Global Grit Conversations - BLUE SAGE

In this episode, Tamara Abdel-Jaber explores women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship across the MENA region, with a special focus on Saudi Arabia. She reflects on her journey as an entrepreneur and mentor, discussing cultural transformation, opportunities within the Saudi business ecosystem, and practical strategies for entering and succeeding in regional markets. The conversation also highlights supporting women business owners, navigating diverse business environments, and emerging trends in consulting and impact measurement.

In this episode of Global Grit Conversations, Pamela Campagna interviews Aarthi, a technical program manager at Google, who shares her inspiring career journey from engineering to the tech industry. Aarthi discusses her educational background, including her decision to pursue a master's degree in international business, and how her curiosity and desire to learn have shaped her career path. She reflects on pivotal moments that influenced her decisions, such as choosing to work at a startup despite advice to seek stability, and the importance of having a supportive family during her transition to a new country and culture.

This conversation explores Hiba's transformative journey from a corporate marketing career to pursuing her passion for baking and establishing her pastry business, Mahiba. Hiba shares her experiences of navigating career transitions, the challenges of cultural immersion in Paris, and the impact of COVID-19 on her entrepreneurial journey. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, creativity in culinary arts, and the significance of honoring her roots through her business.

In this episode, Thomas Sullivan reflects on how resilience, cross-cultural experiences, and a commitment to impact have shaped both his career and life philosophy. From navigating personal setbacks to leading meaningful community- and education-focused initiatives, he shares lessons on courage, confidence, and growing through uncertainty.

In this episode, social entrepreneur Hadeel Anabtawi explores leadership and women’s empowerment across regional and cultural contexts. She discusses relationship-building, civic engagement, and what meaningful impact looks like beyond surface-level empowerment narratives.

In this episode, Areej examines the emotional and identity dimensions of leadership and ambition. The conversation centers on alignment, burnout, and the often-ignored inner work required for sustainable success.

Global Grit Conversations is a reflective podcast exploring what it takes to lead, grow, and stay grounded in an increasingly complex world. Hosted by Pamela Campagna, global advisor, professor, and founder of BLUE SAGE Consulting, it features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, executives, creatives, and changemakers working across cultures and industries.

These conversations reflect on how credibility is earned, challenges are faced, and values are shaped over time. Each episode explores leadership across cultures, career inflection points, entrepreneurship, and the human side of resilience. Guests share lessons from global work, moments of doubt, and what it takes to lead with integrity and purpose.

Designed for leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating their next chapter, Global Grit Conversations offers grounded insight and global perspective to carry into your work and life.

Subscribe for conversations that value depth, reflection, and grit with grace.