In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner hosts Gustavo Ruiz and Gustavo Zago, the co-founders of Caccao, an early-stage startup that combines AI with relationship intelligence to increase companies sales and growth. This is an open conversation with two entrepreneurs who are in the midst of their journey, who recently pivoted their thesis and who are searching to find product market fit. Gus and Zago pull back the veil what it is like to be an entrepreneur and to try to build something from zero. They talk about the risks and decisions that define the startup journey — from launching a product in uncertainty to recognizing when it’s time to pivot. Throughout the conversation, the duo delve into the initial challenges of finding product-market fit, making decisions and building a product and a company. They also reflect on the unique aspects of starting a business in Brazil, including the importance of personal connections and the collaborative nature of the local startup ecosystem.
Other topics include:
How to develop and build a strong company culture
The importance of balanced leadership
Having a team aligned with the company’s stage and goals
The role of intuition in decision-making
Navigating uncertainty
Identifying the right moment to pivot or change direction
And lots more…
In this episode of Brazil Is Not for Beginners, host Isaac interviews Eduardo Zilberberg, the Z in BZCP, a leading local law firm focused on M&A advisory services, where he focuses on helping entrepreneurs navigate the country’s complex business landscape. Throughout the conversation, Eduardo shares practical lessons for entrepreneurs on fundraising, building trust with investors, and understanding the life cycle of a startup—from pre-seed to exit. He also reflects on the current state of the Brazilian startup ecosystem, comparing its maturity and unique challenges with global markets.
Other key topics include:
Brazil’s venture ecosystem and what makes the country both promising and challenging.
How early-stage founders can navigate Brazil’s bureaucracy and make smarter fundraising decisions.
Key differences between foreign and local investors — and how these perspectives shape startup growth.
The stages of a founder’s journey, from first steps to scaling, and how strategic choices change over time.
The importance he places on providing business and operational support and not just legal advice
And lots more…
In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Schreiner Parker, Head of Emerging Markets at Rystad Energy, who has built a career at the center of Brazil’s oil and gas industry. Originally from a small town in Texas, Schreiner traces his journey in Brazil’s energy sector, from early work around the time of discovery of the pre-salt reserves to leadership roles at Wood Mackenzie and now Rystad. The conversation highlights the challenges of building a business in Brazil, the nuances of working with local partners, and the pivotal role Petrobras plays in shaping the oil & gas industry. Schreiner also reflects on the broader future of energy in Brazil, from the promise of biofuels to the rise of independent players, while addressing the lessons of corruption scandals and the importance of cultural understanding. What emerges is a story not just of oil and gas, but of patience, resilience, and the kind of long-term vision needed to navigate Brazil’s complex business environment.
Other key topics include:
Brazilian corporate culture and the importance of interpersonal trust
Cultural differences in business practices and the importance of a local presence
The role of biofuels in Brazil’s energy mix
Building international partnerships and investments in Brazil
Lessons from career and entrepreneurship in Brazil’s energy sector
And lots more…
In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Guilherme Bonifácio, one of Brazil’s most successful serial entrepreneurs and co-founder of Kanoa Capital, a pioneer in the search fund space. Guilherme was one of the co-founders of iFood, the market leader in food delivery in Brazil, but this episode focuses on Guilherme’s journey after iFood, in particular his experience founding Mercê do Bairro, and ultimately deciding to close the company and return $7 million to investors as well as his most recent venture Kanoa Capital. Guilherme shares what he learned from his experience with Mercê, why he made the decision to winddown and return funds to his investors, and what it reveals about resilience and responsibility in entrepreneurship. The conversation then moves on to Guilherme’s newest venture where he is focused on search funds and their growing relevance in the Brazilian market. Guilherme further reflects on his broader personal journey, including his earlier role as a co-founder of iFood, and how these experiences continue to shape his long-term vision with Kanoa Capital.
Other key topics include:
• The responsibilities of founders and the importance of staying humble
• Why it’s important for founders to understand the mechanics of venture capital and the interests and motivations of your investors
• Why Guilherme believes so strongly in the enormous potential of search funds in Brazil
• Key qualities and traits for successful searchers and business strategies
• And lots more...
In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Philip Kauders, CEO & Co-Founder at Courageous Land. They discuss Philip’s journey to Brazil, his career transition from finance to sustainable agriculture, and his efforts through Courageous Land to combat climate change via agroforestry and carbon credits. Philip explains the economic and environmental benefits of integrating agroforestry into Brazil's agricultural practices and highlights how Courageous Land is addressing key challenges to scalability, emphasizing how Brazil is positioned to lead in sustainable agriculture.
Other key topics include:
• Sustainability Concepts: Carbon Credits, Carbon Sequestration, Agroforestry and more
• The history and mission of Courageous Land
• Challenges and opportunities in Brazil's agricultural sector
• The growing importance of technology and data in sustainable agriculture
• The importance of local knowledge and relationships for success in Brazil
• Brazil's biodiversity as an opportunity for agroforestry and the influence of global demand on sustainable farming practices
• And lots more...
In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Marcos Couto, President and CEO of Alper Seguros, seasoned insurance executive, and veteran board member. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Marcos has done it all—from starting out in marine insurance at 14, to leading growth strategies at companies like ACE Brazil and executing major turnarounds at Tempo Assist and BR Insurance, now Alper Seguros, a consolidator transforming Brazil’s fragmented insurance brokerage landscape.
Marcos shares the lessons learned from a career defined by bold moves, high-stakes decisions, and a deep understanding of how governance, strategy and a focus on execution and performance shape long-term success. Whether you’re interested in Brazil’s unique business dynamics, leadership under pressure, or scaling companies in tough markets, this conversation delivers insights well beyond the world of insurance.
Other key topics include:
• Why strategic career moves can matter more than linear growth
• What it takes to turn around struggling companies and drive big exits
• How governance, transparency, and board alignment impact business growth
• The playbook for consolidating industries through mergers & acquisitions
• Why meritocracy and culture are critical in scaling high-performance teams
• The hidden opportunities in Brazil’s insurance and brokerage markets
• And lots more…
'Brazil (is not) for Beginners’ is back with a new video episode! This time, Isaac interviews Arcelia Gallardo, from Mission Chocolate, elected BEST CHOCOLATE for 2 consecutive years by VEJA SÃO PAULO COMER & BEBER.
In this episode, Arcelia shares her fascinating journey from working in the culinary industry in Los Angeles to starting her acclaimed chocolate business in Brazil. Key points include the educational mission behind her successful enterprise, and thechallenges and joys of running a small business in Brazil.
Other takeaways from the conversation include:
• Brazil's unique chocolate culture
• The historical and cultural significance of cacao
• The significance of local and sustainable ingredients in Mission Chocolate's bars
• The technical process of bean-to-bar chocolate making
• The process of sourcing cacao and building relationships with farmers
• How the Brazilian palate for chocolate has evolved
• And lots more...
In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' Isaac welcomes Rafa Lichtenecker, VP of Operations at ID Wall, to discuss the complexities and challenges of fraud in Brazil. With 14 years of experience in the fraud and payment industry, Rafa shares his journey from operations to becoming a fraud specialist. The conversation covers the various types of fraud, and dives deep into the unique challenges faced in Brazil.
Rafa highlights the importance of early risk assessment for companies, the role of AI in both aiding and complicating fraud detection, and the significant impact fraud can have on businesses and consumers. He also shares some of his own stories facing fraudsters adding "If you, as a fraud professional, have never been beaten up by fraud, like you are definitely not prepared to work in this field."
Other takeaways from the conversation include:
• The importance of early risk assessment to prevent significant fraud losses.
• Different types of fraud: first-party, second-party, and third-party.
• Unique challenges of managing fraud in Brazil.
• The evolving role of AI in fraud detection and prevention.
• Practical steps for companies to protect themselves from fraud.
• The rise of phishing and scams targeting Brazilian consumers.
• The impact of fintech innovation on fraud dynamics in Brazil.
• The necessity for continuous adaptation in fraud prevention strategies.
• And lots more...
In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' Isaac welcomesTalita Lacerda, CEO of Petlove, Brazil’s largest pet ecosystem. Talita recounts her inspiring journey from a humble background to leading a major company. The conversation delves deep into the pet industry in Brazil, Petlove’s evolution from an e-commerce platform to a holistic pet care provider, and the peculiarities of Brazilian pet ownership.
Key topics from the discussion include:
· The pet industry's rapid growth in Brazil, now the third largest market globally.
· Petlove's transformation from an online retail model to a comprehensive ecosystem offering pet health plans, grooming, and SaaS solutions for veterinarians.
· The cultural importance of pets in Brazilian households, with Brazilians now have more pets than children.
· The recent strategic acquisitions that Petlove has made, such as acquiring Vet Smartt and Dog Hero, to enhance its service offerings.
· The challenges and opportunities in managing a pet care business in Brazil, including managing logistics, delivery and consumer demands.
· Talita's smooth transition from board member to CEO, and how her focus on collaboration helped maintain the core cultural values of the company.
· And more...
In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' host Isaac Matzner interviews Frank Wundheiler, a corporate CFO with over 25 years of experience in various industries including telecom, technology, media, agriculture, and retail in Brazil. Frank shares his insights on the role of the CFO, the unique challenges of operating in the Brazilian market, and his philosophy on team building.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
• The three key pillars of a CFO’s role - managing performance, process transformation & compliance, and strategy & investor relations.
• The complexities and myths of Brazil's tax regime and capital markets and the importance of maintaining cash.
• The importance of building strong, transparent and reliable finance teams and the need for continuous team development to adapt to changing business environments.
• The cultural nuances that foreign CFOs must navigate when doing business in Brazil.
• And lots more...
In our second video episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” host Isaac Matzner interviews Thomas Troisgros and Andre Meisler, the founding team of Grupo TT. Recorded live at Thomas’ restaurant Oseille, in Rio de Janeiro, they share their professional journeys from banking and cooking to creating a renowned burger joint in Brazil. They discuss the origins of their business, the challenges and triumphs in the restaurant industry, and their innovative approach to Brazilian cuisine.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
• The importance of resilient and creative entrepreneurship in Brazil.
• Developing innovative Brazilian-inspired culinary items like guava ketchup and sweet potato rolls.
• The role of personal passion and background in shaping business success.
• Adapting to market challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving business models.
• Building strong partnerships and focusing on staff well being to enhance customer experience.
· And lots more...
In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' host Isaac Matzner interviews Aaron Stanley, the founder of Brazil Crypto Report. They delve into the crypto market in Brazil, discussing its adoption, unique characteristics, and how it compares to other markets. Aaron shares his journey to Brazil, highlighting how his interests in crypto and journalism converged, enabling him to create his media platform. Key takeaways from the conversation include:
• The significant adoption of crypto in Brazil despite not having a deep-rooted crypto industry.
• Factors driving Brazilians' interest in crypto, including speculation culture and limited investment options in traditional markets.
• The role of major financial institutions and fintechs like Nubank in mainstreaming crypto investments.
• Regulatory developments, including the Central Bank's Drex initiative and upcoming crypto regulations.
• The underrated importance of Latin America in the global crypto narrative.
· They also discuss Aaron's personal experiences living in Brazil, including cultural observations and the challenges and rewards of residing outside major urban centers.
· And lots more...
In this episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews Lucas Abreu, founder of the media platform Sunday Drops, who shares his journey from venture capital to content creation. The conversation delves into Lucas's inspirations, and his dedication to maintaining consistency and authenticity in his content creation. Lucas also talks about some of the sectors he is most excited about. Key highlights include:
• The rapid integration and transformation brought by AI across various sectors, particularly education.
• A look into the Brazilian venture capital scene, focusing on the emergence of new managers and the opportunities in secondary markets.
• The importance of self-sustainability over reliance on venture capital for entrepreneurs.
• An examination of the challenges and unique possibilities in Brazilian industries such as healthcare, fintech, and elder care.
• The rapid growth and challenges of the creator economy in Brazil.
• The importance of understanding local contexts to achievesuccessful investments in Brazil.
• His ability to deliver quality content by maintaining andcultivating his curiosity.
• And lots more...
In this episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews Lina Kempf, co-founder of Aliança Empreendedora, about her organization's mission to support micro-entrepreneurs in Brazil, often from lower-income backgrounds. Lina shares her personal journey from Colombia to Brazil, detailing how her experiences with junior enterprises in Curitiba inspired her to focus on social ventures. Key takeaways from the conversation include:
· The unique challenges faced by micro-entrepreneurs inlow-income communities;
· The evolution and impact of Aliança Empreendedora’ssupport programs;
· The critical role of public policy and advocacy inempowering micro-entrepreneurs;
· Success stories highlighting the personaltransformation of individuals through entrepreneurship;
· The cultural and economic importance of promotingentrepreneurial self-awareness and dignity among marginalized groups.
· And lots more!
In this new episode of "Brazil (is not) for Beginners," Isaac speaks with Tim Chamberlain, co-founder of Brunel Partners, about the intricacies of investing in Brazil. Tim shares his journey from the UK to Brazil via Asia and New York, his role working to raise capital for Brazilian funds and his personal experience living in Brazil including opening a bar in São Paulo.
The conversation delves into various topics including:
· Tim's background and transition to Brazil
· The growth and challenges in the Brazilian investment landscape
· Specialized investment opportunities in Brazil, from agriculture to climate-related projects
· Tim’s personal experiences of fostering children in São Paulo
· Lessons learned from running a pub in Brazil
· And lots more
In the latest episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews his friend Rebecca Fischer, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Divibank, a leading platform offering payment solutions and access to capital for online businesses in Latin America. They discuss Rebecca's journey from digital marketing to entrepreneurship, and the founding of Divibank. Rebecca also shares her experiences of working with a foreign co-founder and offers advice for both budding entrepreneurs and foreign investors looking to navigate the Brazilian market.
Their conversation also covers:
· The importance of addressing the working capital and payments challenges faced by small businesses
· The complexities of the Brazilian credit market
· Following customer painpoints to find product opportunities
· The innovative payments ecosystem in Brazil
· The growing role of women in fintech
· And lots more…
In the first episode of the new season of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” we try something a bit different as we visit Let's Beer in Vila Mariana, Sao Paulo, to interview Guto Procopio, a beer sommelier and co-founder of one of the first bottle shops in the city. While enjoying a few beverages, Isaac and Guto delve into the evolution of Brazil's craft beer industry, share personal journeys in the beer world, and discuss the challenges and potential growth areas for craft beer in Brazil.
Key takeaways from the conversation include:
• Guto's career journey and how he came to work in the beer industry;
• The characteristics and unique ingredients of Brazilian craft beers;
• The market dynamics around craft beer and breweries;
• The evolving preferences and behaviors of Brazilian beer consumers;
• The broader cultural and business challenges faced by entrepreneurs in Brazil.
• And lots more…
In Recap Episode 2 of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' we’re bringing you the highlights from our expert interviews as we gear up for a new season. Explore the challenges and rewards experienced by both startups and established businesses, gaining expert perspectives on building essential relationships, navigating bureaucratic complexities, and understanding the subtle cultural nuances that define Brazilian business. If you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or anyone interested in entering Brazil, this episode is a must-listen!
Missed any episodes of Season 1 of "Brazil is Not for Beginners"? This episode is your essential guide!
While we are hard at work on a new season, this episode brings together the key takeaways from our expert interviews, offering invaluable insights and actionable advice for doing business in Brazil. Learn how to navigate cultural nuances, build strong relationships, overcome bureaucratic challenges, and identify the biggest opportunities in this dynamic market. This is must-listen for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone considering entering the Brazilian market.
In this season’s final episode of "Brazil (is not) for Beginners," host Isaac Matzner is joined by his co-founders, Daniel Pizarro and Eduardo Nuzzi, to discuss their startup Teddy and their challenging decision to wind down. The co-founders reflect on their three and a half-year journey, sharing insights on:
· The challenges of launching a startup, especially in Brazil;
· The hurdles of doing B2B sales and working in a regulated industry;
· The dynamics of building a team and work culture;
· Their personal learnings from enduring the entrepreneurial process;
· The importance of having a solid support network;
· And lots more…
