#44: President of Microsoft Asia: Lessons from My Mum, Asia & Leading 30,000 People

In this soulful and wide-ranging conversation, Rodrigo Kede Lima, President of Microsoft Asia, reflects on the people, places, and pivotal lessons that have shaped who he is today. From the quiet strength of his trailblazing mother to the humbling experience of starting over in Asia, and the responsibility of leading 30,000 people across cultures, Rodrigo shares what it truly means to lead with purpose, humility, and heart.We discuss:The values his mother and grandfather instilled in himWhat starting over in Asia taught him about leadershipHow he stays grounded while leading at scaleHis views on hierarchy, culture, and human-first systemsWhat AI will demand of future leadersUnlearning, wellness, and the second mountainWhy legacy is about leaving people better than you found them00:00 Introduction01:08 Meet Rodrigo: Childhood, Curiosity & Dreams of Medicine05:14 The Legacy of His Mother and Grandfather07:13 Core Beliefs That Shaped Rodrigo’s Leadership10:00 Bold Career Moves & Embracing Discomfort12:35 Starting Over in Asia: Humility, Curiosity & Reinvention14:59 Wellness Routines That Keep Rodrigo Grounded20:07 Leading 30,000 People: Culture, Connection & Systems24:07 Asia’s Rise: From Manufacturing Hub to Innovation Powerhouse26:44 The Values We Must Hold Onto in the AI Era29:07 What Fatherhood Taught Rodrigo About Learning & Letting Go32:49 Where to Begin: Practical Steps for Embracing AI36:40 Beyond Boardrooms: Lessons from Parenting39:40 Redefining Purpose: Rodrigo on Legacy, Joy & Giving Back41:15 The Message Rodrigo Hopes to Leave Behind42:27 Closing ReflectionsFollow Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/ms_rach/Follow Rodrigo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigo-kede-lima-51941129/