AUD Podcast Channel

Dr. Armen V. Papazian is a Cambridge-trained financial economist & Associate Professor of Space Economics at the American University in Dubai. He has spent his career making one argument that the defining obstacle to space expansion isn't technological, It's financial.In this episode we discuss why every financial model ever built ignores the variable of space completely, why the space vs earth debate is based on a misconception, and what it would actually take to fund humanity's expansion to becoming a multi-planetary species.Follow Dr. Armen:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armenpapazi/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannel

Dr. Edgar Chedrawy is an accomplished cardiothoracic surgeon and brings 20+ years of experience. He is the Chief Medical & Clinical Officer at Clemenceau Medical Centre specialized in building high performing teams in the medical sector and leading health systems academically and private systems throughout system governance and providing high quality patient care.In this episode he brings a rare perspective on how we live, why heart disease is so prevalent in our region, how stress and burnout are silently damaging your heart and why sleep might be the most underrated health intervention available.Key Learnings:Stress and burnout damage your heart long before symptoms appearSleep is the most underused health tool most people haveHeart disease in our region is driven by lifestyle, not just geneticsAI will change surgery, but the human element isn't going anywhere0:00 Intro1:12 Who is Dr. Edgar Chedrawy?1:48 Cardiologist vs Cardiothoracic Surgeon2:43 What is the Most Important Organ in the Body?4:01 Heart Attack Risk Factors You Need to Know6:42 Why Blood Pressure Management Could Save Your Life9:33 The Goldilocks Principle in Heart Health11:16 Why Heart Disease Is So Common in Our Region12:28 Sleep More, Live Longer15:15 The Stress and Burnout Crisis in Healthcare25:41 Why Doctors Need Support Too29:04 Is Being Healthy Actually Easy?30:39 How a Heart Surgeon Thinks About Death32:51 Advice to Young Doctors35:18 What It Feels Like to Save a Life37:03 The Longest Surgery of His Career38:58 AI, Technology and the Future of Surgery43:39 What You Need to Know About Heart Attacks46:09 Game Changer LearningFollow Dr. Edgar:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edgarchedrawymd/Website: https://chedrawymd.com/Website: https://cmcdubai.ae/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannel

Dr. Heba Chehade is a foresight researcher and Head of Foresight Research at the Dubai Future Foundation, one of the world's leading organisations dedicated to anticipating and shaping what comes next. At the intersection of academia, social sciences and strategic foresight, she helps governments, institutions and communities navigate a world defined by uncertainty.In this episode we get into what foresight research actually is and why it matters, we get a deeper insight into the role the Dubai Future Foundation plays in helping shape the future of Dubai, why technology is never a certainty and always an assumption, and what the relationship between young people and the future tells us about the decisions we're making today.Key Learnings:The future isn't predicted, it's prepared forTechnology is an assumption, not a certaintyThe problems we choose to focus on define the future we buildYoung people are shaping the future today0:00 Intro1:04 Dr Heba’s background6:05 Where Academia Meets Social Sciences8:28 What Is the Dubai Future Foundation?13:50 The Global 50 Report 21:00 How Do You Choose Which Problem to Focus On?24:44 Why Technology Is an Assumption and Uncertainty 27:34 Human-Machine Collaboration and the ICON System33:33 How to Actually Plan for the Future37:55 The Link Between Youth and the Future43:23 Game Changer LearningFollow Dr. Heba:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hebachehade/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dubaifuture/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Dr. Sonia Ben Jaafar is an education expert, former cancer researcher, and CEO of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation, one of the largest education-focused philanthropic organizations in the Arab world. She walked away from a career in research and stepped into education, driven by a single belief that everyone deserves the opportunity and the resources to learn. In this episode we discuss why teaching is one of the most underappreciated professions in the world, we talk about whether the education system needs reform or a full revolution, how AI is going to disrupt schools faster than anyone is ready for, and what it really means to scale impact without losing the community at the center of it.Key Learnings:The skills you were never taught in school?What makes someone a real teacher?How do you scale without losing people?Is education ready for AI?Follow Sonia:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-ben-jaafar-70aba012/Website: https://www.alghurairfoundation.org/dr-sonia-ben-jaafar/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Shant Oknayan is a global technology and strategy leader and the VP of Global Business at Bytedance/Tiktok. He has spent his career at the intersection of innovation, culture, and digital transformation, with experience across consulting, big tech, and emerging platforms, he has helped organizations and governments navigate how technology reshapes industries, economies, and communication.Key Learnings:The Builder vs Optimizer MindsetTechnology Disrupts Faster Than Organizations AdaptThe Creator Economy Is Reshaping InfluenceDiversity Drives InnovationFollow Shant:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shant-oknayan/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shantoknayan/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Marisa Kamall is a leadership professional and Founder of GAIA, a community focused on supporting and empowering women. Built on exploring how identity, expectations, and workplace culture shape the way women grow in their careers.In this episode we discuss why many women are impacted by imposter syndrome, the challenges of navigating male-dominated environments, the likability tax, and why real progress for women requires changing systems, not just confidence.Key Learnings:Confidence isn’t an individual problemThe “likability tax” affects decision-making Diversity fails without education How community accelerates growth Follow Marisa:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisakamall/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gaiarises/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gaia_rises/?hl=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marisa_kamall_dxb/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Luca Allam is an entrepreneur, public speaker, and communication coach with over 20 years of experience in marketing and media. In 2024 he left the corporate world to focus on speaking and coaching full-time, launching the MasterPitch public speaking program and hosting Luca’s Insight Track, an online talk show that has rapidly become one of MENA’s fastest-growing podcasts.Key Learnings:How to reduce your anxiety when public speaking The importance of knowing your audienceThe secret to winning your next pitchWhy you need to build your own brand and treat yourself like a business Follow Luca:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucaallam/Website: https://lucaallam.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luca.allam/Youtube:  @lucasinsighttrack  Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Jeff Strachan is the Associate VP at the Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). A hospitality expert with over 30 years of industry experience on a mission to train & develop the next generation of Dubai’s tourist facing workforce. Key Learnings:The skills you need to succeed in the hospitality industryHow travel will change across the regionThe true definition of “What is a Tourist?”Dubai’s tourism vision for the future Follow Jeff:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffstrachan/Website: https://dct.ac.ae/en/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Tina Chagoury is a DHA-license Clinical Dietician, Functional Hormones Expert & Founder of Savoir Anti-inflammatory Meal Plans. She brings over 20 years of experience in weight management and therapeutic nutrition in the UAE helping clients achieve optimal well-being through personalized nutrition strategies and her curated line of anti-inflammatory meal plans.Key Learnings:The dangers and risks of chronic inflammationThe importance of shifting your mindset from weight loss to health How to develop a positive relationship with foodThe benefits of functional nutrition Follow Tina:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-choueiri-chagoury/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinachagoury/Website: https://www.tinachagoury.com/Youtube:   @tinadxb  Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Mahmoud Bartawi is an Exited Emirati Entrepreneur and Host of BxB Podcast. From learning business lessons at his father’s side to exiting his own brand Under 500, he shares the raw truth behind building from zero, surviving failure, and knowing when to scale.Key Learnings:When to scale your businessThe struggle entrepreneurs faceWhere to find your target customerThe importance of starting with the exit in mind Follow Mahmoud:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahmoud-bartawi/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bartawi/Youtube:  @Businesswithbartawi  Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Suraya Turk is an award winning lawyer, entrepreneur & Managing Partner of Legal Circle. She brings 20+ years of experience, advising 650+ startups to support their growth and development in the region.Key Learnings:How to pick the right lawyer for your needs?The importance of scaling organicallyWhy entrepreneurs need to have a basic understanding of lawThe reason communication is the currency of the future Follow Suraya:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surayaturk/Website: http://www.legalcircle.co/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/surayaturk/Youtube:  @legal.circle  Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Dr. Labib Riachi is a double board certified, internationally recognized leader in robotic gynecologic surgery, female pelvic medicine, and surgical education. With over two decades of clinical, academic, and entrepreneurial success across the U.S., Middle East, and Europe he bridges medicine, technology, and global collaboration to tackle the leading disease affecting women's health today.Key Learnings:The importance of educating society on women's health How robotics & AI are transforming the future of healthcareThe main risks and diseases impacting women todayThe skills future doctors will need in the future to succeedFollow Dr. Labib:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/labib-riachi/Website: https://riachisurgery.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labib.riachi/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Modhar Khan is the Regional Director of Artificial Intelligence - Middle East & North Africa - SLB. He is a Business leader and Data expert with global expertise across North America and the MENA region. Currently leading AI strategy for SLB in MENA, driving digital transformation, automation, and AI adoption to enhance efficiency, optimize operations, and create long-term value across the industry.Key Learnings:Why we need to make AI inclusiveThe risks of not adopting AIThe importance of Data How to overcome the fear of using AI Follow Modhar:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/modhar/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Anna Hazlett is Founder & CEO of AzurX and AzurX Space Ventures companies focused on space and strategic technologies based on the foundation that space plays a unique role in addressing the world’s most pressing problems. She is a globally recognized voice and contributor to the global space industry since 2017 & serves as a Member of the Fund Advisory & Decision Committee of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) a AED 2 billion fund helping to oversee & support the innovation ecosystem of the UAE.Key Learnings:Why is the space industry rapidly advancing?What are the challenges of making space accessible to people?Why does building a space ecosystem require multiple disciplines and backgrounds?How do we educate people to prepare for the future of space?Follow Anna:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annahazlett/Website: https://www.azurx.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azurxtech/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azurxspaceventures/X: https://x.com/_annahazlettStay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Iyad Alsabouni is the Program Coordinator, Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development at AUD. He brings over 20 years of professional experience as an artist and animator working with game studios in Japan and indie developers worldwide, accumulating extensive experience and knowledge in the field of entertainment design.Key Learnings:Why gaming has become a national strategic objectiveThe future of game developmentThe advancement of technology & innovation in gamingWhat career opportunities you can expect from a degree in Game Design & DevelopmentFollow Iyad:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iyad-alsabouni-76a0037a/Website: https://www.aud.edu/aud-school/mohammed-bin-rashid-school-for-communication/programs/bachelor-of-science-in-game-design-and-development/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

 Ashraf Younis is a media veteran with over 30 years of experience & the Director of Channels MBC 3 & MBC Action at MBC Group. From launching TV channels, to his role as an international judge for media and an acting adjunct professor at AUD he shares insights on innovation, human connection, and what it takes to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.Key Learnings How has the media landscape changed?How will we consume content in the future?How to prepare for a career in media?The importance of lifelong learning  Follow Ashraf:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashraf-younis-m-ed-821885124/Website: https://www.mbc.net/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai 

Samia Hasan is the Founder of Unwind the Grind, a Millennial/Gen Z leadership development platform empowering them to achieve what they are capable of & enabling them to excel in their careers. She is a corporate veteran turned career coach, who spent over 10 years climbing the ladder at a Fortune 50 company before pursuing a passion for authentic living and is now on a mission to help you find your purpose, craft your personal brand and land your dream job.Key Learnings:How to find your purposeThe 3 steps to transition in your careerThe mindset behind building your networkThe importance of a personal brand Follow Samia:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samia-hasan-5372922/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samiahasann/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Muhammed Mekki is the Founding Partner of AstroLabs, previous co-founder of Namshi & holds a PhD in Innovation & Entrepreneurship. He has been actively building the Middle Eastern entrepreneurial ecosystem since 2011, secured one of the largest venture-backed exits in the MENA region in 2017 with Namshi, and has built AstroLabs to become the leading business expansion platform in the Gulf establishing over 1,500 innovative businesses across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.Key Learnings:The difference between a venture backed & bootstrapped startupThe importance of building self-awareness as an entrepreneurThe key traits required for entrepreneurial successThe pillars of creating a thriving startup ecosystemFollow Muhammed:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mmekki/Instagram: @Muhammed MekkiX: @muhammedmekkiStay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

Aamir Allibhoy is the Regional CMO - Tim Hortons MENA, a trusted team leader with extensive experience in marcoms, branding, strategy and new business development. He spent 21 years with Impact BBDO, most recently as the General Manager, spearheading the business and client relationships across key clients, such as PepsiCo. His success is largely attributed to being “fearless" in doing the right thing and is best known for his optimism, composure, insights and ability to inspire passion within his teams.Key Learnings:The differences between working in agency & client sideHow to localize your marketing content and branding effortsThe importance in targeting and platform selectionHow data can unlock key insights into your marketing experience Follow Aamir:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aamirallibhoy/Stay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

We are honored to have Dr.Caroline Faraj on the show today. Dr.Caroline is the CNN Vice President & Arabic Editor-in-Chief, an award-winning journalist with over 30 years’ experience. She joined CNN in 2001 and has overseen the content and management of CNN Arabic, which she launched in 2002. She was named winner of the Arab Woman of the year Awards 2022 as a leader in media, and in 2021 she won the Arab Woman Awards/ media category in the UAE.Key Learnings:Why journalism is a passion, not a jobThe difference between the truth & the facts What are the key qualities aspiring journalists must have How we can take control of the content we consumeFollow Dr.Caroline:X: https://x.com/cfaraj?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cjfaraj/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-faraj-286741/?originalSubdomain=aeStay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

We are honored to have Fares Akkad on the show today. Fares is the Regional Director for Meta across MEA. He is a global media and tech thought leader with a rich experience in new media growth across emerging markets. His career spans over 25 years leading growth for media and social media giants and has been recognized by Forbes Magazine as one of the top 50 leaders in MENA. In addition, he has always been passionate about entrepreneurship and startups, supporting entrepreneurs and early-stage ventures both in California and Dubai holding an advisory role.Key Learnings:How media & tech impact our daily livesThe importance of diversity & inclusion in AI developmentThe harsh realities of entrepreneurshipHow the Middle East is becoming the new global hub for innovationStay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

We are honored to have Dr. Kyle Long on the show today. Dr. Kyle joins us as the new President of AUD. He is an internationally recognized authority on American higher education outside the United States. With a career spanning various leadership roles, he brings with him a wealth of experience and an innovative approach to higher education rooted in the American liberal arts tradition. His mission is to solidify AUD's status as the top choice for higher education in the Middle East.Key Learnings:The importance of leadership & inclusivityThe biggest challenge facing higher educational institutions in the regionThe future of AUD The power of determination & never giving upStay Tuned For More Inspiring Conversations:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audpodcastofficial/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@audpodcastchannelYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@AUDubai

We are honored to have Sally Moussa Hajjar as our guest on the show today. Sally is a media veteran with over 20 years of experience working for the region's largest broadcast networks. She is currently the Managing Director of Humanagement and along with her Husband Hady have built the region's Leading Agency in Innovative Marketing and Media Solutions representing some of the region’s highest ranking celebrities & Digital Content Creators.Key Learnings The truth about the entertainment industryThe key factors in building trustThe importance of honest communicationThe differences between influencers & celebrities

We are honored to have Siwar Zein as our guest on the show today. Siwar is Human Resources Expert and brings with her over 15 years of experience working at some of the worlds largest brands such as Nestle and is currently the EMEA Talent Management Director at Microsoft. She is someone who is extremely passionate about supporting people and enabling them to achieve their desired success within an organization.Key LearningsThe impact HR can have on your businessHow to build a talent management frameworkThe challenges of addressing biases in the interview processHow to retain your top talent

We are honored to have Saleem Karsaz as our guest on the show today. Saleem is the Group CEO of AEON & Trisl Real Estate and is one of the most distinguished realtors in the UAE. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of Dubai Real Estate and was awarded the highest honor of being the #1 Broker by the Dubai Land Department.Key LearningsThe importance of building your support systemSettling the debate between renting or buying The future of real estate industryHow to find opportunities in times of crisisLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saleem-karsaz-548030111/Website: https://aeontrisl.com/

We are honored to have Dr Edward Srour as our guest on the show today. Dr Eddie has been a professor and researcher at Indiana University for more than 30 years. The main focus of his research has been primarily on stem cells and their efficacy, in addition to exploring other areas such as veterinary medical sciences and hematology.

We are honored to have Omar Al Busaidy as our guest on the show today. Omar is an AUD alumnus,entrepreneur, author and speaker with over 13 years of experience in the UAEs corporate environment. He is currently the President of Future Pipe Industries and Founder of Global Possibilities which provides commercial advisory services to companies that want to scale and operate in the UAEKey Learnings:The power of beliefHow to become better communicatorsFinding your path as an entrepreneurWhat makes a great leader?

We are honored to have Natasha Hatherall as our guest on the show today. Natasha is a Publicist, PR and Marketing Expert with 20+ years of experience.She is the Founder & CEO of  TishTash one of the most sought after and respected independent self funded agencies in the Middle East. In addition Tash is a passionate advocate for women in business and women's health, being one of the first companies to launch Menstrual, Menopause and Infertility leave in the Middle East.Key LearningsThe impact of flexibility at workHow PR can help you get visibility The power of empathy and kindnessThe challenges of scaling a business

We are honored to have Cosmin Manea as our guest on the show today. Cosmin is an AUD alumni, serial entrepreneur and angel investor focusing on investing in sustainable businesses. He was previously one of the founding partners of Instashop, renowned as one of the region's great success stories, before selling the company to delivery hero for $360 million back in 2020.Key LearningsThe untold Instashop storyThe harsh realities of entrepreneurshipWhen is the right time to exit?The importance of confidence in everything you do

We are honored to have Christine Auclair as our guest on the show today. Christine is the Lead of Advocacy and Campaigns at UN-Habitat, the United Nations agency for human settlements and sustainable urbanization. With over 25 years of experience her mission is to promote urban sustainability, the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the urban dimension of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, through innovative and impactful campaigns, initiatives, and projects.Key LearningsHow urban planning can affect the future?The challenge of meeting housing demands for peopleThe need for unity in order to tackle global issuesThe importance of finding a balance

We are honored to have Joelle Mardinian as our guest on the show today. Joelle is a celebrity, entrepreneur, podcast host & brand ambassador with a global audience of over 20 Million people. She is one of the most influential fashion and make-up experts in the Middle East, and has an unbelievable drive and dedication to her mission to help transform people's lives and bring out the beauty that lies within us all.Key Learnings:The difference between Money & SuccessThe formula to build multiple successful businessesOvercoming the struggle with perfectionismThe Impact Plastic Surgery can have on people’s lives

We are honored to have Alexander van t’Riet as our guest on the show today. Alexander has over 30 years of experience in operations, sales, marketing, strategic consulting and general management. His international business experience spans (B2B) and (B2C) sectors across Asian, European and American markets.He was the CEO of Mai Dubai LLC, the fastest growing bottled water company in the GCC for 7 years. As the CEO of the company, he spearheaded growth, doubling revenue during his tenure by launching new and premium products, and driving customer penetration by advocating a social and environmental agenda.Key Learnings:Why are plastics good?How can companies benefit from being more environmentally conscious?Where does technology & AI fit into environmental sustainability?COP 28 & Dubai’s 2050 Vision

We are honored to have Richard Fitzgerald.Richard is CEO and Founder of Augustus Media, an award winning modern media company in the UAE and KSA, publishers of Lovin Dubai, Lovin Saudi and Smashi. He has worked in the media advertising space for almost 20 years at agencies in Ireland, England and the UAEKey Learnings:How Tech Is Changing MediaAdvice for Young Students Entering the Media FieldThe Importance of Curating Your ContentWill AI Replace Marketing Agencies?

We are honored to have Khaled Kamel as our guest on the show today. Khaled has over 20 years of experience in business management & Cybersecurity having held various regional senior managerial roles in multinational fortune 100 organizations such as HP, Samsung, Lenovo and has his own Consulting firm. In addition he is now the Secretary and Treasurer of the AUD Alumni Association tasked with creating a strong alumni community.Key Learnings:The Future of CybersecurityThe Rapid Advancement of TechnologyThe Differences between the Corporate World & EntrepreneurshipHow Can We Protect Ourselves From Cybersecurity Threats

We are honored to have Dr.Mahmoud Al Burai  as our guest on the show today. Dr.Mahmoud is a Senior Advisor at the Real Estate Regulatory Agency of Dubai mandated to work on a plan to make Dubai more competitive. Before this role he served as the CEO of Dubai Real Estate Institute for 10 years in which the institute graduated 80,000 real estate professionals from the region. He also has been the President of the International Real Estate Federation, FIABCI Arabic Countries for more than three years. Key Learnings:The Economic Impact of Real Estate Dubai’s 2040 VisionThe Success of the Dubai Real Estate InstituteHow to build sustainable cities

We are honored to have Ambareen Musa as our guest on the show today. Ambareen is the Founder & CEO of Yabi is the first financial education platform in the region and is on a mission to support people in their journey to financial freedom. She has been listed in the Top 50 most influential women in the Arab World by Arabian Business, Winner of the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by The Entrepreneur magazine and her previous venture of Souqalmal  was listed as one of the Top 100 most promising SMEs to get acquired.Key Learnings:How to Start Managing Your Personal FinancesThe Truth About Credit CardsPlanning for Financial FreedomDiscovering Your Money Script

We are honored to have Mishal Kanoo as our guest on the show today. Mishal Kanoo serves as the Chairman of The Kanoo Group, one of the largest, independent and longest running family owned groups of companies in the Gulf region. He is also one of the most iconic business figures in the Middle East, a frequent speaker at conferences and has a reputation of a futurist and strategist with a strong track record in forecasting economic developments in the Middle East.Key Learnings:The Differences between Formal & Informal EducationThe Importance of Understanding PeopleHow to become better communicatorsThe Power of “No”

We are honored to have Zaure Rozmat as our guest on the show today. Zaure is the CEO of Kazakhstani media startup The Steppe, which was founded in 2016. Her goal has always been to focus on education, technology, cultural economics and tourism, while avoiding gossip, tabloids and clickbait. The Steppe was one of the first media outlets to utilize native advertising in Kazakhstan, and has successfully partnered with both Kazakhstani and international brands.Key Learnings: The Role of Social Media TodayThe Tension Between Young & Old GenerationsThe Importance of Voices of A Young Generation

We are honored to have Dana Abu-Laban as our guest on the show today. Dana is a Journalist, TV presenter, Writer, & Podcast Host & a fellow AUD alumni. Over the past 10 years she has worked across all forms of media including producing multiple shows on MBC. She is someone who is incredibly passionate about storytelling and believes that no matter the medium we must always try and convey the human element in every story.Key Learnings: How Social Media has Changed How we Consume News & ContentHow Traditional Media is ChangingAdvice to Content CreatorsThe Authenticity of Storytelling in News

We are honored to have Fadi El Khatib as our guest on the show today. Fadi is one of Lebanon’s legendary basketball players with a career spanning over 25 years. He is widely regarded as one of the elite players in the region with over 30+ championships to his name. Nowadays he is the Founder & CEO of Champs Sports Club a leading sports facility & academy where he aims to empower people to take control of their health & train the next generation of athletes.Key Learnings: The Mindset of an AthleteThe Importance of HealthBuilding Successful TeamsThe Similarities Between Business & Sports

We are honored to have two of our esteemed Alumni Ms.Ayah Maklad & Mr.Raghdan Hassan as our guests on the show today. Ayah is the Founder & CEO of Maklad Design an Interior Designer Business. She is also a graphic designer, NFT artist, winner of AUD’s Interior Design Showcase 2020, Rotana Hotels F&B Competition & more. Raghdan is an AIA award-winning architect and multidisciplinary designer that’s consulted on projects such as Netflix Kids HQ & Apple Hub in California. He was also the first place prize winner of his graduating class from AUD & was awarded the UAE’s Young Artist Award in 2017.Key Learnings: How Design Can Tackle Global Issues?Foundational Principles of DesignThe Importance of Co-creating & Collaborating With ClientsAdvice To Young Aspiring Designers

We are honored to have Professor Dina Faour & Mr. Kamal Dimachkie as our guest on the show today. Professor Dina has over 11 years of experience serving the industry between Beirut, Brisbane and Dubai, and joined AUD as Assistant Professor in September 2008.  Kamal is a senior communication executive with +36-year experience in marketing & communications. Middle East, North American, and internationally as well . They both share a passion for the industry and working with young talents to guide them during their careers.Key Learnings: Creativity & Building A Sustainable CareerThe link Between Academia And IndustryPreparing Students For Industry ExperienceHow Advertising Has Evolved Over Time

In this episode we will be continuing our discussion with Roberto Croci. In part 2 we will be taking a deep dive into what it truly means to be an entrepreneur and how to develop a growth mindset. Roberto is the CEO & Founder of Creative Rebels a transformation company to help individuals and organizations break rules that hold them back. With over 20 years’ experience working for the likes of Microsoft and Google, His passion lies in innovation, startups and PEOPLE. Relationship driven, he has bridged the gap between corporates and startups across more than 20 countries, helping them develop real solutions that solve real world problems.

Roberto is the CEO & Founder of Constructive Rebels a transformation company to help individuals and organizations break rules that hold them back. With over 20 years’ experience working for the likes of Microsoft and Google, His passion lies in innovation, startups and PEOPLE. Relationship driven, he has bridged the gap between corporates and startups across more than 20 countries, helping them develop real solutions that solve real world problems.Key Learnings: How To Create A Portfolio StrategyThe Differences Between An Entrepreneur & A SolopreneurBeing IntentionalDiscovering Yourself

We are honored to have Dr. Rola Hammoud as our guest on the show today. Dr. Rola has over 25 years of experience as a medical doctor & is the Chief Medical Officer & Director of Anesthesia services at Clemenceau Medical Center-Dubai. She is also the Founder & Former President of the Lebanese Society For Quality & Safety in Healthcare and works to Ensure that patients are provided the safest care guided by the best practices and the international standards.Key Learnings: How To Have A Holistic Approach To MedicineWhat A Successful Medical Career Looks LikeThe Importance Of Learning In Order To Advance Your CareerAdvice To Young Doctors

We are honored to have Mr. Bassel Kakish as our guest on the show today. Over almost 20 years at Publicis Groupe, Bassel has held various strategic roles. He is now the CEO of Publicis Groupe, Middle East and Turkey and he is focused on strengthening and expanding the Groupe’s offering to help clients succeed through disruptive creative strategy, analytics and insights. Key Learnings: The Importance Of Having The Right TalentWhy Brands Today Need To Focus On Hyperpersonalisation How Organizations Can Become Future ProofThe Intersection Of Data, Technology, Media & Creativity

Toufic is the Founding Partner & CEO of Brands For Less, the largest Off-Price retailer in the Middle East. From growing up in Civil War Lebanon with humble beginnings, to starting Brands for Less with no financial assistance in a parking lot, over the past 20 years along with his business partner & close friend Yasser Beydoun, they have built Brands For Less to become one of the region's great success stories. Key Learnings:How Can Businesses Become Agile & PivotThe Relationship Between Your In-Store & Online ExperienceThe Challenges of Working With FriendsThe Importance of Hope