This 4th of July weekend, I sat down with someone who truly embodies the American spirit—JJ Lund. A cowboy’s cowboy and a bold entrepreneur, JJ doesn’t just work hard and play hard—he somehow does both at the same time.
From starting companies before he even knew what the business was about… to buying airplanes, ranches, and bucking bulls on the national rodeo circuit… JJ lives big, bets on himself, and never backs down from a challenge. But beneath the grit and horsepower is a man who never forgets what really matters—his family, his people, and the land he calls home. This is what it looks like to live full throttle while keeping your heart grounded.
Meet Luis. Originally from Peru, he moved to Miami as a kid, then later to Dubai after meeting his wife. That move opened the door to a decade of career success and a life built far from where he started. We met playing basketball, and in this conversation, we talk about work, fatherhood, and what it’s like to hit pause after years of going full speed. Now between chapters, Luis is taking time with his kids—and weighing the many directions his next move could take.
Ahmad is the best basketball player I know in Dubai—but more than that, he’s one of the kindest and most grounded people you’ll meet. Originally from Tripoli, Lebanon, Ahmad has built an impressive career with L’Oréal, now splitting his time between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
In this episode, we talk about growing up in Lebanon, making it in the corporate world, and staying connected to your roots. Ahmad shares how he balances work, family, and his passion for the game with a Kobe-like mindset... always with a smile, and always looking for ways to give back.
Connect with Ahmad on LinkedIn or Instagram @AhmadTartoussi
Vishnu grew up in Kerala, in the south of India, and now lives in Bangalore—two very different parts of a country shaped by contrast. Different languages, cultures, foods, religions, and histories—all woven into one place where diversity doesn’t divide, it unites.
Vishnu moves through that complexity with clarity. He’s helping the next generation of leaders cut through the noise, take action, and build something that lasts—by leading from the front.
Meet Alvaro, originally from Spain. He moved to Dubai with one goal: to grow something big. With a mindset focused on learning from people who know more than him, Alvaro bet on himself and built a reputation from the ground up.
Today, he's the go-to guy in Dubai for luxury cars — from Bugattis to Ferraris to anything you can imagine. If it exists, Alvaro can get it. This episode is about risk, growth, and what it takes to make it in one of the most competitive cities in the world.
From a small town in Sicily to global influence, Giovanni is one of the most connected people I’ve ever met. We became friends in Dubai, but his journey started with a strong family and incredible mentors in Italy.
That foundation led him to work with the Italian government to host the Olympics, opening doors to key Global leaders. Eventually, Giovanni played a pivotal role in the World Expo, working closely with Emirati Royalty, hosting Heads of State, Presidents, and Dignitaries from nearly 200 countries. Based in Dubai, he continues to consult on global initiatives, setting his sights on future World Expos in Japan and Saudi Arabia.
This episode is packed with wisdom, perspective, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most fascinating international connectors out there. Connect with Giovanni on LinkedIn.
Meet Aaron— a man whose life has been shaped by adventure, faith, and a love for learning. With roots in the tiny island of Niue, Aaron grew up in a big family surrounded by the natural beauty of New Zealand’s waterways, where he developed a deep appreciation for exploration early on. After a life-changing mission trip to Australia, he moved there for work and started a family — and it’s where his passion for education and travel only grew stronger. Known for his constant smile and uplifting spirit, Aaron shares stories from his journey across cultures, careers, and countries.
Manvir is one of the most gracious guys I know. Raised by parents who immigrated from India in the ’90s, Manvir grew up with the values of hard work, gratitude, and vision. Those roots gave him the foundation to become a thriving entrepreneur before the age of 30. Beyond his business success, is his depth of thought, quiet wisdom, and rare global perspective. Alongside his incredible wife, they are shifting the Toronto culture and inspiring positive change in Canada and all around the world. You’re about to hear from someone who doesn’t just think big—he thinks deep. Connect with Manvir on IG and other social media @mavirdosanjh
Sasirus Yuvaves aka Khun Am grew up in Thailand and has a rich cultural upbringing that shaped her values and drive. Her journey took her across the world to study in the US, where she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of global perspectives. As a successful Emcee and coach, her experiences are inspiring people across the globe to reach their full potential both personally and professionally. Connect on IG @am_healthylife
Andy grew up in Corsica and has lived all around the world before settling in the UAE. A near-death experience involving his wife deeply shaped his outlook on life. His story is powerful, global, and grounded in simplicity and family.
🔗 Connect with Andy on LinkedIn
Patrick grew up on a small island in the Philippines, where a simple life close to nature shaped his view of the world. After moving to Dubai for much of his life and later Guam, he kept that same spirit of exploration and resilience. As part of the GoPro family, Patrick shares his journey — capturing real moments and showing what it means to live life with purpose, wherever you are.
Meet Eva — with Bulgaria roots and raised in Cyprus, she is now soaring the skies with Emirates from her base in Dubai. With a passport full of stamps and a heart full of adventure, Eva shares what it’s like to live globally, embrace new cultures, and never stop exploring and trying new things.
Meet Filsan, a proud Somali-Canadian whose parents migrated to the Greater Toronto Area in search of a better future. Their sacrifice and resilience laid the foundation for Filsan’s success. Now thriving as the founder of a growing health clinic, Filsan is also on a journey to reconnect with her Somali roots—blending her heritage with her passion for wellness and community impact in Canada and throughout the world.
Born in Belarus with a passion for basketball, Sergei moved to Moscow to lead air traffic control for all of Russia. After years of high intensity decision making, he moved to Dubai to slow down, breathe, and enjoy life’s pace on his own terms.
Tak-San, Takayuki Tsuchiya grew up outside Tokyo, studied in the U.S., and has traveled the world, gaining a unique perspective on life and cultural wisdom. A passionate advocate of Wabi-Sabi, he embraces imperfection perfectly and helps others grow in all aspects of life.
Jardian Ormsby has deep roots in Basketball Australia and now leads digital innovation at Kayo and Fox Sports. We explore his journey, the influence of his Māori Australian heritage, and his passion for life. A must-listen for hoops fans and culture lovers!
Connect with Jardian on Linkedin and IG:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jardian/
https://www.instagram.com/jardianormsby/
Byron shares his journey from Venezuela to studying at MIT and building a career in Dubai. He talks about the challenges of adapting to new cultures, the drive behind his success, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Not to mention a Division 2 basketball league championship in Dubai!
Luke left Zimbabwe for Dubai, chasing opportunities to build a better life for himself and his family. After trying multiple jobs that didn’t work out, he found his true passion—helping others through fitness. Now, as a personal trainer, he’s turning his struggles into strength and purpose.
Connect with Luke on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shreddedluke_dxb?igsh=MW9ieDBzM3Mwcmh6ag==
Rojin is a young, ambitious entrepreneur from Korea who’s traveled the world, gaining insights from different cultures. Committed to her goals and passionate about health, she’s on a mission to help people transform their well-being. In this episode, we dive into her journey, lessons learned, and the impact she’s making. Connect with her on IG @koreajiin__ @https://www.instagram.com/koreajiin__?igsh=dGFhM2UyanJ4aGUx
From the Sultanate of Oman, Haitham Al Farai went from being overweight to doing full Ironmans, proving that change is possible with the right mindset. Now, he’s on a mission to help others take control of their health. Tune in for his journey, training tips, and inspiration to start your own transformation.
You can connect with Haitham on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haithamalfarai/?igsh=MXB3YXg2MWx6dDZ3aA%3D%3D
