The International Business Podcast

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to The International Business Podcast. AI can now summarise almost anything in seconds. That's powerful, but it makes it easy to stay at the surface. We get headlines, bullet points, "3 key takeaways", and move on. What's lost is context, nuance, and understanding that changes how professionals think and decide in international business. With this new format, host Leonardo Marra pushes in the opposite direction. Instead of a quick AI overview, he built a long‑form deep dive into Japan after 1945: from World War II defeat to economic miracle, bubble, stagnation, and today's super‑aging, innovation‑driven society. Part 1 traces Japan's path from post‑war devastation through U.S. occupation, state‑guided capitalism, keiretsu networks, export‑led growth, oil shocks, the 1980s bubble, and the "lost decades." It links policy, institutions, and social change to Japan's rise and current challenges. Part 2 shifts to practical insights. Guests who live and work in and around Japan share how firms make decisions, how kaizen and relationships function, how demographics reshape strategy, and what foreign executives consistently misunderstand about the Japanese market. -------- ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for Podcast Archive and Bonus episodes (100+ episodes). ⁠ -------- With guests: Massimiliano Colonna – Director of Communications, Brookings Institution Governance Studies. MPhil in Modern Japanese Studies from Oxford's Nissan Institute, where he researched the internet's role in Japan's political debate. Waka Someno – CEO of YOUNEEDS Co., Ltd. and SOMENO-YA (Tokyo/Osaka). Provides sales, marketing, and legal support for international companies entering Japan. Over 15 years in B2B sales, DX solutions, and market-entry advisory. Jason Durkee – President, Idea Development (Tokyo); co-founder, Practical Training Transfer. 25+ years helping businesspeople innovate, communicate across cultures, and transfer learning to results. CPTD, ATD Japan director, serves 130+ clients annually across Asia. Neal Jansen – Director, Asia Office, Arkansas Economic Development Commission. CEcD with 20+ years in FDI, trade, and workforce development. Fluent in Japanese, builds long-term partnerships between Arkansas and Asian companies. Brett Jason Lee – Learning and performance professional specializing in Asia Pacific; ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC). Designs learning solutions focused on behavior change, capability building, and cultural context for Japan and the region. Shaun Rein – Founder & Managing Director, China Market Research Group (Shanghai). Author of five bestselling books on China's economy. Works with Fortune 500s, PE firms, and heads of state. Regular contributor to WSJ, FT, NYT, CNBC, CNN, Bloomberg. Harvard MA. Tom Roberts – Founder, Cranberry Leadership International. "The Expat Whisperer." Former Head of Japan - Neurology at UCB (200 people, ~$1B P&L) and MD/President UCB Korea. Forbes Coaches Council member, helps C-Suite leaders navigate cross-border challenges. Jeff O'Dea – Communication Specialist, Inspiringbiz (Tokyo). Since 2010, helps Japanese professionals communicate effectively in English for global meetings. Clients include BMS, Novartis, MSD, Chugai, Merck, UCB, Softbank. Kelvin Ro – Founder, Kagi Career LLC (Tokyo, 15+ years). Coaches non-Japanese professionals on landing jobs in Japan. Author of Three Ways to Land Your First Job in Japan; ranked #2 non-Japanese LinkedIn creator in Japan (Dec 2024). ----- If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. In this episode, Leonardo unpacks the “double helix” of risk and opportunity that defines international business for 2025: from the fragmentation of globalization and the unstoppable rise of AI, to the centrality of sustainability, talent shifts, and geopolitical turbulence. Joined by expert guests Tom Van der Heyden, Edmundo Echauri Marroquin, and Emmanuel Daniel, we break down actionable strategies for leaders navigating a complex global landscape. -------- Join Leonardo on Patreon for Podcast Archive and Bonus episodes (100+ episodes). -------- What you’ll learn: Special Guests: Tom Van der Heyden is the co-founder and CEO of S³ Group, a European consultancy renowned for its expertise in international sourcing, supply chain strategy, and business development across Asia, Europe, and emerging markets. With a career spanning over 25 years, Tom is recognized for building resilient, adaptable supply chains and operational models for SMEs and multinationals alike. His practical experience bridges East and West—advising clients on supplier development, compliance, risk diversification, and the deep nuances of entering new markets. Tom is a regular lecturer at leading business schools, an intercultural negotiation expert, and a trusted partner for companies seeking to thrive in complex, fragmented global landscapes. Dr. Edmundo Echauri Marroquin is the CEO of PROISSA and a highly regarded leader in the fields of traumatology and orthopedic surgery. Based in Mexico, he brings over two decades of hands-on clinical expertise and health sector management. Edmundo has built a reputation for advancing medical technology adoption, fostering cross-border collaborations, and steering PROISSA into a model for international best practices and innovation in healthcare delivery. His work spans direct patient care, leadership at major medical congresses, and implementing global sourcing strategies for high-quality medical devices. He embodies the intersection of clinical excellence and international healthcare business. Emmanuel Daniel is a globally respected thought leader on geopolitics, the future of finance, and technology’s impact on society. He is the founder of TAB Global and The Asian Banker, platforms connecting C-suite leaders and policymakers worldwide. Listed as a top 10 fintech influencer, Emmanuel is the author of “The Great Transition,” exploring the personalization of finance and seismic changes driven by blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and AI. With a background in law and economics, and business connections in over 130 countries, Emmanuel is sought after as an advisor, boardroom mentor, keynote speaker, and commentator on BBC, CNBC, and Bloomberg. He brings unmatched, real-world insights on how global trends are rewriting the rules for leaders and innovators. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. Amanda Molenaar is a life coach for high-achieving expats. As a former diplomat, she knows what it's like to balance international ambition with a steady personal life. Through 1:1 coaching, online programs and events, Amanda now helps high-achievers abroad find more fulfillment, create deeper relationships and take bolder action, so that they can live global lives that make them truly happy. Amanda also has a podcast, This Expat Life, where she opens up space for all facets of life abroad. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access to the newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn newsletter.⁠⁠

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. Strategy, structure, people. This encapsulates the need for a clear strategic direction, an organizational framework to support it, and the right human resources to execute it—each reinforcing the others to drive business success. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. Dr. Rebecca Homkes is a high-growth strategy specialist and CEO and executive advisor. She is a Lecturer at the London Business School, Faculty at Duke Corporate Executive Education, Advisor and Core Faculty for BCGU (Boston Consulting Group), and a former fellow at the London School of Economics Centre for Economic Performance. A best-selling author, global keynote speaker and recognized thought leader, she is also the global Faculty Director of the Active Learning Program with the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). A Marshall Scholar, she received her PhD and MSc from the London School of Economics in International Economy. Prior to LSE, Dr. Homkes received two degrees at Indiana University: BS (Honors) in business administration alongside a BA (Honors) in Political Science where she was a Wells Scholar and graduated as the schools’ top graduate in 2005 and its sole Herman Wells Scholar. She previously served as a Fellow at the White House’s President’s Council of Economic Advisors and has worked in strategy consulting with Bain & Co. She lives between Miami, San Francisco, and London. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn newsletter.⁠⁠

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. ⁠Greg Kaiser⁠, a seasoned Manager Development Expert, Advisor, and Author, has significantly impacted and mentored over 1000 managers across diverse business functions. Continuously refining his expertise, he founded Management Mastery, a company offering training, coaching, and consulting services. This initiative aims to accelerate the growth of managers, employees, stakeholders, and society at large by shaping organizational culture. ⁠⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. General Management Executive delivering profitable sales increases and cost reductions with oversight of over 7K personnel and P&L of up to $750M and sales oversight for $4.5B revenues. Brought discipline to capital planning & administration for technical solutions functions. Created holistic project management strategies. Led global (U.S., Mexico, Brazil, India, China, Canada) team of over 225 executives, union, and hourly staff. Greg is the author of "Management Rescue, You’re Promoted! Now What?"—a witty guide to managing, Greg provides practical lessons for managers through captivating stories. This book offers a structured action framework applicable to managers at all levels, filling a gap in the literature on management. With a career spanning 40+ years, Greg started in the mailroom at 19 and climbed to the position of COO, gaining a comprehensive understanding of business from the ground up not shared by many executives. Recognized for Cross-Functional Team Leadership, he has overseen 10,000+ employees and successfully executed a $1B restructuring project, yielding $200M in annual recurring savings. In his current consulting role, Greg employs Columbo-like, detective skills and a compassionate demeanor to diagnose management problems, restructuring business operations and culture. As a lifetime learner, he has read over 500 management, strategy, and business biography books and taught business classes at Penn State University. Greg emphasizes the crucial role of managers in a business and addresses the lack of formalized training for many promoted managers. Through Management Rescue and Management Mastery, he strives to alleviate the stress of imposter syndrome, providing foundational knowledge for managers to thrive in their roles. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn newsletter.⁠⁠

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to The International Business Podcast. This episode is part of the CONCEPT series, where Leonardo aims to define a key topic in international business. Today, we're discussing the G-7. The G-7, or group of 7, are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, The UK and the USA, collectively accounting for around two-thirds of the world’s economic output. These seven powerhouses, through their treasury officials, strive to cultivate balanced economic growth and stable exchange rates. ⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn newsletter.⁠

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to the international business podcast. International strategy, how to measure cross-cultural competency in multinational teams, and more. ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. Keith Jackson is recognized for his strategic foresight, driving progress in complex situations while generating new revenue streams and enhancing competitive advantage. His expertise includes strategic acquisitions, effective partnerships, and business growth. Holding Chartered Director and BS13500 credentials, Keith elevates board governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance within transparent, trusted environments. He trains directors, develops board competence, and has contributed to over 20 boards across SMEs, scale-ups, start-ups, and third-sector organizations. With more than 30 years of experience and advanced cultural fluency, Keith excels at building resilient international supply chains, forming strategic alliances, and fostering bilateral trade with over 70 countries, with a focus on ASEAN, China, and Japan. As a Chartered Engineer, he champions innovation, fosters organizational learning, and promotes cross-border, multi-disciplinary collaboration. Keith’s commitment to leadership development is demonstrated through his role as a Visiting Professor at the University of Sheffield and his mentoring and advising of directors across diverse organizations. He applies strong commercial acumen to monitor and improve company performance. With over 20 years of directorship experience in both executive and non-executive roles, Keith has led organizations through major changes including product portfolio shifts, market expansions, and restructures. His approach emphasizes employee engagement, distributed leadership, succession planning, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, underpinned by an inclusive leadership style. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra.⁠ ⁠LinkedIn newsletter.⁠

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to the international business podcast. The episode focuses on India, exploring the persistent misconceptions foreign executives bring to Indian workplaces and how global leaders can adapt their leadership styles to navigate India's hierarchical corporate structure. Find more details about the guest below. ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guest: Aarti Kelshikar is an intercultural coach and author. She is the founder of 3A Consulting and has been working in the space of leadership and cultural effectiveness since 2008. She has worked and lived in India, Singapore and the Philippines. Aarti is a certified facilitator of Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and accredited coach of The International Profiler (TIP), frameworks that help assess and develop intercultural effectiveness. She is also a certified executive coach from the international Neuro Leadership group. Through her cultural interventions, Aarti enables executives and students to successfully transition roles, levels and geographies. She conducts workshops on developing cultural intelligence and on doing business in South-East Asia and India. She has trained senior executives from multinational corporations like Nestlé, Unilever, Proctor and Gamble, Colgate Palmolive, and Texas Instruments. Aarti has recently published her second book titled How Women Work: Fitting in and Standing Out in Asia. Published by HarperCollins, the book observes women leaders through a pan-Asian lens providing insights on leadership and success in Asia. Her first book How India Works: Making Sense of a Complex Corporate Culture was published in 2018. The book is a guide to the cultural nuances and complexities of working with Indians. Aarti is a member of the Harvard Business Review (HBR) Advisory Council, an opt-in research community of business professionals across the world. She is on the Advisory Board of the Diversity Economics Institute, a UK-based organization. Aarti is co-founder and Board Member of SIETAR Southeast Asia, an organization for intercultural education, training and research which develops Asia-focused expertise. Before discovering the fascinating world of intercultural coaching, Aarti worked for seven years in the area of securities market compliance with the Securities and Exchange Board of India in Mumbai and with a consulting firm in Singapore. She has a master’s in business administration from Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) in Mumbai and a bachelor’s in commerce from Sydenham College in Mumbai. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we delve into international sales. From connecting SMEs across Australia, Latin America, and Spain to overcoming regulatory challenges and understanding cultural nuances, two expert guests share insights on what's changed in the industry and how to succeed in diverse markets. See below for further information about the two guests. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: Alex Baneres is a versatile and results-driven international marketing and sales leader with extensive experience across diverse sectors, including education, home care, travel, weight loss programs, drinkware, homeware, books, meal replacements, sports nutrition, and video games. Proven expertise in business development, P&L ownership, CRM implementation, and building long-term relationships with distributors, affiliates, and resellers in international markets such as Australia, Spain, and Latin America. Over the last two years, Alex has worked as a marketing and sales agent for several European businesses in Australia and is currently focused on growing an Australian company across Europe and Latin America. Fluent in Spanish and English, with a strong ability to manage complex projects, launch new products, optimize digital marketing strategies, and deliver measurable results. Zach Selch is a renowned global sales leader with over 30 years of experience driving international business growth. Zach's career achievements include generating over $1 billion in revenue across 150+ markets and onboarding more than 1,000 partners globally. He has been instrumental in transforming underperforming sales teams into high-performing powerhouses, achieving growth rates as high as 4,000%. His practical strategies for building international distributor networks and navigating cultural complexities have earned him recognition as a trusted mentor and advisor. Zach holds a certificate in Global Sales and Marketing Management from The Wharton School and a Bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Economics from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we delve into the Gulf countries. With the rapid growth in smartphone and internet penetration in Saudi Arabia, how can businesses leverage the digital landscape to enhance customer experience and market reach? Why is Dubai a hub for AI? How are Gulf businesses shifting supply chains towards emerging markets in Central Asia? And much more… We do this with 3 expert guests. Check further below for their detailed information. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: With a globe-spanning career, Corina Goetz has embodied roles as diverse as Advisor, Educator, Confidente and Specialist in Middle Eastern culture. By creating Star-CaT, a Middle Eastern Advisory, Training, and Consulting firm, she has spent over 20 years forging trusted relationships with leaders from the Gulf, royal families, and business magnates. Her remarkable success includes escalating a company's regional client base from zero to a 6 million annual turnover. As a German national and non-Arabic speaker, she brings a unique perspective to the table, embodying the bridge between the West and the Middle East. Having navigated the complex cultural landscapes herself, she understands the subtleties of communication, attire, and social structures in the Gulf. Through Star-CaT, her mission is global – to educate, guide and assist companies in navigating the dynamic business environment of the Gulf with confidence and cultural intelligence which then leads to exeptionnel commercial success. Corina's expertise in Middle Eastern customs and business etiquette has made her an indispensable ally to a variety of clients, including prestigious names like Aka, Corinthia London, Sarova Group, Monteverdi Tuscany, King & Spalding, Dr. Rita Rakus, and Acorn Capital Advisors. She is committed to ensuring her clients not only meet but exceed the expectations of their Middle Eastern counterparts. Oksana Didyk is a strategic consultant and researcher specializing in the Gulf region’s energy, food and agriculture, culture, and logistics sectors. With 12 years of experience in business strategy, lean management, and market entry, she has advised governments, trade organizations, and multinational companies on navigating complex regional dynamics. Oksana is also completing her PhD in Political Studies, focusing on political branding and governance in the Middle East, giving her a deep analytical edge in understanding the region’s economic and geopolitical landscapes. Combining academic insight with hands-on expertise, she helps businesses not just enter the Gulf, but truly succeed in it. Giorgio Morocica is the Head of Business Development at Edugo.AI, a Gen AI-powered Learning Management System, acquired in 2023. Giorgio is also the founder and CEO of "The Founders Club" an international community with the mission to help founders and entrepreneurs create a scalable business EXIT successfully. Furthermore, he is an Angel Investor with currently 6 startups in his portfolio and a mentor for startup founders and entrepreneurs. He holds a bachelor's degree in linguistics from Università per Stranieri di Siena and a triple master's degree from ICN Business School, University of Bologna, and East China University of Science and Technology. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo Marra, welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we delve into the world of beauty and luxury. We will travel across the UK, Italy, France and China. What role will technology play in shaping the future of luxury? What are the most significant shifts occurring in the Chinese beauty market? And more. See below for details on each guest. ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: Giovanni Luigi Bordone is a multifaceted professional with a rich background in fashion, education, and business. As a Course Leader for the MA Marketing program at London Metropolitan University, he brings over 15 years of experience in corporate fashion business to the academic forefront. His expertise spans fashion marketing, luxury brand management, and sustainability, with a strong focus on teaching in diverse international settings across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Giovanni's career has been marked by prestigious roles, including being a Made to Measure Ambassador for Ermenegildo Zegna and a Brand Ambassador for Scabal. Agnese Curti is a Brand Marketing Consultant and Co-Active Coach, combining strategic expertise with a people-centered approach. She recently founded Tangle Path, a coaching business specializing in the creative industries, to help professionals, teams, and creatives navigate growth with clarity and impact. With over a decade of experience in fashion, luxury (ex Gucci) and digital industries, she has led high-impact media and communication initiatives across Europe and Middle East, helping brands enhance visibility and audience engagement. Through coaching, she supports individuals and teams in moving from where they are to where they want to be, guided by the belief that growth is never linear - embrace the twists and turns. Lisa Nan serves as the China Luxury and Beauty Editor at Jing Daily, a New York-based publication. She specializes in analyzing Chinese consumer trends and behaviors, focusing on luxury, fashion, beauty, and WEB3 markets. Her work has been featured in prominent outlets such as South China Morning Post, Campaign Asia, Luxury Daily, and CPP Luxury. As the head of the biweekly Jing Beauty newsletter, Lisa covers key trends and insights in China's rapidly evolving beauty and wellness sector. Her biannual beauty trends forecast is highly regarded on Jing Daily. She has consulted for major brands like Clé de Peau Beauté, L’Oréal, and La Prairie on their China strategies. Manon Hu is the founder of Astrolabel, a brand consulting and management agency focused on enhancing the presence of luxury brands in China. Additionally, she serves as a Senior Partner at Luxurynsight, a leading data and AI-driven company specializing in strategic insights for the luxury market. Her expertise at Luxurynsight includes analyzing trends and consumer behavior in the Chinese market, particularly in luxury and beauty sectors, where she has been instrumental in highlighting the resilience of brands through innovative digital strategies. She previously worked Burberry and Gucci. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. What are some of the unexpected reverse culture shocks that expats experience upon returning to their home country? What are the most important skills or expats should cultivate to navigate unexpected career shifts in 2025 and beyond? And more. ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: Esteban Polidura’s mission as a Certified Life Coach and Mental Health First Aider is to help expats understand and manage their emotions during their life transitions, support them in achieving their goals, and motivate them along the way. Drawing from years of experience coaching clients across different continents, Esteban has developed a culturally sensitive approach that addresses the unique challenges faced by expats worldwide. As a published author of several books, he firmly believes in the transformative power of stories not only to inspire people but also to show them that their emotions are valid and their struggles are part of the human experience. In addition, as a renowned keynote speaker, he empowers audiences to overcome obstacles in life with resilience and confidence. Nino Fincher Is an international speaker and award winning Rapid Therapy expert in PTS and anxiety. She moves people out of a stuck state into momentum by identifying the exact root of the problem and fixing it, as well as getting clients clear on their purpose using the Purpose Factor system. She lived for extended periods of time in 3 different cultures, splits her time between Dallas and Dubai and is passionate about all things neuroscience. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. What is the future of international education? How do current geopolitical trends are influencing the choices of students when selecting study abroad destinations? And more. We do this with two experts. See their details below. Use the promo code 8D1E2 to get 50% off your first month on Patreon. This offer is valid until February 28th. ⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: With over 23 years of leadership in international education, Susan Fang has built one of East Asia's most successful education consultancies, seamlessly integrating B2C and B2B models to adapt to the evolving needs of students and the competitive global market. A respected LinkedIn thought leader and sought-after speaker, Susan is a passionate advocate for international student success, ethical agency practices, and culturally-driven, sustainable returns on investment. Her unique expertise lies in bridging cultural understanding with measurable outcomes for students, families and institutional partners. Beyond her professional achievements, Susan’s determination shines through her marathon pursuits around the world, reflecting the endurance and commitment she brings to both her career and personal life. Launching Q2 2025: A Game-Changing Programme forUniversities & Schools. Susan Fang is unveiling a groundbreaking programme to help universities and schools attract - and retain - the right Chinese students in an increasingly challenging landscape. Secure your spot on the waitlist: susan@oxbridge.com.tw In the meantime, explore Susan’s latest insights on what’s troubling Chinese international students today. Rickson Khaw, CEO of Uni Enrol, the fastest-growing studentenrollment platform in Malaysia, leads a team of dedicated professionals who share his vision of democratizing education and bridging the opportunity gap. At Uni Enrol, he oversees the strategic direction, businessdevelopment, and partnerships of the company, which has expanded to 450 towns and helped thousands of students apply to universities, colleges, and scholarships online. He also co-organized the largest virtual education fair in Malaysia, connecting 260,000 webinar viewers with participating institutions from over 115 foreign cities. Additionally, he launched SPM Accelerate, a program that invited top teachers to provide online tutoring and mentorship to SPM students. As a result of these initiatives, Uni Enrol has awarded over RM 40 million in scholarships and received the JCI Malaysia Sustainability Development Award for Quality Education. As a former venture capitalist, he continues to work with accelerators, VC funds, and student-led NGOs to share his insights and experience with aspiring entrepreneurs and startups in the region. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. Today we dive into the intricacies of global supply chains, factory relocations, personnel relocation, overseas payroll management and more. We do this with two experts. See their details below. Use the promo code 8D1E2 to get 50% off your first month on Patreon. This offer is valid until February 28th. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: Kimberly Kirkendall consults with multinational companies on international operations, supply chain, and trade through IRD. As a Beachhead Advisor for New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, she aids NZ companies in international trade and manufacturing. She hosts the podcast International Trade Resources, interviewing trade experts and providing training for startups. A frequent guest lecturer and speaker globally, she also supports US organizations in management training. As President of IRD for over 20 years, Kimberly has led thousands of projects to improve international operations. Their clients face complex cross-border trade challenges, including incorporation, supply chain optimization, and market development. Kimberly offers leadership during operational stress. IRD re-engineers processes across multiple countries, addressing issues like partnership structuring, VAT challenges, supply chain improvements, and employee management abroad. Kimberly began her career in China over 35 years ago and has lived in major cities worldwide. She combines her CPA expertise with extensive international business knowledge and has held roles as COO, CFO, and General Manager. Shan Nair is an entrepreneur and consultant on international expansion. He was the first to spot and develop the niche market of International Expansion Services (IES) which was previously fragmented. In the process he has worked with many companies in their early stages who have since become household names such as Tesla Motors, FaceTime and Sonus Networks. His role is to promote the services offered by Nucleus and to work with the management team to ensure a high level of technical excellence and client care is maintained at all times. Nucleus is unique in that it provides true one stop, multi-disciplinary, multi-country shopping for companies seeking international expansion or with international operations. A single experienced Client Services Director and an Accounting Manager will be your sole points of contact for all of your foreign consulting needs – you will not need to chase multiple accountants, lawyers and HR consultants in different geographies or have a single contact point with little expertise acting simply as a postbox. The Client Services team is backed by staff at senior and mid-management level each having more than a decade of experience in providing IES services. Shan has a doctorate in nuclear physics from the University of Oxford. He has received multiple recognitions for his contribution to business in the US, UK and India. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the Weekly Concept series, Leonardo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. BRICS+ has the potential to reshape the global economic landscape. The bloc’s focus on financial independence, trade cooperation, and infrastructure development makes it a key player in the transition toward a multipolar world. For international business professionals, keeping a close eye on BRICS+ developments will be essential for identifying opportunities in this evolving global order. Connect with the host ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of the following books on Amazon using the links provided: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Personal MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The 48 Laws of Power⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blue Ocean Strategy

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. AI has emerged as a pivotal element within numerous organizations due to its ability to transform business operations and drive growth. Today we travel around the world to discuss AI. We’re going to Canada, Portugal, China, and Brazil. See below for details on each guest. What is the AI revolution? How can AI improve operational efficiency? What industries are most vulnerable to AI automation? And more. Use the promo code 8D1E2 to get 50% off your first month on Patreon. This offer is valid until February 28th. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. With guests: J.B. Richard, a tech and AI expert with degrees in computer science, EMBA, and a third cycle diploma, founded CoFoMo, an IT consulting group that grew to over 2000 consultants by 2003. He also led Hureca, a human resources consulting firm. In 2018, he became an AI scientist at Techstars and co-founded Alexi, an AI legal tech company. Since 2021, Richard has consulted for MCN, PSP Investment, and Desjardins. In 2023, he established Mirabilis.ai as CEO, aiming to democratize AI. Emily Hilton, Co-Founder ofPACO Services, aids Portuguese entrepreneurs and expatriates in optimizing their time using AI and automation. Her firm offers on-demand support, allowing clients to delegate tasks. Hilton's background includes a swimwear brand, which inspired her to launch PACO to provide cost-effective startup support. She is also interested in AI's transformative role in the future of work. Stéphane Monsallier, an AI expert and speaker, aims to empower knowledge workers with AI tools, believing AI will augment human capabilities. With a Master’s in AI, he foundedSystem in Motion in Shanghai in 2004, a technology consulting firm. He mentors tech startups and focuses on Generative AI, delivering keynote speeches and advising on technological innovation. Marcus Scharra, a computer engineer with a master’s in Information Security and AI, has founded six tech companies, including MT4 Technology, which developedsenhasegura, a leader in Privileged Access Management (PAM) operating in over 60 countries. His work is widely published, and his companies have received awards for driving innovation in cybersecurity. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story.⁠⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the Weekly Concept series, Leonardo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today, we talk about supply chain management. SCM, abbreviated, has emerged as a cornerstone of successful international business operations. In an era where globalization has blurred the lines between domestic and international markets, understanding the intricacies of supply chains is critical for companies aiming to thrive. At its core, supply chain management involves the coordination of various activities that facilitate the flow of goods and services from suppliers to customers. Connect with the host ⁠⁠⁠⁠Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn.⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of the following books on Amazon using the links provided: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Personal MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The 48 Laws of Power⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blue Ocean Strategy

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we dive into the world of HR, exploring it from both a recruitment and company culture perspective. Automation and AI are ubiquitous in today's business landscape. What should job seekers be wary of? Companies are facing significant challenges in China, with layoffs continuing to occur. What is driving these changes? Furthermore, what are the most significant challenges and opportunities for HR professionals as businesses transition to digital operations? This and more will be discussed. Use the promo code 8D1E2 to get 50% off your first month on Patreon. This offer is valid until February 28th. Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. Miriam Wickertsheim is a German national and holds a double degree in Asia Studies and Economics from Germany and Tsinghua University. She is General Manager at Direct HR, one of China’s largest German speaking recruitment firms. She has spent a decade and a half living and working in China. She is a well-recognized senior leader in the HR Service industry and a frequent speaker at various prestigious organizations here in China. She speaks German, English and Chinese. She also wrote the book “Overcoming Superwoman Syndrome: a 10 step guide to inner peace and success”. You can purchase her book (Amazon) here. Ben Eden is an international bestselling author of "How We See Ourselves" and a sought-after leadership coach, speaker, and HR strategist. With over a decade of experience in organizational development, employee retention, and executive coaching, Ben has guided leaders across industries to overcome challenges, build high-performing teams, and achieve transformational success. As the creator of the Eden Model for personal and professional fulfillment, Ben empowers HR professionals to align their self-perception with their goals, unlocking their full potential as leaders. Known for delivering engaging presentations and actionable insights, Ben inspires audiences to cultivate impactful relationships, foster trust, and lead with authenticity. His work is grounded in a deep understanding of the evolving HR landscape and a passion for helping others succeed. You can purchase Ben’s book (Amazon) here. Chloris Liu is an experienced International Executive Headhunter with over a decade of expertise. She recruits senior to executive-level positions in the general manufacturing and consumer technology sectors across East China for Michael Page, a UK-listed company. Her notable achievements include successfully placing over 30 senior positions (from manager to VP) for local and multinational companies such as Walmart, Alipay, Samsung, IKEA, and others, primarily in the APAC region. Chloris has over six years of experience with a Singapore-listed recruitment agency, focusing on commercial function placements in the tech and industrial sectors. Her international experience spans five years in Guangzhou, four years in Europe and the US, and she currently resides in Shanghai. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. ⁠Connect with the host Leonardo Marra

If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the Weekly Concept series, Leonardo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today, we talk about economic sanctions. Economic sanctions act as tools of diplomacy that can greatly affect global trade. These measures, which can include everything from trade embargoes to asset freezes, aim to persuade countries or entities to change their behavior in line with international expectations. Connect with the host ⁠⁠⁠Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn.⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of the following books on Amazon using the links provided: - ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Personal MBA⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠The 48 Laws of Power⁠⁠⁠⁠ - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Blue Ocean Strategy

If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is your host Leonardo, welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we dive into Latin America from different angles: nearshoring, market access to LATAM, and LATAM expansion to Europe. We have three guests joining us—one based in Colombia, one in Brazil, and one in Spain. Use the promo code 8D1E2 to get 50% off your first month on Patreon. This offer is valid until February 28th. ⁠⁠Join Leonardo on Patreon for:⁠⁠⁠ Podcast Archive: 102 episodes (40+ hours). Podcast Bonus Episodes: New exclusive content. Early Access: Upcoming YouTube videos and newsletters. Thinking Process Journal: Insights into Leonardo's content preparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. Joseph Novitzki is the Principal and CEO of Timberwolf International Consulting, where he helps U.S. businesses navigate the complexities of international expansion and build high-performing teams in Latin America. With over a decade of experience living and working in the region, Joseph brings a unique perspective to unlocking Latin America's potential as the next economic frontier. From saving clients hundreds of thousands of dollars in labor costs through nearshoring to leading market entry strategies across 12 countries, his results-driven approach focuses on efficiency and adaptability to local norms. Henrique Malina brings over 20 years of experience and a proven track record in facilitating multi-million dollar agreements for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and med-tech companies in the dynamic Latin American market. Expertise focused on: - Market Entry Strategy: Assisting companies in navigating the complexities of the LATAM healthcare landscape. - Strategic Alliances: Building strong relationships with key players such as distributors and major pharma/med-tech companies in the region. - Global Opportunities: Connecting with leading biotechs, pharma, and nutraceutical firms to create new business prospects. Marc Flo-Martin is a Sales and Business Development executive with a 20+ years international career that has taken him to live in Spain, The Netherlands, France, and particularly Brazil, where he lived and worked for a decade. Fluent in six languages, he leverages his linguistic skills to build connections and foster collaboration across borders. Currently based in his hometown of Barcelona, Marc combines his corporate expertise with a passion for developing global business connections. He is involved in international consulting, assisting foreign companies in navigating the Brazilian market and supporting Brazilian businesses in expanding internationally. Marc also serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Barcelona chapter of The Global Chamber®, a premier global networking organization dedicated to facilitating the capture of cross-border business opportunities. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra