The International Business Podcast (Leonardo Marra)
Explorez tous les épisodes de The International Business Podcast
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Nov 2024 | #108 Concept: Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) | 00:05:40 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today we present the concept of Foreign Direct investment (FDI). Foreign Direct Investment is a significant aspect of international economics, representing a long-term investment made by an individual or entity in one country into business interests in another country. FDI plays a crucial role in the global economy, promoting economic growth, enhancing productivity, and providing access to new markets and technologies. 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 contentpreparation, including a curated reading list and personal reflections. Q&A: Submit questions for future episodes, and receive a shoutout when they are answered. Links to further your research:
Connect with the host Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 23 Nov 2024 | #112 Concept: Hierarchical Business Culture | 00:06:07 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today, we present the concept of hierarchical business culture, a vital aspect of organizational dynamics that significantly influences management practices. In today’s increasingly globalized world, understanding and effectively navigating the nuances of hierarchy in cross-cultural settings is crucial for ensuring successful leadership and management across diverse environments. What are the key features of hierarchical culture? There are four primary characteristics that define this organizational structure.
What are the implications for international business?
Links to further your research:
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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 15 Feb 2025 | #132 Concept: BRIC, BRICS, BRICS+ | 00:05:34 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo 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 | |||
| 30 Nov 2024 | #114 Concept: Tariffs escalation | 00:03:18 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline.
Today, we talk about escalation, specifically tariffs escalation. Tariff escalation refers to a trade policy characterized by protectionist measures, in which nations implement elevated import tariffs on manufactured products compared to those levied on raw materials or unrefined goods. This approach aims to safeguard domestic industries by making imported finished items more expensive, thereby encouraging consumers to purchase locally produced alternatives. As a result, countries often seek to promote their own economic interests while simultaneously limiting foreign competition in the market. Find further information here:
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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 05 Aug 2024 | #103: The importance of 1:1 meetings | 00:17:54 | |
Are 1:1 meetings important? How to run effective meetings? What’s their purpose? This and more. Let's engage with international professionals from China, the UK, the USA, and Japan. 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 would like to be considered for the show, please connect with the host Leo. Details on each guest: Francis Kremer is the founder of the China Flexpat Community. This is a community for international professionals to share advice and experiences about working in and with China. This advice is shared on the "China Flexpat Podcast" which can be found on Spotify or any other podcast app. Francis graduated in Business studies in 2006 in Germany, has always been working in international technology marketing and speaks fluent Chinese. He relocated to China in 2016. In 2020, Francis joined JULI Automation, the Chinese market leader for EV motor assembly lines. The most leading EV brands, such as SAIC, FAW, Geely and Great Wall cooperate with JULI Automation. Francis is now responsible for the internationalization of the company in order to become the worldwide market leader for EV motor assembly lines. He is establishing customer relationships and service offerings in Europe and North America. In 2024 he has established a new subsidiary in Hungary with a planned headcount of 60 professionals in 2026. Sally Maier-Yip is an award-winning cross-cultural Public Relations (PR) strategist with a background in journalism and a passion for helping companies to build successful business in Mainland China, Hong Kong and globally over the past 20 years. In 2015, Sally founded 11K Consulting, a leading London-based China-specialist communications consultancy, specialized in helping clients to reach and attract Chinese high-net-worth individuals, investors and luxury consumers in China and globally. 11K's clients include a mix of international and emerging companies from property development, architecture, interior design to luxury hotels and restaurants. Prior to 11K, Sally had worked at various PR agencies in Hong Kong, Singapore and London. Tom Roberts is a recognized expert in the intercultural complexities of global leadership and has been referred to as “The Expat Whisperer” by a treasured client. Tom is a senior executive, author, keynote speaker, and certified executive coach who has helped hundreds of C-Suite, VP and Director level leaders redefine their overseas experience as a career-making superpower. After over a decade abroad taking on 5 international assignments and guiding teams in 11 different countries, with country, unit, and regional P&L ownership, Tom has been through the ups and downs of leading abroad. The stakes are high for your career, your company’s objectives, and – perhaps most importantly – for your family. Jason Durkee is President of corporate training firm Idea Development in Tokyo. During his 30 years as a consultant in Asia, he's helped more than 40,000 people communicate, manage and work better across languages and cultures. | |||
| 06 Jan 2025 | #121: Temu unleashed. How this e-commerce giant is disrupting the market with ultra-low prices | 00:14:14 | |
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 talk about Temu.
Temu is an online marketplace that belongs to the Chinese Pinduoduo Group, which was founded by Colin Huang, one of China’s wealthiest entrepreneurs. It kicked off in May 2022 and made its way to Europe in May 2023.The site promotes itself with the catchy tagline “Temu: shop like a billionaire” and is famous for its super low prices and big discounts, selling just about everything you can think of.
- What is their business model?
- Is Temu a threat for Amazon?
- What are the concerns you should have as a consumer? 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.
You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of the following books on Amazon using the links provided: Joining Leonardo we have Kathryn Read, Partner at Uniconsult-Wick & Partner. She spent more than 25 years at the nitty gritty end of export doing business in more than 150 countries.
- If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra. | |||
| 10 Mar 2025 | #136: Beauty, luxury and innovation | 00:25:46 | |
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 | |||
| 04 Nov 2024 | #107: Expats, intercultural leadership, social wealth | 00:19:53 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. Welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we discuss expats. To learn more about each guest joining Leonardo today, please check 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. Expats are crucial for global companies as they bring diverse perspectives, specialized skills, and cultural insights that enhance international operations.
Gabor Holch is an intercultural leadership coach, consultant, speaker and author specialised in East-West executive assignments and business relations. He supports corporate executives and public-sector leaders in succeeding across national and cultural boundaries instead of getting lost in translation. An expat since age 4, he transitioned from diplomacy to consulting, moved to China in 2002 and became China’s first foreigner granted a Certified Management Consultant degree in Mandarin Chinese. In 2005 he founded Campanile Management Consulting. He has advised, coached and trained leaders for 100+ clients in 25+ countries through his own firm, partner consultancies and the business academies of half a dozen multinational corporations. He has spoken at conferences and corporate events and lectured at business programmes in Europe and Asia. He has written three books and published about a hundred articles. His latest book, Dragon Suit: The golden age of expatriate executives in China, was published by Business Expert Press, New York, in summer 2023.
Chis Smit, has become a role model for many individuals throughout his career. Cultural Diversity and Company Culture can be greatly misunderstood within an industry that is continuously evolving and Chris is looking to spread awareness in these areas to help implement change. When booked as a speaker, Chris focuses on topics such as Intercultural Management, Leadership, Management, and Marketing. In 1987, Chris attended the University of Amsterdam where he was awarded a master’s degree in Organisational Psychology. This was then followed by him gaining a Business Consultant role at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Dedicated to making a difference, Chris has now become a Managing Partner of Culture Matters. His beliefs not only benefit himself but thousands of people throughout the business world which is why he has been able to build a successful career. Chris hosted the TEDx Talk ‘Humor and culture in international business in 2014.
Shelley Doyle is a pioneering Social Wealth Strategist and a Master's student at Royal Roads University, specializing in enhancing the social wellbeing of remote and hybrid leaders. With over 20 years in communications, Shelley has pivoted to empower corporate teams, remote leaders, and founders to foster meaningful connections and sustain their social wellbeing in our digital age. Through her innovative workshops and talks, Shelley merges cutting-edge research with her global experiences, equipping leaders with tools and strategies to reconnect, enabling them to feel deeply trusted, connected, and supported.
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| 13 Dec 2024 | #118 Concept: Inflation | 00:04:30 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline.
Today, we talk about inflation.
Inflation is an essential economic principle that denotes the overall rise in the costs of goods and services within an economy over time. This phenomenon results in a decline in the purchasing power of money, indicating that consumers can acquire fewer items with the same amount of currency. Inflation is typically measured using indices such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which tracks the average price changes in a basket of selected goods and services over a specified period, typically on an annual basis.
In today’s connected global economy, inflation plays a big role in international business. Companies that work across borders have to deal with different inflation rates, which can impact how they set prices, their profit margins, and how competitive they are overall. 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. Sources for further analysis: - Supply Chain and Inflation: Issues and Impacts - Ford warns investors of an extra $1 billion in supply chain costs. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: - HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025 - Connect with the host Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn. | |||
| 18 Nov 2024 | #111: Japan, cultural misunderstandings and leadership styles | 00:38:44 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is Leonardo from Shanghai, and welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we delve into the experiences of foreigners working in Japan, collaborating with Japanese professionals, and vice versa. Who is your typical executive in Japan? How does leadership change across language and culture? What is the thing most foreigners get wrong about Japan business culture? And more. To learn more about each guest joining me today, please check 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. Jason Durkee is President of corporate training firm Idea Development in Tokyo. During his 30 years as a consultant in Asia, he's helped more than 40,000 people communicate, manage and work better across languages and cultures. Jason was born and raised in Seattle, graduated from Sophia University's Faculty of Comparative Culture in Tokyo, worked in Japan and Shanghai, founded Idea Development in 2003, developed the company to be an leader leader and has managed global teams since 2003. Since 2003 Idea Development has specialized in providing learning and development solutions to clients in Japan that achieve meaningful business results. Focusing on innovation, communication, working across cultures and leadership. Over the years, the company has grown consistently and now proudly serves more than 130 clients a year. Jeff O’Dea has worked in Japan as an educator for over 30 years. During this time, he has collaborated with many global companies in his roles as a coach, trainer, consultant, presenter, and educator. He is passionate about discussing, drawing, and writing on cross-cultural communication, particularly as it pertains to Japan and Japanese business professionals.Jeff is dedicated to helping Japanese business professionals enhance their communication skills and, more importantly, boost their confidence and mindset to communicate more effectively in English. He has also had the opportunity to work with a range of expatriates in Japan, assisting them in creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for their Japanese partners and colleagues.
Tom Roberts, known as “The Expat Whisperer,” is an expert in global leadership and intercultural complexities. As a senior executive, author, keynote speaker, and certified executive coach, Tom has guided numerous C-Suite and VP leaders in transforming their international experiences into career advantages. With over a decade of international assignments across 11 countries, he understands the unique pressures faced by expat executives. Tom emphasizes the importance of recognizing the cultural influences from one’s home, host, and headquarters environments to ensure success for both the leader and their family. He founded Cranberry Leadership to enhance the success of expat assignments, leveraging data-driven assessments and his extensive experience. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra. | |||
| 16 Jan 2025 | #124 Concept: The OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) | 00:04:55 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline.
Today, we talk about the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development).
It was established in 1961 to boost the economic growth of Western industrialized countries and to promote global trade. Initially made by 20 founding members, it currently has 38 member countries. Originally the membership was exclusively North American and European, but it then expanded further. Its headquarters is in Paris and employs over 2,300 staff. The organization is founded by its members, and the national contributions are based on each member’s economy.
So, what does the OECD really do? At its heart, the organization is all about encouraging policies that drive prosperity, fairness, and well-being for everyone. 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: | |||
| 09 Dec 2024 | #117: Business innovation, design thinking and open innovation | 00:13:51 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is Leonardo from Shanghai, and welcome to the international business podcast. Today we delve into business innovation.
What is design thinking? How can an organization improve the volume and quality of new ideas? 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.
You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of the following books on Amazon using the links provided: - HBR's 10 Must Reads on Business Model Innovation - How Innovation Works: And Why It Flourishes in Freedom Business innovation is critical for maintaining competitiveness in today's fast-paced global market, particularly in the realm of international trade. It encompasses the development of new products, services, processes, or business models that enhance operational efficiency, improve customer satisfaction, and create significant value for both the company and its clients.
Jeff D. Standridge, Ed.D. helps organizations and their leaders generate sustained results in the areas of innovation, strategy, profit growth, organizational effectiveness, and leadership. Formerly a Vice President for Acxiom Corporation, he has led established and startup business units in North & South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
With over 30 years of experience in leading established and startup businesses across various industries and regions, Jeff is a strategic growth, innovation, and leadership expert who helps organizations and their leaders generate sustained results. As the Managing Director of Innovation Junkie, he partners with C-Suite and executive leaders who are looking to scale their organizations more efficiently and create disruptive solutions for the key problems facing the world today. Jeff is also a three-time best-selling author, a certified executive coach, an instrument rated multi-engine pilot, a podcast co-host, and an investor. His books, The Innovator’s Field Guide, The Top Performer’s Field Guide, and Creating Startup Junkies, provide practical insights and tools for entrepreneurs, innovators, and change agents.
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story.
- Connect with the host Leonardo Marra | |||
| 11 Nov 2024 | #109: China's digital ecosystem | 00:29:56 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. This is Leonardo from Shanghai, and welcome to the international business podcast. Today, we discuss the China's digital ecosystem.
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. The digital economy in China, contributing to 10% of the GDP in 2023, is a critical component of national development. China's commitment to advancing its digital economy includes massive investments in emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and 5G. This strategic focus aims to position China as a leader in the global digital economy. Today’s guest is Ashley Dudarenok. Ashley is a naturalised Chinese serial entrepreneur, award winning digital expert and book author, recognised by Thinkers50 as a “Guru on fast-evolving trends in China”. She is the founder of ChoZan 超赞 China digital transformation consultancy and Alarice, China-focused digital marketing agency. Ashley and her team help world's top companies and brands to learn for and from China. She’s also a sought-after professional speaker covering topics around customer centricity, the future of retail, technology in action. Ashley is the author of 11 books on digital China. She has over 500,000 professionals follow her social media channels for daily China business insights.
What are the functions in WeChat? Is Weibo still relevant? How are Chinese companies going global? This and more in today’s episode. | |||
| 04 Mar 2025 | #135: The Expat journey, from transition to transformation | 00:15:32 | |
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 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 | |||
| 05 Sep 2024 | #104: Strategy | 00:20:43 | |
What is strategy in a broad sense? What are the different types of international strategy? How would you define competitive advantage? This and more in today’s episode. If you’d like to come on the show, please connect with Leo. 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: Patrick Daly, Founder and Managing Director of Alba Logistics, has worked in the manufacturing and logistics sector for over 25 years. He is also active on the Councils of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Ireland, and the Irish Exporters Association as well as being chairman of the Latin American Trade Forum. Kathryn Read spent more than 25 years at the nitty gritty end of export doing business in more than 150 countries, so whether you're looking for help for your company to expand or executive mentoring for yourself to manage international teams then she is open for a chat. Partner at Uniconsult-Wick & Partner, where she helps small & medium companies who are looking to take their business international. In detail that depends on what they need: you can break it down into 4 main parts: International Expansion Strategy - Partner Search - Ongoing Sales & Branding Support - Individual support.
David Clapcott is Vice President of Global Sales at MatOrtho Ltd. He is passionate about the medical device market and thrives on collaborating with healthcare professionals to enhance patient outcomes through superior value-added solutions. His career is marked by innovative thinking, challenging the status quo, and crafting strategies that inspire and engage stakeholders. Previously, as Commercial Director, APAC at Arthrex, he drove market penetration and key partnerships across Asia-Pacific. At Smith & Nephew, David held various leadership roles, including Marketing Director for Recon in China and APAC, Franchise Director for Hips, and several other positions, showcasing his expertise in sales and marketing. Motivated to achieve excellence, David leverages his strong academic background and extensive industry experience to consistently outperform the competition, ensuring ongoing success in the healthcare sector. You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of these Strategy books on Amazon using the links provided. - Competitive Strategy: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors | |||
| 02 Dec 2024 | #115: The Split, finding the opportunities in China's economy in the New World Order | 00:32:56 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. Today, we explore the divide between China and the United States and its global repercussions.
The world is increasingly dividing between the U.S. and China. No government or company is immune to the escalating tensions between these two superpowers.
- China’s old growth playbook relying on real estate for growth is damaged. What are the new productive forces to drive growth?
- Some analysts argue that Vietnam or India is the next China. This is also part of the diversification of supply chains, the China Plus One strategy. Can Vietnam or India really be the next China?
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.
Joining Leonardo today we have Shaun Rein. He is the Founder and Managing Director of the China Market Research Group (CMR), the world's leading strategic market intelligence firm focused on China. He works with boards, billionaires, heads of states, CEOs and senior executives of Fortune 500 & leading Chinese companies, private equity firms, SMEs and long/ hedge funds to develop their China growth, political and investment strategies.
Rein authored the international best-sellers "The War for China's Wallet: Profiting from the New World Order," "The End of Cheap China” & "The End of Copycat China". His latest book is “The Split: Finding Opportunities in China's Economy in the New World Order” You can purchase his latest book on Amazon here. By using this link, you would also contributing to the podcast. Rein is regularly featured in the Wall Street Journal and The Financial Times. His op-eds have appeared in the New York Times. He frequently appears on CBS, CNN, BBC, CNBC, PBS and MSNBC. Rein formerly taught executive education classes for London Business School and was a weekly columnist for CNBC and Forbes. He also wrote a column for Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Rein is one of the most sought out keynote speakers focused on innovation, consumer trends and the economy in China. He served on the Board of Trustees for St. Paul's School and was a member of the Investment Committee. He can be booked via speaker bureaus or directly through CMR. If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. | |||
| 28 Dec 2024 | #120: The best of 2024 | 00:20:23 | |
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’s the last episode of 2024. I’ve decided to bring back the best episodes of the year. And by best, I mean the most listened to. Enjoy these pills from your favorite episodes, and see you in 2025. 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. | |||
| 23 Jan 2025 | #126 Concept: North American Free Trade Agreement | 00:03:48 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline.
Today, we talk about NAFTA. It stands for North American Free Trade Agreement.
NAFTA was a trade deal between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico,signed in 1992 and enacted in 1994, aimed at eliminating trade barriers and boosting economic cooperation. It removed tariffs and allowed for easier movement of goods, services, and investments across the three countries. 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: | |||
| 27 Oct 2024 | #106 Concept: Tariffs | 00:04:20 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. To further your research, you can find sources below. Today we discuss tariffs. A tariff is essentially a tax on products, raw materials, or goods produced overseas, imposed by the government of the importing country. To better understand the concept, we look at the EU’s latest tariffs imposed on Chinese Electric vehicles. Links to further your research:
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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 19 Jan 2025 | #125: Between borders, beyond boundaries | 00:11:38 | |
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.
Muraly Srinarayanathas, author of Between Borders, Beyond Boundaries: Strategies for Authentic Business Engagement in an Interconnected World, is a global strategist and serial entrepreneur. He is co-founder and executive chairman of 369 Global, a conglomerate involved in skills training and workforce development, media and communications, and global market facilitation. He also founded 3 Magazine, a luxury lifestyle and business publication that focuses on celebrating Canada’s growing and diverse population. Srinarayanathas has more than 25 years of experience working in international markets across North America, Europe, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. You can purchase Muraly’s book on Amazon here. This will contribute to The International Business Podcast. 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 | |||
| 26 Jan 2025 | #127: The LATAM advantage. Nearshoring and expansion | 00:22:46 | |
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 | |||
| 07 Dec 2024 | #116: Concept: Global manufacturing | 00:05:03 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today, we talk about global manufacturing.
Global manufacturing involves companies evaluating diverse political, cultural, and technological factors when selecting production locations. Key challenges include balancing in-house production with outsourcing and deciding on centralization versus decentralization. The sector is transforming through smart factories that leverage IoT, AI, and automation for enhanced efficiency. By 2030, sustainability will become crucial, with manufacturers focusing on eco-friendly practices to meet consumer demands. Geopolitical factors also impact supply chains, making resilience strategies like nearshoring increasingly important.
- 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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 19 Mar 2025 | #137: The Gulf region. Oil, AI and Giga-projects | 00:27:19 | |
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 | |||
| 25 Nov 2024 | #113: Corporate culture, multicultural teams and cultural agility | 00:29:58 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, this is the show for you. Today we discuss about corporate culture, multicultural teams, cultural agility and more.
To learn more about each guest joining Leonardo today, please check 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.
Marion Campan is a French entrepreneur who embarked on the journey of improving work standards in China and in the world. After 10 years in the corporate world, she founded Intandid, an HR solution provider for foreign brands in China. Every day, Marion and her team are growing people and organizations. As a Professional Certified Coach, Marion stands out for her ability to create Strengths-based environments that drive success. Marion's diverse international experience spans across France, Germany, Spain, the UK, Taiwan, and China, providing her with a unique perspective on global business dynamics. Her profound understanding of behavioral psychology fuels her drive to help individuals thrive within their professional spheres. Maria Pastorelli is an experienced executive and team coach, cross-cultural facilitator, and keynote speaker based in Shanghai, China, for the past 15 years. As the founder of Bridge Consulting and co-founder of Global Impact Teams, she is dedicated to helping international leaders and teams find new ways to work better together in globally distributed environments to improve both performance and engagement. She has partnered with Fortune 500 companies in various sectors (manufacturing, automotive, beauty, Chemical, Retail, telecommunications) to strengthen cross-cultural leadership, remote team collaboration, change management, and more. Denis Niedringhaus is a leadership coach based in Luxembourg specialised in Multicultural Agility. He helps Senior Managers new to Luxembourg and France make a successful professional transition and integrate their environment . He's a LinkedIn Top Executive Coaching Voice and author of numerous articles on Intercultural Agility. Three continents, three languages and 30 years of experience in multinational companies, he's the Managing Director of Weilan Coaching and Training and shares his insights and experience on the challenges facing expats in Luxembourg, France and Mainland China. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra. | |||
| 07 Feb 2025 | #130 Concept: Supply Chain Management (SCM) | 00:05:33 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo 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: - HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025 | |||
| 25 Feb 2025 | #134: The future of international education | 00:19:23 | |
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 | |||
| 09 Jan 2025 | #122 Concept: Multi-domestic strategy | 00:04:17 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline.
Today, we talk about the multi-domestic strategy.
This strategy emphasizes local responsiveness over global efficiency. Companies adopting this approach tailor their products and marketing strategies to meet the unique needs of each market they enter. This decentralized model allows local managers significant autonomy to make decisions that resonate with regional consumers.
- Connect with the host Leonardo Marra on LinkedIn. 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.
For further reading: How Netflix Is Extending Its Tentacles Across Asia in Searchof the Next Squid Game You could also support the podcast by purchasing one of thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 19 Oct 2024 | #105 Concept: APEC, Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation | 00:04:36 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. Today we start a new format called "Concept". Every week (or so) Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. To further your research, you can find sources below.Today we talk about APEC, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. It is a regional economic forum intended to create greater prosperity among its 21 members located in the Asia-Pacific region, including China and the United States. It was established in 1989. Links to further your research:
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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 02 Feb 2025 | #129: Recruit and retain | 00:21:56 | |
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 | |||
| 16 Dec 2024 | #119: Relocating to Denmark as an expat | 00:31:39 | |
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 fascinating world of international professionals relocating to Denmark. As of 2024, Denmark's GDP is projected to reach approximately $412.28 billion, reflecting a solid growth rate of around 3.0%. This growth is largely driven by key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and technology, which are contributing significantly to the economy. In addition to its impressive GDP figures, Denmark boasts a strong business environment characterized by high levels of innovation and a commitment to sustainability.
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: - Denmark - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture - Millionaire Expat: How To Build Wealth Living Overseas Joining Leonardo we have Kate Dahl, career consultant for internationals in Denmark. Kate is renowned in Denmark for helping internationals and organizations, with her comprehensive training and workshops on how to search for jobs in a Danish cultural context and on how to adapt to the Danish working environment. Relocating to a new country is exciting, but when it comes to finding a job, many expats find themselves navigating unfamiliar terrain. As someone who has been in their shoes, Kate helps expats successfully land their dream jobs in Denmark by offering tailored job search training. Her approach focuses on communicating each individual’s unique value in the Danish cultural context and making them visible in the Danish labor market. Whether it’s crafting a CV that stands out, writing a compelling cover letter, optimizing a LinkedIn profile, reaching out to Danish companies, or acing the job interview, Kate provides clear, actionable strategies to get her clients noticed by Danish employers.
Over the years, she has empowered hundreds of internationals to secure roles in Denmark through a proven, practical approach that bridges the gap between their skills and the expectations of the Danish job market. Whether someone is just starting their career in Denmark or needs to reinvent themselves in a new field, Kate offers a unique expat perspective that helps navigate the complexities of the local job market with confidence. - Link to download free list of companies hiring internationals in Denmark. - If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra. | |||
| 31 Jan 2025 | #128 Concept: Economic sanctions | 00:06:08 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo 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: - HBR's 10 Must Reads 2025 | |||
| 11 Feb 2025 | #131: Decoding AI. A world tour with business leaders | 00:25:09 | |
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 | |||
| 08 Dec 2024 | TRAILER - Is this show for you? | 00:03:26 | |
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, thisis the show for you. Welcome to the International Business Podcast, hosted by me, Leonardo.
Are you based in the U.S. but tasked with expanding salesinto Latin America? Are you a French national in Tokyo managing Asia-Pacific markets? Or perhaps you're in Spain overseeing exports to the Middle East and North Africa?
These are just a few examples of the myriad combinations ofinternational professionals out there.
Over the past five years, I have interviewed experts from various industries worldwide, engaging in conversations that uncover their challenges and provide insights to help you become a better international business leader.
I am the Head of Digital & Sales in Asia-Pacific for alarge Italian company. A Roman by birth, a Londoner after graduation, and Shanghainese since 2018, I have worked internationally across different sectors for the past 15 years — from food packaging to healthcare to education.
Let’s explore the show in more detail. The core of thepodcast consists of episodes featuring expert guests who share their perspectives and experiences on specific business topics.
We also have the Concept series, which includes shorter episodes illustrating key concepts in this discipline, such as tariffs escalation, global manufacturing, foreign direct investment, and more.
Lastly, we offer Plus episodes available only to premium subscribers. 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. Self-learning is one of many strategies that can meet thecontemporary needs of a changing and unpredictable workplace. Surround yourself with peers and learn from them. We have listeners from 100+ countries as of now.
This is what you gain from this show. | |||
| 14 Nov 2024 | #110 Concept: Dollarization | 00:03:47 | |
If you work across time zones, borders and cultures, this is the show for you. In the "Concept" series, Leo aims at defining a topic in international business. These are shorter episodes to illustrate key concepts in this discipline. Today we present the concept of dollarization. Dollarization occurs when a country transitions from using its domestic currency to adopting a foreign currency– typically the US dollar - to use alongside or instead of its own currency. Links to further your research:
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 contentpreparation, 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 thefollowing books on Amazon using the links provided: | |||
| 28 Mar 2025 | #138: The art of international sales | 00:22:08 | |
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 | |||
| 18 Feb 2025 | #133: Global supply chains, payroll puzzles | 00:18:10 | |
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 | |||
| 13 Jan 2025 | #123: Silicon Valley Bank goes to China, an unintended tech transfer | 00:21:34 | |
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 the major differences between U.S. and Chinese business dealings and practices?
What questions do today’s business leaders need to ask to work successfully and carefully with China?
How does the CCP operate, including their use of flattery to manipulate and replicate business models?
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. Joining Leonardo we have Ken Wilcox. He was the CEO of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) from 2001 to 2011, then the CEO of SVB's joint venture with Shanghai Pudong Development Bank (SPDB-SVB) in Shanghai until 2015, followed by four years as its Vice Chairman. He currently serves on the boards of the Asia Society of Northern California, the Asian Art Museum, and UC San Diego's 21st Century China Center, as well as Columbia Lake Partners, a European venture-debt fund. He is on the Board of Advisors of the Fudan University School of Management in Shanghai and an Adjunct Professor at U.C. Berkeley.
Ken holds a PhD in German from Ohio State University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. His account of establishing an innovation bank in China, “The China Business Conundrum: Ensure that Win-Win Doesn’t Mean Western Companies Lose Twice”, was published in November 2024 from Wiley.
For an extra 20 minutes episode with Ken, check out the PLUS episode that is coming out tomorrow. It is available for Patreon subscribers.
You can purchase Ken's book on Amazon here. This will contribute to The International Business Podcast.
If you work across time zones, borders, and cultures, come on the show to share your story. Connect with the host Leonardo Marra | |||