The Global Discussion
The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion

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Episodes

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Discussions with Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers

Recent Episodes

From Actress to Entrepreneur: The Nomad Advantage with Sonia Amroun Ep 237 - The Global Discussion
DEC 18, 2024
From Actress to Entrepreneur: The Nomad Advantage with Sonia Amroun Ep 237 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion Podcast welcomes Sonia Amroun, the founder of Find Your Clients. Sonia shared her fascinating journey from being an actress to becoming a global digital nomad and a trailblazing entrepreneur. Her passion for empowering businesses, particularly startups and solopreneurs, was palpable throughout the conversation. Sonia’s unique perspective on blending creativity, business strategy, and conscious leadership makes her a force to reckon with in the modern business landscape.

From Actress to Entrepreneur: A Global Journey

Sonia’s story is as dynamic as her personality. Originally a part-time actress, Sonia discovered her knack for sales and business development early in her career. Her energy and enthusiasm led her to pursue various roles, from running a North African-European collaborative brand to organizing large-scale events with over 500 attendees.

But Sonia’s journey didn’t stop there. She embraced the digital nomad lifestyle, leaving behind her role as Head of Sales for a green mobility company in Paris. This bold move allowed her to connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, ultimately inspiring the creation of Find Your Clients, an agency powered entirely by digital nomads.

What Is Find Your Clients?

At its core, Find Your Clients is a business accelerator agency tailored for startups, solopreneurs, and small businesses struggling to juggle every aspect of growth. Sonia and her team focus on identifying and targeting ideal clients to help businesses scale sustainably. The agency offers fractional teams—remote professionals with senior-level expertise—who collaborate to handle the most critical aspects of business development.

This innovative model allows businesses to access a comprehensive team for less than the cost of hiring one full-time employee. As Sonia puts it, “For less than the price of one person, you have four areas of expertise working for you.”

The Nomad Advantage

One of the standout features of Find Your Clients is its global workforce of digital nomads. Sonia explained how these professionals, living and working in various regions around the world, bring a unique edge to businesses looking to expand into new markets. “We understand the culture and dynamics of the regions we live in, making us perfectly positioned to help clients enter new territories,” she said.

This approach also champions a sustainable and flexible work-life balance. The agency attracts senior consultants who want to leverage their expertise without being tied to the constraints of traditional corporate roles. Sonia’s vision for the future of work is clear: empowering experienced professionals to contribute to meaningful projects while embracing a nomadic lifestyle.

Sonia’s Vision for the Future

Sonia’s mission extends beyond profit—she’s passionate about empowering positive-impact projects, such as green solutions and socially conscious businesses. “We’re not hustling for money,” she says. “We want to support projects that align with our values and make a difference.”


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Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠

Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠

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27 MIN
Creating Wealth, Community and Breaking Barriers with Mary Ann Pierce Ep 236 - The Global Discussion
DEC 16, 2024
Creating Wealth, Community and Breaking Barriers with Mary Ann Pierce Ep 236 - The Global Discussion

Guest Mary Ann Pierce, an inspirational leader, innovator, and advocate for women in business, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode. As the Founder and CEO of MAP Digital and a Global Ambassador for AwakenHub, Mary Ann is a trailblazer in digital transformation, event technology, and female entrepreneurship. A Pioneer in Digital Event Technology Mary Ann’s journey into the digital space began in 1996 when she conducted her first webcast—an experience she likens to falling into Alice’s rabbit hole. From there, she never looked back, becoming a visionary in integrating technology into events long before it was the norm. Her company, MAP Digital, is a full-service global event management agency that also developed the groundbreaking MetaMeetings platform. This all-in-one platform integrates everything from content management and live streaming to data tracking and attendee engagement, creating a seamless experience for event organizers and participants alike. “Events are the last frontier of underutilized content,” Mary Ann explained during the podcast. “It’s a terrible thing to waste. Live events are authentic and human. Why not maximize their reach with AI tools and thoughtful design?” Her innovative approach has allowed MAP Digital to produce large-scale events, including some of the world’s largest investment banking conferences, with an unparalleled focus on content repurposing and attendee engagement. Empowering Women Through AwakenHub Beyond her professional achievements in technology, Mary Ann is also a fierce advocate for female entrepreneurship. She serves as a Global Ambassador for AwakenHub, an all-island network supporting female founders across Ireland and Northern Ireland. AwakenHub’s mission is simple yet profound: to empower women to build wealth, create thriving businesses, and support their communities. Through AwakenAngels, the organization’s female-focused angel investment syndicate, Mary Ann is helping to break down the barriers to funding that female founders so often face. “Women are inheriting significant wealth globally,” she said. “For the price of a weekend away, anyone can join this movement to fund and uplift female entrepreneurs. It’s about building a bigger pie—not scarcity.” Mary Ann’s passion for fostering ecosystems that nurture innovation and equity is palpable. She is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future by encouraging women to invest in women. Global Connectivity and Democratization of Knowledge Mary Ann also champions the power of digital tools to democratize knowledge and opportunities worldwide. Her work extends beyond corporate events into social good initiatives, including Project Dandelion, which she supports alongside former Irish President Mary Robinson. Through these projects, she’s leveraging technology to address critical issues like climate justice and gender equity on a global scale. Lessons for Future Leaders When asked for advice, Mary Ann’s wisdom shines through. She encourages young professionals to embrace failure, explore their passions, and focus on becoming well-rounded individuals. For aspiring entrepreneurs, her message is clear: build networks, volunteer, and focus on creating processes that lead to excellence. “Don’t be afraid. Fail, learn, and keep moving forward. Your job is to become the best human you can be.” Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

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45 MIN
From TV to Telecoms: Mastering Marketing with Nataly Byelous Ep 235 - The Global Discussion
DEC 12, 2024
From TV to Telecoms: Mastering Marketing with Nataly Byelous Ep 235 - The Global Discussion

Guest Nataly Byelous, Group Marketing Director at RETN, is in discussion with The Global Discussion Host Simon Hodgkins. In this episode, we explore Nataly's remarkable journey and the critical role marketing plays in the ever-evolving telecommunications industry. With over two decades of experience, Nataly brings a unique perspective, blending creativity, strategy, and resilience.

From TV to Telecommunications

Nataly's career path is as fascinating as it is diverse. She began her professional journey in television as a PR specialist, eventually transitioning to marketing roles across multiple industries. For the past decade, she has been immersed in the tech and telecommunications sectors, contributing significantly to their growth and innovation. Since 2021, Nataly has been leading the marketing efforts at RETN, a global telecommunications network provider that boasts an impressive 135,000 kilometers of network infrastructure spanning Europe, Asia, and North America.

"I like to call myself the Chief Juggler," Nataly shares, underscoring her multifaceted role. Her leadership has been instrumental in elevating RETN's reputation, earning it prestigious accolades like the Best Pan-European Carrier Award.

Driving Connectivity in a Changing World

Telecommunications are the backbone of our increasingly connected world, and RETN's contributions are undeniable. With over 870 points of presence (PoPs) worldwide, the company plays a crucial role in enabling data flow across continents. Nataly emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and adaptability in navigating this complex landscape.

"Even though machines are talking to machines, we're still communicating with people," she noted. Nataly explained how RETN integrates cutting-edge technology with customer-centric strategies to address modern challenges, such as sustainability and ESG compliance. Collaborations with leading vendors like Juniper and Infinera have enabled RETN to implement environmentally conscious solutions while maintaining operational excellence.

The Evolving Role of Marketing

Marketing, according to Nataly, has transformed into a highly dynamic and demanding field. From the explosion of digital channels to the rise of AI-powered tools, the modern marketer's toolkit is both an opportunity and a challenge.

"We've gone from having 30 seconds to make an impression to just 1.7 seconds," she remarked, highlighting the pressure to stand out in an oversaturated market. Yet, she remains optimistic, seeing AI and automation as tools that free up time for strategic thinking and creativity.

Nataly also touched on the importance of maintaining ethical standards in communications, a lesson she learned early in her career. "Trust and reputation are everything," she stressed, encouraging aspiring marketers to prioritize education and integrity.


Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion.

Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.

Watch or listen to The Global Discussion

Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠

Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠

Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media

https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion

Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

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29 MIN
How to Build Strategic Marketing Talent with Lisa Eaton Ep 234 - The Global Discussion
DEC 11, 2024
How to Build Strategic Marketing Talent with Lisa Eaton Ep 234 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, speaks with Lisa Eaton, the Founder and CEO of Fabric. Lisa shared her inspiring journey to becoming a transformative leader, revolutionizing how marketing professionals learn and grow. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a powerful commentary on how education and industry can better align to drive meaningful impact.

A Career Built on Strategy and Vision

Lisa Eaton's journey began in the marketing department of Sage, a company that has since become a global powerhouse. Lisa honed her craft there before following then-CEO Graham Wylie to TSG, where she established a marketing department from the ground up. While her early career was deeply rooted in technology, Lisa soon discovered her passion for agency work, which married strategic thinking with creative execution.

This passion ultimately led her to found her own strategic marketing agency in the Northeast of England.

Even with the agency's success, including a waitlist of clients, Lisa encountered a significant roadblock: a shortage of strategic marketing talent. This challenge catalyzed her exploration into the gap between academic marketing education and industry needs, ultimately sparking the creation of Fabric.

Fabric: Bridging the Gap

Fabric was born from Lisa's frustration with outdated marketing curriculums that failed to prepare graduates for real-world challenges. "Marketing isn't just a nice-to-have," Lisa emphasized during the podcast. "It's a strategic function critical to business growth." Fabric delivers practical, hands-on training that transforms marketers into commercially minded, strategic thinkers.

With a unique three-pronged approach, Fabric combines foundational education, one-on-one coaching from industry practitioners, and ongoing updates on the latest tools and trends. Lisa's mission is clear: to create world-class marketers who drive measurable impact.

Navigating Challenges and Finding Opportunity

Funding presented hurdles. As a female tech founder, Lisa entered an investment landscape where less than 2% of funding goes to women-led businesses. Despite this, her strategic approach—bootstrapping the business early, securing large global brands like Boots and Heineken, and showcasing tangible results—helped her close two successful funding rounds.

Shaping the Future of Marketing

Looking ahead, Lisa is laser-focused on scaling Fabric's reach and influence. She envisions a future where marketing is universally recognized as a vital business enabler. By equipping marketers with the skills to be both strategic and creative, Lisa aims to elevate the profession and its impact on businesses worldwide. To learn more about Fabric Academy or connect with Lisa Eaton, visit Fabric.

"Great marketing moves the dial," Lisa explained. "But to achieve that, marketers need time to think strategically, plan effectively, and focus on what truly matters—not just the urgent tasks of the day."


Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion.

Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.

Watch or listen to The Global Discussion

Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠

Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠

Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media

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37 MIN
Building Profitable and Authentic Businesses with Samantha Hearne Ep 233 - The Global Discussion
DEC 4, 2024
Building Profitable and Authentic Businesses with Samantha Hearne Ep 233 - The Global Discussion

Samantha Hearne is the founder of Samantha Hearne Coaching, a dynamic entrepreneur, and a passionate advocate for helping women thrive in business. In this episode of The Global Discussion, in conversation with Host Simon Hodgkins, Sam shares her story and actionable insights. Her multi-faceted approach to success will leave listeners feeling motivated and ready to embrace simplicity, profit, and personal authenticity in their entrepreneurial journeys.

A Vision Rooted in Simplicity and Success

Sam Hearne isn't your average business coach. With a first-class honors degree in education and years of teaching experience, she's mastered the art of breaking down complex concepts into practical, actionable steps. Her coaching revolves around three core focus points:

Sales and Profit: Helping clients increase their revenue while maintaining simplicity.

Marketing and Messaging: Guiding women to craft clear, effective, and compelling brand stories.

CEO and Success Embodiment: Empowering entrepreneurs to step into their roles with confidence and clarity.

Sam teaches women to build sustainable, profitable businesses that align with their lifestyles through her work. Her mantra is simple but powerful: success doesn't have to be complicated.

The Heart of Samantha's Mission

At the core of Samantha's approach is a passion for empowering women to live on their own terms. During the episode, she shared her belief that every entrepreneur's success is inevitable when they focus on consistency, authenticity, and adding value.

"People succeed because they implement and execute, not because they master overly complicated methods," she said, emphasizing the importance of simplifying the path to business success.

A New Venture: The Bulletproof Clothing Line

In addition to her coaching and mentoring work, Samantha recently launched a clothing line, The Bulletproof Brand. The collection features three inspiring lines—Destiny, Success, and Abundance—each designed to embody a mantra that resonates deeply with her community.

Giving Back: A Commitment to Change

Samantha's commitment to creating positive change doesn't stop at coaching and business ventures. Through her partnership with Mary's Meals, she funds meals for 180 children at a school in need yearly.

"I believe that the more you have, the more you can give," Sam shared. She plans to expand her philanthropic efforts by supporting initiatives for women affected by domestic abuse through her clothing line.

Building Communities That Thrive

One of Sam's standout qualities is her ability to bring people together. She hosts two types of events: larger gatherings of up to 65 people and more intimate sessions with 16 participants. These events are designed to foster connection, inspire creativity, and remind attendees that they're not alone in their entrepreneurial journeys.

For Sam, these events are more than just networking opportunities—they're a way to create a space where women can build lasting relationships and find their "aha" moments of clarity and empowerment.

Planning for Abundance

How does Samantha manage her packed schedule of coaching, events, podcasting, and philanthropy? The answer lies in her meticulous planning and belief in creating balance.

"I plan a year in advance," she explained. "It gives me the freedom to say yes to creative opportunities and know when I have time to take on something new."


Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion.


Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.

Watch or listen to The Global Discussion

Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠

Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠

Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media

https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion

Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

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39 MIN