The Nearshore Cafe

Discover the art of building resilient remote teams as we sit down with Paul Karaffa, the CEO of AdminNow, Hawaii's leading Salesforce consulting firm. Paul takes us through his inspiring journey from being laid off to establishing a formidable remote workforce, navigating the unique challenges of Hawaii's geographical isolation. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into his strategic approach to international hiring and the lessons learned from aligning with the continental U.S. to manage a growing team effectively. This episode shines a light on the untapped talent pools in Central America, particularly El Salvador, and offers a front-row seat to the contrasts and synergies between U.S. and Salvadoran team dynamics.

In addition to team-building strategies, Paul shares his innovative vision with Admin Now, an IT support marketplace that reimagines how technical support is delivered. Imagine a world where IT support is as accessible and immediate as booking a ride with Uber. Through engaging stories, including culinary adventures with pupusas in El Salvador, Paul paints a vivid picture of how flexible work habits and real-time support can revolutionize the customer service experience. Whether you're a leader looking to expand your team globally or a tech enthusiast curious about cutting-edge IT solutions, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Tune in and explore the evolving landscape of remote team management and IT support through Paul's expert lens.

🔗🔗Connect with Paul Karaffa 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Paul Karaffa | LinkedIn
Company: AdminNow

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

What if traditional banking as we know it is on the verge of a massive transformation?

Join us on the Nearshore Cafe podcast as we promise an eye-opening look into the fintech revolution in Latin America with our guest, Javier Borkenztain.

Discover how this mechanical engineer from Montevideo turned fintech entrepreneur is challenging banking norms with his company, Fiter. As a leading implementer of Apache Fineract, Fiter is spearheading the global adoption of open-source core banking solutions. Javier takes us through his inspiring journey from engineering to fintech, detailing the growth and evolution of the fintech ecosystem in Latin America since 2017, and highlights the strategic innovations that have positioned Fiter as a game-changer in the industry.

Our conversation with Javier also unlocks the secrets to managing a high-performing global remote team and the untapped potential of connecting Latin American talent with U.S. companies. We discuss the critical role of fostering autonomy, trust, and diversity in international teams, and the strategies that help bridge geographic and cultural divides. Javier offers a fresh perspective on the power of AI tools to streamline productivity and communication, highlighting how small teams can achieve remarkable efficiency on a global stage.

Tune in to explore how cross-border collaboration is reshaping the business landscape and learn from Javier's insightful experiences and innovative strategies.

🔗🔗Connect with Javier Borkenztain 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Javier Borkenztain | LinkedIn
Company: Fiter: Overview | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Trading the bustling streets of New York City and the tech-driven energy of the San Francisco Bay for the serene beaches of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, CEO of Honeit Software, Nick Livingston, shares his family's audacious leap into a remote work lifestyle. Unravel the captivating tale of how subletting their California home led to a vibrant new chapter amidst Costa Rica's waves and welcoming community. Nick brings to life the charming small-town aura of Guanacaste and the harmonious coexistence of locals and expats, reminiscent of his Midwest roots, offering a refreshing perspective on the rich experiences awaiting those seeking a change of pace.

In this enlightening episode, we explore the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, propelled by the winds of remote work and the integration of AI. Drawing on Nick’s rich career at MTV Networks and Viacom, he delves into the critical role of communication and early evaluator involvement in recruitment success. Discover how Honit, a platform birthed from Nick's vision, captures the essence of candidates beyond mere resumes. As we navigate through the impact of COVID-19 on hiring strategies and the rise of Costa Rica as a tech hub, Nick's personal insights reveal the shifting economic dynamics and the burgeoning influence of Latin American recruiting firms in sourcing talent.

🔗🔗Connect with Nick Livingston 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Nick Livingston | LinkedIn
Company: Honeit Talent Solutions: Overview | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Discover the transformative journey of Mati Barbero, a trailblazer in Latin American venture capital, as he joins me, Brian Samson, on the Nearshore Cafe podcast. Mati's experiences from Argentina to Miami, coupled with his work at Impacta, 500 Startups, and Pigma, reveal a dynamic interplay of travel, work, and networking that shapes the regional startup ecosystem. As we explore the evolution of entrepreneurial opportunities post-COVID, Mati provides invaluable insights into how Latin American founders are thriving in fintech and impactful enterprises through increased global connections and remote work opportunities.

Together, we navigate the vibrant landscape of Latin America's tech ecosystem, celebrating the energy and innovation bubbling up during Tech Weeks in Argentina, Colombia, Chile, and Mexico. With personal anecdotes and firsthand experiences, we explore the role of regional ambassadors in nurturing growth and community development, featuring insights from Madi Barbero on regional advocacy's pivotal role. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned investor, the wealth of knowledge shared by our guests promises to inspire and guide those eager to tap into the immense potential of Latin American startups.

🔗🔗Connect with Mati Barbero 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Mati Barbero | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Unlock the secrets of nearshore software development with our special guest, Ruben Santana, president of Plugg Technologies. Discover why Latin America, and Mexico in particular, is becoming the go-to destination for companies seeking software solutions. We promise insights into the dynamics of this regional shift, from the perspective of businesses transitioning from traditional offshoring hotspots like Eastern Europe and India. Learn how Latin America’s educational institutions and seasoned professionals are keeping pace with this growing demand, and explore the potential effects of recent U.S. political changes on nearshore opportunities. While labor supply constraints and market maturity are pushing pricing trends upwards, the region remains a competitive choice.

In a detailed conversation, we explore the strategic benefits and challenges of building Salesforce teams in Mexico, offering a glimpse into the process of matching client requirements with local talent. Ruben and our hosts weigh the advantages of nearshore solutions, particularly regarding time zone alignment and cultural affinity, even when these options might come with a higher price tag than offshore alternatives. Mexico City emerges as a standout location for its vibrant talent pool and cultural allure, promising companies a high quality of life for their teams. We also reflect on the skills that will be in high demand by 2025, ensuring that listeners are well-prepared for the evolving tech landscape.

🔗🔗Connect with Ruben Santana 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Ruben Santana | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Unlock the secrets to thriving in the tech industry as we approach 2025, with insights from Evan Meyers, the Director of Sales at Plugg Technologies. Immerse yourself in the world of AI startups and the rise of nearshoring in Latin America, as Evan shares his optimism about AI's revolutionary impact on industries like construction.

Discover why Austin, or "Silicon Hills," is becoming a magnet for AI and SaaS startups and how the demand for roles such as natural language processing and machine learning engineers is leading companies to adopt a global hiring strategy. We'll guide you through emerging tech hubs in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, offering a glimpse into the innovation fueling these regions.

Explore why US tech firms are eager to tap into Latin America's potential, where cultural and time zone alignments provide seamless collaboration benefits. With cost savings of 30% to 40%, nearshoring presents a compelling proposition, balancing affordability with quality.

Hear personal travel tales that challenge stereotypes about vibrant places like Brazil and Mexico City, illustrating the rich cultural diversity that awaits.

Dive into captivating stories of startups thriving through nearshoring, including a stealth startup founder's success in Austin, and foresee a future where international businesses increasingly turn to Latin America for their tech talents.

As we look ahead, anticipate a wave of companies embracing nearshoring as a strategic advantage in global talent acquisition.

🔗🔗Connect with Evan Meyers 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Evan Meyers | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Mexico City isn't just another stop on the map; it's a vibrant metropolis that's defying expectations at every turn.

Have you ever thought of a city blending the vastness of Los Angeles with the dynamism of New York? Well, that's exactly what Mexico City delivers, and more.

Join me, Brian Samson, as I navigate through its expansive financial district, historic corners, and lively downtown. The city's green spaces are a revelation, proving that media portrayals of chaos and dust are profoundly misleading. From tree-lined streets to innovative pedestrian walkways, Mexico City is an urban paradise thriving with natural beauty.

Beyond its picturesque streets and welcoming atmosphere, Mexico City is emerging as a significant hub for business and talent. Major US companies like IBM, Oracle, and Google have recognized its potential, investing heavily in this bustling city. As I recount my personal experience of exploring the city at over 7,000 feet above sea level, you'll discover why Mexico City's modern infrastructure and rich talent pool make it a prime location for business opportunities. Whether you're planning a visit or eyeing new ventures, listen in to uncover the surprises and potential that Mexico City holds.

🔗🔗Connect with Brian Samson 🔗🔗
Linkedin: Brian Samson | LinkedIn

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

What if Latin America's tech ecosystem was the next frontier for global tech innovation?

Jaime Sotomayor shares his insights on how the region is bypassing traditional methods with a fintech boom fueled by the unbanked population, and how B2B SaaS is leading the charge. Our conversation reveals the evolution of Latin American founders who are now setting their sights beyond local markets to make a global impact, reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape with a bold new mindset.

Discover the untapped potential of Latin America's tech talent and investment opportunities, as Jaime paints a picture of regions like Arequipa rising as tech hubs with skilled developers ready to thrive in the international arena. We delve into the challenges, such as language barriers, and the necessity of soft skills for success in remote international roles. With foreign capital viewing Latin America as a blue ocean of opportunities, there's no better time to explore this promising landscape. Experience the technological leapfrogging happening as businesses embrace mobile-first, AI-driven solutions, and celebrate the vibrant cultural offerings of Lima, Peru, from its culinary delights to the stunning locales of Miraflores and Cuzco.

🔗🔗 Guest Information 🔗🔗
               Jaime Sotomayor
LinkedIn: Jaime Sotomayor | LinkedIn
Company: Worthit

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Unlock the secrets of integrating AI into Nearshore operations with our latest episode featuring Tony Teshara, a seasoned Nearshore CEO. We promise you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of the strategic shifts startups are making to harness AI talent from Latin America. As U.S. salaries for AI experts soar to $350,000, the allure of skilled and cost-effective developers in Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico grows stronger. Tony and I dissect the challenges startups face and how U.S. government policies shape AI development and energy consumption, urging companies to adapt swiftly in an ever-changing landscape.

Get ready to transform your perception of Latin American talent. This episode shines a light on the integration of these professionals into tech teams as indispensable members, not just outsourced workers. We emphasize the importance of aligning with business goals and fitting seamlessly into team dynamics, while also breaking down misconceptions about the region's workforce.

Discover the bustling tech scenes in cities like Florianopolis and the strategic perks for U.S. companies tapping into this rich talent pool. By focusing on soft skills and adaptability, we showcase the true potential of Latin American developers in driving innovation and growth.

🔗🔗 Guest Information 🔗🔗
               Tony Teshara
LinkedIn: (3) Tony Teshara | LinkedIn
Company: Handle l Hire Software Developers in LATAM and US Without All The BS

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast

Curious about the booming venture capital scene in Latin America?

Join me, Brian Samson, as I sit down with Mitsuru Nakayama, a leading expert in Latin American investments, to unravel the optimism surrounding the region's economic landscape. We dissect the rise of unicorns from 2020 and 2021, which has sparked a new wave of seasoned entrepreneurs and robust business plans.

Together, we unpack Brazil's distinctive position within Latin America, thanks to its vast population, rich resources, and forward-thinking regulatory environment that champions innovation in technology and entrepreneurship.

Our conversation takes a global turn as we compare Brazil's burgeoning startup ecosystem with established hubs like San Francisco and Singapore. Discover how Brazil's startups have transformed since 2018, when they began making waves on the US IPO scene, ushering in a new era of capital and mentorship. I also introduce BVG Capital, the investment firm I launched in 2014, which has played a pivotal role in nurturing tech startups across Latin America. With a presence in Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, we explore the potential for Brazil's tech landscape to rival its global counterparts.

And if you're considering life as an expat in Brazil, we've got you covered!

Our discussion paints a vibrant picture of Brazil's cultural tapestry, from the welcoming nature of its people to its dynamic culinary offerings. Mitsuru shares insights into the Japanese community in Brazil and how expats can immerse themselves in the local scene.

Whether you're interested in fintech, SaaS, or simply curious about Brazil's unique blend of tradition and innovation, this episode promises a rich tapestry of insights and opportunities.

🔗🔗 Guest Information 🔗🔗
         Mitsuru Nakayama
LinkedIn: Mitsuru Nakayama | LinkedIn
Company: BVC - Venture Capital for Latin American Startups

🎧 Host | Brian Samson – Founder of 💻 Plugg Technologies
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/briansamson/

🎙️ Sponsored by Plugg Technologies – Connecting U.S. companies with top-tier software developers across Latin America.
🌐 https://www.plugg.tech

🌎 Follow The Nearshore Cafe Podcast
🎵 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KYcgpmN77fJm6B25469B8
🎙️ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nearshore-cafe/id1775525954
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-nearshore-cafe
🌐 Website: https://www.nearshorecafepodcast.com
🔗 All links: https://linktr.ee/nearshorecafepodcast