamic force in the marketing and communications world. With her extensive experience at renowned agencies like McCann, Ketchum, Tiffany & Co, and HAVAS, Priscilla currently serves as the Chief of Staff to Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs), a role she describes as "the CMOs Secret Weapon." A Journey Through the Advertising World Priscilla's career trajectory is as impressive as it is diverse. Starting in production, she swiftly moved through project and portfolio management ranks, handling blue-chip clients like Microsoft, Verizon, and Samsung. This journey wasn't a plotted course; as Priscilla shared, she stumbled into advertising, initially working on Hong Kong feature films. This background honed her skills in orchestrating large groups, a talent that proved invaluable in her advertising career. The Role of a Chief of Staff to a CMO In this episode, Priscilla illuminated the evolving role of a Chief of Staff in the corporate world, especially within marketing departments. Her role goes beyond traditional project management; it involves strategic planning and ensuring the voice of the CMO is heard across the C-suite. She emphasizes that the Chief of Staff is an enabler, accelerating the CMO's vision and ensuring alignment with the company's broader goals. The Challenges and Opportunities Facing Today's CMOs Priscilla highlighted that modern CMOs face many challenges, from rapid technological advancements to complex regulatory environments. She stressed the importance of CMOs being flexible, open-minded, and strategic risk-takers. Priscilla sees these challenges as hurdles and opportunities for innovation and growth. The Future of Marketing Leadership Looking ahead, Priscilla is enthusiastic about the future. She's partnering with leaders in the field with an aim to empower CMOs further, enabling them to make a more significant impact both in their organizations and the marketing world. Priscilla is on a mission to help CMOs regain their rightful place in the driver's seat of marketing innovation and strategy. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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

Accelerating the Green Energy Transition with Piia Kuosmanen - The Global Discussion Piia Kuosmanen, the dynamic Founder and Chief Growth Officer at Exaum, joins The Global Discussion. Kuosmanen, a serial entrepreneur and a global citizen, shared insights into her latest venture, accelerating the transition to green energy to tackle the climate crisis. A Journey of Impact and Innovation Piia Kuosmanen's entrepreneurial journey is a tapestry of innovation, learning, and relentless pursuit of impactful solutions. With her ventures spanning four continents, Kuosmanen has consistently been at the forefront of leveraging technology for meaningful change. Her latest project, Exaum, is a testament to her commitment to solving some of the world's most pressing issues. Exaum: Balancing the Green Energy Equation At the core of Exaum's mission is the balancing of energy consumption with the increasing influx of green energy into the electricity grid. Kuosmanen explains the critical challenge of maintaining a balance between supply and demand in the grid to prevent disruptions. This balance becomes crucial as we integrate more renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines. The Challenge of Green Energy Transition Kuosmanen shared the complexities of transitioning to green energy. She highlighted the seasonal variations in renewable energy production, especially in countries like Finland, and stressed the importance of developing systems adapting to these changes. Her approach combines deep technology with practical solutions to ensure the reliability and efficiency of the energy grid. A Visionary's Learning Curve Kuosmanen's journey is also one of constant learning and adaptation. She emphasizes the importance of staying informed and adaptable, citing her return to reading and keeping up with current developments in her field. Her approach to learning is as dynamic as her entrepreneurial ventures, focusing on value-based and action-oriented strategies. A Message of Resilience and Kindness Amidst technology and business discussions, Kuosmanen left us with a profound message: the importance of kindness and resilience. In a world where change is the only constant, she encourages us to be kind and supportive of each other, highlighting that these values are the bedrock of any successful endeavour, personal or professional. Piia Kuosmanen's appearance on The Global Discussion was more than just an interview; it was a deep dive into the heart of green energy innovation. Her insights remind us of the intricate balance between technological advancement and the human values that drive them. Visionaries like Kuosmanen inspire us as we navigate the complexities of our changing world. To learn more about Piia Kuosmanen and Exaum's groundbreaking work in green energy, follow her on LinkedIn and visit Exaum.com. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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

Melanie Kentish, the visionary Founder and CEO of Dopamine Studios, was recently featured on "The Global Discussion" podcast, hosted by Simon Hodgkins. Melanie's expertise and innovative approach have significantly impacted the influencer marketing and talent management industry. The Philosophy of Dopamine Studios Dopamine Studios is not just another influencer marketing agency. Melanie's brainchild embodies her principles of ethics, kindness, and outstanding work. Prioritizing the welfare and success of its clients and talent, the agency steers clear of restrictive contracts, fostering a positive, creative environment where talent thrives because they choose to, not because they have to. From Sky to Gleam Futures Melanie's remarkable journey includes transformative roles at Sky and Gleam Futures. At Sky, she developed a groundbreaking 200-strong ambassador program, targeting the under-35 audience with innovative campaigns for high-profile shows like Gangs of London and House of The Dragon. Later, as Managing Partner at Gleam Futures, she made significant strides, notably overhauling the talent roster to promote diversity and lobbying for government action against deceptive beauty filters on social media. Melanie Kentish's discussion with Simon Hodgkins on "The Global Discussion" podcast provided several crucial insights into influencer marketing and talent management: Authenticity in Influencer Marketing Importance of Creator Freedom: Melanie stressed the significance of allowing content creators to interpret and express brand messages in their own style. This approach ensures that the content remains true to the creator's voice, thus resonating more authentically with their audience. Building Genuine Relationships: By advocating for authenticity, Melanie emphasized that genuine connections between influencers and their followers are foundational to successful marketing campaigns. This authenticity translates into higher engagement and trust, key metrics for successful influencer partnerships. Leveraging Data for Strategy Data-Driven Decision-Making: Melanie underscored the role of data in shaping influencer marketing strategies. By analyzing performance metrics and audience engagement data, brands can tailor their campaigns for maximum impact. Educating Brands on Efficacy: She also highlighted how data-driven insights can help educate brands about the true value of influencer marketing. This approach helps brands understand influencer partnerships' ROI, moving beyond follower counts to deeper engagement metrics. A New Approach to Talent Management Beyond Restrictive Contracts: At Dopamine Studios, Melanie has adopted a forward-thinking approach to talent management, eliminating restrictive contracts. This strategy focuses on building mutually beneficial relationships based on respect and mutual goals. Her focus on authenticity, data-driven strategies, ethical talent management, and the irreplaceable value of human connection provides a roadmap for brands and creators in navigating the dynamic influencer landscape. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.  About The Global Discussion The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  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