Business and Bubble Tea

In this episode, we speak with Phillip An, co-founder and CEO of Homebase, a game-changing company in the realm of home finance.

Join us on this enlightening episode, Phillip discusses how Homebase is revolutionizing property financing in Southeast Asia, a market influenced by unique challenges like rapid urbanization and affordable housing. Backed by Y Combinator and Good Water Capital, Homebase aims to redefine home finance through ownership and financial inclusion in the region.

Phillip An shares his journey from startup hurdles to success, all while navigating the complexities of the Vietnam property market, PropTech innovations, and capital markets. Learn about the role of Home Loans in GDP growth, how Real Estate Technology is contributing to investment opportunities, and why Entrepreneurship is at the core of Financial Inclusion in Southeast Asia. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an investor eyeing the Southeast Asian real estate landscape, or just curious about the future of home financing, this episode offers invaluable insights you won't want to miss!"

In this episode, we speak with Joseph Lam, an entrepreneur from Hong Kong who is the co-founder of Wubuntu. Journey with us behind the scenes of Wubuntu's innovative initiatives, such as internship programs connecting students to South African organizations and art exhibitions that bridge artistic expressions from around the globe. We learn how Ubuntu is reshaping perspectives through exciting initiatives like internship programs and cross-continental art exhibitions. Get ready to be inspired as he unveils his vision for the future, including a game-changing summit aimed at propelling South Africa's Northern Cape province. If you are intrigued by the immense potential of cross-cultural connections and their role in driving personal growth and societal change then join us as Joseph takes us on a journey into the world of cultural exploration and opportunity creation.

In this episode, we speak with Dr Shancen Zhao, a research scientist at BGI Genomics. BGI Genomics stands as the foremost global provider of comprehensive precision medicine solutions, catering to a clientele spanning over 100 nations and collaborating with over 2,300 medical establishments. Harnessing the power of state-of-the-art sequencing and bioinformatics advancements, we deliver adept and cost-effective clinical molecular diagnostic solutions and high-throughput sequencing (NGS) research services to our esteemed customers. Throughout the episode, we learn how BGI's influence extends beyond research, as they provide essential technical support and solutions that contribute to national economies and individual well-being, including the realms of precision medicine and health. Unveiling BGI's recent research endeavours, particularly the fascinating study of crop dynamics using rice as a case in point. Uncover the captivating journey of rice from its origins as a wild plant to its cultivation as a vital staple in our diets. Dr Zhao sheds light on the evolution of rice, unravels its historical narrative, and explores how it transformed into a staple food source through meticulous cultivation processes. Tune in to gain unique insights into BGI's multifaceted contributions, the synergy between life sciences and economics, its innovative business model, and the captivating story of rice's evolution from the wild to our plates. Don't miss this engaging episode that bridges the realms of science, history, and agriculture.

In this episode we interview Deeni Al Qadasi, the Co-founder of WeOrder Express. Have you ever wondered how to verify goods imported from China or how you can guarantee continued quality of supply with third party sellers? WeOrder Express is looking to resolve this information asymmetry opening a new marketplace where suppliers are verified with a local team to guarantee support to cross border trade. There remain cultural differences and attitudes to international contracts and pitfalls that must be recognised before engaging in international trade. We discuss the issues small businesses face operating globally and the need for so-called ‘trade facilitators’. What do we mean by contracts versus trust based relationships? What happens when it goes wrong? How should we view international trade contracts in different cultural contexts?

In this episode, we speak with Victoria Khu, the co-founder of SCOLAR Network, SCOLAR Network is a vibrant community and organization dedicated to empowering young leaders from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries. With a staggering population of over 1 billion youth aged 18 to 35, the SCO region encompasses countries such as China, Russia, Central Asia, Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Throughout the episode, Victoria highlights three essential elements for success: staying informed about trends and adapting to technological advancements, maintaining perspective on the bigger picture and purpose, and embracing a fearless attitude towards failure and growth. These principles shape SCOLAR Network's work and serve as valuable lessons for aspiring young entrepreneurs in China and beyond. Join us as we explore the evolution of SCOLAR Network and its profound impact on empowering youth. Learn how this passionate community fosters cross-cultural collaboration, provides educational opportunities, and encourages young leaders to pursue their dreams and objectives. Tune in and embark on a journey of inspiration and empowerment with "Empowering Youth and Cultivating Dreams: The Journey of SCOLAR Network."

In this episode, we speak with April Long, Co-founder of Pyxis, a remarkable social enterprise revolutionizing financial services for global businesses, focusing on Africa and the Afro-Asian corridor. 

April sheds light on the vast diversity of Africa, consisting of 54 countries, each with unique regulations, governance structures, and currencies. She emphasizes the varying problems faced by different countries, contributing to the fragmented nature of the market. Pyxis offers seamless financial services, empowering global business in Africa's dynamic landscape. April highlights the importance of localization and understanding unique structures for entrepreneurs seeking to enter African markets. While language and cultural barriers may not be as challenging as China's, she suggests exploring joint ventures, external strategic partnerships, and other adaptable approaches to navigate the market.

Join us in this insightful conversation as we delve into Pyxis's profound impact on society while empowering global businesses across continents. Discover the story behind Pyxis and April Long's relentless pursuit of financial inclusivity, transformative change, and navigating the complexities of the African market and beyond.

In this episode, we speak with Joalin Lim, Founder and CEO of Agape Life. Established in 2016, Agape Life is redefining international cooperation and bridging borders with innovative healthcare solutions. In our podcast, we give you a front-row seat to the real-world strategies and tactics they use to make a difference in the healthcare industry. We delve into why healthcare trends like preventative medicine and elderly care are becoming game-changers in Asia. Learn how the rise of the health-conscious population in their 30s and 40s is driving the demand for these services and how foreign companies can capitalize on this opportunity. Join us in this exciting discussion about Agape Life's mission to usher in a new era of global healthcare, where quality medical solutions are accessible to all, regardless of geographical barriers. Be part of the conversation and witness the evolution of healthcare firsthand. Tune in!"

In this exciting episode, we speak with Jonathan Cox, CEO of Roolife Group; we explore the path from the secrets to launching and thriving in China, taking you on an extraordinary journey from ground zero to unparalleled success. We demystify the Chinese business ecosystem, sharing firsthand experiences, expert insights, and practical tips that will empower you to thrive in this vibrant market. From engaging with government bodies and regulatory agencies to forming collaborative partnerships with local distributors and market influencers, we guide you through the intricacies of executing your FMCG venture in China.

In this episode, we speak with Laurent Le Pen, CEO and found of Omate; we explore the incredible potential of using smart devices to effortlessly run many services at the touch of a button or a simple app command. At the forefront of this innovation is Omate, a groundbreaking company dedicated to transforming how we interact with technology. Omate specializes in designing and developing smart devices that act as powerful hubs, connecting you to a world of services and possibilities. With their cutting-edge technology and intuitive interfaces, Omate devices empower users to streamline their lives and save valuable time and effort.

In this episode, Robert Wu, CEO of BigOne Lab, explores the complex and ever-evolving world of Chinese consumers.

Did you know that different cities in China have unique cultures, and languages and dialects across the land have vast differences? We're here today to give you an inside scoop on how the Chinese market works. How enterprises are constantly innovating to meet the demands of Chinese consumers to stay ahead of the game. We have all the latest trends and insights on China's dynamic consumer landscape.

So join us for an exciting journey into the heart of China's consumer evolution, and let's explore one of the world's most exciting and dynamic markets together!

In this episode Will and Roberta discuss campus life at PHBS in Shenzhen and introduce a new set of cheeky videos on experiences in China.

What is it like to study in China?

What to expect with arriving here?

What's life like in Shenzhen?

With over a decade experience in China, having learned Mandarin in Beijing, Angel started ActivForever during the covid pandemic. He has successfully built a community of fitness lovers in Beijing. We asked:

How do you build a community in China?

How do you eat healthy in China?

What are the benefits of outdoor group training?

In this episode, we explore the secrets to succeeding within China's business culture and the high-context culture that the Chinese use. Unlike the low-context cultures of Europe, where communication is usually explicit and direct, China relies heavily on indirect communication and nonverbal cues to convey meaning. We explore how this high-context culture affects business practices, negotiations, and relationships in China. We also examine the unique challenges that foreign businesses face when entering the Chinese market and provide insights and strategies for success. Join us as we unlock the secrets of China's high-context culture and discover the keys to thriving in one of the world's largest and most complex markets.

In this episode, we speak with founder and CEO Rohit Chikballapur about his journey from Engineer to Entrepreneur about the potential of Southeast Asia, considering the rapid growth seen in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries. We touch on how Rohit initially made his first steps in establishing a foundation for success. We also look more in-depth into why Indonesia might be one of the best Southeast Asian countries for business opportunities.

In this episode, we explore the journey of an Expat involved in the tech industry in China. Mauro Rubin began his journey in Italy but ended up in China and becoming CEO and founder of CoAI and JoinPad. He noticed the cultural differences between the West and China. How the population adapted quickly to technological changes, something that would never be seen in Europe. Lastly, we talk about how a foreigner might find success in being successful as a tech entrepreneur in China.

In this episdoe we explore the journey of a laowai 老外(foreigner in Chinese) who set out building a community to help and coach people on navigating life in China. Connecting community members, and closing the gap between locals and foreigners. Finally we discuss how graduates can prepare themselves for success in China.

🔍  What got you excited about China? 

🔍  What is it like working in tech as an expat in China?  

🔍  How do you succeed in a Chinese Tech company?

In this episode, we explore how the youth in China manage their identity and incorporate their lives with the old existing culture.  It is clear that China changes at a much higher rate compared to the western world, so what does this spell for the different generations and espcially the young?  

William and Roberta ask:  

❓ The differences between the generation cohorts?

❓ How do the culture in China compare to the West? 

❓How the young Chinese are dealing with the modern pressures and expectation?

In this 2 part interview we speak to Rich Robinson about his journey to the east, where he encountered the radioactive dumpling. Rich Robinson spoke about his entrepreneurial journey in China. How an American travelled to China in the 90s and became a serial entrepreneur. We touched on the marvels of China during the rise of the communist party and how far China has from since the industrial revolution.

In this 2 part interview we speak to Rich Robinson about his journey to the east, where he encountered the radioactive dumpling. Rich Robinson spoke about his entrepreneurial journey in China. How an American travelled to China in the 90s and became a serial entrepreneur. We touched on the marvels of China during the rise of the communist party and how far China has from since the industrial revolution. 

Roberta and William interview Giulia Zappon, the Co-Founder of Changsha Eurasia to discuss what differences exist in exporting to new first-tier cities in China and why this is the next big move. What is it that tier 1 cities no longer offer and why cities like Changsha are the next big areas.

🔍 How do you export to China?  

🔍 Why would you use an agent to support your business operations?  

🔍 What's the difference to doing business in new first-tier cities?

William and Roberta interview Sudharsan Srinivasan, Managing Director at Meindoc, which uses 3D based technology to improve patients' understanding of surgical interventions and facilitate communication between doctors and patients. We ask:

🔍 What problem is Meindoc solving? 

🔍 How does Meindoc's technology work? 

🔍 How do we help patients overcome the fear of surgery? 

🔍 What are the differences in accessing the medical space in India vs Germany?

In this episode, we explore how tech startups support farmers through use of technology and innovation.

William and Roberta interview Clive Mathe, co-founder of Kurai which is using innovative image capturing and drone technology to support farmers in South Africa monitor crops and isolate areas of concern aross large areas of land. We ask: 

What is it like to set up a company in South Africa?

How does the technology work?

Where do you see AgriTech moving in the future?

What advice would you give to would-be founders in South Africa?

Do you like wine? Italian wine? How do you sell it abroad?  

Will and Roberta interview Lorenzo Loiudice, the founder of Cina in Cantina: 

🔍 How to sell wine in China?

🔍 What does Cina in Cantina do? 

🔍 What is the market appetite for selling Italian wine in China? 

🔍 What trends are we seeing?  

Italy is by far one of the largest wine producer in the world. With 20 wine regions Italian wine is complex and the span is vast. Cina in Catina promotes and provides services Italian wineries to selling wine in China.  ​

We interview Kelly Klifa, Co-founder and Sasha Tory, Chief Growth Officer of Ally Health on the next evolution of Medical Technology. Ally Health is creating an on-demand Clinical Care Solution:   

How is medicine changing in the UK? 

What solutions can be solved out of hospital?  

How can you grow your Healthcare Startup in the UK?  

Why is the UK a good market for MedTech Startups?

William Bowen and Roberta Lazzeri meet Waleed Khalid, the founder and CEO of Oxford Talks as we discuss the new age of Web 3.0. Waleed has a background working for TEDx and has launched his own media platform in Oxford with the key aim of "ideas worth doing". We focus on the implications of Web 3.0 for podcasters: 

What has changed around spoken media? 

What makes a great podcast? 

How can we win trust and an audience?

Business and Bubble Tea interview Liu Shuo, the founder of MitUP Biotech, a start-up company dedicated to inventing and improving fermentation technology to brew natural juice-based, gluten-free, low calories, and low-no alcoholic sparkling drinks and beverages. It owns new brands 走岂清酿®, 走起®, MitUP®,and etc. William Bowen and Roberta Lazzeri ask:   

What is the make or break answer to FMCG in China? 

How can brands be ready for China? 

What trend differences are we seeing in the FMCG space in China?

Vishal Harishchandra Kewalramani having started out founding Elite Models, one of the largest and most prestigious model agencies in the world. He is now based out in Singapore and the founder of Ocean Fintech and the Valkin Group.

Maybe you're wondering: 

What makes a founder investable? 

Where are the growing investment opportunities?

What distinguishes Ocean FinTech's strategy?

Graziana Maellaro is founder and Managing partner at Vōx Communication. She is a luxury rooted professional and as consultant she works for key industries players developing best practices into the Asian and European market. William Bowen & Roberta Lazzeri discuss key strategies for success in China with Graziana. What differences exist from North and South in China? What has failed and what has worked? How can you reach your audience and community? 

We are proud to announce that Business and Bubble Tea has finally launched. This is the official announcement of the BBT launch where we will now be bringing our listeners video content, improved quality of audio as well as many more amazing founders, entrepreneurs and industry shakers to join us over a Bubble Tea and discuss business!

Nicko Widjaja is the Founding CEO of BRI Ventures, a venture arm of Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI), the country’s largest bank focusing on micro and small medium businesses. An early tech investment pioneer, he has a career that spans over 10 years in venture capital, corporate transformation, and the startup ecosystem. He was formerly the Founding CEO of MDI Ventures, a Telkom Indonesia backed VC, with investments in over 10 countries. Under his leadership, MDI Ventures became one of the most profitable venture capital firms in the region with three unicorns, two international IPOs on the ASX and TSE, as well as seven trade exits in just five years since its inception.

Prior to MDI Ventures, he launched one of the first Indonesia venture funds in 2010 called Systec Ventures. He joined Telkom Indonesia’s Indigo Creative Nation as Managing Director before he co-wrote the investment thesis for MDI Ventures in 2014. He also works closely with various state-owned companies, advising on digital transformation initiatives across different sectors and industries.

Currently, he holds two positions as the Chair of Permanent Committee of Investment and Partnership in the Indonesia Chamber of Commerce (KADIN), and is an Honorary Board Member in the Indonesia Venture Capital Association (AMVESINDO)

Philippe Jutras is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the University of Oxford and founder of the Plant Cell Institute. A collaborative and open research institute currently comprising over 60 scientists globally with the goal of improving collaboration in life sciences. Pursuit of collective knowledge, and collaborative projects are at the heart of his strategy to find revolutionary solutions for problems facing today’s societies. His vision is to create the most impactful community-driven projects through knowledge sharing and educational initiatives.

Sujay is the COO and Cofounder of Lilu. Lilu builds smart tech products to make early motherhood more efficient, pain-free and stress-free.  He previously cofounded a non-profit called Jyothi in India, a safe platform for survivors of harrassment and rape to submit anonymous reports and provide support through self-defense workshops. He has spent 2 years in Shenzhen, China, vetting and working closely with manufacturers to bring the Lilu Lactation Massager to the hands of mothers who need it.

Federico is a PhD candidate in Clinical Medicine at the University of Oxford. His research focuses on the genetic engineering of stem cells for the study of neurodegenerative disorders. He is the National Director of the Activator for Nucleate UK. Nucleate is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering future biotech leaders by educating academic trainees. Federico is coordinating Nucleate’s flagship Activator program. The Activator is developed to help support the formation of life science companies. The program is designed to help overcome obstacles faced by graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and others in the university ecosystem who are starting companies.

Hamza Ayub, PHBS alumnus and Forbes 30 under 30 Europe is the Chief Marketing Officer of Dunkin Switzerland and the founder of AnW Studios (an advertising firm that worked with A-list celebrities and top-tier brands globally such as Akon, Multi-Platinum Producer B.Howard, the Jackson family, Liverpool legend: Ian Rush, Monster, Trivago, Manchester United Foodball Club and many more). His book:´The Art of Web: The Secret of Digital Marketing´ was a best seller on Amazon in the categories of PR and Marketing in 2020.

Kevin Palmieri is the founder and co-host of the Next Level University podcast. Early in his life, Kevin found “success”, but after a brush with suicide he realised he wasn´t living a life he truly wanted. He became passionate about self improvement and decided to make it his purpose in life to impact as many people as possible by becoming a role model podcaster and speaker. He has succeeded to make his podcast one of the top 100 with over 1000 episodes and listened in over 125 countries. 

Runlin Yip is the Founder of Tappo, a Super App that is safe, secure and economical for all to use in the everyday digital lifestyle. Tappo integrates a wide variety of service in one single app such as fiat & crypto payments, personal finance management, food, hotels, flights, cashback and more. He leads the strategic vision for product design, development, and commercial distribution.

Charles Cormier is the CEO at TopLeads and a serial entrepreneur who started his first agency at age 19. He currently runs multiple businesses while traveling the world. We interview Charles on what it takes to launch a lead generation company and unfair competitive advantage. 

Eleanor Manley is the co-founder of Metta Space which is seeking to help companies prevent, report and resolve workplace misconduct with a focus on gender equality and inclusion. Passionate about Data Science, she firmly believes that ML applications can have broader, positive repercussions on gender equality and women's roles in our societies.

Ming Qiao Zhao is the CCO & Co-founder at Cauli, the UK’s first tech-enabled reusable food & drink packaging solution provider, designed to fight single-use waste. Her passion for entrepreneurship and sustainability began at the age of 14 when she set up her first business selling recyclables collected from schoolmates to recyclers.

After a stint of running her football school in China, she headed business development at Arabia Monitor, a boutique economic consultancy firm in London for 6 years with clients across EMEA including some of the world’s largest multinational corporations, banks and funds. Ming speaks English, Mandarin and Arabic, and holds degrees from University of St Andrews and the London School of Economics, majoring in International Relations and Politics.

Paul Mathew is a Conservation Biologist and bartender who has been working in the drinks industry for 25 years. He is co-owner of The Hide, The Arbitrager and Demon, Wise & Partners in London, and has worked extensively with bars and brands around the world, including 7 years based in Asia.

He launched Everleaf non-alcoholic aperitifs in January 2019 to meet demand from his guests for great non-alcoholic options with all the flavour, complexity and texture of the best spirits in the world, using his knowledge of plants to help deliver that. Since then the brand has grown to three flavours and a range of ready to drink cans too. Everleaf is now available in eight countries and growing.

Paul has a background in Conservation Biology, having worked at environmental charities including Fauna & Flora International for almost 10 years prior to opening his first bar. Sustainable sourcing of ingredients with consideration for the social and environmental impacts of their use is an important part of his passion for plants.

Elizabeth Batalla is the founder of the Institute for Achievement and Excellence which helps women level up in 9 life areas to achieve their professional and personal transformation goals to secure leadership roles and business opportunities. She also helps companies better educate and promote their female talent through self-paced masterclasses, tailored programs, and coaching.

In many industries, women are still under-represented and find it challenging to get the sponsorship they need for their professional advancement. After 30+ years in the corporate world and mentoring many along the way, Elizabeth decided to package her expertise and experience. She offers masterclasses, tailored programs and coaching that are based on The Three Forces in Achieving Excellence – a framework containing  9 life areas that are crucial for achieving personal and professional fulfilment.

Dr Michele Veldsman is a senior research scientist at Oxford University with a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience from the University of Cambridge. She is a freelance consultant for tech startups, providing neuroscientific insights into optimising brain and mental health. She is the founder of playroom - an app to simplify managing family life and make meaningful and quality connections to other families.

In 2021, Nelson joined Entrepreneur First's 16th London cohort, where he met his cofounder, Saaras Mehan. Together they launched a lawtech startup, Kula. Kula helps lawyers to build their own law firms, and break free from corporate law. It is backed by Y Combinator, Entrepreneur First, along with leading angel investors including former executives from Microsoft.

Iru Wang is the COO & Co-founder of MoBagel. MoBagel is a vendor of AI/ML platform technology. It provides AutoML software to enterprises such as Chunghwa Telecom, Wei Chuan Foods, and has received a total funding of $21M USD.

Iru herself is also a guest lecturer of the National Taiwan Normal University Department of Technology Application. She specialises in computer architecture, design thinking, and company operations. She has represented MoBagel in various competitions and has won multiple awards including first prize at the Computex InnoVEX Contest, 6th prize at the Salesforce Dreamforce $1M Hackathon, first prize at the Plug and Play Internet of Things Expo and placed fifth for the Slush Asia Pitch Finals.

She studied Electrical Engineering at National Taiwan University, and received her Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University. She worked at NVIDIA as a Hardware Engineer before beginning her serial entrepreneur journey where she founded Orrzs in 2013 then later MoBagel in 2015.

Dr. Senmao Xia is an Associate Professor in Management. He serves as the Vice President of the Chinese Economic Association (UK/Europe). Senmao holds a few editorial roles (e.g. guest editor, managing editor, associate editor) for leading journals, including, Technovation, the International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, the International Journal of Technology Management, the International Journal of Chinese Culture and Management, and Frontiers in Psychology. In addition, he acts as the strategy advisor for a few leading firms in London. Dr Xia’s research has been published in many global leading academic journals and he is the Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy in the UK.

Lorenzo Sani is the co-founder at Shopscribe. Shopscribe enables the 1.3M local shops in Europe – like bakeries and cafes – to become part of a subscription network of local businesses. In 2020, an estimated 800 billion dollars was generated by small independent retailers in Europe. Shopscribe allows customers to subscribe and get extra credit to spend at any of the shops on the platform - offering the flexibility to use subscription credit at a single shop, or to discover new places on Shopscribe! Finally, he was recently been announced on the list of Forbes 30 Under 30.

Pandu Raharja-Liu is a Co-Founder & CTO at Panakeia. Panakeia provides comprehensive ‘omics' molecular analysis of patient tissues significantly faster and cheaper than other methods. They are creating AI-technology to provide biomarker information directly from H&E-stained tissue images. Panakeia offers results in minutes rather than executing multiple physical tests over several days or weeks.  Their offerings enhance both clinical diagnostics and drug development.

Mark Wong is an entrepreneur, ex-sommelier and the Founder of Impossibrew. Longing for the relaxing sensations of drinking after a health scare that made him cut alcohol, he founded an alcohol-free challenger startup with a biosciences professor to create a beer alternative that is enhanced for better mood and relaxation. His enhanced beers have since won a Gold Medal at one of the largest beer competitions in Europe against full-ABV beers. He is also a Great British Young Entrepreneur Finalist for 2021 and more recently Impossibrew successfully raised on Crowdcube.