In this episode of the Breakthrough Moments podcast, I’m joined by Othman Boukrami, the Chief Investment Officer and Deputy CEO of TCX, a fund dedicated to enabling sustainable lending in developing countries. Othman shares his journey from Citigroup to the African Development Bank and ultimately to TCX, where he helps alleviate poverty by addressing the challenges of dollar-denominated debt. We dive into TCX's mission to provide local currency lending solutions and reduce exchange rate risks for the least developed countries. Othman also reflects on the impact of the financial crisis and the importance of innovative financial solutions in development finance. Tune in for an insightful discussion on sustainable finance and the future of TCX.

Connect with Othman on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/othman-boukrami-0219946/?originalSubdomain=nl

Learn more about TCX: https://www.tcxfund.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to TCX and Sustainable Finance

03:55 Othman's Journey: From Citigroup to TCX

09:21 The Importance of Non-Profit in Sustainable Lending

15:45 Impact of the Financial Crisis on TCX

20:07 Engaging Investors: The Mission of TCX

23:34 Real-World Examples of Debt Challenges

26:46 Cultural Perspectives in Development Finance

28:39 Adoption of Local Currency Solutions

32:11 The Vision for TCX's Future

35:34 Final Thoughts and Questions for the Future

#SustainableFinance #LocalCurrencyLending #PovertyAlleviation #DevelopmentFinance #FinancialCrisis #ImpactInvesting #EmergingMarkets #CurrencyExchange #ExchangeRateRisk #DevelopingCountries #TCX #InnovativeFinance #FinancialSolutions #NonProfit #GlobalDevelopment #EmergingMarketFinance #SustainableInvestments #FinancialInclusion

In this episode of the Breakthrough Moments podcast, I'm joined by Katalin Varga, who shares her incredible journey from law to business. After completing my law degree and working in academia, I transitioned to the family business during the 2008-2010 financial crisis, where all hands were needed on deck. I talk about how my father established our company in 1991, originally focusing on various industries before we shifted into insolvency procedures. Over time, we expanded into a diverse portfolio including industrial real estate, tourism, and consultancy.

We dive into how trust, team culture, and leadership helped us thrive during challenging times. I share insights on our non-hierarchical structure, where we use a flexible, mission-based approach to maximize creativity and potential within our team. This approach has allowed us to continuously innovate and adapt, ensuring we keep moving forward even when facing tough challenges.

We also discuss the exciting opportunities arising in Hungary’s economy, particularly with Chinese investments and the growing industrial landscape in our region. Tune in to hear how we navigate these challenges and opportunities, and how our core competencies have driven both our consultancy work and our ventures.

Connect with Katalin on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-varga-katalin-7635-pecs/

Learn more about the Pannon Group: https://pannoncegcsoport.hu/

Follow the Pannon Group on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pannoncegcsoport/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Katalin Varga and Her Journey

03:02 The Evolution of the Family Business

06:08 Navigating the Financial Crisis

08:59 Building a Trust-Based Team Culture

11:53 Innovative Management and Organizational Structure

15:09 The Duality of Consultancy and Venture

21:55 Hungary's Economic Landscape and Future Opportunities

#BusinessLeadership #Innovation #TeamCulture #Insolvency #TrustInBusiness #NonHierarchicalStructure #CrisisManagement #HungaryEconomy #FinancialCrisis #EntrepreneurshipJourney #VentureBuilding #Consultancy #BusinessGrowth #HungaryInvestments #EconomicShift #ChineseInvestments #LeadershipJourney #FamilyBusiness #InnovativeManagement #BusinessStrategy #IndustryGrowth

In this episode of Breakthrough Moments, I sit down with Asli to talk about her journey from working in large corporate companies like Siemens to embracing intrapreneurship and advising startups. We dive into how she navigated corporate disappointment, found inspiration in the startup world, and built an entrepreneurial mindset within a big organization.

We also explore the transformative power of AI, how it's shaping both employee and customer experiences, and the impact of innovation culture inside companies. Asli shares her insights on productivity, adaptability, and the importance of being flexible in a fast-changing world.

Stick around as we discuss startups, impact investing, and how to pivot when the time is right.

Connect with Asli on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-asli/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Intrapreneurship

02:54 Navigating Corporate Disappointment

05:55 Fostering Innovation in Corporations

09:06 The Startup Ecosystem and Intrapreneurship

12:03 AI Projects in Financial Services

14:55 Generative AI Trends in Startups

18:01 Enhancing Employee Experience with AI

20:54 Client Experience Innovations

24:01 Future Plans and Impact Ventures

27:09 The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptability

#Entrepreneurship #Startups #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Innovation #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #CorporateCulture #Intrapreneurship #Technology #FutureOfWork #Productivity #ImpactInvesting #SuccessMindset #EntrepreneurialMindset #Adaptability #Resilience #StartupAdvisor #VentureCapital #TechTrends #DigitalTransformation #BusinessSuccess #Strategy #InnovationCulture #ScalingStartups #CareerGrowth #BreakthroughMoments #Podcast #BusinessPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment

In this episode of Breakthrough Moments, I sit down with Szymon Paroszkiewicz, a seasoned entrepreneur in the digital marketing space. We dive into his journey—how he built GreenParrot, the first Polish social media agency, and later expanded into a full-service digital agency. Szymon shares how he bootstrapped his business with zero capital, the challenges of scaling, and why long-term thinking is key to success in marketing.

We also explore the evolution of digital marketing, from the early days of convincing businesses to invest in Facebook and YouTube to today’s AI-driven landscape. Szymon breaks down the power of AI in marketing, how it’s changing the way we work, and why small, agile teams can now achieve massive results. We also discuss Human Intelligence, his platform that connects businesses with top freelance marketing experts, and his insights on the future of marketing agencies.

If you're curious about how AI is reshaping the industry, what it takes to stay ahead of the curve, and why failing more might be the key to success, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Connect with Szymon on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/szymonp/?originalSubdomain=pt

Learn more about Szymon's company: www.hiondemand.com

#DigitalMarketing #MarketingStrategy #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #AIinMarketing #MarketingTrends #MarketingAgencies #Bootstrapping #MarketingInnovation #InfluencerMarketing #SmallBusinessTips #MarketingAutomation #ArtificialIntelligence #ContentMarketing #MarketingSuccess #StartupLife #FutureOfMarketing #TechEntrepreneur #MarketingTools #FreelanceMarketing #ClientRetention #BusinessStrategy #MarketingEvolution #MarketingInsights #SocialMediaMarketing #MarketingLeadership #AIRevolution

In this episode of Breakthrough Moments, I sit down with Wojciech Falowski, a pioneering engineer and founder of Ecol-unicon, who has spent over three decades advancing sustainable practices in Poland. We dive into his journey from launching a company during Poland’s transition from socialism to capitalism to becoming a key player in environmental protection.

Wojciech shares how his company has evolved from consulting to full-scale production, developing innovative solutions for water management, rainwater treatment, and wastewater purification. We also discuss the impact of government changes on business operations, the role of cross-border partnerships in driving sustainability, and the importance of using both technology and nature-based solutions to solve environmental challenges.

We touch on his personal passion for mountaineering, his aspirations for the future, and what keeps him motivated after 30 years in business. If you’re interested in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and the realities of working with municipalities and governments, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

👉 Connect with Wojciech on LinkedIn:

/ wojciech-falkowski-11524878

Learn more about Ecol Unicorn: https://ecol-unicon.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wojciech Falowski and Eco Unicorn

06:11 The Journey of Establishing Eco Unicorn

11:27 Technological Advancements in Environmental Protection

21:59 Challenges in Water Quality Management

32:28 Cross-Organizational Partnerships for Sustainability

38:02 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

#Sustainability #WaterManagement #EnvironmentalEngineering #EcoInnovation #GreenTechnology #ClimateSolutions #NatureBasedSolutions #RainwaterHarvesting

In this episode of Breakthrough Moments, I sit down with Rich Barrett to explore his entrepreneurial journey. Rich has built and sold multiple businesses in the technology and logistics space, including Parcel Monkey. We dive into the ups and downs of scaling a company, the challenges of international expansion, and the lessons learned from setbacks—like a key supplier going bust and a warehouse burning down. Rich shares his thoughts on navigating uncertainty, the importance of rational thinking, and how a strong team makes all the difference.

We also talk about what the future of delivery looks like, the impact of competition, and how entrepreneurs can prepare for the unexpected. If you're looking for insights on growing a business, handling challenges, and making smart strategic moves, this episode is for you.

Connect with Rich Barrett on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ribpx/

Learn more about Parcel Monkey: https://www.parcelmonkey.co.uk/about-us

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rich Barrett's Entrepreneurial Journey

02:08 The Origin Story of Parcel Monkey

06:07 Growth and Evolution of Parcel Monkey

10:18 Facing Major Setbacks: Supplier Bankruptcy and Warehouse Fire

16:33 Handling Crises: Rational Responses to Unexpected Challenges

19:54 Reflecting on the Journey: Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations

21:41 The Entrepreneurial Journey: Embracing Change and Control

24:05 Challenges of International Expansion: Lessons Learned

29:28 Navigating the Exit Process: Staying Involved After Sale

34:09 Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: A Mindset Shift

38:33 Future-Proofing Business: Envisioning the Next Decade

#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #StartupSuccess #TechFounder #Logistics #Ecommerce #ScalingBusiness #Resilience #EntrepreneurMindset #Leadership #SuccessStory #BusinessStrategy #Innovation #BusinessLessons #FounderJourney #StartupChallenges #InternationalExpansion #BusinessExit #MindsetMatters #OvercomingObstacles #CEOInsights #TechInnovation #SmallBusiness #OnlineBusiness #GrowthMindset #BreakthroughMoments #RichBarrett #PodcastEpisode #BusinessWisdom

In this episode of Breakthrough Moments, I sit down with David Liddle, a pioneer in conflict resolution, to explore his journey from working in race relations to reshaping how organizations handle conflict. We dive into how he founded the TCM Group, what sparked his shift from individual mediation to institutional change, and why leadership plays a critical role in workplace culture.

David shares how organizations can move from being reactive to proactive when it comes to conflict, the importance of listening to employees, and how culture hubs can transform HR. We also touch on the surprising parallels between community conflict and workplace disputes, the real impact of unresolved tensions, and how companies can start making real change today.

If you’re interested in building a more engaged, high-performing workplace, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Connect with David on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liddledavid/

Learn more about the TCM group: https://thetcmgroup.com/

00:00 Introduction to Conflict Resolution and David Liddle

03:02 David's Journey: From Race Relations to Conflict Resolution

05:51 The Impact of Conflict in Communities and Workplaces

09:03 Transitioning from Individual Mediation to Institutional Change

11:52 Building a Business Case for Conflict Resolution

15:09 Leadership's Role in Shaping Workplace Culture

17:55 Proactive vs Reactive Conflict Management

20:50 Case Study: Transforming the London Ambulance Service

23:52 Celebrating HR Impact and Best Practices

25:50 Transforming Conflict Management in Organizations

29:45 Listening to Employees: The Key to Change

32:11 Understanding Culture Hubs

35:19 The Antidote to Traditional HR Practices

38:31 The Need for Culture Hubs in Modern Organizations

40:20 Balancing Work on vs. In the Business

#Leadership #ConflictResolution #HR #WorkplaceCulture #Mediation #OrganizationalChange #CorporateCulture #PeopleFirst #EmployeeEngagement #FutureOfWork #HighPerformanceTeams #CultureHubs #WorkplaceTransformation #HRInnovation #BusinessLeadership #ManagementStrategies #ProactiveHR #TransformationalCulture #WorkplaceMediation #TrustInLeadership #HumanResources #WorkplaceWellbeing #CorporateGrowth #CompanyCulture

In this episode, I sit down with Neil Cunningham, CEO of Civic Group, to explore his journey from an electrician to leading a company in intelligent transportation systems. We dive into how Civic Group started, the challenges of breaking into a complex industry, and the role of innovation in staying ahead. Neil shares his experience in building a strong team, fostering a culture of trust, and expanding the business into new markets like Lithuania.

We also discuss the importance of data in urban planning, the realities of scaling a company, and how leadership evolves over time. Neil opens up about the moment he realized he needed to step back from the daily grind to focus on long-term strategy. He shares his thoughts on health, personal growth, and making the most of life as he reaches a milestone birthday.

This conversation is packed with insights on business, leadership, and innovation—tune in to hear Neil’s story.

Connect with Niel on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neil-cunningham-a5714023/

learn more about Civic Group: https://civic.ie/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Neil Cunningham and Civic Group

05:44 Industry Challenges and Innovations

12:06 Fostering a Culture of Innovation

19:15 Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Help

24:20 Transforming Leadership and Management Structure

32:12 Expanding Horizons: The Move to Lithuania

42:40 The Quest for Business Potential and Future Growth

#Leadership #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #SmartCities #UrbanPlanning #TrafficManagement #Transportation #ITS #FutureOfWork #LeadershipDevelopment #Success #TechInnovation #GrowthMindset #CEO #BusinessSuccess #Resilience #DataDriven #ScalingUp #CompanyCulture #Trust #Teamwork #BusinessExpansion #GlobalBusiness #Technology #UrbanDevelopment #Strategy #Networking #ProfessionalGrowth #CareerSuccess #FutureThinking #ProblemSolving