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Spark! with Shereen

Business & Economics Podcasts

The Spark! with Shereen podcast show amplifies the voices of the Middle East startup ecosystem. Join Shereen Abdulla as she interviews government officials, entrepreneurs, and investors and about technology and innovation trends. This show was recorded in 2020 and 2021. The information provided is current as of the time of recording each episode. Shereen Abdulla produces business and finance content out of Spark! Studios in Dubai.

Location:

United Arab Emirates

Description:

The Spark! with Shereen podcast show amplifies the voices of the Middle East startup ecosystem. Join Shereen Abdulla as she interviews government officials, entrepreneurs, and investors and about technology and innovation trends. This show was recorded in 2020 and 2021. The information provided is current as of the time of recording each episode. Shereen Abdulla produces business and finance content out of Spark! Studios in Dubai.

Language:

English


Episodes
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BONUS EPISODE: The Content Marketing Blueprint That's Doubling My Clients' Audience And How You Can Apply It To Your Business In Less Than 30 Mins

6/23/2023
In this webinar replay, I'll teach you how to create a winning strategy to grow your brand using high-impact content without any marketing experience. I'll take you through my three secrets to making this happen. For more hands-on guidance from us, join our upcoming program where we will help you Strategize, Create, and Publish Winning Content With No Media Experience in Just 4 Weeks. Learn how to engage and grow your audience through organic marketing by actually creating and publishing content throughout our program. In addition to classroom learning, you'll also create winning content through the program during office hours. Our first cohort starts July 4, 2023, and ends July 28, 2023. You can enroll and learn more about the program here. Want more Spark? SubscribeLet’s co-create.​Let’s feature you. Let us coach you.Visit our blog.Access our resources.Book a call.Feedback? We’d love to hear from you!Follow and engage Instagram,YouTube,LinkedIn. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:52:33

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Short-form videos are long-term

9/27/2021
Did you know that about 50 million people consider themselves creators? In this episode, I cover the topic of social platforms battling it out to get creators creating their cooking, dancing, and even stock advice tips on their platform. I run through: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email...

Duration:00:04:32

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Grab a coffee, kick back, and read a newsletter

9/19/2021
In this episode, I cover the topic of newsletters being on-trend. In fact, many business-savvy writers and platform enablers are jumping on the opportunity! I run through: Kef ConnectWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkwithshereen.com We’re a studio that produces original...

Duration:00:03:54

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Can you make a living creating content?

9/11/2021
In this episode, we discuss the topic of content platforms being in a bit of a tiff over luring creators in. In addition to offering “winning” features and functionalities, another (and most obvious) incentive has proven to be good old cash *cha-ching*. In this episode we discuss: Kef ConnectWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got...

Duration:00:07:42

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Gen Z and the creator economy

9/5/2021
In this episode we discuss the topic of the creator economy changing to target Gen Z on the baraka akhbaraka deep dive podcast. Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkwithshereen.com We’re a studio that produces original content & provides content-as-a-service. Podcasts...

Duration:00:06:09

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Not all “audio” is equal, when it comes to content

8/29/2021
In this episode we discuss: the retail and fashion industry changing to target Gen Z akhbaraka ClubhouseTED podcastingTwitterSpotifyFacebookDiscord#socialcommerceTikTok Shopify's Kef ConnectWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkwithshereen.com We’re a studio that produces...

Duration:00:05:53

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How big is the podcast industry and what about the content creation process?

8/22/2021
In this episode we discuss: the financial industry changing to target Gen Z akhbaraka SpotifySubstackBooksmart StudiosNBAiHeart MediaWordPressTumblrAutomatticPocket CastsKef ConnectWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkwithshereen.com We’re a studio that produces original...

Duration:00:06:04

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How do creators fund themselves and their businesses?

8/15/2021
I’ve received an overwhelming amount of support from you all towards my relaunch of the Spark! with Shereen and the fresh Season 2 format — thank you all for being super fans! In this episode we discuss: Cybersecurity Karat FinancialAugustus MediaBeehiveKef ConnectWhoopWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to discuss...

Duration:00:05:33

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Aaand we're back for Season 2!

8/8/2021
It’s been about a minute since I last wrote to you. After a much-needed Season 1 break, we’re back with a makeover, and I can’t wait to share with you what’s up. In this episode we discuss: Spark StudiosHello SunshineA24SpringHill EntertainmentNetflixThe Co-DubaiMal O’BrienWant to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here, and subscribe to our newsletter whilst you're on our site. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Got something you'd like to...

Duration:00:05:06

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How to structure and market B2C marketplace apps

5/9/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Kerem Kuyucu who's the co-founder of JustMop, a platform that connects home dwellers with at-home service providers. Kerem has extensive experience building and scaling startups as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Rocket Internet and Country Manager at Foodonclick. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:20:40

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Building HealthTech startups in Egypt

5/3/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Rasha Rady who's the co-founder and COO of Chefaa, a pharmacy platform that helps patients order, schedule, and have medicine delivered to consumers' doorsteps. Rasha is a pediatrician, by background, who got out of her comfort zone and into the entrepreneurship world to serve more patients and have a larger impact on the community. Together we discuss: I'm working with a fab team from The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) to help refine Spark!'s value proposition and marketing strategy. We've set up a short survey that takes less than 10 minutes to fill out, check it out here. Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:19:54

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Finding new markets for existing products

4/25/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Lamya Al Shammary who's the founder and CEO of MWJ, the first marketplace to buy new and pre-loved certified luxury watches in the MENA region. Lamya is a watch and jewelry connoisseur and industry expert with over 10 years of experience. Combined with expertise in e-commerce and an understanding of the market, she delivers the best experience to shop for watches and jewelry. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:16:42

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Digitizing and collecting retail data

4/18/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Myriam Awad who's the founder and CEO of PotPay (formerly Bakala), a startup on a mission to digitize offline retail data. As an organization that digitizes offline retail data, PotPay's business model is B2B2C. They work with retailers and brands with their main audience being Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCGs). Myriam has led the creation of long-term strategies, crafted marketing and sales agendas, grew products, and built winning teams — all resulting in best-in-class management and a proven track record of delivering value. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:12:53

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A more diligent approach to tackling bugs

4/11/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Toghrul Samad who's the founder and CEO of Buglance, a crowdsourced testing platform that utilizes the power of the people to revolutionize the software testing industry. Toghrul is a serial entrepreneur, problem solver, and Chief Executive with 15 years of experience in promoting e-commerce websites, mobile apps, and games. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:12:11

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Building platforms based on data

4/4/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Philip Bahoshy whose the founder and CEO of MAGNiTT, the first venture data platform serving founders and investors across emerging markets. Philip worked at Oliver Wyman in the Financial Services practice for three years, followed by nearly three years at Barclays Wealth working as Chief of Staff to the CEO, advising on strategic initiatives. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:18:44

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A decade of evolution in MENA's startup ecosystem

3/28/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Bedy Yang, Managing Partner at 500 Startups. Bedy oversees 500’s ecosystem development programs including investor education courses (in partnership with top institutions such as Stanford, Berkeley, and INSEAD), has helped launch strategic partnerships and accelerator programs across the globe, and leads 500’s corporate-startup innovation and consultancy. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:24:17

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Build winning ventures with corporate partners

3/20/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Leen Nabulsi who is a Venture Lead at Rainmaking Innovation. Leen focuses on corporate venture building, where she works on scoping, validating, building, and launching new ventures with large corporations. Leen was also the Managing Director of Dubai Smart City Accelerator (a Startupbootcamp program) and is an active member of the startup community in the UAE. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:24:17

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Win professionally and personally through support systems as a working mom

3/8/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Julie Nguyen who is the founder of Crunchmoms. Crunchmoms is a community and networking platform for working moms to connect with like minded-women and boost their career ambitions. Crunchmom is now available as a web-based community. There are weekly online sessions where moms discuss all sorts of different topics, such as, job searching, self-confidence, and creating CVs. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:19:47

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Employee satisfaction equals customer satisfaction - how not to overlook wellness

2/28/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Ben Safra and Mila Nehme who are co-founders of Sensate. Ben & Mila are seasoned retail and customer experience professionals with a demonstrated history of working within the international luxury goods and jewelry industry. Ben has worked with powerhouses in the industry such as LV, Burberry, D&G, Tiffany & Co, Carolina Herrera, and Selfridges, whilst Mila has worked with Burberry and Cartier. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:17:35

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Grow your ventures with a global mindset

2/21/2021
In our latest episode, we sit down with Basil Moftah to discuss the global mindset amongst entrepreneurs. Basil is an experienced venture builder and partner at Global Ventures, a growth-focused VC that invests in disruptive startups with an enterprise technology focus in the Middle East and North Africa region. Together we discuss: Want to read the episode instead? Access the show notes here. Feel like socializing? Connect with us on Instagram and Linkedin. Subscribe to our newsletter on our website. Got something you'd like to discuss with us? Email us at hello@sparkstudiosgroup.com Podcasts hosted by @shereenabdulla. Produced by Spark! Studios. We are a creative brand studio that helps companies tell their story and grow their audience through content. We specialize in business, finance, and tech written and visual storytelling for digital multi-platform campaigns. Our production suite offers end-to-end services, including strategy, production, hosting, and distribution. We also offer storytelling training and coaching.

Duration:00:32:11