The Global Discussion

Sophie Milliken MBE: Award-Winning Entrepreneur and Investor Sophie Milliken MBE is a powerhouse entrepreneur, investor, and author recognized with numerous awards for her contributions to business and education. As the CEO of Moja Group, she works with entrepreneurs and senior executives to help them amplify their profiles and become known authorities in their industries. Sophie's impressive career started with her first business, SRS, which she led to become the leading provider of assessment-centre simulations for universities. Under her leadership, the company trained over 30,000 students at these events and worked with major employers like M&S, JP Morgan, Expedia, and AXA to design and deliver their graduate recruitment campaigns. In addition to her work with Moja, Sophie is also the Chair of Smart Works Newcastle, a non-profit organization that helps women build their confidence and secure employment. She has succeeded dramatically in doubling the number of unemployed women who receive interview clothing and coaching across the North East and securing Dragons' Den star Sara Davies MBE as the charity's ambassador. Sophie's commitment to supporting female entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups in business also extends to her role as a non-executive director for Funding Focus Investment Trust plc. The investment trust provides access to high-growth businesses across the UK and Europe, led by entrepreneurs who identify as female and/or non-white ethnicity. Sophie is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. Her first book, From Learner To Earner, is a guide to securing the graduate job of your dreams. In contrast, her best-selling second book, The Ambition Accelerator, features advice from successful businesswomen, including Dragons' Den's star Sara Davies MBE and The Apprentice's Linda Plant. A podcast accompanies The Ambition Accelerator and includes interviews with the women in the book. As a keynote speaker, Sophie has been featured at various events, including university lectures and panel discussions. Her experience as an influential voice in business and her love for connecting with people makes her a sought-after guest for podcasts and other media. Sophie's passion for mentoring and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs led her to become the Founding Ambassador for Every Child Needs a Mentor. The organization aims to connect children with positive role models who inspire them to reach their full potential. Sophie's diverse career and expertise in business and entrepreneurship make her an ideal guest for The Global Discussion podcast. Her experience supporting female entrepreneurs and underrepresented groups in business can offer valuable insights and inspire listeners to pursue their ambitions. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Shelley Zalis is a renowned entrepreneur and feminist committed to breaking down barriers and empowering women in business. As the CEO of The Female Quotient, a female-owned and led company that aims to advance gender equality in the workplace, Zalis is a leading voice in the fight for gender equality. Born and raised in the United States, Zalis has always been passionate about business and innovation. She started her career in market research and quickly climbed the corporate ladder, becoming the CEO of OTX, a research-based consulting firm. In 2009, she founded Ipsos OTX, which she grew into a multi-million dollar business before leaving to start her own venture. Zalis is a visionary who is not afraid to challenge the status quo. In 2014, she founded The Girls' Lounge, a pop-up experience that provides a safe and welcoming space for women at male-dominated conferences. The Girls' Lounge has grown into a global community of women who support and uplift one another in their personal and professional lives. In 2016, Zalis founded The Female Quotient, a company that aims to advance gender equality in the workplace. The Female Quotient provides resources, training, and events that help women to thrive in business. Zalis has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, speaking at conferences and events worldwide. Zalis is also a published author. Her book "Unapologetically Ambitious: Take Risks, Break Barriers, and Create Success on Your Own Terms" offers a roadmap for women wanting to achieve their business and life goals. In the book, Zalis shares her own experiences as a female entrepreneur and provides practical advice for women who wish to break down barriers and create their own success. Shelley Zalis is a force to be reckoned with in the world of business and feminism. Her commitment to empowering women and breaking down barriers has made her a leading voice in the fight for gender equality. As an entrepreneur, author, and advocate, Zalis inspires women worldwide to pursue their ambitions and make their mark on the world. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Simon Haigh is a highly acclaimed business, leadership, brand and personal growth strategist and transformational thought leader. He is globally acknowledged as an expert in negotiation and dealmaking. Simon is a certified leadership, executive and life coach. He is a mentor, consultant, advisor, CPD Accredited trainer, facilitator, certified mediator, adjunct lecturer, keynote speaker, media host, board/business advisor, lawyer and a 5-star Amazon author. Simon is a tri-qualified former corporate lawyer and investor/entrepreneur who has built and sold technology, luxury items, and travel companies, including Haigh & Hastings watches. He has been a C-suite multinational executive across four continents for over 30 years, working for NANA Development Corporation, Dell EMC, BHP, Xilinx Inc., Eneabba Gas, and other organizations. He has also been a non-executive director for numerous organizations worldwide in business, homeless, education, and media not-for-profits, including his investments in technology and luxury goods companies, such as Haigh & Hastings watches, Izabela Felinski, ENSO Initiatives, and STEERus. He is co-founder and partner of Inclusion in Leadership & Business Eye Advisory, collaborative trainer for Grant Thornton and Inclusio.io, and member of ChairX. Simon has been featured on various global media outlets such as the BBC in the UK, Australia's ABC television, Ireland's Newstalk Radio, and Dublin City FM & numerous worldwide radio and podcast channels. Simon's work and two books, "How to be a Better Dealcloser" and "Dealmaking for Corporate Growth," are endorsed by world no.1 leadership thinker Marshall Goldsmith. Additionally, he is an associate member of the Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching Organization. Simon's extensive experience in various industries, his expertise in negotiation and dealmaking, and his achievements as a leader make him a sought-after strategist and thought leader globally. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Emily Chang is the Chief Executive Officer at Wunderman Thompson West. Emily is a renowned executive with over two decades of experience in customer experience, business strategy, cross-cultural team leadership, change management, and brand building. She has held senior positions in global companies such as Starbucks, Apple, P&G, IHG, and McCann Worldgroup. Emily is also a board of directors member and best-selling author of The SpareRoom. This book provides practical guidance on how to live a purposeful life by defining one's social legacy. Emily worked at P&G for 11 years in all three global business units, from front-end innovation to retail. She joined Apple in 2011 to establish the brand's face in China and was promoted to Head of Retail Marketing, Asia. In 2014, Emily joined IHG as CCO, where she was in charge of a 200-person corporate team and 5,200 on-property staff who generated $2.7B in revenue. In 2017, she moved to Starbucks to look after the company's branded customer experience, first as CMO of China and then as SVP of Marketing based in Seattle. Currently, Emily is the CEO of McCann Worldgroup, China. She has led 400+ creative people across McCann, MRM, and CRAFT agencies, partnering with some of the world's best brands to create innovative stories and customer experiences. Emily is known for her change leadership and entrepreneurial mindset. She thrives in ambiguity and sets a vision, establishing a culture to deliver delightful and brand-building customer experiences. Emily is a proven global organisation builder and leader with end-to-end business experience. Emily is also an Adjunct Professor at NYU SPS Integrated Marketing & Communications in Shanghai, where she teaches a 15-week course on "Finance for Marketing Decisions." Her course examines the financial impact of integrated marketing programs on a company's bottom line. It provides real-life cases, practical applications, and direct engagement with industry-leading C-suite executives. Emily is a member of the board of directors for SOS Children's Villages USA, the largest NGO dedicated to the care of orphaned and abandoned children. She has committed to contributing 100% of the retail sales of her book, The SpareRoom, to SOS. Through her family's spare bedroom, which has become a way to serve the community, Emily and her family have cared for sixteen hurt or vulnerable children and young people. Emily's book weaves poignant storytelling with thoughtfully designed exercises to provide inspiring yet practical guidance on how to live a richly purposeful life by defining one's own social legacy. Emily Chang is an exceptional marketing leader, author, and educator with a distinguished career in global companies. Her expertise in cross-cultural team leadership, change management, and brand building is recognised globally. She is committed to contributing to a meaningful mission through her work with SOS Children's Villages USA. Emily's book, The SpareRoom, provides practical guidance on how to live a purposeful life by defining one's own social legacy. * Emily joined Wunderman Thompson West, as Chief Executive Officer, in April 2023. This episode was recorded while Emily was the CEO of McCann Worldgroup, China. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Ian McColl is a creative communications consultant, producing customer and award-winning brand campaigns for over 30 years. He has managed creative departments in agencies such as Ogilvy and BBDO Dublin, working closely with clients and cultivating long-lasting relationships based on consistently delivering highly effective creative work. In 2012 he founded therefour, a creative, cooperative consultancy that produces distinctive, successful and memorable communications for many high-profile brands. Ian is a big fan of beautifully executed ideas, regardless of the communication channel. In this episode, Ian shares some insights into his work, including an opportunity a few years ago to work with an agency on the Vodafone brand. Vodafone was in the last year of their Electric Picnic (Ireland’s biggest musical festival). We also dive into work with a leading Irish Bank which had just secured the prized media space of Dublin airport T1 & T2 arrival hall doors and surroundings, including the airside sky bridge lightboxes. Ian has a love for music and also works with musical artists like Gavin Fox and Julie Horton. Either as a musical sounding board or, in Gavin’s case, someone who packages his output. Join us in a creative conversation with Ian McColl.

Donal Greene is the founder and CEO of Trustmatic, a technology company specialising in identity verification and fraud prevention. With a passion for testing and breaking technology, he founded the company in 2021 to provide the most secure identity verification and fraud prevention technology on the market without compromising user experience. Prior to founding Trustmatic, Donal Greene led EMEA sales at Innovatrics, helping the company grow organically. As the CXO at Innovatrics, Donal was the link between customers, sales, marketing, software development, and product management for Innovatrics' fastest-growing business unit, Digital Onboarding. Aside from his work in the tech industry, Donal is also the co-founder and board member of Uroda Ventures. This non-profit organisation provides clean drinking water, biogas toilets, and sustainable farming initiatives to impoverished rural communities in Uganda. As a co-founder and board member, Donal oversees operations at the pilot project in Uganda, ensuring the project's commercial viability aligns with the organisation's sustainable farming and community development goals. With his expertise in fraud prevention and identity verification, Donal is a thought leader in the industry. He shares his insights with others through his social media channels and company website. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Louise McDonnell is the Founder of Sell On Social Media, an award-winning social media trainer and strategist. Louise has worked in the digital space since the early 1990s. She has worked with a wide range of clients, from small business owners to multinational corporations, helping them to develop and implement effective social media strategies. Louise is also a highly sought-after speaker, delivering keynotes and training sessions at conferences and events worldwide. Louise is a four-time best-selling social media author. Her latest publication, the 2023 Social Media Content Planner, is already on the best-selling list on Amazon for worldwide sales. She works with businesses, government enterprise development agencies, and non-profits to leverage social media to drive growth by achieving precise communications objectives and practical, ROI-focused, quick and easy implementation solutions. Through her company, she has helped thousands of entrepreneurs and business owners to master the art of social media selling and grow their businesses online. Louise is passionate about empowering entrepreneurs to use social media to achieve their business goals. She believes that with the right strategy and approach, social media can be a powerful tool for driving sales and building brand awareness. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Dr. Lollie Mancey is an innovative entrepreneur, academic, and the Programme Director at UCD's Innovation Academy. She explores the impact of technology on creativity and the need for authenticity in communication. Lollie highlights the importance of empathy and community in fostering fulfillment and introduces a novel car-sharing model for collaboration. She also discusses the effects of digital transformation on society, emphasizing resilience and adaptability in career paths, as well as the necessity for inclusivity in education for diverse learners.

Krissy Gibson is known for her work on the Virgin Media One breakfast show, Ireland AM. With a passion for storytelling and a talent for connecting with viewers, Krissy has become a recognisable face on Irish television. Krissy is an American mother of four who decided to make Ireland her home in 2006. A prior career in television and film was soon to be added to, and you can now regularly watch Krissy on the cooking segment on Ireland AM. In addition to her work on Ireland AM, Krissy is involved in various other projects, including entrepreneurship and voice-over work. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Stephanie Bretonniere is a Tech and Impact Catalyst, CEO & Founder of POWR3 and WE IMPACT.WORLD. With over 25 years of experience in the digital transformation and tech industries, she has built a solid foundation of knowledge working in major corporate groups and founding several startups. Bretonniere is a member of Women in Tech, 100 Davos Women, and the World Economic Forum Expert Network. Additionally, she sits on the advisory board of several Web 3.0 startups, such as Outlier Ventures & Farfetch Innovation Program. Bretonniere is also a member of the Metaverse Fashion Council and the French Circular Fashion Federation. She has been recognised for her contributions to the tech industry and global impact. In 2020, Bretonniere founded We Impact.World to support organisations in building net-zero businesses and accelerating the sustainability transformation of their corporate value chain by empowering their Scope 3 suppliers. Using the digital and sustainability innovation lab's unique network and plug-and-play peer-to-peer solutions, she aims to impact 75% of their carbon footprint. Bretonniere entered the Web 3.0 space at the end of 2020, initially focusing on NFTs and later leveraging blockchain and utility dynamic NFTs to combat counterfeiting and increase transparency, proving the origin, ownership and authenticity of luxury goods while also opening new customer experiences, offering disruptive services, and boosting the circular economy. In 2021, she introduced the Impact Hacking Model during a TEDx talk; in 2022, she founded POWR3. The company empowers governments, VCs, family offices, corporates, and startups to harness new technologies (AI, Web 3.0, Blockchain, etc.) for sustainable growth and return on impact. Bretonniere's passion for innovation has led her to become a humble Changemaker who believes in the power of Social Impact, Blue Economy 3.0, Education, new Technologies, Digital Disruption, Circular Economy, Impact Investing, Collective Intelligence and Sharing economy to contribute to our level to the UN Sustainable Goals by 2030 and fight against climate change. Bretonniere has lived in Argentina, Miami, Paris, and now in Geneva and travelled the world in more than 60 countries, enriching herself by living in multicultural environments and learning from local scientists, experts, entrepreneurs, people, artisan know-how, intangible heritage, as she believes in the power of Diversity, Contribution, Altruism, and Inclusion. She has experience in all areas of Digital, Ecommerce, Communication, and Marketing - from traditional to the most innovative and cutting-edge digital approaches within international environments working for diverse audiences. Stephanie is proven to define and implement global/glocal strategy and manage international projects. With strong creativity and digital growth tools portfolio knowledge, she creates engaging content and powerful hacks for impactful communication, remote organisation, and sustainable business development. About The Global Discussion: The podcast features carefully curated guests from an exciting cross-section of creatives, leaders, and thinkers. New episodes are available on Apple, Google, and Spotify podcasts and several leading podcast platforms. You can listen to and watch the episodes on our dedicated YouTube channel and the website.  To learn more about The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com Audio: Spotify | Google | Apple  Video: YouTube | Website  Social Media: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn