Coffee with a T-bird hosted by Alex Rozenfeld

In this episode of Coffee with T-Bird, Alex Rozenfeld sits down with Marc Sondheimer, an Academy Award–winning producer known for his work at Pixar on films like The Incredibles, WALL-E, Finding Dory, and the Oscar-winning short Piper.Marc shares the story behind Piper—a short animated film that was shut down three separate times before it was finally completed—and what it really takes to succeed in animation, filmmaking, and creative storytelling. From his unconventional path through international business to breaking into Pixar and becoming a film producer, this conversation dives deep into persistence, career pivots, and the reality behind Hollywood success.They also go behind the scenes of the Oscars, discuss how animated films are made, and explore what it means to produce at the highest level in the film industry. Marc opens up about leadership, problem-solving, and navigating setbacks in a competitive creative field.This episode is for anyone interested in Pixar, animation, filmmaking, entrepreneurship, career growth, and the mindset needed to turn big ideas into reality.https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-sondheimer-b014343/Marc Sondheimer joined Pixar Animation Studios in October of 2001, where he started out as a Production Finance Lead for “The Incredibles” and “Cars”.  Since then, Mr. Sondheimer assumed a variety of positions in production. He was the Finance Lead for numerous short films as well as for the Academy Award®-winning feature film “WALL•E” and “Finding Dory.” In addition, Mr. Sondheimer worked as a Production Manager on the films “WALL•E,” various CarsToons, and Associate Producer and Production Manager on the Academy Award®-nominated short, “Day & Night.”  He served as an Associate Producer on “The Good Dinosaur” before becoming the Producer of Pixar’s short form content for “The Good Dinosaur,” “Finding Dory,” “Coco”, “Cars3” , “Incredibles 2”, “Toy Story 4”, “Onward” and “Soul”. Marc has produced over 50 commercials for Fortune 500 companies as well as several digital media projects, including AR and VR. In 2018 Marc developed and produced the episodic series “Cars on the Road” for Disney+ based on the Cars franchise.  In 2017, Marc won an Oscar® as producer of the Pixar short, “Piper,” which was named Best Animated Short Film by the Academy. “Piper” was released theatrically in front of “Finding Dory.”   In 2018, Marc was nominated for an Emmy Award® for “CocoVR”, Pixar’s first Virtual Reality experience. “CocoVR” was released in the Fall of 2017. This project also earned Mr Sondheimer a Cannes “Silver Lion”, Grand Clio and Webby Awards.  Prior to Pixar, Mr. Sondheimer worked in a variety of different fields including as a Business Strategy Consultant, as the Business Development Director for Quokka Sports - a digital sports media company, and was also a successful entrepreneur while operating his own import business.   For the past two years, Marc has freelanced as a Producer for commercials and short films, including producing an animated commercial for the National Football League with Cisco Systems. He is currently a Producer for Skydance Animation.  He received a Bachelor of Art degree from University of California, Berkeley, and went on to earn a Masters of International Management degree from Thunderbird Graduate School. Born and raised in Marin County, California, Sondheimer currently splits his time between Berkeley and Lake Tahoe. This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode of Coffee with a T-Bird, Alex Rozenfeld interviews Blaine Yates, Thunderbird alum, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Xlear(Clear), the xylitol-based nasal and oral health company. Blaine shares how Xlear grew from a startup idea into a nationally distributed brand, the challenges of scaling sales and educating consumers, and how his Thunderbird Executive MBA helped shape his leadership and international expansion strategy. He also talks about his photography project capturing the highest points in all 50 U.S. states, his investment work, and his mission to launch an advanced rehabilitation center for stroke and traumatic brain injury patients in Salt Lake City. A conversation packed with insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, leadership, and global business.https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaine-yates-358113/Mr. Yates is one of the cofounders of Xlear Inc., a xylitol products company focused on nasal and oral health. He served as the company’s CEO from 2006 until 2014. From 2014 until January of 2016 Mr. Yates left Xlear’s employment to work on a photography project taking vista photographs from the high point of all 50 US States. He returned to Xlear in January of 2016 to head up Xlear’s international department. Prior to serving as the company’s CEO he served as Vice President of Sales and built the company’s first sales force while bringing in Xlear’s original customer base.Blaine was a Sales Manager with Sirsi Corporation from 1996 through 2003 during which time he assisted in establishing new sales channels in public and school library sectors, and with recruiting and managing a top sales force. Prior to joining Sirsi Corporation, he was a Project Manager for a division of Ameritech and managed a 30+ person team converting libraries from card catalogs to modern, automated systems.He sold his ownership in Xlear in 2024 and embarked on a new journey investing in early stage companies and managing a luxury vacation rental. He is now preparing to open an advanced neuro rehabilitation center in the Salt Lake City area focused on getting stroke and TBI victims back to living fulfilling lives.He is a father to a 29-year-old daughter and a 5-year-old son (with three stepsons blended in the middle of that age range). His partner, Ashley, is a nurse and will be working with him on the new venture.He holds a B.A. in International Relations with a Minor in Spanish from Brigham Young University; and an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, Alex Rozenfeld sits down with Ilya Vinogradsky, the Co-Founder and Chief Solutions Officer of Astound Digital. Ilya shares his "ultimate Silicon Valley story"—immigrating from the Soviet Union at 14, teaching himself to code on paper, and eventually transforming a scrappy startup into a global digital commerce leader servicing brands like L'Oreal, Crocs, and Adidas.The conversation explores the technical and human sides of leadership. Ilya breaks down the concept of "Vibe Coding" and how AI is revolutionizing enterprise software development. He then takes us through the three critical phases of his company's growth, including the harrowing challenges of the 2008 financial crisis and the strategic diversification of their global offices in response to the 2014 conflict in Ukraine.Listeners will gain insight into Ilya’s "Kindness Principle," his commitment to servant leadership, and the personal productivity hacks—like his "24-hour response rule"—that kept him grounded over a 20-year founder journey.https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinograd/About the GuestIlya Vinogradsky is a technical visionary and co-founder of Astound Digital. With a Master’s in Computer Science from Stanford, he has spent over 25 years at the intersection of technology and retail, helping define the modern e-commerce landscape while fostering a culture of loyalty and continuous learning across five continents.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this engaging conversation, Maria Laine shares her journey from her unique upbringing in Finland and Sweden to her successful career at Boeing. She reflects on a truly meaningful day at Thunderbird—standing at the podium as keynote speaker while her daughter crossed the stage as a graduate. Maria discusses the importance of mentorship, cultural insights, and the skills needed for success in the aerospace industry, especially in the context of AI advancements. She emphasizes the value of stepping out of comfort zones and offers advice for aspiring leaders, particularly women, in navigating their careers. Maria concludes with a heartfelt message to the Thunderbird community, highlighting its relevance in today's rapidly changing world.https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-laine-8b61ba11/Thunderbird Graduation SpeechWith more than 30 years of aerospace and defense experience, Maria Laine leads the Business Capture and Operations organization of Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) at Boeing’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. In this role she is responsible for the functional excellence of the business development organization which includes leading the proposal development efforts for U.S. Government and international defense campaigns, leading the campaign and competitive analysis teams, the financial management and business operations teams, as well as the training and development teams. Prior to taking on her current role, Laine served as president of Boeing in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Nordic region based in London covering Boeing’s enterprise wide interests across the region in one of Boeing’s largest markets and footprints outside the United States. Prior to the move to London, Laine was leading global business development for Boeing’s defense portfolio and she has an extensive background in global defense acquisition programs, US Government Foreign Military Sales and global Industrial Cooperation Programs. Prior to her 32 year career at Boeing spanning a variety of different roles in numerous global locations, Laine also worked at the U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration on the Nordic desks, as well as at the US Embassy in Helsinki in the Commercial section. Laine has also served on multiple non-profit boards to include on the Board of Trustees of the Whitehall & Industry Group (WIG), the International Advisory Board of British-American Business (BAB), both in London. She previously also served as Chairman of the Board of the Global Industrial Cooperation Association (GICA), as well as on the Board of the American Chamber of Commerce in Denmark. She was also named a visiting professor at the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Center (AMRC) while based in the UK. Laine has an MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Arizona and a bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations from the University of California Santa Barbara. Laine was born in Finland, spent her childhood in Sweden and moved to the United States in 1975, after which she has moved back and forth across the Atlantic numerous times. Her native languages include Finnish, Swedish and English, and she has studied French, Spanish and Dutch. She is married and has two daughters.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this insightful episode, Alex Rozenfeld sits down with Ekaterina Solovova, Head of EBRD in Albania, to explore her remarkable journey from post-Soviet Russia to leading economic development across emerging markets. With over 20 years of experience in development finance, Ekaterina shares how her early exposure to international institutions, a pivotal scholarship to Thunderbird School of Global Management, and her work in private equity shaped her career.The conversation dives into Albania’s unique history, its path toward EU integration, and EBRD’s critical role in supporting green energy, infrastructure, and private sector competitiveness. Katya also reflects on leadership, values, and the importance of seizing opportunities—both professional and personal.Whether you’re interested in economic development, international finance, or global leadership, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration.https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekaterina-solovova-6bb361/This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this special episode, Alex Rozenfeld sits down with Ambassador Larry André, a veteran of more than 33 years in the U.S. Foreign Service. From his beginnings as a Peace Corps volunteer in Senegal to serving as U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Djibouti, and Mauritania, Ambassador shares what diplomacy really looks like day to day: building trust, leading teams under pressure, and pushing progress forward in some of the world’s toughest environments. He reflects on Somalia’s hard-won gains, the human side of crisis work, and the lessons he now brings to the classroom at UT Austin’s LBJ School—especially the idea that you can love your country and still show up for the broader human community.https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-edward-andr%C3%A9-jr-8066a0245/https://so.usembassy.gov/thank-you-somalia/Ambassador (ret.) Larry E. André, Jr. retired from the State Department’s Senior Foreign Service in May 2023 after a 38-year career in global public affairs.  During his 33 years at the U.S. State Department, he served in a mix of leadership, policy, and management positions.  Ambassador André's leadership positions included Ambassador to Somalia, Ambassador to Djibouti, and Ambassador to Mauritania.  He also served as Chargé d’affaires, U.S. Embassy South Sudan; Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Tanzania; Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy Sierra Leone; Director, Office of the Presidential Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan, and Deputy Director, Office of West African Affairs.Ambassador André's management positions included Deputy Director, African Affairs Executive Office; Management Officer, U.S. Embassy Guinea; Administrative Officer, U.S. Consulate Kaduna (northern Nigeria); Deputy Management Counselor, U.S. Embassy Iraq; and Supervisory General Services Officer, U.S. Embassy Bangladesh.Ambassador André's policy positions (advocacy, diplomatic reporting and programs) included Political Counselor, U.S. Embassy Kenya; Political/Consular Officer, U.S. Embassy Cameroon, Economic/Commercial officer, U.S. Embassy Bangladesh, and Regional Environment Officer for East Africa covering 14 countries from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.  Prior to joining the State Department’s Foreign Service, Ambassador André worked in Chad for USAID as an institutional contractor assisting refugees returning home following the war with Libya.  Before that, he served both as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Senegal and as Peace Corps staff in Washington, DC. As an undergraduate, he was a researcher at the Rose Institute of State and Local Government in Claremont, California.  Ambassador André is a recipient of the Presidential Rank Award, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Joint Distinguished Civilian Service Award, Global Reporting Award, and several other honors.  In 2023, Amb. André was inducted into the American Academy of Diplomacy.   Ambassador André, his wife Ouroukou, and their sons Isidore and Amiel reside in Caldwell County, Texas.  His daughter, Ruhiyyih, joined the State Department Foreign Service in 2024. He has Cal-Tex roots: born in California then relocating to Fort Worth, Texas in the 8th grade. He speaks French.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Bo Lee, an entrepreneur who has navigated the complexities of Wall Street and ventured into the promising realm of clean energy. Bo shares his strategic insights and experiences, offering a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of building a business in the renewable energy sector. Join us for a conversation that delves into the intricacies of entrepreneurship, innovation, and the future of energy.https://akkuenergydevices.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-lee-22072194/A serial entrepreneur and investor, Bo started his career on Wall Street as an institutional FX and interest rate derivatives trader in New York and London with two leading global firms – Harlow Meyer Savage and Garvin Guy Butler, after earning his Master’s in International Finance and Trade from the renowned Thunderbird School of Global Management and MIS from from the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. He later joined American Express/First DataCorporation as the Director of Asia-Pacific Region, leading the company’s expansion into the Asia market, successfully developed an extensive payment product network throughout the region.Bo started his entrepreneurial pursuit in the year 2000, founded several companies, started venture investments in renewable energy and climate tech. He has owned and operated companies ranging from manufacturing of energy efficient modular homes to food process; invested in and helped scaling companies in the clean energy sector – thin-film PV modules manufacturing, hydrogen electric critical component engineering/manufacturing, electrification of heavy duty material handling devices, product/resource circular solutions, etc..Born in China, immigrated to the U.S. 40 years ago, he lives in Denver, Colorado. He sits on school boards, volunteered his time as a board member and treasurer of DCIS Foundation(Denver Center for International Studies). In his spare time, he enjoys reading, the outdoors and sports. He is an avid skier, golfer and tennis player.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode we sit down with Dennis Diokno, founder and CEO of FirstMed, to unpack a 30-year journey of building trusted healthcare for expats across Europe. From launching a single clinic in Budapest to expanding into Rome, Milan, and beyond, Dennis shares lessons on perseverance, customer care, scaling with culture, and knowing when to focus. The conversation also explores the power of the Thunderbird network, hard-earned entrepreneurial mistakes, and how AI and telemedicine are shaping the next chapter of FirstMed’s growth.https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-a-diokno-5a455a8/https://firstmed.hu/Dennis Diokno is a global healthcare entrepreneur with more than 30 years of experience launching and scaling international outpatient clinics. He is the Founder and CEO of FirstMed, one of Central Europe’s most recognized English-language private healthcare providers, serving expatriates, tourists, and international insurers.Dennis began his career in Moscow with the American Medical Center, rising from intern to Marketing Director and Operations Manager. He later became the first General Manager of the International Medical Center–Beijing, where he helped launch China’s first international joint-venture clinic. He then co-founded a healthcare venture in China, raising 3 million dollars in funding and advising U.S. healthcare companies on expansion into Asia.He moved to Central Europe to establish FirstMed in Budapest, developing the business plan, securing investment, and opening what is now a trusted healthcare provider entering its 26th year. Today, FirstMed operates clinics in Budapest, Rome, and Milan, with new locations planned for Paris and Vienna, alongside a pan-European telemedicine expansion designed to make international healthcare more accessible and scalable.Dennis serves as a Council Member of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hungary and is a Co-Founder and Board Member of the International Business Chamber in Rome. He speaks English and German, converses comfortably in Hungarian, and enjoys running, golf, Aikido, and travel.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this engaging conversation, I spoke with May Busch, a former COO of Morgan Stanley Europe and author of the book 'Visible'. We discussed May's journey from a challenging corporate career to becoming an entrepreneur and author, emphasizing the importance of visibility, relationships, and integrity in career advancement. May shared formative experiences from her upbringing, insights on leadership, and practical advice for navigating the corporate world without compromising one's values. The conversation also touched on the emotional impact of publishing a book and the significance of mentorship and support systems in personal and professional growth.https://thevisiblebook.com/T-Birdhttps://maybusch.com/T-Birdhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maybusch/May Busch works with good people who want to advance their careers and make the difference they’re meant to make in the world – without sacrificing their values in the process.After her own 24-year rise to Chief Operating Officer of Morgan Stanley Europe, she discovered the hidden shift that separates those who advance from those who plateau: it’s not enough to deliver excellent performance – you also need to make your potential visible to key decision-makers.As founder of Career Mastery™, May has developed a practical framework that helps mid-career professionals accelerate their advancement while staying authentic. Her approach has guided hundreds of professionals toward promotions, leadership roles, and greater career satisfaction.A Harvard College and Harvard Business School graduate, May serves as Senior Advisor for Leadership at Arizona State University and provides executive coaching globally. Her work proves that good people can finish first.May is the author of #1 International Bestseller, VISIBLE: How to Advance Your Career without Playing Politics, Selling Your Soul or Working Yourself into the Ground, and Accelerate: 9 Capabilities to Achieve Success at Any Career Stage.Everything May shares is what she wishes she’d had during her own journey.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, we speak with Jim Groo — a Thunderbird alumnus whose international journey is anything but conventional. From frying chicken in Connecticut to launching Ray-Bans in post-communist Europe and leading AI-driven MarTech out of Switzerland, Jim shares how embracing uncertainty opened doors across 50+ markets and six countries.With stories ranging from eating a questionable fish in Egypt to close a deal, to starting a band during the dot-com crash, Jim reflects on the personal and professional lessons that shaped his worldview. He discusses the power of good vibes in leadership, how a First Tuesday in Prague changed his career path, and why trusting your gut can be your most powerful business tool.https://www.linkedin.com/in/jgroo/https://msights.com/https://www.travelandnature.co/ https://www.instagram.com/jrgroo/?hl=enJim Groo is a global business leader whose career reflects the spirit of Thunderbird itself. A dual US-Swiss national, Jim has lived in six countries and worked with more than fifty global markets in industries as diverse as vision care, sunglasses, consulting, powersports, and marketing technology. No matter the challenge, Jim is at his best in the kinds of environments T-Birds know well—diverse, multicultural settings where strategy, creativity and entrepreneurial energy come together to build something new.Currently based in Montreux, Switzerland, Jim is currently the Managing Director and CRO of MSIGHTS, an innovative marketing technology platform that helps global brands turn fragmented media data into smarter, faster decisions. At MSIGHTS, Jim has driven expansion into Europe and Asia, forged global partnerships with Fortune 500 companies, and is now leading the launch of the next generation of AI-driven media analytics for enterprise clients around the world. His career reflects a lifelong passion for driving product innovation and buildingbridges across markets, teams, and technologies to increase business value. Thatpassion is the thread that connects his executive leadership today with the globalexperiences that shaped his earlier career.Before joining MSIGHTS in its early growth phase, his path took him from interningat the United Nations in Geneva, to expanding Ray-Ban and Bausch & Lomb vision care products in Central Europe and the Middle East, to leading international marketing for power sports at Bombardier Recreational Products—where he helped launch the iconic Can-Am Spyder roadster across 30+ countries.Fluent in French and conversant in Czech, Jim combines strategic vision with adown-to-earth, entrepreneurial management style that resonates across cultures. His multicultural family includes a Czech wife and two kids – one born in Belgium and the other in Switzerland. Outside of work, you’ll often find Jim enjoying the Swiss outdoors—hiking and skiing, riding a motorcycle through the Alps or behind a camera lens, capturing the beauty of life’s global perspectives.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, I spoke with fintech entrepreneur Sanghita Dey, co-founder and CEO of Solus Finance, a company making crypto derivatives more accessible through gamified, social trading. A Forbes 40 Under 40 honoree and former founder of YourMocha (acquired), Sanghita shares her journey from a small town in India to becoming a global fintech leader. She opens up about growing up with limited access to education, building resilience, navigating entrepreneurship solo, and how she secured her first investor via a bold Twitter DM and a one-day trip to Dubai. This episode dives deep into grit, innovation, and the future of financial education through AI.Solus Financehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/sanghita-dey-45531053/Sanghita Dey is a FORBES 40U40 Honoree, a 2x founder, board member and a fintech leader. 15+ years of experience at the crossroads of deep tech, finance, and TradFI, with a strong footing in regulatory auditThis podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Michael Johnston shares his fascinating journey from strategy consulting and private equity to becoming a hospitality entrepreneur. He discusses his early travels, the impact of his Peace Corps experience in Ukraine, and the challenges of navigating the Ukrainian economy while working in private equity. Michael also delves into the founding of Aspen Company, his vision for luxury boutique hotels, and the innovative strategies he employs to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.https://theaspencompany.co/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelajohnston/About Michael in his own words:I’m a hospitality executive and entrepreneur with a passion for building and scaling brands that blend design, experience, and operational excellence. My background spans strategy consulting, private equity, and hospitality, giving me a foundation for leading complex projects from vision to execution. After earning my MBA, where I focused on international business, I went on to advise global clients on growth and turnaround strategies during my time at KPMG and Deloitte. Over the past fifteen years, I’ve led businesses in six countries, with a focus on Europe and the U.S. I served as CEO of RHC, one of Eastern Europe’s largest hotel investment companies specializing in full service internationally branded hotels, where I developed nine hotels in nine cities and led the company through a successful exit at 22x EBITDA. Most recently, I founded The Aspen Company, a design-led hospitality investment and management company. To date, we have acquired and repositioned two iconic properties—Liss Ard Estate in Ireland and Abbaye de la Bussière in France—both members of Relais & Châteaux and recipients of top industry accolades. I’m also a Partner in our family-owned hotel investment and management company, Las Brisas Hotel Group, based in California, which has owned and/or operated seven hotels in California and Arizona. My approach combines hands-on operational leadership with strategic clarity and a strong investor mindset. I thrive in environments where creativity meets discipline — whether repositioning underperforming assets, building teams, or bringing new concepts to market. Alongside hospitality, I’ve also expanded co-working and lifestyle concepts, always with a focus on brand, community, and experience. I speak Russian and Ukrainian and am learning Portuguese and have lived in nine countries—an experience that has deeply shaped how I lead, collaborate, and build across cultures.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

Eduardo Donnelly spent nearly a decade helping build Uber in Latin America—from launching Uber Eats and scaling it 7×, to leading operations across 18 markets and overseeing half of the company’s global trips. But at the height of his career, he made a surprising decision: he stepped away. In this episode, Eduardo shares the story behind that choice, the lessons he learned from a failed startup, and how a powerful commencement speech—given by his late father at Eduardo’s own Thunderbird graduation—shaped his view on leadership, growth, and purpose. Now, as an executive coach, he’s helping others navigate their own inflection points. This is a story about building, letting go, and the values that carry us forward.https://paperbell.me/eduardo-donnellyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardo-donnelly/Read Eduardo's Dad Thunderbird Graduation speech Here! About Eduardo in his own words:I’m a growth-focused CEO, Executive Coach, and board advisor with over 20 years of leadership experience scaling businesses, driving operational excellence, and leading transformation in technology, mobility, and financial services. I’ve led multi-billion-dollar P&Ls, managed teams of up to 3,000 people, and delivered significant impact in fast-paced, competitive markets.Most recently, I led Uber Mobility LatAm, Uber’s largest region, overseeing 18 markets and 50% of Uber’s global trip volume. My focus was on continuing to drive growth while delivering very high levels of profitability, and also expanding Uber Moto by 230% YoY, making it one of Uber’s fastest-growing products. I spent 4 years running Uber Eats in Latam from launching new markets, to hyper-scalling during the pandemic and turning the business profitable. During my tenure the business grew 7x. I also spearheaded the acquisition and integration of Cornershop, adding billions in annual recurring revenue to Uber’s portfolio.Before Uber, I spent nearly a decade at American Express, where I built a $200M revenue business, doubled revenue within two years, and led an important regulatory remediation project that strengthened compliance and operational efficiency.Key Achievements✔ Led Uber’s largest region, overseeing 18 markets, 54M+ monthly users✔ Delivered top and bottom line results managing a multi-billion dollar P&L growing 70% in two-years off of an already scaled business✔ Drove 230% YoY growth for Uber Moto, making it one of Uber’s top global products✔ Expanded Uber Eats to 11 markets, significantly surpassing sales targets and delivering 7x growth ✔ Built a $200M business at American Express, doubling revenue in just two years✔ Served on multiple boards, including HSBC Mexico, Uber Pagos Mexico, and CornershopI’m passionate about building high-performing teams, unlocking business potential, and delivering measurable impact. I thrive in environments that demand both strategic vision and operational execution, and I believe in empowering people to drive sustainable, long-term success.I always enjoy exchanging ideas with leaders who are navigating growth, transformation, and market expansion. If my experience resonates with you, I’d love to connect.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Joe O'Dowd discusses his transformative gift to establish the O'Dowd Postdoctoral Fellowship in Ocean Diplomacy and Leadership at Thunderbird. He explains the significance of ocean diplomacy, the blue economy, and the importance of addressing environmental issues. Joe shares insights from his career in international business, his experiences living in Medellin, Colombia, and the lessons he learned throughout his journey. He emphasizes the value of situational awareness and the importance of giving young professionals the tools they need to succeed. Joe also reflects on his time at Thunderbird and encourages alumni to embrace the changes brought by ASU.https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-o-dowd-783263a/https://news.asu.edu/20250930-environment-and-sustainability-thunderbird-asu-launches-odowd-postdoctoral-fellowshipJoseph P. O’Dowd is a 1981 graduate of Thunderbird with a Masters of InternationalManagement degree who is retired in Medellin Colombia. He also holds an undergraduate degree in Asian Studies from California State University, NorthridgePrior to his retirement he served as President & CEO of a food safety company, worked as an independent business consultant focused on agrobiotechnology, and was Vice President Global Product Development and Supply/ R&D at Embrex Inc. prior to the company’s acquisition by Pfizer. Mr. O’Dowd began his international career at Solvay Animal Health where he served in various capacities including Vice President Sales and Marketing-Latin America, International Marketing Director, and Regional Marketing Director Asia/Pacific. From 2005 to 2007 Mr. O’Dowd served as Chairman of the Board of a non-profit corporation providing medical and health services to at risk youth in Wake County, North Carolina.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Maria Botta shares her unique journey from a multicultural childhood as the daughter of Cuban refugees to a successful career in film, television, and startup advising. She discusses the challenges of adapting to different cultures and languages, the lessons learned from her experiences in TV and film production, and her transition to helping entrepreneurs find clarity and success. Maria emphasizes the importance of communication, service, and creating a personal manifesto to guide one's career and life choices.https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariabotta/https://www.mariabotta.com/About Maria in her own words:Born in Rolla, Missouri to Cuban political exiles, I grew up as an expat kid, moving from country to country while my father worked as an engineer for a multinational. By the time I graduated high school, I had attended nine schools across three countries, learning in both Spanish and English. My mother instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and service early on, enrolling me in volunteer work before I could fully grasp its impact. Looking back, I was always destined to be a T-Bird.I studied Painting and Art History at Mount Holyoke College but quickly veered into the world of media and business. I got my start at a Univision affiliate in Miami, but within a year, I found myself on Madison Avenue in New York, diving headfirst into the world of advertising.My entrepreneurial journey began five years later when I became an independent contractor in film and television. I produced multicultural and global ad campaigns, documentaries, and feature films, and served as Executive Producer for the launch of several networks across Latin America. Storytelling, strategy, and global connection have always been at the heart of my work.In 2011, I earned my MBA (Executive MBA) from Thunderbird School of Global Management - Geneva, Switzerland, cohort. Long before remote work was mainstream, I built a location-independent business rooted in curiosity, cultural intelligence, and the belief that business can be a force for good. Since then, I’ve aligned myself with impact-driven founders and ventures around the world.As a fractional CMO and marketing strategist, I’ve led global campaigns for media giants, tech startups, and mission-driven entrepreneurs—over 200 and counting. I’m especially passionate about helping founders turn bold visions into sustainable, profitable businesses that can support their families and uplift communities.As a Latina entrepreneur, I’ve experienced the systemic inequities that many women and underrepresented founders face. That’s why I advocate fiercely for equity, generational wealth-building, and entrepreneurship as a path to freedom.I’m endlessly inspired by innovation, culture, and human potential. My passport reflects that—I’ve worked across continents and traveled to all except Antarctica (still on the bucket list!), and I remain driven by one central question:How can we reimagine business to better serve people and the planet?This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Bill Goodwin shares his extensive experience in leadership and business transformation, discussing his journey from a young worker in various jobs to becoming a CEO and eventually a leadership coach. He emphasizes the importance of operational speed, understanding customer dynamics, and building a strong company culture. Bill also reflects on his experiences with Walmart during an acquisition and offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses effectively.https://growth-optimized.com/https://coaches.scalingup.com/coaches/bill-goodwinhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/billcgoodwin/Before becoming an entrepreneurial leadership partner, business coach and leadership team developer, Bill spent 20 years running and transforming four different entrepreneurial organizations, ranging from 25 to 400 employees, $3 million to $180 million in revenue, and across all in different industries. Most recently, Bill took over as CEO of a telehealth company, significantly scaled the business over a couple of years, and completed a successful exit by selling the company to Walmart.Throughout Bill’s career, he has had a passion for helping founders and their leadership teams create sustainability, efficiency and growth within their organizations. Bill cut his teeth starting in straight-commission sales and leadership before launching his own training and development company. Within a couple of years, he sold the business to a large public company, and subsequently transformed that group into a healthy, performance-driven organization.Bill leverages his diverse and extensive experience, management and leadership best practices and Scaling Up certification along with straight up common sense principles to help other entrepreneurs, CEOs and executives achieve the results they want.Bill holds a bachelor of science in marketing from Colorado State University. He completed his master’s in business administration at the prestigious Thunderbird University’s MBA program.Originally from Colorado, with stops in New Jersey and Kansas City, Bill has lived for the last fifteen years in Arizona with his wife, three kids and two dogs. He loves helping others reach new heights, reading and learning something new every day, and derives a good portion of sanity from being active outside. On any given weekend he may be out on a 75-mile plus ride, long hike, or engaging in an epic event like hiking rim-to-rim in the Grand Canyon or participating in a 100-200 mile, one-day bike race.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Carter Looney shares his extensive experience as an entrepreneur, discussing his journey from a successful exit in 2010 to his current focus on helping businesses grow through mergers and acquisitions. He emphasizes the importance of building a company that can operate independently of its founder, the significance of hiring the right people, and the lessons learned throughout his career. Carter also reflects on his childhood influences, education at Thunderbird, and the current fundraising environment in Europe, while considering the impact of AI on business operations.TakeawaysCarter Looney emphasizes the importance of making a company independent from its founder.Hiring the right people is crucial for business growth.Skills can be learned, but cultural fit is essential.Understanding market needs is key to successful entrepreneurship.Focus on building a sellable business from the start.Financial clarity is a strategic pillar for growth.Carter advises younger entrepreneurs to slow down and understand people better.https://www.linkedin.com/in/bc-looney/https://www.albatris.com/B. Carter Looney is a results-driven entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience buying, building and transforming companies across the Industrial, IT and Financial Services sectors. Known for his hands-on leadership style and strategic insight, Carter has a proven track record of driving growth and value creation in both the U.S. and German markets. Carter’s career has been defined by his expertise in cross-border business development, turnaround strategies, and buy and build initiatives. Following a successful exit in 2010, he has focused on partnering with business owners to unlock value, secure investment, and grow through M&A. His international perspective and expansive network have made him a trusted partner in the private equity ecosystem. Carter holds an MBA in Global Management from Thunderbird, equipping him with the tools to lead and innovate in dynamic, international environments. His commitment to growth through M&A as well as transformative impact continues to position him as a valuable partner to investors, management teams, and stakeholders worldwide.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

When Laura Libman left a successful aerospace career, she didn’t plan to start a nonprofit. But a summer of field research in rural Mexico after graduating from Thunderbird changed everything. In this episode, she shares the incredible and inspiring story of how the Tia Foundation was born—from horseback surveys and homegrown health worker training to empowering women like Juana, who used her training to save lives and spark change in her village. Today, Tia Foundation is on track to reach one million people. This is a story about grit, vision, and what happens when you give people the tools to lead.Please support Tia Foundation Here:https://tiafoundation.org/donate-to-tia-foundation/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauralibman/As President of Tia, Laura Libman brings together her diverse background in global project management, knowledge engineering, and aerospace marketing with a deep commitment to social impact. After years working as a contractor, she earned a full-tuition scholarship to Arizona State University West, where she graduated summa cum laude in English. She went on to pursue her M.B.A. at Thunderbird School of Global Management, focusing on International Development with an emphasis on Latin America. While there, she received multiple scholarships, became a certified Global Mediator, and was honored with Thunderbird’s Distinguished Alumni Award for Global Citizenship.Her studies and field experiences—ranging from meetings with leaders at the World Bank, IMF, and USAID to observing international development programs firsthand—equipped her with expertise in social impact measurement, monitoring and evaluation, and building learning cultures. She now shares that knowledge with students at Arizona State University’s Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation.Beyond her professional work, Ms. Libman serves on the Board of Directors and as a Group Leader for The Washington Street Foundation, a Phoenix-based mentoring program supporting economically disadvantaged children. She is also an active member of The Border Trade Alliance, The Arizona-Mexico Commission, The National Hispanic Honor Society, and The National Society of Hispanic MBAs.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

Join us as we delve into the fascinating global marketing journey of Shawn Gallegly, a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience. From driving growth for iconic brands like Coca-Cola and Carlsberg to his adventures in Lagos and beyond, Shawn shares captivating stories and insights. Discover how his curiosity and strategic vision have shaped his career, and learn about the lessons he's gathered from working across diverse cultures and markets. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that spans continents and industries.https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgallegly/AboutAs a seasoned strategic marketing growth leader with 20 years of international experience in the beverage industry leading teams across the US, Europe, Asia and Africa, Shawn Gallegly has a proven track record of leadership driving brand growth and category expansion internationally.He has successfully led marketing strategies and commercial growth for global brands at Coca-Cola, Monster and Carlsberg, and worked with international companies across various industries, including beverages, natural cosmetics, frozen food, soft drinks and breweries. His expertise lies in strategic marketing, dynamic commercial growth, P&L leadership, brand portfolio optimization, brand positioning, on & offline communication & influencer strategy, launch strategy and planning, full stack strategic brand entry & launch planning, online communication, and commercial DTC and investment planning.As a Global Marketing Leader with a proven track record of structuring global alcohol-free-brew vision, brand innovation, and commercial execution strategies to accelerate company growth and revenue generation, He was recognized as a member of the Top 60 executive leadership team within the Carlsberg Group, where he established high-performing alcohol-free brew brands in the health and wellness category, generating $600M in revenue and achieving 52% volume growth. He is passionate about building and leading great teams to create engaging consumer experiences and build strong relationships with key stakeholders. He's always eager to learn new skills and make connections in the ever changing world of marketing. Shwan Gallegly holds an Executive MBA from IMD and an MBA from Thunderbird School of Global Management, with a focus on Executive Leadership and International Marketing Management.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

Rabie Zahri didn’t speak a word of English when he arrived in the U.S. at 18. Fast forward to today — he's the CEO and co-founder of Positon, an  AI platform transforming the M&A lifecycle from deal origination to post-close integration.In this episode, we dive into Rabie’s founder journey — from Casablanca to corporate development at Hewlett Packard, to building an AI-native startup backed by early believers and growing into the enterprise space.https://positon.ai/#companyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rabiezahri/Rabie Zahri is the CEO and Co-Founder of Positon AI, the first AI-native, cloud-native command center built to streamline M&A and investment workflows from deal origination through post-close integration. A former executive and corporate development leader at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Rabie blends deep technical expertise with a global business mindset to help dealmakers move faster, smarter, and with less friction.Originally from Morocco, Rabie came to the U.S. at 18, with little money, speaking little English, and working multiple jobs to put himself through school. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Engineering from Arizona State University and later his MBA at the Thunderbird School of Global Management. As part of the program, he trained in corporate finance, entrepreneurship, and regional business environments at Beida University in China and EGADE Business School at Tecnológico de Monterrey in Mexico, gaining hands-on exposure to Asia and Latin America’s evolving economic and deal landscapes.Away from the boardroom, Rabie is a sommelier who calls Napa Valley home, where he lives with his family. He speaks four languages and enjoys riding his road bike through the vineyards, collecting art, and spending time by the ocean. Inspired by the Thunderbird tradition of connecting across cultures, he continues to collaborate with leaders from around the world on ventures that aim to mentor new leaders, foster innovation, and make a lasting positive impact on society.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Marco Molinari shares his extensive experience in global business, highlighting his successful marketing campaigns at Goodyear, including a notable celebrity endorsement with Wayne Gretzky. He reflects on his upbringing in Sweden, his education at Thunderbird, and the lessons learned throughout his career, particularly at Goodyear and HNI Corporation. Marco emphasizes the importance of understanding local markets, the value of international business, and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a globalized world.https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcomolinari1/BioMarco Molinari is a true global business leader. Born in Sweden, he studied in the US and is fluent in English, German, Italian and Swedish. He spent 12 years in Europe before moving permanently to the US where he has spent 25 years in Fortune 1000 corporations with industry leading brands and product portfolios. He has worked in multi-channel consumer, commercial, OEM, retail and wholesale markets in North America, Latin America, Europe, China and India. He has operating experience in R&D, sourcing, manufacturing, and distribution in diverse B2B and B2C companies, including HNI Corporation, a $2.2B Fortune 1000 market leader in office furniture with manufacturing and distribution across North America and Asia, and sales in 50+ countries. He was a Senior Executive with the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, a global leader in the tire industry with50+ facilities and 1.2K repair centers in 20+ countries. He has managed P&Ls up to $1B and delivered growth in revenue, profit, market share, and corporate value through business creation, M&A, turnarounds, and operational improvement. Marco led aggressive expansion into India and China where he focused on select market development and product/brand differentiation against global competitors. He established the US export division and built strategic partnerships and distributor relationships in Latin America, the Caribbean, Middle East and South America. He was part of the executive leadership team that positioned HNI as one of Fortune’s “Most Admired Companies,” Forbes’ “Best Big Companies,” and Industry Week’s “Best Manufacturing Companies.”   Marco has lead and developed high performing teams across the globe. From the moment Marco was selected out of business school for an international management development program, he understood that all great things are accomplished through the recruitment, development, and leadership of high performance teams that are aligned around the strategic priorities of the company and successful execution across the globe. He works effectively at all levels as evidenced by his early appointment as Chairman of Deutsche Goodyear Holdings Supervisory Board that served as a liaison between corporate leaders and German Works Councils to influence positive labor relations and performance. Marco has an international education. He earned an MBA in International Business from Thunderbird, a BSBA in Marketing from St. Louis University where he is in the University Hall of Fame as a 1999 Distinguished Alumnus, and has an Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Aso Gymnasium in Sweden. He has taken advantage of additional leadership development initiatives by participating in Northwestern University’s CEO Perspectives Program, the Center for Creative Leadership, the Mahler External Executive Leadership Program; as well as the Kaizen Institute in Japan. Marco believes in giving back. He has served on the Advisory Board of the University of Iowa, College of Engineering, and the St. Ambrose University Business School Advisory Board.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this conversation, Suzanne Martens, founder of Adesse New York, shares her journey from a childhood in Pennsylvania to becoming a leader in the clean beauty industry. She discusses her entrepreneurial spirit, the challenges of starting her own business, and the innovative use of AI in product development. Suzanne emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and the role of cultural awareness in business. She also reflects on her personal growth as an entrepreneur and offers valuable advice for aspiring business owners.https://www.instagram.com/adesseny/?hl=enhttps://adesseny.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sroberta/BioI’m the Founder and CEO of Adesse New York, a luxury beauty and wellness brand best known for pioneering Skin Care for Nails™—a clean, high-performance approach to nail care and color. I launched the brand in 2015 after identifying a gap in the market for non-toxic, cruelty-free nail products that didn’t sacrifice quality or luxury. Today, Adesse is a leading global brand, featured on ABC’s The View, QVC, Univision, and the official nail care partner of Canyon Ranch Spa.Adesse is proudly aligned with major beauty subscription leaders like Ipsy, BoxyCharm, Birchbox, FabFitFun, and Alltrue, delivering millions of full-size products to consumers who crave performance-driven, clean beauty.My background spans over two decades in the beauty industry, with hands-on experience in product development at iconic brands like Estée Lauder, Revlon, Avon, and Elizabeth Arden. I’ve also held executive roles in media and private equity, venture capital and corporate consulting, bringing a well-rounded, strategic lens to brand building, AI driven product development & innovation and business growth.I hold an MBA in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management, and undergraduate degrees in Marketing and Computer Science, with a specialization in Business Systems Analysis. My ongoing commitment to innovation is supported by certifications in AI, Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Data Science Engineering (MIT), Global Finance, and French Language & Culture.Currently based in Scottsdale, Arizona, I’m passionate about wellness, clean beauty, and empowering the next generation of beauty entrepreneurs. When I’m not building the next innovation at Adesse, you’ll find me deep water diving, hiking desert trails, or on the Pilates Reformer.Let’s connect if you’re a fellow innovator, beauty founder, or investor looking to disrupt the beauty space.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

What happens when a childhood dream, a vintage convertible, and a tight-knit Indian family collide? You get the incredible journey of Daman Thakore—a businessman, tennis champ, and explorer at heart—who drove 13,000 kilometers from Ahmedabad to London in a 73-year-old car named Lalpari (Red Angel), alongside his father, wife, and daughter.In this inspiring conversation, Daman shares the origin of his love for vintage cars, the bedtime stories that planted the seed for this expedition, and the unexpected breakdowns—both mechanical and emotional—along the way. From fixing an axle in Croatia to receiving a letter from King Charles, Daman’s story is a testament to family bonds, resilience, and the power of following a dream, no matter how improbable.Join us for a ride across 14 countries, through rainstorms, breakdowns, border crossings, and heartwarming human connections—all in the name of joy, unity, and a little red car that could.https://www.linkedin.com/in/daman-thakore-8b5452b/https://www.instagram.com/mylalpari?igsh=dWJzMzJiZjZ3YWVj&utm_source=qrhttps://www.youtube.com/@mylalpariBioDaman Thakore is the Managing Director of Thakore Group, a diversified family-run business specializing in construction equipment and environmental services. An MBA graduate from Thunderbird School of Global Management and a former nationally ranked tennis player, Daman combines strategic leadership with a strong commitment to social responsibility. With decades of experience in business development and operations, he focuses on sustainable growth, people-first leadership, and long-term impact.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, Aquiles Gatas shares his incredible path from growing up in poverty in Venezuela to leading marketing at PepsiCo and managing billion-dollar investments at Koch Industries. He talks about his transition into entrepreneurship, launching ventures like Eco Wash and Centrum, and his latest company BizzMD, which helps small businesses thrive through remote CEO consulting.Aquiles also reflects on cultural challenges, lessons from failure (including opening a café just before the pandemic), and his advice for young entrepreneurs: start fast, learn as you go, and don’t wait for perfect timing.https://www.linkedin.com/in/aquiles-gatas-mba-ms-bs-5159a83a/https://www.bizzmd.com/With over 25 years of experience in marketing, business growth, and brand strategy, Acquiles Gatas worked with leading global brands like PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, Telecom Italia Mobile, and Chupa Chups, alongside successful entrepreneurial ventures such as Cenntrum, Rush International Beverages, and PagoPorti.He specializes in scaling businesses, optimizing multi-channel marketing, and developing go-to-market strategies for SaaS and cloud communications. His expertise in digital marketing, content creation, and data-driven insights has helped companies accelerate customer acquisition and drive revenue growth.​He holds and MBA from Thunderbird Business School, a Master of Science in Information Systems and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.​As a strategic and results-driven leader, He has successfully managed high-performance, cross-functional teams across Latin America, Europe, and the U.S. Fluent in English and Spanish, He thrives in diverse business environments, bringing innovation, efficiency, and growth-focused strategies to every project. This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this engaging conversation, Glenn Michel shares his multifaceted life journey, from his passion for Japanese whiskey to his experiences in martial arts and his transformative time at Thunderbird School. He discusses his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of starting a business, and the importance of intuition in decision-making. Glenn also emphasizes the significance of community involvement and philanthropy, while offering valuable insights into the financial advisory landscape and life insurance. His adventurous spirit shines through as he shares future travel aspirations, including climbing Mount Vinson in Antarctica.https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenmichel/https://www.advancedportfolios.com/BioWith over 29 years of international business experience, Glen provides advisory services in the areas of insurance, investments, pensions, business and estate planning.Deeply concerned with the impacts of taxation on his clients’ businesses, investment portfolios and retirement savings, Glen works closely with their tax and legal advisers to develop financial strategies that mitigate these impacts.In addition, his experience includes two distinct sub-specialties of estate planning: services directed to the needs of transnational residents with significant assets in the United States and special needs planning for physically or developmentally disabled children.Glen has either worked or traveled in over 25 countries and is bilingual English/Japanese. This diverse background gives him an added degree of business acumen that directly benefits his clients.Prior to starting his own firm, Glen worked as an international business consultant for Arthur Andersen and Deloitte & Touche, and was a financial services professional at New York Life and a MassMutual. His diverse education includes a BA from the University of Arizona, where he completed a significant part of his studies at Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka, Japan.  He also holds an MBA in International Management from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. Glen holds a California Life & Health Insurance License and is a licensed Investment Adviser Representative. This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

Andreas Sigl joins the show to talk about his global career in branding and marketing. He shares stories from working in Japan, leading Formula One sponsorships, helping launch Infiniti in Europe, and even advising the International Olympic Committee. Andreas also talks about writing his upcoming book and what young marketers should focus on in an AI-driven world. Packed with real stories and honest advice, this episode is a great listen for anyone interested in international business and brand strategy.https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreassigl/Andreas SiglGlobal Chief Marketing Officer | Brand Transformation Leader | ThunderbirdClass of 1995Andreas Sigl is a globally recognized marketing and communications executivewith over 25 years of experience driving brand transformation, strategic growth,and leadership alignment across industries including automotive, technology,FMCG, sports, and lifestyle. Known for his ability to reposition premium brands,lead large-scale digital transformations, and deliver sustainable growth, Andreashas held senior leadership roles at some of the world’s most iconic organizations,including Intel, Audi, Nissan/Infiniti, the International Olympic Committee, PhilipMorris International, and Stoli Group.As the former Chief Marketing Officer of Stoli Group, Andreas elevated thecompany’s marketing strategy to a global level, streamlining operations,amplifying creativity, and driving consumer-centric outcomes. Prior to that, heserved as Vice President of Global Media and Partnerships at Philip MorrisInternational, where he spearheaded brand engagement initiatives during thecompany’s transformation toward a smoke-free future. His career also includes adecade at Nissan, where he repositioned the premium challenger brand Infinitiand led the digital transformation of Nissan Corporation worldwide. Earlier in hiscareer, Andreas made his mark at Audi North America, where he upgraded thedigital consumer experience, and at Intel, where he helped pioneer thegroundbreaking Intel Inside Program.A dual citizen of Switzerland and Germany, Andreas has lived and worked acrossEurope, the United States, and Japan, and speaks four languages: English,German, French, and Japanese. His global perspective and cross-cultural expertisehave been instrumental in building high-performing teams and fosteringcollaboration across diverse markets.A proud graduate of Thunderbird School of Global Management (Class of 1995),Andreas credits the school with shaping his global mindset and professionalethos. He has maintained strong ties to the Thunderbird community, serving as aguest speaker for executive education programs and initiating partnershipsbetween Thunderbird/ASU and Philip Morris International.Andreas embodies the Thunderbird Mystique—a unique and enduring spirit thattranscends traditional educational bonds. For him, Thunderbird is more than aschool, it’s a global family defined by camaraderie, cultural intelligence, and ashared commitment to fostering global prosperity. The lifelong friendships,collaborative ventures, and shared values he gained as a T-bird have been aguiding force throughout his career.“The mystique isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live,”Andreas reflects. “Thunderbird didn’t just shape my career, it shaped who I am. Itgave me the tools to navigate complex global challenges, the confidence to leadin multicultural environments, and the humility to learn from every culture I’ve encountered. I’ll always be proud to call myself a T-bird.”This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

Join us in this captivating episode as we sit down with Nimrod Kovacs, a seasoned entrepreneur and wine enthusiast, who shares his incredible journey from growing up in post-war Budapest to becoming a successful businessman in the United States. Discover how Nimrod navigated the challenges of a communist regime, his adventurous escape to freedom, and his eventual rise in the corporate world. We delve into his passion for winemaking, the philosophy behind his craft, and his advice for young professionals. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, exploration, and the pursuit of one's passions.Buy Nimrod's wine at the: https://winedispensary.com/https://nimrodwines.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimrod-kovacs-43313420/Nimrod Kovacs is a retired international business guy. Born in Budapest Hungary, Nimrod Kovacs made his way to the U.S in his early 20′s. After working his way through school as a waiter, Nimrod ultimately earned an MBA in International Business from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. Nimrod then began a 35-year long career in arena’s including advertising, cable television, and telecommunications. He has worked in many locations around the world, and now spends the vast majority of his time in Budapest, Hungary. Nimrod is a peaceful man who enjoys philantrophy, nature, and a good glass of wine. Nimrod Kovacs after finishing high school and waiter school, escaped from his native Hungary via swimming from the current day Slovenia to Italy. After spending months in various refugee camps in Italy, he arrived in the USA in 1972. He started his new life as a dishwasher at a hotel moving onto becoming a waiter. After learning enough English, enrolled in college(University of Colorado) from where he graduated with a BS degree in 1976. After this, he moved to The Thunderbird School of Global Management in Phoenix, Arizona from where he received a Masters degree. He also spent a summer in 1987 at Stanford University, focusing on organization management. From Phoenix, Arizona he moved to New York to join Doyle Dane Bernbach advertising agency, where he worked on the American Airlines and Hershey Foods account. Nimrod then joined Grey Advertising where he worked on the General Foods business, followed by a stint at Wells Rich and Greene where he worked on the Ralston, Alka Selzer and the New York State businesses. In 1982, Nimrod moved to Colorado to become the Marketing director for United Cable Television Corporation from where he was quickly promoted to head the Marketing and Programming function. During this time, he had the opportunity to help develop several TV channels including The Discovery channel, E entertainment and QVC. Upon the sale of United to Tele-Communications Inc., Nimrod became a partner with the Schneiders in United International Holdings Inc. (UIH) and together focused on cable TV Greenfield investments, mostly in Europe. One of these investments was a joint venture between UIH, Time Warner and US West, called Kabelkom, which developed modern cable systems in Hungary while introducing HBO and Spektrum TV. Nimrod then was actively involved in the formation of another joint venture with Phillips called UPC. This company’s Central and Eastren European Arm under Nimrod’s leadership became the largest Cable Tv operation in the region with 3 million customers encompassing Poland, the Check Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia and Romania. In 2009 Nimrod retired from the corporate world  focusing on his long time passion, wines and now managing his winery in Eger, Hungary.This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Kellie Kreiser '04, a pivotal figure at Thunderbird Business School. From her unexpected start at Thunderbird to becoming the driving force behind Thunderbird for Good, Kellie shares her experiences of building impactful programs like Project Artemis, DreamBuilder, DreamCatcher and WE3A. Discover how her passion for global business education and her commitment to empowering women entrepreneurs have shaped her career and contributed to Thunderbird's mission of creating global citizens. Join us as we explore Kellie's remarkable story of innovation, resilience, and dedication to making a difference in the world.What this great video about Thunderbird for Good!Donate to Thunderbird for Good!Connect with Kellie on LinkedinKellie Kreiser founded Thunderbird School of Global Management’s public good initiative, colloquially called “Thunderbird for Good.” The initiative provides base-of-the-pyramid business education programs and capacity-building for social impact organizations. Kellie has been responsible for the design, fundraising, and implementation of women’s entrepreneurship training programs that have taught over a quarter of a million women across 180 countries for over two decades. Partners have included Freeport-McMoRan, the U.S. Department of State, the Inter-American Development Bank, the Small Business Administration, Goldman-Sachs, and others. Kellie holds an MBA in International Management with Distinction from Thunderbird School of Global Management and a BS with Honors and Distinction in Marketing from the Pennsylvania State University. She is also a PhD student in the Human and Social Dimensions of Science and Technology program at ASU’s School for the Future of Innovation in Society, studying the intersection between artificial intelligence and creativity.Connect with Alex on LinkedInThis podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

SummaryIn this conversation, Egor Musatov '04 shares his remarkable journey from growing up in the Soviet Union to becoming a successful director at Euronet Worldwide. He discusses the influences of his early life, the impact of cultural shocks, and the transformative experience at Thunderbird School of Global Management. Egor reflects on his career development, the challenges faced over 22 years at Euronet, and his aspirations for the future, emphasizing the importance of soft skills and networking in achieving success.Egor Musatov is the Managing Director for Central and Eastern Europe at Euronet, where he has spent over 22 years building and leading operations across multiple markets, including Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Born in the former Soviet Union and educated at Thunderbird School of Global Management, Egor brings deep cross-cultural insight and a resilient entrepreneurial mindset to international business. His career has been shaped by major geopolitical and economic transformations, and his leadership continues to drive growth and innovation in the global payments industry.https://www.euronetworldwide.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/egor-musatov-2b33826/This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

SummaryIn this conversation, Gbemi Disu '06 shares her journey from launching a new campus for George Mason University in Korea to her current role as Vice President for Global Expansion at Northeastern University. She discusses the cultural challenges she faced in Korea, the importance of building relationships, and how her Thunderbird education shaped her career. Gbemi also reflects on the evolving landscape of higher education, the impact of AI, and offers valuable advice for students and alumni navigating their careers.Gbemi Disu '06 is a global executive with over 18 years of experience in higher education, financial services, and energy sectors in several countries across North America, Asia, Africa and Europe. Disu’s global career includes working for fortune 500 companies such as HSBC Bank and Chevron Texaco and renowned research Universities. Her career includes working as Special Advisor for Global Engagement and Partnerships at Northeastern University where she supports strategic initiatives for the business school. She was also the inaugural Vice President for Global Network Expansion where she served as chief global strategist responsible for executing the institution’s growth strategy to expand beyond its fourteen campuses to new markets. Prior to Northeastern, she was the inaugural Executive Director of Carnegie Mellon University Africa where she provided administrative, strategic and operational leadership to drive the vision of educating future technology leaders and accelerating inclusive digital transformation in Africa. She also held multiple executive roles at George Mason University including the successful launch of their campus in Korea and was an assistant professor in the School of Business.Disu is a multilingual global citizen who advocates for global prosperity and gender equality. She actively participates in a variety of programs that improve the plight of women such as the Goldman Sachs 10,000 women initiative and actively serves as a mentor for marginalized communities. Disu is a founding member of the University Global Coalition in partnership with the United Nations which aims to increase the awareness and role of higher education institutions on the SDGs. She also founded the award-winning CSR program ThunderCares, serves on several non-profit boards, is a frequent presenter at conferences and publishes articles on education, sustainability and gender related issues globally.Disu received her Bachelor of Science in economics and international business from W.P.Carey School of Business and the Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University. She received her MBA in Global Management from Thunderbird School of Global Management, where she was the recipient of the Barton Kyle Yount Outstanding Graduate Award. She received her Doctorate in Global Leadership and Sustainability (H.C.) from London Graduate School.  Disu also holds multiple executive certificates from Harvard, Columbia and Oxford Business Schools. She is a Senior Executive Fellow from Harvard Kennedy School and a recipient of the prestigious Crans Montana New Leader for Tomorrow award.https://www.linkedin.com/in/gbemidisu/This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

SummaryIn this conversation, Doug Deardorf '84 shares his journey from childhood aspirations to becoming a CEO. He reflects on his upbringing, the influences that shaped him, and his experiences at Thunderbird School of Global Management. Doug discusses the importance of building relationships, the challenges of running a business, and the excitement of product development. He emphasizes the value of attitude in hiring and offers advice for young professionals entering the workforce, encouraging them to focus on community and contribution.Doug Deardorf is owner and CEO of NiSoft, a technology company providingsoftware and professional services to optimize plant operations in complexprocess industries including power generation and refining. NiSoft’s flagshipproduct, e3, is used by industry to enhance safety, compliance andproductivity. The company is based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and maintainsoffices in Singapore, Brisbane and Denver.Doug attended Seattle Pacific University and obtained degrees in bothBusiness and Psychology. While there, he also competed on the rowing team.He earned a Master’s Degree from the Thunderbird School of GlobalManagement, a unit of Arizona State University. Doug is committed toeducation and is a strong proponent of global trade. He serves on anAdvisory Board at Seattle Pacific University and is a member and former Co-Chair of the Thunderbird Global Alumni Network.Doug has held positions of increasing responsibility with technology andconsulting firms including Itron, PwC, S2 Systems, Indus International (now adivision of Hitachi Energy), NiSoft and Wausau Financial Systems (now aDeluxe company). In 2008, Doug returned to NiSoft through a friendlyacquisition. His leadership of NiSoft puts focus on addressing industry needswith innovation and attention to customer requirements. This involvesextensive travel throughout Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.Doug and his wife Rachel live in Castle Rock, Colorado, and enjoy theoutdoor activities the area offers including running, skiing, biking, and motorcycle riding.https://www.nisoft.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/deardorf/This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Negar Nadimi '05 shares her eclectic journey from Iran to France and then to the U.S., highlighting how her diverse background shaped her identity and career. She discusses her educational experiences in both French and American school systems, the cultural shocks she faced, and her transition from a corporate job to entrepreneurship. Negar emphasizes the importance of empowering women through her brand, Ragen Jewels, and offers valuable advice for young entrepreneurs about pursuing their passions and staying authentic.Negar Nadimi '05 is the founder and creative force behind Ragen Jewels, a jewelry brand known for its symbolic designs, vibrant spirit, and empowering message. Born in Iran, raised in France, and shaped by life in New York and Miami, Negar draws on a truly global perspective to craft pieces that carry meaning and joy. With a background in finance and international business from NYU and Thunderbird, she left the corporate world to pursue her passion for aesthetics, storytelling, and empowering women through wearable art. Her journey reflects resilience, creativity, and a deep belief in the power of good energy.https://ragenjewels.com/https://www.instagram.com/ragenjewelshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/negar-nadimi-15268aa0/This podcast is sponsored by Freshwater Investments