Leaders—are you keeping up? Shifting consumer behaviours, cultural changes, and the rise of AI have made one thing clear: the strategies that worked yesterday won’t cut it today. This week’s episode of She Talks Business is especially exciting as Sana Khalid joins the brilliant Nafinia Putra in Bali to explore why the traditional marketing playbook might be obsolete. Nafinia, who has scaled startups, B2B and B2C businesses, led growth at Indonesia’s unicorn fintech Xendit, and currently serves as Fractional CMO at Livit, shares invaluable insights into modern marketing and leadership. We learned how simplifying your messaging could unlock higher conversions, and why relying on a single channel no longer works—success lies in layering the right ones. Nafinia explains how to show senior leadership the true ROI of marketing by linking it directly to business outcomes and how hypothesis-driven experimentation leads to faster, more effective strategies. Additionally, the episode delves into why fractional roles are redefining leadership with their agility and specialised impact. If you’re a leader navigating today’s fast-changing business landscape, this episode will challenge how you think about marketing and growth. 00:00 Quick Overview 01:01 How is the marketing playbook evolving? 03:43 Convincing leadership on ROI 05:52 What is a fractional executive role? 09:11 Marketing activities in the funnel 11:21 What does a growth-led function mean? 13:11 Maximising customer acquisition 18:41 Key advice on building community - short vs. long-term 24:43 Tips for creating effective marketing experiments. 26:26 What are the questions to ask when validating your data hypotheses? 29:11 How to grow your mailing list? 31:56 How AI is transforming marketing roles and workflows? 34:08 Key skills to future-proof your team in an AI-driven world 37:37 Using ChatGPT and AI effectively
Nafinia Putra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nafinia/
Sana Khalid: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanakay/
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#shetalksbusiness #womeninbusiness #marketing
In this episode of ‘She Talks Business’, we sit down with Maria Carolina, an experienced early-stage investor with a rich journey spanning Colombia, France, and Switzerland. Maria delves into her reasons for becoming an angel investor, the challenges of raising funds in emerging markets, and the key elements that define successful angel investing. She also shares profound insights on the importance of community, planning for exits, and the role of sustainability.
From understanding the start-up lifecycle to navigating investor-founder relationships, Maria provides a masterclass beneficial for both budding entrepreneurs and seasoned investors. Tune in to learn about the evolving dynamics of the global startup ecosystem, and Maria's vision for a more inclusive, sustainable future.
00:00 Maria and Saniya in their element
01:29 How does early-stage investing work?
03:32 How do investors make money?
07:22 How to choose a startup to invest in
10:43 How to manage your investment portfolio
11:55 How to manage returns on your investment
12:22 Why does everyone want a unicorn?
16:07 Building a sustainable ecosystem
22:09 How is investment different across regions?
27:18 When is a founder ready for investment?
32:13 Mistakes founders make
38:03 How can founders find investors?
42:54 How to plan an exit strategy
45:51 What’s the future of angel investing?
47:23 What role does community play in investing?
49:20 Which industries is Maria interested in investing in?
50:21 What’s next for Maria?
Maria Carolina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mc-romero/
Saniya Zafar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saniya-zafar/
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#shetalksbusiness #womeninbusiness #investment
In this episode, Nida Siddiqui, GM of Ecommerce at Alkaram, takes us on a deep dive into the dynamic world of Ecommerce. We explore the journey of becoming a successful General Manager in this space and the impact of digital transformation on the industry. Nida discusses how COVID-19 served as a catalyst for Ecommerce growth and the strategies businesses employed to adapt to rapid changes. Tune in to learn how to attract more customers, both online and offline, and how Pakistani Ecommerce was positioned to handle this sudden shift. Nida shares practical insights on reducing cancellation rates, adopting new technologies like AI and augmented reality, and implementing innovative tactics like shoppable lookbooks and live shopping. We also touch on the importance of digital marketing as part of the Ecommerce strategy, testing ideas effectively on websites, and how to foster a creative and resilient team. Whether you’re building an Ecommerce department from scratch or fine-tuning your strategies, Nida’s top tips on influencer marketing ROI and brainstorming for Ecommerce brands are invaluable for any business leader looking to thrive in this space. 00:00 Khizra Munir and Nida Siddiqui in their element 01:09 Nida Siddiqui, GM Ecommerce at Alkaram 02:55 The role of General Manager Ecommerce 04:00 Digital transformation for Ecommerce business 07:31 COVID 19: A blessing in disguise for Ecommerce businesses? 10:29 Customer acquisition and Omnichannel in Ecommerce 12:44 Was Pakistani Ecomm industry ready for rapid growth during COVID? 15:25 How to keep the cancelation rate below 10% for COD orders 19:13 New technologies and decision making 21:28 AI-based recommendations in Ecommerce 23:46 Augmented reality in Ecommerce 25:09 Shoppable lookbooks 25:50 Live shopping in Ecommerce 27:19 Gamification in Ecommerce 28:11 Performance marketing and Ecommerce 30:28 How to come up with innovative ways to do the same thing? 33:24 How to test an idea on website? 35:56 How to build the right team? 36:24 Brainstorming ideas for Ecommerce brand 38:55 Upskilling for an executive role 41:01 Top 3 things to setup an Ecommerce department 42:55 How effective ROI is in influencer marketing?
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#ecommerce #ecommercetrends #business
In this episode of She Talks Business, Andrea Prazakova, CEO of Andrea Now and renowned expert in responsible AI, shares her insights on the evolving role of AI in society. With a strong focus on ethical, inclusive, and sustainable technologies, Andrea discusses her passion for AI systems that prioritise people over profits. She explores diverse topics such as unconscious bias in AI, AI's involvement in the space economy, and the potential for AI to revolutionise sectors like healthcare and sustainability. Andrea also emphasizes the importance of empowering women to engage with AI technologies. Join the conversation to understand how AI can drive positive change and learn strategies for navigating the rapidly advancing tech landscape. Delve into Andrea's journey from banking to tech and discover how she's using her expertise to foster a responsible AI future.
00:00 Andrea Prazakova 01:29 Andrea's journey and vision for AI 04:16 AI in economic inclusion and investment 08:16 Future of Work and AI's impact on jobs 15:19 Governance and ethical considerations in AI 33:43 The Future of Healthcare and AI 37:12 Web3 Explained: Beyond the buzzword 39:33 Parenting in the age of AI 48:06 Space and AI: A new frontier 57:24 Longevity and personal well-being 01:02:46 Conclusion and final thoughts
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She Talks Business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
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#AI #web3 #technology
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Visual Effects (VFX) and animation with Eleyna Haroun, a VFX Line Producer at Framestore, who’s worked on blockbuster films like The Little Mermaid. Eleyna shares her unique journey in the industry, offering insights into the evolving landscape of film production, the role of emerging technologies like AI and Web3, and the management side of working in VFX. Eleyna’s journey began at SOC Films, working under two-time Academy Award winner Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy. Starting out in documentary filmmaking, she quickly found herself drawn to the possibilities of animation, especially as a way to tell important stories in a new, creative form. Her work on Sitara, Pakistan’s first 3D animated short film released on Netflix, was a turning point for her. Whether you’re curious about how animation happens, want to know how VFX production works behind the scenes, or are looking for advice on how to break into the industry, Eleyna provides personal anecdotes that make this episode a must-watch. We also touch on overcoming imposter syndrome and making an impact in an ever-changing creative field.
00:00 Introduction: Eleyna Haroun
01:02 Understanding VFX: What It Really Is
03:26 The Role of a Line Producer in Film Management
05:27 Who Can Thrive in Film? Exploring Opportunities for Different Roles
09:52 Navigating Cultural Nuances with Animation
12:30 Behind the Scenes of The Little Mermaid
19:32 The Impact of AI and Emerging Technologies in Film
22:14 Web3: Changing How We Consume Content
25:20 Career Advice for Aspiring VFX Producers
27:03 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Making an Impact in the Industry
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She talks business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
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#littlemermaid #film #vfx
In this episode, we sit down with Zara Basharat to explore key topics at the intersection of sustainability, public policy, and career development. From how organisations approach sustainability across sectors to the critical role of public policy at companies like TikTok, Zara shares her insights on navigating complex challenges in these fields. We also dive into her diverse career journey, discussing the value of global experiences, the impact of life changes on professional growth, and key skills for those considering a career transition. Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship, setting personal standards of excellence, or debating the necessity of an executive MBA, this episode offers valuable takeaways for mid to senior-level professionals looking to thrive in a dynamic world.
00:00 Zara Basharat: Head of Public Policy Programs and Partnerships at TikTok 01:08 Sustainability communications: How organisations approach sustainability across sectors? 04:46 The importance of impact in your work 05:42 Public policy at TikTok: Why it’s important for organisations? 07:17 Challenges in Public Policy 09:25 Measuring the impact of public policy programs 12:24 Is entrepreneurship for everyone? 13:21 Diverse careers: Benefits and challenges 16:51 Career transitions for senior executives 19:44 How life changes impact your career? 21:39 Global careers: Exploring international opportunities 22:18 Lessons from different sectors: preparing for diverse challenges 24:44 Key skills for career change 26:28 Pursuing personal standards of excellence 30:11 Lifelong learning: Curiosity and continuous improvement 32:08 Executive MBA: is it necessary for career advancement?
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She Talks Business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & follow!
#tiktok #globalcareer #leadership
In this episode, we sit down with Christine Manson, the visionary founder and leader of TerraWater Indonesia, to discuss how the company is tackling one of the world’s most pressing issues: safe drinking water. Christine shares her insights on leading a social enterprise, scaling innovation, and balancing profit with purpose. From the technology behind TerraWater’s filters to the economic, environmental, and social impacts they’re creating, this conversation dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of running an impact-driven business.
00:00 Christine Manson: CEO & Founder at TerraWater
00:59 TerraWater’s mission: Safe drinking water for all
03:06 Innovative tech: Simple solutions for big problems
07:20 Why TerraWater’s tech can’t be easily copied?
11:06 Filter production & quality control
14:49 Overcoming customer adoption challenges
20:15 TerraWater’s profitable business model
22:31 How COVID-19 impacted TerraWater?
25:14 Future impact: TerraWater's 5-10 year vision
29:03 How to prepare for entering new markets?
33:10 Balancing social impact & business sustainability
36:04 How to build the right team for impact?
38:28 Beyond safe water: TerraWater's broader impact
39:26 Economic impact of Terra filters
40:15 Environmental impact of Terra filters
42:36 Social impact of Terra water
44:03 Tracking & measuring TerraWater’s impact
45:54 Lean startup: TerraWater's growth strategy
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She talks business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & follow!
In this episode of She Talks Business, Jane Austin, SVP at Contentsquare, shares her journey from leading digital transformations at Telegraph, Moo, and Babylon to building and managing global design teams. Jane dives into the connection between great design and business success, the importance of understanding human psychology in product design, and managing imposter syndrome. She also discusses the impact of AI on design and why designers must understand the business side of their craft. Tune in for insights on leadership, product design, and AI’s role in shaping the future of the industry! 00:00 Jane Austin 00:54 Breaking down Jane’s LinkedIn profile 03:04 How Jane transitioned into product design 04:49 Why Jane chose Contentsquare 07:06 Jane’s learnings: From Web 1.0 to Web3 09:29 Why designers should understand business 12:04 The role of human psychology in product design 14:26 Creating products from scratch: The journey from Zero to One 17:22 Exploring Jane’s diverse career: Telegraph, Moo, Babylon 20:53 Key insights on managing design teams 22:03 Building a strong personal brand 23:41 Imposter Syndrome 26:03 What Jane is excited about at Contentsquare 27:25 The impact of AI on design: Enhancements or Complacency?
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She talks business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & follow!
In this episode of She Talks Business, Zara Zaman, Head of Platform at Emerge Education, dives into how EdTech is reshaping the future of education. She discusses building strong communities of educators and founders, what investors look for in startups, and the challenges of being an EdTech founder. Zara also touches on the impact of technology on learning, retention strategies, and how the EdTech space is evolving to meet today’s educational needs. Join the conversation for valuable insights into startup growth, investment, and the transformative role of EdTech! 00:00 Intro to Zara Zaman and Emerge Education 01:39 The platform function in the venture capital industry 03:12 What determines the success of a startup ecosystem? 05:48 What makes a founder investable? What do investors look for? 08:19 Venture capital is not for everyone and alternatives to VC funding 11:04 Considerations for a good edtech founder 12:35 Getting inputs from learning scientists early on 13:08 Challenges of being an edtech founder 14:54 Effective retention strategies in EdTech 17:08 The edtech landscape today 22:45 Non-linear careers and AI-driven solutions 25:20 Why is now a good time for edtech? 29:46 What problems is Education Technology really solving 32:03 Is Edtech an alternative to formal education in social settings 34:11 Are edtech startups competing with Netflix and Tiktok? 38:35 Important metrics for edtech startups 42:03 Key data points for startup growth 45:15 Early-stage support needed by founders 47:28 The role of investors in startup growth 49:42 Can anyone be an Investor? 50:37 Identifying a good investment deal
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She talks business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & follow!
In this episode of She Talks Business, Saniya Bilal Doni CFA, CEO of YAS Real Estate, shares her journey from selling airports to advising high-net-worth clients on luxury real estate investments. She provides insights into building diversified real estate portfolios, the importance of trust in real estate, and navigating compliance challenges. Saniya also discusses risk management, fraud prevention, and whether you need millions to start investing in property. Tune in for expert advice on excelling in the luxury real estate industry and gaining a competitive edge in portfolio management! 00:00 Saniya Bilal Doni, CFA 00:59 From selling airports to selling houses 03:08 Building diversified portfolio 09:46 Luxury Real Estate advisory 12:21 Trust: The Real Estate multiplier 13:38 Exploring investment opportunities 18:48 Do you need millions to invest in property? 23:13 Becoming a luxury property seller 28:17 Gaining a competitive edge 32:04 How is luxury property valued? 35:46 Risk management and fraud prevention 37:14 Navigating compliance challenges 39:17 Economic indicators and Real Estate impact
At Minerva, we’re building a space for meaningful conversations that condense learnings and insights from experts, so leaders and executives can do their best work.
That's why we're proud to present She talks business, a podcast where every episode is a deep dive into the playbook of an expert. Across 20 conversations, four hosts from around the world are leaning into their curiosity to bring you interesting insights that will leave you wiser inspired and curious.
For more meaningful conversations, visit: www.minervites.org
Stay tuned as we change the face of leadership. Don’t forget to like, share, & follow!
The world is moving fast. Playbooks are evolving. It's hard to keep up. In times like these, access to deep insights from industry experts can make all the difference. Get front-row access to a masterclass with industry experts as they unpack their strategies and experiences through real-world case studies. Whether it’s AI advancements, VC funding, or the latest in marketing and product design, each episode of She Talks Business will leave you sharper, inspired, and ready to tackle your next big challenge. This isn't just a podcast - it's a global conversation between experts who have built successful businesses and careers. Ready to learn from the best? Your seat is waiting. To get early access to the podcast, sign up to our mailing list: www.minervites.org