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Brazil (is not) for Beginners

by Brazil (is not) for Beginners

Brazil (is not) for Beginners is a podcast about the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Brazil. Host Isaac Matzner is the co-founder of Teddy and has been living and working in Brazil for the better part of a decade. He is based in São Paulo.

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Episodes

  1. Receivables, Duplicatas, and the Quiet Revolution in Brazil's Credit Markets

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Andre Buchaim, Head of Sales at Mercado de Recebíveis — a fintech focused on credit solutions for small and medium businesses — for a deep dive into one of the least understood but most consequential corners of the...

  2. Corruption, Compliance, and Corporate Governance in Brazil

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Juliana Wainstein, a lawyer and member of the compliance team at FAS Advogados - part of the CMS group - for a timely conversation about corruption, organized crime, and the growing importance of compliance in Brazil’s...

  3. Beyond Landmarks: The Changing Nature of Brazilian Luxury Travel

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Mayra Iguchi, partner at HIP Hotels to learn about the Brazilian luxury travel market. With over 20 years in the travel industry, Mayra has had a front-row seat to one of the most significant shifts in Brazilian…

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  4. Solving Last-Mile Logistics in Brazil, One Spreadsheet at a Time

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Stefan Rehm, co-founder and CEO of Intelipost. German by birth, Brazilian by choice, Stefan arrived in São Paulo in 2012 with a one-year visa, no Portuguese, and a mandate to scout e-commerce investments for a...

  5. Guilherme Hannud on Finding Empathy and Freedom in the Art of International Trade

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Guilherme Hannud, international trade veteran, serial entrepreneur, and author — a man who has spent 55 years representing Brazilian businesses across more than a dozen countries and helping foreign companies find their…

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  6. 50 Years on the Front Lines of Brazilian Trade with Roberto Giannetti

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Roberto Giannetti da Fonseca, economist, trade diplomat, and one of the most seasoned voices in Brazilian international trade. With a career spanning half a century — across both government and the private sector —...

  7. Taking Calculated Risks and Building with Purpose with Tsai Chi-Yu

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Tsai Chi-yu, Founder and CEO of Stay, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, the lessons he learned working on scaleups in the early Brazilian tech ecosystem and, and why he is dedicated to building with...

  8. Uncorking Brazilian Wine and Its Place in the Global Wine World

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, host Isaac Matzner sits down with Alykhan Kareem, co-founder and former CEO of Sonoma Market, Latin America's leading premium wine marketplace, for a deep dive into Brazilian wine and the Brazilian Wine industry. While Argentina and Chile dominate...

  9. Beyond Big Banks: How Sicoob’s Cooperative Model is Helping to Shape the Future of Financial Access in Brazil

    Welcome to the new season of Brazil (is not) for Beginners! To kick things off, host Isaac Matzner sits down with Louize Oliveira, Coordinator of Sustainability at Sicoob, one of Brazil’s largest banking cooperatives. While Brazil has historically been dominated by big-banks, Louize explains how...

  10. Season 3 Recap

    In this special Season 3 recap of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, we look back on 19 episodes featuring founders, executives, investors, and creators working across Brazil’s most dynamic sectors. Through extended excerpts and fresh reflections, this recap highlights the themes that emerged most...

  11. Inside Angel Investing with Lucas Lima from LASP Capital

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Lucas Lima, partner at LASP Capital and experienced angel investor, to explore the many facets of investing in new entrepreneurs in Brazil. Lucas explains how the early-stage investment process works, from identifying...

  12. Corporate Governance in Practice with Alexandre D’Ambrosio

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner hosts Alexandre D’Ambrosio, a lawyer and former executive at major corporations such as Votorantim, Santander and Vale. Together, they explore the nuances of corporate governance and the bicultural perspective of business that...

  13. The Early Stage Startup Journey with Caccao’s Gustavo Ruiz and Gustavo Zago

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner hosts Gustavo Ruiz and Gustavo Zago, the co-founders of Caccao, an early-stage startup that combines AI with relationship intelligence to increase companies sales and growth. This is an open conversation with two entrepreneurs who…

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  14. Advice for Early Stage Founders (and Investors) with BZCPs Eduardo Zilberberg

    In this episode of Brazil Is Not for Beginners, host Isaac interviews Eduardo Zilberberg, the Z in BZCP, a leading local law firm focused on M&A advisory services, where he focuses on helping entrepreneurs navigate the country’s complex business landscape. Throughout the conversation, Eduardo...

  15. Inside Brazil’s Oil & Gas Industry with Rystad Energy’s Schriener Parker

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Schreiner Parker, Head of Emerging Markets at Rystad Energy, who has built a career at the center of Brazil’s oil and gas industry. Originally from a small town in Texas, Schreiner traces his journey in Brazil’s energy sector,...

  16. Staying curious and spotting emerging trends with Kanoa Capital's Guilherme Bonifácio

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Guilherme Bonifácio, one of Brazil’s most successful serial entrepreneurs and co-founder of Kanoa Capital, a pioneer in the search fund space. Guilherme was one of the co-founders of iFood, the market leader in food delivery…

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  17. Revolutionizing Brazil's Green Landscape with Courageous Land

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac Matzner sits down with Philip Kauders, CEO & Co-Founder at Courageous Land. They discuss Philip’s journey to Brazil, his career transition from finance to sustainable agriculture, and his efforts through Courageous Land to combat climate...

  18. Building Success in Brazil’s Insurance World with Marcos Couto

    In this episode of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac sits down with Marcos Couto, President and CEO of Alper Seguros, seasoned insurance executive, and veteran board member. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Marcos has done it all—from starting out in marine insurance at 14, to leading...

  19. Delving into Brazil’s Chocolate Culture with Mission Chocolate

    'Brazil (is not) for Beginners’ is back with a new video episode! This time, Isaac interviews Arcelia Gallardo, from Mission Chocolate, elected BEST CHOCOLATE for 2 consecutive years by VEJA SÃO PAULO COMER & BEBER. In this episode, Arcelia shares her fascinating journey from working in the...

  20. Battling Fraud in Brazil: A Deep Dive with IDWall's Rafa Lichtenecker

    In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' Isaac welcomes Rafa Lichtenecker, VP of Operations at ID Wall, to discuss the complexities and challenges of fraud in Brazil. With 14 years of experience in the fraud and payment industry, Rafa shares his journey from operations to becoming a...

  21. Inside Brazil’s Booming Pet Industry with Petlove

    In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' Isaac welcomesTalita Lacerda, CEO of Petlove, Brazil’s largest pet ecosystem. Talita recounts her inspiring journey from a humble background to leading a major company. The conversation delves deep into the pet industry in Brazil, Petlove’s...

  22. Understanding the role of the CFO

    In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' host Isaac Matzner interviews Frank Wundheiler, a corporate CFO with over 25 years of experience in various industries including telecom, technology, media, agriculture, and retail in Brazil. Frank shares his insights on the role of the CFO, the...

  23. Savoring Brazil From Burgers to Fine Dining

    In our second video episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” host Isaac Matzner interviews Thomas Troisgros and Andre Meisler, the founding team of Grupo TT. Recorded live at Thomas’ restaurant Oseille, in Rio de Janeiro, they share their professional journeys from banking and cooking to...

  24. Understanding the crypto landscape in Brazil

    In this episode of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' host Isaac Matzner interviews Aaron Stanley, the founder of Brazil Crypto Report. They delve into the crypto market in Brazil, discussing its adoption, unique characteristics, and how it compares to other markets. Aaron shares his journey to...

  25. Tech and Venture Trends in Brazil

    In this episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews Lucas Abreu, founder of the media platform Sunday Drops, who shares his journey from venture capital to content creation. The conversation delves into Lucas's inspirations, and his dedication to maintaining consistency and...

  26. Driving Impact with Microentrepreneurs in Brazil

    In this episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews Lina Kempf, co-founder of Aliança Empreendedora, about her organization's mission to support micro-entrepreneurs in Brazil, often from lower-income backgrounds. Lina shares her personal journey from Colombia to Brazil, detailing...

  27. Attracting Investment in Brazil

    In this new episode of "Brazil (is not) for Beginners," Isaac speaks with Tim Chamberlain, co-founder of Brunel Partners, about the intricacies of investing in Brazil. Tim shares his journey from the UK to Brazil via Asia and New York, his role working to raise capital for Brazilian funds and his...

  28. Solving Small Business, Credit and Payment Challenges

    In the latest episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” Isaac interviews his friend Rebecca Fischer, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer at Divibank, a leading platform offering payment solutions and access to capital for online businesses in Latin America. They discuss Rebecca's journey from...

  29. Getting a Taste for Craft Beer in Brazil

    In the first episode of the new season of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” we try something a bit different as we visit Let's Beer in Vila Mariana, Sao Paulo, to interview Guto Procopio, a beer sommelier and co-founder of one of the first bottle shops in the city. While enjoying a few beverages,...

  30. Brazil (is not) for Beginners - RECAP 2

    In Recap Episode 2 of 'Brazil (is not) for Beginners,' we’re bringing you the highlights from our expert interviews as we gear up for a new season. Explore the challenges and rewards experienced by both startups and established businesses, gaining expert perspectives on building essential...

  31. Brazil (is not) for Beginners - RECAP 1

    Missed any episodes of Season 1 of "Brazil is Not for Beginners"? This episode is your essential guide! While we are hard at work on a new season, this episode brings together the key takeaways from our expert interviews, offering invaluable insights and actionable advice for doing business in...

  32. Building and Letting Go: Lessons from a Startup Shutdown

    In this season’s final episode of "Brazil (is not) for Beginners," host Isaac Matzner is joined by his co-founders, Daniel Pizarro and Eduardo Nuzzi, to discuss their startup Teddy and their challenging decision to wind down. The co-founders reflect on their three and a half-year journey, sharing...

  33. Understanding Brazil’s Unique Employee Benefits Programs

    In this insightful episode of “Brazil (is not) for beginners,” host Isaac Matzner welcomes Sergio Suchodolski, Partner and Executive VP at VR Investments, to discuss the intricate landscape of employee benefits in Brazil. Sergio shares his extensive background in development finance and his…

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  34. Philanthropy and Giving in Brazil

    Giving Tuesday inspires generosity and highlights the importance of philanthropy around the world, including in Brazil. In this episode of "Brazil (is not) for beginners," host Isaac Matzner interviews Leonardo Letelier, Founder & CEO of Sitawi Finance for Good. They discuss Brazil’s…

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  35. Exploring the Unique Business Culture of Brazil’s Northeast

    In the latest episode of “Brazil (is not) for beginners,” host Isaac Matzner dives into the dynamic nature of Brazil's Northeastern business culture with Saulo Castro, a Corporate Lawyer and Partner at Valença & Associados. Saulo shares his background as a lawyer, bass player, and cook, and his...

  36. Cultivating Cultural Intelligence in Brazil

    In this insightful episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” host Isaac Matzner welcomes Denise Coronha Lima, Cross-Cultural Specialist and founder of Rio Total Consulting. Denise shares her journey from teaching Portuguese to foreigners to becoming an expert in intercultural coaching and...

  37. B3 and The Brazilian Financial Markets

    In the latest episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” host Isaac Matzner speaks with Ana Buchaim, Chief People Officer at B3 – the Brazilian Stock Exchange – about how B3 is shaping the future of Brazil's financial landscape. Ana shares her long experience working in financial markets as well...

  38. Bridging Cultures and Navigating Brazil's Unique Tech-business Environment

    In this insightful episode of "Brazil (is not) for Beginners," host Isaac Matzner interviews Phillip Klien, CEO of ClickBus, to explore the intricacies of Brazil's bus transportation industry and his unique perspective as a tech-executive with an American-Brazilian background. PK shares anecdotes...

  39. Building a Consumer Brand in Brazil with Nick Johnston

    In our latest episode, Isaac sits down with Nick Johnston, cofounder of Bacio di Latte, São Paulo Urban Distillery/Jardim Botânico Gin and Social Beans to talk about his experience launching high-end consumer products in Brazil. Isaac and Nick cover: •⁠ ⁠Nick’s journey to Brazil and how he fell…

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  40. Tax and Compliance Management in Brazil with Jorge Vargas Neto

    Kicking off this Second Season of Brazil (is not) for Beginners, Isaac chats with Jorge Vargas Neto, CEO of BHub, about his entrepreneurial journey, and the complexities of tax and compliance systems when it comes to doing business in Brazil. They cover all things taxes, corporate structures, and…

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  41. Asian Tech in Brazil with Jianggan Li & Roberto Borsic

    Isaac chats with Roberto Borcic, a partner at Pullman Morrison, and Jianggan Li, the Founder and CEO of Momentum Works, about Asian companies' expansion into Brazil. They cover topics such as market entry strategy, cultural adaptation, strategic hiring, the complexities of doing business in…

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  42. Relocating to Brazil with Débora Maria

    Isaac and Débora Maria, an operations manager and relocation expert at LARM Brazil, discuss the challenges and considerations for foreigners moving to Brazil. Débora provides valuable insights into the complexities of relocating to Brazil and highlights the importance of thorough preparation for…

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  43. Launching Products in Brazil with Amanda Martins

    Isaac speaks to Amanda Martins, the Founder of LatAm Trampoline, a product launch and operations specialist who helps businesses successfully expand into Latin America. They talk about: Entry strategies, including MVP testing, localization, and partnering with locals. Brazil's large market,...

  44. Fintech in Brazil with Andrew Endicott & Alex Johnson

    Isaac chats with good friends and Fintech visionaries Andrew Endicott, the Co-Founding Partner at Gilgamesh Ventures, and Alex Johnson, the author of Fintech Takes, about the Fintech landscape in Brazil. They discuss: Brazil's growing importance in the global Fintech landscape and its vibrant...

  45. Building Teams in Brazil with Sebastian Dominguez & Débora Mioranzza

    Isaac sits down with long-time friends Sebastian Dominguez, the CEO of Builders, and Débora Mioranzza, the VP of Sales for the Americas at Degreed, to talk about hiring and building teams in Brazil. The three cover a lot of ground, including: Advice for companies hiring foreigners, and how…

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  46. Tech Trends with Julia de Luca

    Isaac sits down with Julia de Luca, an investment banker at ItauBBA specializing in tech coverage, and author of the LatAm Tech Weekly Newsletter. Coming off the recent launch of her report “The Next Big Thing LatAm 2024,” Julia talks about the trends she is watching and Brazil’s unique tech...

  47. The Business of Football in Brazil with Moises Assayag

    Isaac and Moises Assayag, a Turnaround and Transformation Specialist working with major Brazilian football clubs, discuss the business of football (futebol) in Brazil. Including: Brazil's unique football system and the rapid transformations underway. Football Economics 101 and the historical...

  48. Community-Building in Brazil with Fernanda Caloi

    In this extra-special bonus end-of-year episode, Isaac and Fernanda Caloi, Director of Special Projects at Latitud, discuss community-building in Brazil. Fernanda shares valuable insights on the importance of putting people first and maintaining a balanced community dynamic where trust, mutual...

  49. The Insurance Landscape in Brazil with Carlos Azevedo

    Isaac nerds out about insurance with Carlos Azevedo, Partner and Co-Head of the Insurance Practice at Pinheiro Neto. They discuss: The Brazilian insurance landscape; its challenges and opportunities, arising from historical legacies and traditions. Why, contrary to popular opinion, insurance is...

  50. Building Brands in Brazil with Guta Tolmasquim

    Isaac speaks with Guta Tolmasquim, the Founder and CEO of Purple Metrics, about building brands in Brazil. The discussion covers: The shift from online to offline interactions and the importance of community in marketing in Brazil. Challenges in the global marketing landscape, and the changing...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Brazil (is not) for Beginners is a podcast about the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Brazil. Host Isaac Matzner is the co-founder of Teddy and has been living and working in Brazil for the better part of a decade. He is based in São Paulo.

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Brazil (is not) for Beginners

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Brazil (is not) for Beginners have?

Brazil (is not) for Beginners currently has 53 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Brazil (is not) for Beginners about?

Brazil (is not) for Beginners is a podcast about the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Brazil. Host Isaac Matzner is the co-founder of Teddy and has been living and working in Brazil for the better part of a decade. He is based in São Paulo.

How often does Brazil (is not) for Beginners release new episodes?

Brazil (is not) for Beginners has 53 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

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Brazil (is not) for Beginners is created and hosted by Brazil (is not) for Beginners.
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