AI in SME Lending for Bank Leaders to Solve the $5 Trillion Financing Gap with Rodrigo Malachias

Welcome to The Engine – Founders' Stories Podcast. In this episode, host Donna Owen is joined by Rodrigo Malachias, Co-Founder of MedibleGo and CEO at Medible. Rodrigo shares how he built two global companies by combining technology, strategic consulting, and a deep commitment to understanding SMEs. He takes us through his journey from early technical training in Brazil to leading multinational teams, teaching innovation, and now scaling an AI-powered platform designed to help small businesses grow.Rodrigo explains how MedibleGo uses AI to bridge the information gap between SMEs and banks, unlocking better access to financing while giving founders the insights they need to succeed. He also shares candid reflections on burnout, resilience, and how running became an anchor for his mental and physical wellbeing. From global expansion to the importance of customer listening, Rodrigo offers grounded, practical wisdom for founders building with purpose.In this episode, Rodrigo breaks down how he transformed years of consulting experience into an AI-driven product trusted by both SMEs and financial institutions. He talks about bootstrapping two companies, securing Innovate UK grants, and why customer insight - not investment - is at the heart of sustainable growth. Rodrigo also opens up about his background, the turning points that shaped his career, and why balance, authenticity, and curiosity are essential to long-term success as a founder.Key TakeawaysHow MedibleGo uses AI to close the global SME financing gap.Why customer conversations matter more than investor conversations.Burnout, recovery, and how running became part of Rodrigo’s life philosophy.The power of iteration, listening, and humility in building a tech company.Global expansion and how the UK’s Global Entrepreneur Programme accelerated growth.Additional InsightsRodrigo began as a trained electrician and worked in manufacturing at 14.His non-technical PR degree sharpened his communication, teaching, and leadership skills.Years of consulting for global brands shaped Medible’s methodology and product evolution.He teaches innovation in Chile and is writing a book about resistance to new technology.Rodrigo believes scarcity environments (LatAm, Africa) create more resilient founders than wealthy ecosystems.Quotes from the Episode