Redouane was born in Belgium and grew up there after his parents migrated from Morocco, surrounded by a multicultural circle of friends that shaped his worldview. Speaking five languages, he’s always been able to connect across borders, but his journey started in a very different place—engineering. Trained to think analytically, he soon realized that his true passion wasn’t just solving technical problems, but building bridges between people and ideas.
Today, Redouane is an entrepreneur and helping world-class keynote speakers bring their message to global audiences by translating across English, French, and Arabic. In this episode, he shares how embracing failure became the key to his success, why setbacks are essential for growth, and how his multicultural upbringing gave him the confidence to create a business that operates worldwide.
Meet Nesrine— born and raised in Algeria, now thriving as an IT Director in Paris. We worked together for years, bringing our teams together in Algiers, Dubai, and across the world, and I’ve watched her continually level up in both career and life.
In this episode, she shares how her Algerian roots still guide her—through family, culture, people, and of course, food—while navigating success on the global stage. It’s a conversation about ambition, heritage, and what it really means to stay true to where you come from.
I met Atuoma in Dubai while he was studying abroad and pushing himself to new levels, following the powerful example set by his parents—especially his father. His father’s journey from humble beginnings in Nigeria to earning a scholarship that brought his family to the United States is nothing short of inspiring. Atuoma carries that legacy forward with pride with his own young family, blending his international experiences with a deep connection to his roots.
Atuoma shares his love for Nigerian culture, food, and family, and the importance of returning often to stay grounded in where he comes from. Wherever he goes, he proudly represents his African heritage, inspiring others with his story. He’s also an aspiring entrepreneur and a dedicated MMA fighter—be sure to catch his next fight in the Octagon on August 23rd in Hurricane, Utah.
Carolina Martinez grew up in Bogotá, Colombia — splitting her time between the city and the countryside, always deeply rooted in her family, culture, and country. But even early on, she knew she didn’t want the typical path. In Colombia, most jobs don’t offer real freedom or financial growth, and she was determined to create something more.
She started as a coach, helping people improve both their health and their finances — and she kept stretching herself, always looking for the next level. That mindset eventually opened the door to her current role in Florida, where she’s now helping Unicity grow its global reach — especially by supporting and empowering the Latino community.
Shaimaa grew up in the lively streets of Cairo, where curiosity and resilience were just part of everyday life. She later surprised everyone—including herself—by learning Chinese and moving to China for work. That bold decision unlocked a global career path that eventually brought her to Dubai, where we worked side by side for years.
But Shaimaa’s story didn’t stop with success in the corporate world. After years of putting others first, she made a powerful pivot—choosing to prioritize her own goals, well-being, and purpose. That decision led her to launch her own company and start a new chapter that’s inspiring others to do the same.
Meet Nick Gemenetzidis, his story is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose. Growing up in Greece, Nick was forced to mature quickly after the passing of his father, a moment that shaped his character and drive from a young age. His journey took him to the UK, where he spent years learning, adapting, and building the foundation for his future. But it was in Dubai that Nick truly discovered who he was and built a thriving business, fueled by determination and a passion for growth. We revisit our pickup basketball games in Dubai and dive into the lessons Nick learned along the way about perseverance, identity, and creating success in a fast-paced world.
With Bulgarian roots under communist rule, Vanja’s life has been shaped by bold moves and relentless drive. After her family paved the way to Sweden and packed all their belongings into their car alone to start a new life, she embraced new opportunities, chased her passion for soccer, and followed her sense of adventure—all the way to Australia, where she built a life and family.
Her biggest test came recently: a rare form of ovarian cancer. What followed wasn’t just survival—it was a mission. Now in recovery, Vanja is using her voice to raise awareness and push for change. Learn more at ocrf.com.au and connect with her on LinkedIn.
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.
