Starting Up with Virtuzone Podcast: Recent Episodes
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The Business Breakfast’s Tom Urquhart and our partners at Virtuzone discuss the big issues affecting startups and SME’s in the region. Hear everything you need to know about starting your own business from getting a license to growing your company. Highlights include interviews with entrepreneurs and experts, covering topics including e-commerce, leadership and how to get investors for your business.
On the final Starting Up with Virtuzone before the summer break, Katie Chambers and Paul Bryson from Virtuzone are joined by Dan Ashburn, CEO and Founder of the Titan Network, and product development and supply chain expert Kian Golzari to explore what it really takes to build a successful e-commerce business in 2026. From identifying winning products and avoiding costly sourcing mistakes to launching online, growing sales, automating key processes and scaling a brand, the discussion is packed with practical advice and real-world insights for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow an online business.
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Blurb:Georgia Tolley and Paul Bryson speak to executive communication strategist Maher Elusini about presence, influence and the habits that help leaders communicate with clarity. They also learn about confidence and self-worth with. Luke Mind Power.
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Tom Urquhart and Neil Petch find out why summer could be one of the most underrated growth seasons for founders and SMEs.
Pedro Antunes from PCA Events joins the show to talk about preparation, planning and what businesses should be doing when the pace slows down.
Then Lauren Hamilton, Founder and General Manager of Ride Skipper, shares what it takes to build momentum, win support, and keep growing a business that solves a very real Dubai problem.
A practical conversation about using the quieter months properly — before the busy season comes rushing back.
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We look at different ways to access capital for startups with:
Tala Khlat, who's Director of Philanthropy for Dubai Holding
Peter Tavener, CEO and Co-founder of Beehive
Omar Al Yawer, Partner and Chief Capital Formation Officer at Ruya Partners
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Esat Canli of Echo Twin AI tells us how to work with the public sector to improve our cities.
Got an idea but don't know how to take it further? Here's Simon Lewis - founder and CEO of 3D Actio and Zhupar Teleubayeva, Managing Director of Avela Middle East, formed IDEAS MADE REAL - a programme that gives young GCC nationals a structured pathway to take an early idea, test it, build around it, and turn it into something more commercially viable.
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When products are late, prices rise and stock suddenly disappears, supply chains stop being an invisible business function - and start being front and centre of the business conversation.
This week on Starting Up with Virtuzone, Tom Urquhart and Neil Petch look at how UAE businesses are adapting, from national track-and-trace technology and smarter forecasting to the real-life pressures facing importers, retailers and founders. With insights from EVOTEQ, Desert Forge, SHOEQ and Silk Souq, this episode asks what resilience really looks like when your business depends on goods arriving on time.
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But as crypto companies set up and more people put more money into crypto, we need to know who's regulating these crypto companies.
There is a company that works with authorities to ensure your crypto wallet is safe and crypto companies here are all operating above board.
That's ACX Compliance. Joining us is Toms Pauders, its CEO and Co-Founder.
What does it take to build an AI platform? Rechitta founders Aryaman Maheshwari and Atiksh Mittal tell us all.
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Lush Cosmetics has won the retail game for decades - through economic ups and downs.
What's their secret? Anita Baker, MD of Lush Middle East tells Starting Up.
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Should we rethink the real estate game during uncertain times?
Tom and Paul exchange insight with our expert panel:
Manar Mahmassani, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Stake
Rashed Hareb Al Mheiri, Co-Founder and CEO of Rentify
Liam Chase, Associate Director at Arabian Acres
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We’re talking about the sharing economy — and why some of the smartest businesses today are being built on the fact that many people now… don’t like to OWN things.
From cars you access by the minute, to kitchens and workspaces you lease flexibly, to homes turned into high-performing short-term rentals — the old rules of business are changing.
We are joined by Hasib Khan, Founder and CEO of Udrive, Shahzad Bhatti, Founder of The Co-Kitchens and The Co-Spaces, and Gregory Lewis, Founder and CEO of AirDXB.
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Charlie Wright tells Tom and Paul how he built a UAE brand that is now recognisable in the UK and other parts of the world.
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Under500 founder Mahmoud Bartawi says those who freeze during tough times will be left behind.
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Ziina, GLEAC and Letswork have found opportunities to still grow and keep the business going during challenging times.
If you're a business owner, this is a must listen.
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Yango Ride says it will match customers' tips to help their drivers.
Plus, we chat about practical ways businesses are keeping each other afloat with Chris Purdie of Receiptable and Nathan Kearny of Executive Search.
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From the outside, the picture looks strong. Women are visible. Women are launching businesses. Women are building brands and communities. But visibility and genuine support are not always the same thing. Three women who know this first-hand join us on Starting Up this week:
Carmen Taubman, Founder of Crew Club, a business community that promises real results from collaborations and connections
Amreen Iqbal, Founder and Creative Director of Piece of You - creating which is a division of Pure Gold Group. The focus is on personalised jewellery - and recently one of her designs - a UAE map shaped pendant, is more popular than ever
and Denisa Alexe, stand-up comedian and content creator - who built a following of millions, right here in the UAE.
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We're joined by Denise Lim of Calo and Carnistore's Dan Wanies to talk about what they're doing to reassure their teams and maintain a "business as usual" environment during unusual times.
Organisational psychologist Nathan Cornwell and International SOS General Manager Sebastian Bedu also gave advise to business leaders on how to approach uncertainty and talk to their teams about it.
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HelpBnk, a platform that helps entrepreneurs, has brought the Doorbell of Dreams initiative to Dubai, helping entrepreneurs in the city with support like funding, connections and execution.
We meet CEO Adam Moss, and Ahmad and Kareem from DOPA Media, one of the businesses that caught HelpBnk's attention.
We also look into how Gen Z consume with Mohammed Virji, Founder of Fashion Rerun, an online shop for vintage clothing.
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Dubai has no shortage of talented and successful business owners. How did they raise capital, and what did they use the money on? We hear from Erika Doyle of DrinkDry, and Rami Tabbara of Stake.
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Are we teaching our kids to be their own boss? Well, we should be.
Tom and Neil chat with Raya Bidshahri, Founder and CEO of School of Humanity and Marilyn Pinto, Founder of KFI Global.
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Former Dragon's Den Piers Linney warns companies and bosses about the dangers of not having an AI strategy. He is now helping SMEs to navigate its use with his startup Implement AI
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Tom explores how some businesses set up their models to help other people.
Carl Gough, Founder of meetmagic, talks about their Ramadan campaign with Dubai Cares.
He is joined by seasoned CTO Adrian Hobbs, who's benefitted from the initiative.
Plus, Dubai newcomer Marc Black tells Tom why he moved his property and clean energy businesses to the UAE from the UK and Marbella.
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We explore why personal branding matters in business, with Tracy Harmoush, tech entrepreneur and speaker, and social media expert Alexandra, founder of Alex’s House of Social.
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Tom and Neil tell us why a great idea and an amazing team aren't enough grow a business.
The boring stuff, like setting up systems, will ensure scalability and longevity.
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Yes but with a caveat: We hear from Atinirmal Pagarani, Managing Director of Yogi Group, a Dubai-born family business that spans real estate, property management, facilities services, and construction.
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Entrepreneur Simon Squibb has inspired millions of people to achieve their dreams.
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Can you run a fully virtual business out of Dubai?
Ekta Gandhi and Hannan Moti have successfully done it
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Tom and Paul explore the leadership landscape of 2025 - and how it can level up in 2026. They're joined by three leaders with different perspectives: Sasha Marashlian, Founder of Imagine FMCG, Farhan Rehman from Rehman Sheriff Group, Nazneen Abbas from Ma’an Legacy & Legal Consultancy
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Tom and Neil explore the journeys of two Brits who are coming back to Dubai to live or do business.
After years in the property business, Nicky Way is back in the city to launch his newest venture, Little Biga Pizza. And Jason Leavy finds himself doing business in Dubai to expand his executive coaching business, Prime Performance Labs.
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Elizabeth Morales, Brand Manager of Aura Bakery and Café and Basma Chaieri, founder of Etika Jewels - our featured guests, have built brands that feel premium, emotionally engaging and very Dubai. How did they do it?
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A new Visa Global Economic Insight report has found that while luxury spending is slowing in cities like London and New York, Dubai tells a different story. About 1 in 9 Dubai residents makes a premium purchase every quarter, supported by a huge base of high-earning households. But what really makes a brand luxurious? Manuel Arnaut, Head of Editorial Content at Vogue Arabia, tells Starting Up what really matters to high-end customers.
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What does retirement really look like today, and can you design a life you never need to retire from?
Tom Urquhart and Neil Petch sit down with aviation legend Habib Fekih, who reflects on life after four decades at the top of the industry.
They also learn a thing or two from Florian Urghetto and Liz Nunez, founders of Easy Wedding, who are living the FIRE lifestyle — Financial Independence, Retire Early.
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Our all-female panel tell Tom and Neil how they ditched their pay cheque to take the plunge into starting a new business.
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No matter your industry, you can build an AI-powered startup. We have experts in studio who have done it: Nokhez Usman, Psychologist and Founder of MindMe Sonny Sangha, YouTube and software developer
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Tom and Paul speaking to biohacking expert CJ Malhotra, business psychologist Amanda White beauty tech entrepreneur Haifa Addas about why all entrepreneurs need to reset and slow down, even amidst a busy business period.
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We kicked things off with Dubai Holding’s Innovate For Tomorrow Impact Accelerator 2025 - a platform empowering entrepreneurs to drive real sustainability change.
Then, we shifted gears to one of the UAE’s hottest sectors: real estate. Our guests, James Gosling from Exclusive Links Real Estate Brokers and Atif Rahman, Founder & Chairman of ORO24 Developments, broke down how investors and founders tapped into the property boom sweeping across the Emirates.
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Squatwolf founders Wajdan and Anam tell Katie and Neil what it takes to run a global fitness empire with your spouse.
Plus, Al Ryum Group CEO Rafael Khanoyan describes how he took over his father's business and grew it across the country.
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Katie and Virtuezone Chairman Neil Petch explore the tricky topic of raising capital for your business, with our guests:
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Helen McGuire founder of The Founder Sanctuary and partner of Identifii (EYE), mentor, and champion of women entrepreneurs
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Mohamed Khaled - founder of Hotdesk, the "Airbnb for offices"
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Simon Davies - founder of ORK-TA (Aucta) Group, who for 34 years has been connecting founders to capital, fund the largest accelerator for fund managers in the GCC.
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Georgia joins Paul Bryson, MD of Virtuzone, discuss how bosses can effectively manage their employees with our dynamic panel:
Sebastian Bedu - GM, International SOS
Shane Philips - CEO, The Philips Group
Adel Ghazzawi - Co-Owner, Cove Beach
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Michelin-starred Chef Jason Atherton tells Tom and the Virtuzone team how he runs a global restaurant business, and what's new at Row on 45, his two- Micheline star bespoke fine dining venue.
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John Casey, Managing Director of TaxReady.ae tells you everything you need to know about the UAE's corporate tax rule, and what you need to know to stay compliant ahead of the September 30 deadline.
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Tom and Paul speak to brilliant entrepreneurs on the show who have either been there, done that, or are experiencing the journey of growing slowly but surely.
Haider Al Assam, Co-Founder of Maiz Tacos and Good Burger
Maria Vitoratos, Founder of MV Careers
Maria Pruna, Founder of My Car Care
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05 Sep 2025. Starting Up with Virtuzone returns after the summer break with one big question: how do you stand out in a crowded market?
Tom and Neil speak to KCal founder Andreas Lindgreen Borgmann about building one of Dubai’s first healthy meal plan brands. Plus Chef Nick Alvis and Sam Amidi of Mortgage Finder, two experienced individuals sharing their secrets to building a business that truly stands out.
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Abdulla Ajmal, CEO of Ajmal Perfumes, told Starting Up about his plans to further grow the scent empire that his grandfather started in the 1950's,.
Plus, we get business advice on business longevity from Guillaume Giroux, CEO of Dubai Immo and Tristan Lowe, CEO of Escrow Made Easy.
Finally, we look into the big Labubu trend - is it going to fade soon? What's the next big thing, and how can businesses take advantage of it?
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Three brave entrepreneurs share their failure stories, and how they turned things around to achieve success.
Dan Bolton, Founder, Be Creative
Kane Andrews, Founder, The Rock Star Group
Nithin Mathew Thombil, Founder, Wheels AHOY and AHOY Modz
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With snacks across 65 markets, UAE snack brand Hunter Foods is making waves across the world.
The secret? Understanding the market and innovating flavours, according to Founder and Managing Director Ananya Narayan.
And what if the brand was YOU? Seif El Hakim, author, speaker and entrepreneur and Founder of The Alpha Movement, tells us how he was able to build a personal brand that the world can resonate with.
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Just how big is the online beauty industry in the UAE? What are the opportunities for small business owners? noon Beauty VP Ritika Jain tells us.
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Experts Kian Golzari and Nas Mansurali tell us how to source and sell products online, and build a brand people won't forget.
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Our panelists share how company values are formed, and why we need them to make difficult decisions.
David Ribott, Managing Partner at Ribott Partners
Christian Moufarrej, Founder and Managing Partner, Pet's Kitchen
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Shuja Jashanmal, Group CEO of the Jashanmal National Company, tells Tom and George why starting as a salesman made him the business leader he is today.
His son Seth also shares his aspirations for the family business as he prepares to start his career journey.
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These successful empire builders managed to turn a burnout moment into a business breakthrough:
Vadim Fedotov, CEO and Co-Founder of Bioniq
Emma Burdett, CEO and Founder of WILD: Women in Leadership Deliver & WILD Talent
Maria Pavani, Founder of Tres Marias Coffee
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Tom and Neil discuss the good, the bad and the ugly of dealing with clients and customers.
They're joined by:
Vishal Menon, founder of Fireflies ME,
Charles Dersahakian, Managing Partner at CVML
Riyaz Sutterwala, CEO and founder of View Emirates Sports Club
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Tom and Neil explore the power of belonging in a community with those who have built thriving and solid ones.
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Does your business struggle with cash flow?
Cash flow is the number one challenge for small businesses.
So what's the solution?
Tom and Neil unpack this topic with entrepreneur and finance expert Roota Mittal, We Do Events Founder Reham Damanhouri and Chief Growth Officer Waleed Zouki.
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Tom and Neil discuss the truths and takeaways of moving your business to the UAE.
They're joined by guests:
Salman Moghimi, CEO of Peyk - attended school in the UAE, started his delivery business in the UK, and now in the UAE, manufacturing multi-purpose robots!
Katy Holmes, CEO of British Chamber of Commerce ... supporting a growing number of UK businesses entering the UAE
Mousa Azar, CEO of HAWES, a home automation technology company that relocated from Lebanon.
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Tom and Neil discuss the qualities of a great leadership, especially in this day and age when workplace hierarchy is seeing a massive shift.
They're joined by special guests:
James Michael Lafferty, Former CEO of Fine Holdings, Coca Cola and P&G. Olympic coach and trainer.
Dr. Corrie Block, Executive Coach and Author of Chief Executive Coach
Catherine Jeha, Head of Training, ProClipse Consulting
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From real estate to soft skills, our guests break down what it takes to sell—especially when it’s hard. Plus, the one line they swear by when closing a deal!
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The right business partner can help you scale faster, push further, and actually enjoy the ride. But the wrong one? That could be the most expensive mistake of your life. Tom Urquhart and Virtuzone MD Paul Bryson dive into the dynamics of business partnerships with three founders who’ve lived it: Vardhan Kapoor, Co-founder & CEO of Firstwork, Charbel Hachem, CEO of Dayf Homes, and Houda Naji, Founder of JST Ventures.
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The viral Dubai chocolate has led to worldwide success and soaring sales.
We discuss the power of virality with social media experts Anand Raman, Amani Khan and Dhruv Maniar.
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Solopreneurship is on the rise in the UAE and it's often glorified as the ultimate freedom—owning your time, making all the decisions, and reaping the full rewards of your work.
But is it the best path for everyone, especially when a business has the potential to grow beyond what one person can manage?
Tom and Paul unpack the pros and cons of running a business on your own with our special guests:
Lara Gedeah, Founder of Cameo Comms
Hiam Salibi, Founder of Producer, Thirteen01 Productions
Desma D’Souza, Managing Partner, S&K HR Consulting
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Tom and Neil gain some powerful insight from fintech leader Amnah Ajmal and Female Fusion founder Jen Blandos.
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Ayman Al Yaman's viral videos have been viewed one billion times.
Together with his big brother Ghazy, they tell Tom and George how they turned their social media fame into a money making machine.
Plus, Olly Collis left his cushy job in the UK to move to Dubai and start his own content creation company, Sub60.
He tells his story.
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Alexander Heller, CEO and Founder of Hyperspace, tells us how he built Hyperspace venues Aya Universe and House of Hype, and why Dubai was the perfect place to start his venture.
Plus, Laundryheap boss Deyan Dimitrov tells us how his team can pick up, wash and return your clothes in 24 hours or less.
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Tej Lalvani grew Vitabiotics into a £400 million business. He shares some advice on what to look out for - and what to avoid - when investing in a business. Plus, FIFA sports agent Saif Rubie tells us how he deals with the ups and downs of the industry.
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Fadi Amoudi of IQ Robotics tells us how to use automation to grow your business.
Plus, Kushal and Sagar of Publish tell us how to craft the perfect Founder's story.
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MUMpreneur: Does the term empower - or patronise - mothers who run their own businesses?
We get the thoughts of investor, entrepreneur and mum of four Kelly Marie Hodgkin.
Plus, what should your website look like? Monish Chandiramani, Founder and CEO of Yeepeey, offers some advice.
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Mermaids of Arabia founder Josephine Adams told Tom and Neil about how she hit rock bottom, and why she kept going.
We also discussed a movement that allows small businesses to exchange resources in the wake of the floods with Rana Hijarasouli, founder of The Surpluss.
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The Design House CEO Sharon O' Keefe tells us how she started his design and furniture business while working as cabin crew in Dubai.
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Mariela Marcantetti started hair removal business Furless Permanent in 2016 and has since been educating aspiring beauty technicians.
Meanwhile Renata Messarra of Reborn Consultancy gives us tips on how to promote your own business without spending a fortune on ads.
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As game developers from overseas flock to the Middle East to explore the market, we meet one who's coming from Spain- Manel Sort, CEO and Founder of Games For A Living.
We also discuss diversity and inclusion with Farrah Qureshi, CEO of Global Diversity Practice.
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Meet the man behind Tabby, co-founder Hosam Arab, who tells us why e-commerce has brought him so much success.
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21 March 2024: We asked the team of experts at Cone Marshall about how to pass on your wealth to the next generation.
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14 March 2024: Tom and Neil find out how Dr. Jamil Ahmed, Founder and MD of PRIME Healthcare Group, started his hospital empire.
Plus, familiarize yourself with all the SME laws with Jennifer Arkhurst, Founder and Executive Director of Arkhurst and Abdella Solicitors.
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07 March 2024: Lack of funding and worklife balance are only some of the challenges
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29 February 2024: We demystify tokenisation and tell you how it can help startups and consumers with Ahsan Sharif, Head of Corporate Business for Zand Bank and John Patrick Mullin, CEO & Co-founder of MANTRA.
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22 February 2024: Donna Benton told Richard and Neil how she built, exited and later on rejoined her brainchild The Entertainer, and the lessons she learned along the way.
Mahmoud Bartawi sold Under500, a business he built from the ground up, to Kitopi, a $1.6billion unicorn, and is now mentoring other entrepreneurs.
And can you juggle two careers at the same time? Miguel Angel Polonia can - he's a circus performer and psychotherapist.
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08 February 2024: Fal Qadir started multi-sensory centre Mini Explorers. Listen to her story.
Plus, husband and wife Carlos and Francesca tell us how they run CG Barbershop together.
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01 February 2024: Gregory Lewis tells us why his business AirDXB is thriving in Dubai.
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25 January 2024: Daniel Flynn launched Thank You with the aim of supporting charities and eradicate global poverty.
Tom and Neil find out all about this growing social enterprise that can soon enter the UAE market.
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18 January 2024 William Stenhouse, President and CEO of the UAE Africa Networking Group, tells us why it pays to get involved in your community.
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11 January 2024: Comedian Shawn Chidiac has made it big on social media, and is quickly turning his online fame into a fulltime career.
Plus, Emirati teenager Abdullah Al Janahi tells us about his brisket business.
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Meet the businesses thriving in the circular economy, plus learn all about marketing from the best in the business.
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07 December 2023: What makes a business go viral? We find out from the man behind Aquafun, the world's largest inflatable water park, Ahmed Ben Chaibah.
And how can it build a strong brand? We hear from celebrity media strategist and CEO and Founder of FAME, Sheeraz Hasan.
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That's one big question for businesses to ponder on, including their stand on sustainability, says Lalaine Chu-Benitez, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Illustrado Brand Development & Creative Agency.
We're also joined by our Success Spotlight of the Week, David MacDonald, Creator of The Fibre Bottle.
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Investing is power to not let your money lose value overtime, but how? Hear Baytukum Founder Latifa Bin Haider's advices.
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16 November 2023. Finding the best people to fill vacancies is crucial but how do companies make sure they get the cream of the crop? Rachel Yilmaz, CEO of Ausphin Group is here to help.
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09 November 2023: Social enterprises are businesses with a deeper purpose. But how do you set up one? Find out from Iman Suguitan, Co-founder & Creative Head at Co Chocolat.
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02 November 2023: Fitness Coach and entrepreneur Charlie Johnson started as a ftiness coach before growing his business in Europe, and expanding into Dubai.
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26 October 2023: Serial impact entrepreneur Matteo Boffa tells Tom and Neil why he puts his money in companies that can both turn a profit and make a difference.
He is joined by Riwa Khan, who is behind vegan ice cream brand Majama.
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Angel Spark's Gary Sheynkman says he new community hopes to shake up the way startups can get the much needed funding they need to get their business off the ground
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12 October 2023: Saeed Alghafri, CEO of Emirates Steel, tells Tom and Neil how he suffered from a burnout and got through it.
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05 October 2023: Magician and hypnotist Luca Gallone has amassed 12 million followers on Tiktok, and appeared on The Ellen Show.
He shares some tips on how to go viral and be your own boss.
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28 September 2023: Etiquette coach Ziying Zhou quizzes Tom and Neil on how to behave in a business meeting.
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Tom and Neil look into the what makes employees happy, and what bosses can do to improve their staff's wellbeing.
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14 September 2023: Tom and Neil find out how startups in the UAE are raising money, and what routes one can take when they're trying to get capital for their business.
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22 June 2023: This new venue offers 30 different water concoctions.
Roia Jabari, managing director of Luqel's Aqua Gourmet Water Bar, tells us all about it.
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SME owners, we take you through the process of securing a loan from a bank with the Director General of the UAE Banks Federation Jamal Saleh.
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08 June 2023: With the half year deadline for Emiratisation quotas coming up, we discuss how startups can hire and keep Emirati talent, and ensure they provide a workplace environment that everyone can thrive in.
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01 June 2023: John Casey, general manager of Virtuzone, tells us about TaxGPT, an AI tool that answers all your questions about the new corporate tax law in the UAE.
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25 May 2023: Tom and Neil put the question to Rafael Khanoyan, CEO of Al Ryum and Jonathan Berry, regional head of Robert Walters.
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18 May 2023: What do venture capitalists look for in a startup?
Tom and Neil discuss how to get VC funding with Lachlan Hughes of Aditum Investment Management and Daniel dos Reis of Wamda Capital.
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11 May 2023: Former DIFC courts chief and registrat Mark Beer, OBE weighs in on the prediction that AI will make lawyers obsolete.
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04 May 2023: Ebraheem Al Samadi tells Tom and Neil how he developed an entrepreneurial mindset that led to his successful businesses Forever Rose London and Forever Rose Cafe.
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27 April 223: Serial entrepreneur Dariush Soudi lost everything he had in the UK and has to start over in Dubai. It wasn't easy, but he was determined to succeed.
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13 April 2023: The UAE's most famous children's entertainer Magic Phil tells Tom and Neil how he turned his talent into a business.
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06 April 2023: Have you ever wanted to quit your 9-5 to make it in the music industry? Well Emirati rapper Saud G has done just that and told us how he made that leap of faith. We also heard from Pirlanta Toubba, founder of Last Seen Live - who is helping artists and producers navigate the world of music and ensuring they aren’t being shortchanged in the industry. Plus, we hear from Mashreq NEOBiz's Rajeev Chalisgaonkar about how they're helping SMEs setting up their business accounts.
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During Ramadan up to half of our food goes to landfill - and we speak to two businesses who say it’s time to put a stop to this. Seta Tutundjian is the Founder and CEO, Thriving Solutions - they advise companies on how to decarbonize while Daniel Solomon is the Co Founder of HeroGo - they take ugly vegetables and sell them at much lower prices.
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23 March 2023: Coach Nic and Nabil know when the world's biggest football stars are in town, because they work with them. Find out how they built a business together.
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16 March 2023: Tom and Neil find out if any UAE startups and VCs have been badly hit by the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.
We also tell you how to use Chat-GPT for your business.
And finally, we learn the story behind the success of Brands for Less, from the founder himself, Toufic Kreidieh.
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09 March 2023: We're celebrating female founders on Starting Up!
Tom asks The Benton Group's Donna Benton about her experience exiting her first business baby The Entertainer.
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Felice Hurst of The Work Crowd tells us everything we need to know to get started as a freelancer.
Ruya Partners' Omar Al Yawer tells us how the private credit firm chose to fund Starzplay.
And art collector-turned-entrepreneur Edward Gallagher says he set up Galloire was one of the best decisions he has ever made.
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This week we looked into how a digital bank can help SMEs, why a startup wants to tackle food waste in restaurants, and dining in the Metaverse - is it going to happen soon?
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14 February 2023: 25-year-old Fahad Kaleem is building an empire by creating shortform viral videos for businesses in the UAE.
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07 February 2023: As Dubai posts booming tourist figures for 2022, the team speaks to start-ups hoping to capatalise.
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31 January 2023: The TV personality and podcaster believes being bold and different will set you apart from the crowd.
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24 January 2024: The education market in the UAE is set to grow by over $700 million from 2021 to 2026, according to market analysts Technavio.
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17 January 2023: Prize winners Ynsect discussed their protein product with Virtuzone on Starting Up.
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13 December 2022: The beautiful game is big business and entrepreneurs are making their share of money out of it.
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06 December 2022: From June the 1st 2023 the Emirates will introduce its first ever federal corporate income tax.
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29 November 2022: The team discussed the idea that a junior employee can share their expertise with a senior colleague less knowledgeable in a skill sector.
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22 November 2022: The team talked to a successful DJ who's also a successful businessman and just so happens to be a TV personality.
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15 November 2022: On this edition the team discussed whether companies catering for women are big business.
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With the government regularly implementing strategies to encourage nationals to start up their own businesses three Emiratis discuss their experiences
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The focus of this episode was all about people in a hurry - to start making money.
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Starting Up with Virtuzone met with charities making a difference here an abroad
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This week Starting Up spoke to companies in the ed-tech sector
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11 October 2022: Setting up and running a business takes motivation, dedication and extremely hard work. We talk to companies who are helping entrepreneurs to cope with that stress.
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04 October 2022: Morgan Stanley estimates the global space industry could generate revenue of more than $1 trillion or more by 2040.
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27 September 2022: Starting Up explores whether the tourism industry is a good sector for ambitious entrepreneurs.
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We explore the sustainable food industry and the start-ups shaking it all up
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Along with the Founder and Chairman of Virtuzone, Neil Petch, we discuss the future of cryptocurrencies and why fintech is a great sector for start-ups. We’re also joined by serial entrepreneur, Danosch Zahedi, and Nadeem Ladki, the Executive Director of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Binance.
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05 July 2022: Georgia and George speak to startups and investors about why having a mentor contributes to the success of a business.
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28 June 2022: Georgia and George find out why women have a hard time raising money for their business.
They also meet the amazing Orit Mohammed, who told them the story behind Boon Coffee.
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21 June 2022: Georgia and George interview business owners to find out how they're hiring staff.
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14 June 2022: Dubai is getting its own Michelin Guide, but with 11,3000 food outlets in Dubai alone, is it still worth setting up a food business in the UAE?
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07 June 2022: The pandemic has pushed the entire world to think about their wellbeing and UAE entrepreneurs have recognised the demand for more services from day one.
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31 May 2022: Georgia and Neil put the question to small business owners, and gets valuable advice from experts.
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24 May 2022: Georgia and Neil discuss how to work remotely from anywhere from successful digital nomads.
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17 May 2022: Georgia and Neil investigate how some entrepreneurs recover from a business failure.
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10 May 2022: Richard and Neil discuss whether being a "nano manager" like Elon Musk has any real benefits to employee productivity
Plus, we discuss online brand reputation with Debsena Chakraborty of MFilterIt.
Start Up Success Story: Mustafa Koita tells us how he built a milk empire.
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We discuss startup exit strategies – does every startup need to be thinking about planning their exit, and when is the right time to sell your business? We speak with Massimo Cannizzo, the CEO and co-founder of Gellify Middle East, an accelerator for B2B tech companies. And, we hear about the experience of selling from entrepreneur Adam Ridgway. He's recently sold his media business MEDIACUBED to focus on his electric motorcycle startup, One Moto.
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We discuss the wellness industry – the rise of startups tapping into the booming market. Nadine Karadag and Sundeep Sahni – the co-founders of wellness app Valeo join us to talk about their startup. Meanwhile, we talk about the mental health of entrepreneurs with Ally Salama, founder and CEO of tech startup EMPWR
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We often hear the success stories, but in reality many new startups struggle to make it past the first few years. So, what can you do to ensure your business is a long lasting success? We catch up with business coach and author of Se7en Deadly Startup Sins, Phil Bedford about how to spot and avoid the mistakes. And, Gabrielle Mather, founder and CEO of Restaurant Secrets Inc. (RSI), an F&B consultancy joins us to talk about her advice to restaurateurs.
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We discuss how to keep your startup running smoothly when it comes to payments, deliveries and supply chains. We catch up with Akif Mohsin, the head of operations at HyperPay, one of the region's leading payment gateways. Plus, Ayshwarya Chari, the co-founder of e-commerce consultancy 1115inc shares her tips.
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We discuss launching a business while working a full time job. How do you balance your time and make sure the company runs smoothly? We speak with Dhara Bhatia, the founder of a new clothing label Baesic by DB, a company she launched while working a demanding job. Meanwhile, Genny Ghanimeh, the founder and CEO of the Mind Cloud Academy shares her tips for ensuring a side project becomes a successful operation.
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What are the pros and cons of starting a business with your husband or wife? How do you balance your work relationship with your personal one and make sure your company runs smoothly? We speak with Julie Shields, an entrepreneur who’s started two successful businesses with her husband. Plus, business psychologist Joe Bruce, on the do's and don'ts for couple co-founders.
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17 Aug 2021. How do you avoid bad public relations and can influencers really help your business? If you're a new startup where do you begin with a publicity strategy and what are the mistakes to avoid? We catch up with Polly Williams, the Managing Director of marketing and PR firm TishTash. Meanwhile, Jamal Al Mawed, the Founder and Managing Director of Gambit Communications joins us to talk about influencers. Can they help or hinder your brand?
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10 Aug 2021. Are business plans an essential part of planning your startup's journey? We speak with Shane Shin, the Co-Founding Partner at venture capital firm Shorooq Partners about how to get the attention of investors, plus strategy coach Hazel Jackson, the Founder and CEO of Biz Group, joins us to give her tips on crafting a winning plan.
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03 Aug 2021. On this week’s Starting Up With Virtuzone we spoke about the legal aspect of setting up a business with Jshree Gupta, the Founder of The In-House Company. Paul Byrson, Group Commercial Director at Virtuzone, also joined us in studio offer his advice to future business owners.
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27 Jul 2021. We spoke to John Watkinson, CEO and Founder of Joie Brands, on how they help companies with their branding and we also caught up with Ian Ohan, the CEO and Founder of Krush Brands, to discuss the challenges they faced throughout their rebranding journey.
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13 Jul 2021. We spoke about processing transactions online with the Co-Founder and CEO of Zbooni, Ramy Assaf and how customer reviews can make or break your business with Stefan Toubia, Co-Founder and CEO of Raayi.
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06 Jul 2021. Apps are big business with the industry slowing no signs of slowing down. But how do you launch one successfully? We discuss how to get started and how much you should be paying. We speak with Manan Mistry, the Managing Partner at digital agency CreateDXB, plus Vilhelm Hedberg, the founder of car sharing app ekar joins us to talk about his startup journey.
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29 Jun 2021. There are reports about a rise in the number of children and teenagers wanting to start their own companies, especially as a result of the pandemic. But how young is too young to start a business and how do we support youngsters wanting to go down the entrepreneurial path? We speak with 14-year-old tech entrepreneur Adithya Vissapragada, and Dr Paul Hopkinson from Heriot-Watt University Dubai joins us to discuss why we are seeing a rise in youth entrepreneurship.
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22 Jun 2021. The number of tech startups is on the rise globally, and here in the UAE. But which startups are getting it right? How do you launch a tech company successfully? And get access to the many programs and funding? We speak with Hub71's Nader Museitif about how the Abu Dhabi tech ecosystem is fostering some of the best and brightest minds in tech. Meanwhile, Talal Bayaa, the Co-Founder and CEO of employee benefits platform, Bayzat, gives his advice to new players.
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15 Jun 2021. Many founders may feel overwhelmed with the thought of growing their company and ramping up operations, especially during uncertain times. So, what do you need to do to grow your company successfully? How can you avoid the big mistakes? We speak with scaling up coach Warsha Joshi who talks about the importance of strategy. Plus, Manfred Meyer, the co-founder of Opontia, a new startup that buys and scales e-commerce brands, tells us about his company's plans.
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08 Jun 2021. In an increasingly competitive market, how do you stop your ideas and work from being stolen or copied? Do you copyright or Trademark, and how does this work? Legal expert Charles DerSahakian, the Managing Partner at law firm CVML, gives his advice. Plus, we speak with Manar Mahmassani, the Co-Founder of the latest property crowdfunding platform, called Stake, about their plans for expansion and how they differentiate their company and protect their brand.
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01 Jun 2021. According to reports and statistics, cybercrime is increasing around the world – with threats getting more sophisticated. And, it’s not just affecting big business. We hear from Desert Totes founder Jody MacDonald whose online business was recently hacked. She tells us about the impact on her business and customers, and gives her advice for others. Meanwhile, cyber security expert Chris Papathanasiou, the CTO at digital bank Finvault, joins us to give his tips about what to do if you fall victim to cybercrime.
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25 May 2021. Finance and accounting issues are a major source of concern for many SMEs and startups. We discuss how you can avoid making mistakes and better manage your money. Accounting expert Rayhan Aleem, the Founder and Managing Partner at Alpha Pro Partners, reveals the common mistakes he sees entrepreneurs make. Plus, the Founder and CEO of Trukker, dubbed the 'Uber for Trucks' talks about his company's incredible growth and gives his advice for entrepreneurs.
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18 May 2021. We discuss all things leadership. What skills do you need to lead a team, whether you’re a small operation with a few people or a larger business? Is leadership training something that startups need, or is it best left to the big corporates? The Executive Director of Sustain Leadership Hanane Benkhallouk gives her advice for startups and SMEs. Meanwhile, Monish Chandiramani, the co-founder of the latest e-grocery app, Yeepeey, discusses starting the new business, plus how much time he puts into the company.
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04 May 2021: We discuss the opportunities for entrepreneurs in Dubai, and the UAE, and whether it has become the startup capital of the world. We speak with the CEO of Dubai SME, Abdul Baset Al Janahi, about how the landscape is changing for entrepreneurs and what the government is doing to support business. Meanwhile, Capital Club Dubai CEO Vic Barreto joins us to discuss how the high profile members club is expanding its focus to startups and SMEs.
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27 April 2021: We discuss how start-ups can make their mark in the Food and Beverage industry and talk about tapping into the billion dollar coffee market. We speak with Krush Brands CEO and founder, Ian Ohan, and Ali Al Ebrahim, the founder of online coffee marketplace COFE.
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20 April 2021: We discuss all things funding and investment, including how to get investors interested in your company. We speak to Sky Kurtz, the Co-Founder and CEO of Pure Harvest who talks about his funding journey and advice for new start-ups, while Noor Sweid, the Founder and General Partner at Global Ventures explains what investors are looking for in the current market.
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13 April 2021: We discuss how to get ahead in the competitive online retail market. Leila Al Marashi, CEO and founder of Cado Gifting, explains why she set up her APP, while Vladimir Radojevic, CEO and co-founder of Dresos, talks about launching his online styling service during a pandemic.
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