About Bouchra Rebiai

Bouchra Rebiai, Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Aurora Hikma, is a bilingual English and Arabic speaker of Algerian-Sri Lankan heritage. With roots in Saudi Arabia, she identified the need for quality Arabic content, leading her to establish Aurora Hikma.

Bouchra's journey expanded to Algeria, where she initiated a 'translate-a-thon' to nurture local talent. Her company now excels in providing translation and content services, uniquely empowering Algerian women through remote work opportunities. Bouchra, recognised by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, is a pioneer in bridging linguistic and cultural gaps in the UAE, KSA, and beyond.

About this Episode

Meet Bouchra Rebiai, the dynamic Founder & CEO of Aurora Hickma, on a mission to bridge cultures through language. Born in Saudi Arabia to a Sri Lankan-Algerian heritage, Bouchra's intercultural journey unfolds in empowering Algerian women, speaking at the Saudi Ministry of Culture, and tackling translation challenges in Algeria and Dubai. Discover her insights on translating the award-winning book Ancillary Justice, the pitfalls of automated tools, and her advocacy for nuanced communication.

Get ready for a lighter side with a quick game show and the grand reveal of her 'Greenpill Moment,' breaking free from societal expectations. Join the captivating journey across cultures, one word at a time.

Quotes

9:06 – While different cultures look at things differently, fundamentally, the basics are the same

10:52 – Cultural awareness is not about finding differences; it's about uncovering the rich tapestry of similarities that connect us all.

11:02 – The more we can connect with people, the more we can surpass any language barriers or any other barrier that holds us apart

13:10 – Translation is all about creativity, and it’s one step lower than writing

14:40 – I wanted to share valuable content with people who didn’t speak English

Useful Links

Website: https://aurorahikma.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bouchra.rebiai

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bouchra.rebiai/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/brebiai

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/

Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Mary Justine Todd

Mary-Justine Todd, founder and executive director of Shamsaha, holds a Master’s Degree in International Public Health and International Studies. A PhD candidate in International Human Rights Law, she's acclaimed for her leadership.
Winner of EY’s 2018 Middle East Winning Women Award, Afkarech’s 2018 Woman of the Year, and the 2019 International Gold Prize Stevie Award, she is recognised for the Shamsaha app, revolutionising crisis support for women in the Middle East. Formerly an aid worker, Mary-Justine specialised in gender-based violence for global NGOs like The International Rescue Committee. Her passion and innovation drive impactful humanitarian change.

About this episode

Embark on a riveting journey with Mary Justine Todd as she shares the origins of Shamsaha, a pioneering crisis response program transforming lives in the Arab Middle East. From a transformative journey in Senegal to the tech-savvy breakthroughs of Shamsaha’s mobile app, Mary unfolds a narrative of empowerment, cultural sensitivity, and the profound impact of international public health.

Tune into this episode as we delve into the heart of Shamsaha’s vision, shaped by the dynamo behind it, and discover the transformative power of empathy and technology in the realm of humanitarian aid. This episode is a beacon for aspiring women entrepreneurs, laden with insights and inspiration.

Quotes

1:23 – The most important thing is to support each other and be compassionate and passionate at the same time 
7:44 – We don’t give advice. We give information because I am in no position to tell you or anybody else what is best for you and your family
8:25 – We want to ensure that everybody knows that everybody has biases
9:18 – Simply be kind, compassionate and open to everybody who reaches us for support
9:40 – Success looks different to everybody
24:22 – Even when the path is hard, as long as it’s the right path, the universe usually comes back around to support

Useful Links

Website: https://maryjustinetodd.com/about/
LinkedIn: https://bh.linkedin.com/in/mary-justine-todd-a5ba7151
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shamsaha_me/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maryjustinetodd/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShamsahaMENA/

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Graeme Carling

Graeme Carling, a self-made entrepreneur and visionary leader, defied the odds by transforming from a school leaver with no qualifications to one of Scotland's largest private residential landlords. Together with his wife Leanne, they have not only excelled in property but also diversified into acquiring and consolidating businesses across sectors.

Graeme's expertise and insights make him a sought-after investor and non-executive director in international markets. Through The Carling Group, their family investment office, they hold interests across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and the USA. Graeme is also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting charities like Caudwell Children and JDRF.

About this Episode

Ever wondered how a school dropout builds a property empire? In the latest Matrix Green Pill podcast, meet Graeme Carling, a self-made entrepreneur and one of Scotland's largest residential landlords. His journey from no qualifications to business success is a testament to tenacity.

He shares his candid story, including the turning point inspired by 'Rich Dad, Poor Dad.' Graeme discusses quitting corporate jobs, innovative property strategies, and their shift into business acquisitions. Their expansion into the UAE and tackling UK housing shortages are also highlighted. This episode is a valuable guide for aspiring entrepreneurs and a fascinating peek into Graeme's journey with The Carling Group.

Quotes

3:36 – I couldn't see myself being just an employee. Within me, I wanted more, but I just didn't know how to get there.

4:06 – I started my own business in the early 2000s. And they were really steep learning curves – I had three failed businesses by the time I had to go back to mainstream employment.

6:00 – It took me a few years to be able to restart my own business, but what I did in the meantime was immerse myself in financial education.

13:47 – Setting goals is like a journey. Once you reach one, just aim for the next. Keep moving forward, one goal at a time.

25:52 – If there was one thing I could go back in time and change, I would have started earlier than I did. Starting earlier meant I would fail earlier and therefore learn earlier. 

Useful Links

Website: https://www.thecarlinggroup.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graemecarlingofficial/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/graeme-carling/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-carling-group

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GroupCarling

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Leila Masinaei 

Leila Masinaei is a dynamic serial entrepreneur and the visionary founder behind the META Cinema Forum, the Middle East's largest Cinema Convention, and the META Film Fest, the UAE's pioneering independent international Film Festival. As Managing Partner of the Great Minds Group, comprising Event Management and PR/Communications agencies, Leila is dedicated to transforming the META Cinema Forum and Festival into a global cinema hub, elevating the creative economy's impact on the region's GDP.

With an extensive leadership background in both public and corporate sectors, Leila holds an MBA in International Marketing. She is deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders, making META Film Fest her paramount endeavour.

About this Episode

Imagine if a young woman from Dubai could revolutionise the world of entertainment. What would that journey look like? Meet Leila Masinaei, a serial entrepreneur who transitioned from medical research to shaking up the regional film scene with her Meta Cinema Forum and Film Festival. Laila's unique platforms have triggered a seismic shift in the industry by creating a shared space for business stakeholders to discuss cinema as a business.

In this episode, we also unpack the Meta Film Festival, a platform Leila created for students to showcase their work, obtain hands-on experience, and potentially secure employment. From her humble beginnings to her 'Greenpill Moment' - the defining point in her career, Laila's journey is nothing short of inspiring. 

Tune in to learn how this multi-tasking entrepreneur is daring to break barriers and disrupt industries.

Quotes

16:09 – The exchange of ideas and interaction with people who are experts in the industry is the only way you can hone your skill

18:46 – Nothing comes without hard work, courage and the guts to stand up when you get knocked down

19:17 – Failure is not something that should be looked at negatively

19:24 – Be persistent, believe in yourself, work hard and learn from failures

21:34 – I don’t push myself beyond my brain capacity

Useful Links

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leilamasin/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-masinaei-034a0034/

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/

Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Diggy Singh

Diggy Digvijay Singh, known simply as Diggy, is a seasoned yoga teacher and holistic practitioner with over three decades of experience. As a qualified physiologist specializing in Yoga, Corrective Movement Therapy, and Clinical Healing, Diggy's unique approach seamlessly integrates the mind, body, and spirit.

His deep understanding of human anatomy, movement, breath, and sound techniques goes beyond conventional yoga practice. Diggy's journey from athlete to coach, agriculture practitioner, and unconventional teacher has led him to Dubai, where he founded Tattva Yoga Ashram. With a focus on nature-based yoga, Diggy fosters physical, mental, and emotional well-being, offering a transformative experience for his students.

About this Episode

What if you could transform your life through the power of sound? Welcome to our enlightening conversation with Diggi Digvijay Singh, a pioneer in holistic well-being and a master of the transformative power of sound healing. Drawing from his rich Vedic warrior family background and his own fascinating life journey, Diggi enlightens us on his unique worldview that is inspired by sacred geometry and the teachings of his grandfather. 

As we delve deeper, Diggi uncovers the magic behind sound healing as an emotional and spiritual transformation tool, sharing his humorous anecdote of being slapped by a monkey along the way. He emphasizes the importance of listening to one's inner truth before embarking on a spiritual journey. He unveils the secrets of the Tattva Yoga Ashram through a fun-filled rapid-fire round.

Don't miss out on this soul-stirring session with Diggi Digvijay Singh if you're on a quest for a holistic approach to transformation and well-being.

Quotes

4:09 – The science is catching up to spirituality and not the other way around 

5:49 – I grew up chanting the mantras, being humble, and being nice

7:13 – Nature is all about how can you be in the present moment

9:17 – I don’t want to put too much energy which is a waste, only those things which are needed, I do it

10:04 – I was able to represent spirituality in a very scientific manner

17:13 – Listen to your own truth to understand your gut feelings. Be one with your own self.

17:24 – Just start being conscious about whatever you are doing in the present moment before you enter into the spiritual realms

20:28 – We believe that a woman is more powerful than a man 

Useful Links

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/tattvayogaashram/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/diggytattvayoga/

Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/diggy-digvijay-singh-founder-4b935847/

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

 About Sohaib Masood

Sohaib Masood is a visionary entrepreneur and the Master Franchise Partner of Pepe’s Piri Piri in the GCC region. With a profound passion for food ignited during his university years in London, Sohaib's journey began as a devoted fan of Pepe's unique flavors and quality. Leaving behind a career at Ernst & Young in 2011, he ventured into the restaurant industry by opening Pepe’s first branch in Birmingham with his family.

Managing a successful chain of seven branches in the UK, he took his expertise to Dubai in 2019. Recognizing a market gap, he introduced Pepe’s to the UAE, rapidly achieving over 30% year-on-year growth. His commitment to sourcing local produce aligns with the UAE's economic initiatives. Sohaib envisions Pepe's as a leading family dining restaurant, blending flavors with affordability, and is set to spearhead the expansion of over 30 branches by 2030, establishing a culinary legacy in the region.

About this Episode

Got a taste for some spicy storytelling? Our guest, Sohaib Masood, knows a thing or two about that. From being a regular customer to steering Pepe’s Piri Piri's expansion in Dubai, he adds more than just a dash of flavor to this episode. Listen closely as Masood takes us on his journey, from the moment he first tasted the unique flavors of Pepe’s in the UK, to introducing the brand to his brother, eventually making them the first franchisees in the Midlands. He also reveals the challenges that spiced up his path, making the journey as hot as the brand's special sauce!

But don't let your palate dry out just yet. The second half of this flavor extravaganza sees Sir Hype spilling the secret sauce of Pepe’s strategic growth in the Middle East. Discover how a robust supply chain, dynamic leadership, product evolution, and consistent taste turned Pep’s into a well-loved brand in Dubai. 

 It's going to be extra hot!

Quotes

2:05 –  When I tried it for the first time, it was beyond my expectations! From that day itself, I was really a very consistent, loyal customer of Pepe’s Piri Piri.

5:24 – When the wheel is already created, you don't need to reinvent the wheel. All you have to do is take the concept and put it in a new market, a new area, and do the hard work in terms of selling the product.

11:52 – Consistency is number one. Once your product clicks with consumers and is successful, all you need to do is focus on consistency.

12:38 – If you do not evolve your brand or evolve your products with different offerings, it generally starts to deteriorate

13:56 –  If you have a unique product, something that is different within the market, be confident, and take the risk.

13:56 – You only succeed when you take a risk.

17:48 – As a family business, I think the most important thing is to stick together.

Useful Links

Website: https://www.pepes.ae/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pepesuae

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/pepesuae

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sohaib-masood-b172191a4/

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Gaziza Yespayeva

Gaziza is a remarkable embodiment of tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit. Hailing from Kazakhstan, her journey from a challenging childhood to a thriving businesswoman is a testament to her unwavering determination. At just 17, armed with a mere $20, she delved into online commerce, sowing the seeds for what would become her own online empire.

Despite early setbacks, Gaziza's resolve remained unshaken. Today, she stands tall as the visionary founder of a flourishing online store, showcasing not only her business acumen but also her keen marketing insights.

About this episode

Get ready to be inspired by our latest episode with Gaziza Yespayeva! Starting her entrepreneurial journey with a mere twenty dollars, Gaziza has built a business empire from scratch, her fierce determination and resilience serving as her fuel. She shares the story of her humble beginnings in Kazakhstan, where she took her first step into business at just seventeen. But it wasn't all smooth sailing - Gaziza tells of her trials and tribulations, including her first major business setback, and how these experiences have shaped her into the formidable businesswoman she is today.

Gaziza's entrepreneurial spirit didn't just stop at her homeland. She ventured into the international business arena, setting her sights on developing a global chain of music schools named "Not Schools Drums". Gaziza discusses her challenges and successes in navigating the competitive business landscape in Dubai and getting potential investors on board. Gaziza's narrative underscores the potential of resilience and resourcefulness, inspiring others to believe that immense success can be achieved even from the humblest beginnings.

Quotes

5:04 – I decided that I needed to sell the goods produced by ourselves in our country myself, and not to depend on suppliers

 8:28 – We have invested all of our funds in the opening of new stores at that time

 9:35 – We decided that it is the time for us to produce clothes by ourselves

 11:54 – I decided that I should make something bigger, made some bigger chain international

 17:28 – Always know the value of the people in your life

 17:33 – When hiring a person, it’s important that the international values and the principles correspond to the set of qualities that is necessary for a particular position

 18:45 – Everything in the world is unpredictable, your business too.

 18:50 – I set a goal, go towards it but feel secure, and then my main  advantage is that easily adapt to situations and continue on my way

 20:54 – If there’s a hurdle on your way, pick a different route. Just don’t stop.

Useful Links

Website:http://gazimag.tilda.ws/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gazi-yespayeva-783649286/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/gazizka_mag

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Sherry Khan 

Sherry khan is a visionary entrepreneur, the driving force behind Anideos, a thriving company in the digital landscape. Captivated by the industry trends, he let his creative side take over and started his own company, Anideos. With years of valuable experience in the US market, he is well-versed in industry trends and possesses a keen understanding of business strategies. 

About this episode

How often do you sit back and marvel at the power of art in the digital world?

Sherry Kahn, the entrepreneurial powerhouse, joins us for an engaging conversation that's bound to leave you inspired. Sherry takes us through his fascinating journey from being a business analyst to a successful business owner, narrating his fearless foray into the world of entrepreneurship and the unique perspectives that guided his decisions. He passionately explains why Gen Z finds videos to be the ideal medium of communication and emphasizes the importance of creating designs that are visually dynamic and captivating.

In the second half of the episode, Sherry shares his nuggets of wisdom on finding balance in life and leaving a lasting legacy. Sherry’s focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance is indeed a lesson for all entrepreneurs out there. He advocates the importance of self-care, even if it’s for 15 minutes a day, and the role of a supportive family in achieving success. 

Tune in for an exciting conversation with Sherry!

Quotes

5:03 – I found the right team for the right mindset that clicked with mine

 5:16 – It’s not really about you or me, it’s about what we can contribute into world of the digital realm of art

5:27 – If we can contribute something that can be remembered even after we are gone, that’s what we’re looking for

10:53 – We should really be aware of what’s going on in the market

 12:44 – I have learned from people who have been successful

 12:49 –  It’s important to take time to process things, and make the right decisions

 13:10 – Save for the bad times

 13:28 – Investors are the spine of any business

 13:40 – You need to hire reliable and specialized resources that you think can take your company towards growth and really match with your vision

 4:14 – Do not give up!

 14:54 – Recognizing achievements, celebrating diversity, we create a culture of creativity that promotes everyone to really present their input

 17:21 – Work-life balance is important

 17:31 – Give yourself sometime; create peace within yourself.

 18:16 – Make sure you have a cash bill forecast for at least the next two years

 18:33 – Don’t be a boss. Work with your team. Be a leader

19:48 – Do not stress too much! Everything’s gonna be okay. At the end of the day, just do what you love, follow your passion and learn from others’ mistakes

Useful Links

Website:https://www.anideos.com

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/anideos.animatedvideos/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anideos.animations/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-khan-/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/anideoscom

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Natalia Sycheva

Renowned for her inventive approach to crafting business solutions and her flawless history of conceiving groundbreaking products and services, Natalia wears many hats: business management executive, coach, investor, and philanthropist.

In 2019, she garnered the prestigious title of Entrepreneur Middle East's "Woman of the Year" in the category of "Enabling Startup Ecosystem," a testament to her remarkable achievements. At Dubai Chamber, Natalia has taken the helm in shaping the growth and allure of tech enterprises, solidifying her pivotal role in the expansion landscape.

About this episode

Get ready for an exciting story in conversation with Natalia Sacheva, a business virtuoso, coach, investor, and philanthropist. Her expedition starts in Siberia, catapulting her to Dubai's dynamic tech world, where Natalia left an indelible mark as the strategist extraordinaire at Dubai Chamber. Brace yourself for Natalia's riveting tales of conquering challenges and relishing victories during the global expansion of the Dubai Chamber. Entrepreneurs prepare to glean priceless strategies and insights for tech triumph, underlining the art of leveraging any market's ecosystem.

Tune in for an episode pulsating with entrepreneurial acumen, wellness enlightenment, and indelible anecdotes.

Quotes

1:21 – I was born to the family, to the community with the ability of great cultural tolerance and diversity

4:19 – If you look at challenges and base them on the experiences that other entrepreneurs have been facing, that's an excellent insight.

(4:34) – It’s important to leverage the ecosystem that exists in the market. Fantastic initiatives, mentorship circles, mentorship programs, meetups it’s all there. You just have to embrace it.

(12:19) – If we are about to do retreats, who does need retreat and why? And do the retreat work as a concept? And I started investigating, looking into the actual studies and academic research. 

16:36 – After returning from the the retreat, they will be a better version of themselves

19:56 – It's wonderful to have these energies. Every individual participant is bring their own unique perspective of the world, coming with their own stories. You can see how although it’s a small group, we build a community and learn from each other. 

20:06 – Success means an action, peace and growth

2:39 – Support the businesses, help them to navigate the challenges in the local market, in the international market

5:24 – Make sure that you do reach out to the community for support  

14:37 – We structure everyday within the retreat that will enable the participants to practice those new habits and see healthy habits

15:45 – To feel more energized, more focused and strong and resilient after they’re coming back from the experience

16:54 – Retreat is a treat!

20:24 – Take care of yourself first!

20:41 – Never take on the retreat your partners

Useful Links

Website:https://www.nsycheva.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/natalia_sychev/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/nsycheva

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review

About Dr. Stephan Barden

Dr. Stephan is a Coach, Mentor & Author specializing in recognizing, evaluating, and generating top-level leaders and corporate cultures.

With his comprehensive background as a coach, mentor, author, and CEO in the media and technology sectors, Dr. Barden has a wealth of insights on leadership, power, and success to share! 

About this Episode

Get ready for a bewitching chat with Dr. Stephen Barden, a seasoned leader with an incredible story to share. From his early broadcasting days in South Africa to his rise in British media technology ranks, and ultimately his pivot towards a fulfilling role as a mentor and coach, Stephen's story is one that inspires and challenges. His honest reflections on how his career influenced his values and ethics, and the importance he places on introspection, self-awareness, and realignment, will leave you reflecting on your own path.

In our conversation, Stephen turns the conventional leadership playbook on its head. Stephen believes in leading from the center, understanding the organization, and capitalizing on the existing team's strengths.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on leadership, join us as Stephen shares his wisdom and experience and reveals his three words that describe a good leader: alert, context, and partner. 

Quotes

6:03 – Go and work with people who are leaders and share some of my experience

6:10 – Start learning from other leaders as well

6:35 – Think about how successful leaders really work. What they are like under fire?

8:24 – They saw their childhood as a direct threat to where they were now

9:08 – The world is so much for powerful than me that I can do nothing

10:03 – The basic assumption I called The Navigational Stance, the stance you take, people take as they approach their world

10:58 – What you’ve learned that early stance, that you take as to learn as a child is learned. It’s not genetic or anything like that. It’s learned.

12:19 – Power is never over

14:07 – Lead from the center make sure that you stop thinking of yourself as the top of the pinnacle

14:52 – Ensure that you have a sense of reality about what’s going on in the organization

15:42 – Look at the linkages. Make sure that you have a very wide level of doing

16:06 – Go in and work with the people that you have, and then you can hire new people that you like

18:50 – Be ware of the world around you. Beware of the opportunities and people around you so that you can be a true leader. 

19:07 – Don’t just look at the text… understand the context. 

Useful Links

Website:https://www.stephenbarden.org

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenbarden

The Matrix Green Pill Podcast: https://thematrixgreenpill.com/
Please review us: https://g.page/r/CS8IW35GvlraEAI/review