Episodes
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In the fifth and final episode of Open Mic Life’s holiday series, Small Business Summit, host Stoyana invites listeners on a journey with two women who have dedicated their careers to reconnecting people with their bodies. In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, these entrepreneurs are carving out paths to help others slow down, listen to their bodies, and restore balance. Through thought-provoking conversations, Stoyana sheds light on how holistic practices can help heal not only physical pain but also nurture mental and emotional well-being.
Meet the guests
Stoyana’s guests are Ana, a chiropractor specializing in the McTimoney technique, and Irina, a practitioner of the Feldenkrais Method. Although their approaches differ, both women share a singular mission: to help people feel more at home in their own bodies.
Ana brings decades of experience as a chiropractor, working with patients ranging from infants to seniors. Her use of the gentle McTimoney technique stands out for its focus on alignment, releasing restrictions, and enhancing the body’s natural communication between muscles and the central nervous system. Ana believes in empowering people to reclaim physical harmony in ways that are both safe and sustainable.
Iryna’s journey is deeply personal. After years of grappling with chronic pain and navigating the complexities of the medical system, she found solace and transformation through the Feldenkrais Method. Unlike traditional treatments, Feldenkrais bypasses the cognitive mind, accessing the central nervous system through mindful movement. Iryna now teaches others how to regain ease and freedom in their bodies, helping clients unlock potential they never realized existed.
The Challenges of Holistic Entrepreneurship
Running a business rooted in alternative health practices comes with unique hurdles. Both Ana and Iryna discuss the challenges of educating people about their methods and the ongoing work to shift societal perceptions around holistic healing. They also dive into the complexities of marketing their services in an industry that often prioritizes quick fixes over long-term well-being.
This episode is as much about entrepreneurship as it is about the human body. It’s a reminder that healing is both an art and a science—and that understanding your body can lead to profound transformation.
Get in touch
Learn more about Iryna's practice on https://www.mindfulbody.lu/To learn more about Ana's practice go to https://back-up.lu/en/praticians/ana-carmona -
In the fourth episode of Open Mic Life’s holiday series, Small Business Summit, host Stoyana showcases the journeys of three dynamic women in Luxembourg who defied expectations, embraced their creativity, and built ventures that reflect their values and strengthen their communities. It’s a celebration of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the cultural connections that breathe life into small businesses.
Meet the Entrepreneurs
First, we meet Clare and Marie, business partners and good friends who’ve cultivated a unique venture dedicated to mindful living. Their journey began as a practical solution—sharing rental costs in Luxembourg’s competitive market—but evolved into something far greater. Clare and Marie’s complementary skills and shared values laid the foundation for a business that not only helps their clients but also embodies their own ethos of mindfulness and respect.
Angela, the third guest, stepped into entrepreneurship from an entirely different path. With a law degree under her belt, Angela had no plans to leave her career until a friend encouraged her to professionalize her passion for event planning. Today, she curates experiences, striking the perfect balance between modern technology and heartfelt personal touches. Angela’s secret? Adding a homemade flair that creates moments her clients cherish forever.
The Courage to Pivot
A recurring theme in this episode is the power of embracing change. Todays’s guests transitioned from careers that once defined them to find their true calling. Clare shifted from vocal coaching and wellness to creating a holistic lifestyle brand, while Angela turned her hobby into a flourishing career. Their stories underline that following your instincts—and taking risks—can lead to fulfilling your life's purpose.
Despite their modest claims that their businesses “just happened,” the episode unveils the hard work, strategic thinking, and resilience it took to bring their dreams to life. Their candid reflections on fear, uncertainty, and ultimately triumph make this episode an inspiring listen for anyone dreaming of charting a new course.
Get in touch
Learn more about Thrive Studio here https://www.thrivestudio.lu/Get in touch with Angela www.Instagram.com/specialmemories.luwww.Facebook.com/specialmemories.lu -
Missing episodes?
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In the third episode of Open Mic Life's holiday series, Small Business Summit, host Stoyana takes listeners on an inspiring journey through the stories of three remarkable women in Luxembourg who turned their personal wishes into impactful businesses. This episode celebrates not just entrepreneurship but also the power of community and culture in shaping ventures that make a difference.
Meet the Visionaries
Founder of Nyki, a social tutoring company, Laure Talavet-Omont’s mission is rooted in bridging the gap of social inequality. Driven by the belief that education should be accessible, she designed a unique pricing model tailored to family incomes, ensuring affordability for all while maintaining fair pay for tutors. Laure shares how her venture creates opportunities for both learners and educators, embodying the spirit of empowerment through education.
Inspired by her child, Sisi launched Little Panda, a language school dedicated to teaching Mandarin to young children. Her initiative fosters connections among mixed families and second-generation immigrants, creating a community that cherishes Chinese heritage. Sisi candidly discusses the challenges of running a niche business and shares her strategies for growing a loyal clientele despite the hurdles.
Recognizing a gap in the local fitness industry, Paulina Tandarova founded Laborathorium, a family-friendly space where parents can work out without worrying about childcare. Accompanied by her daughter, Paulina speaks passionately about creating a space that reflects her upbringing in a culture where children are integrated into all aspects of life. Her business exemplifies how personal needs can spark ideas that resonate with others.
Building Communities Through Business
This episode dives deep into the entrepreneurial journeys of these women, exploring the challenges they faced and the triumphs they celebrated. From tapping into the power of word-of-mouth marketing to becoming ambassadors for their cultures and beliefs, these small business owners demonstrate resilience and innovation.
They also discuss the profound impact of their ventures on the communities they’ve created—spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. Whether it’s through education, cultural preservation, or family-friendly fitness, these entrepreneurs have built businesses that enrich lives and foster belonging.
Tune in to hear how these women transformed their wishes into flourishing businesses and how their passion continues to drive them forward. This episode will leave you inspired to turn your own ideas into reality.
Special offers
Subscribe for free to the news letter and find out more about Nyki on www.nyki.lu Find out more about Litte Panda on www.littlepandachinese.lu and get 5% off for group or private sessionsFind out more about Laborathorium on www.laborartorium.lu -
Dive into the second episode of Open Mic Life's holiday series, Small Business Summit, where host Stoyana explores the vibrant tapestry of small, women-owned businesses in Luxembourg. In this captivating installment, she introduces three inspiring entrepreneurs who have turned their passions into thriving ventures, creating not only businesses but also communities that uplift and empower others.
Meet the guests
First up is Madhumalti Sharma, founder of the non-profit Workshop4Me. Motivated by her children's curiosity about coding, Madhumalti launched an organization that empowers young minds to embrace technology. Her mission? To bridge generational gaps and prepare the next generation for a tech-driven future. Since 2020, coding has become part of Luxembourg’s primary school curriculum, making Madhumalti’s initiative a trailblazer in shaping young, creative problem-solvers.
Next, meet Julie Mangen, the powerhouse behind ShapeUp, a community designed to support women in their fitness journeys. Julie believes that something as simple as stepping outdoors can transform one’s mindset. Her platform fosters accountability, education, and encouragement, ensuring women of all ages can find joy in physical activity. Julie’s vision of creating a safe and positive space resonates deeply, connecting women through the universal language of movement.
Last but not least, Nadine Hunziger brings her unique expertise as a coach helping men navigate the complexities of modern relationships. Through empathy and elegance, Nadine guides her clients in building confidence, fostering meaningful connections, and ultimately finding love. Her work sheds light on the challenges of today’s dating landscape and the transformative power of self-belief.
The Power of Passion and Connection
This episode beautifully underscores how personal experiences can fuel extraordinary ventures. Each entrepreneur's journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and community. From bridging generational gaps with coding to fostering fitness and self-love, their stories inspire listeners to pursue their dreams and connect with others meaningfully.
As the Small Business Summit series continues, Open Mic Life delves deeper into Luxembourg’s entrepreneurial heartbeat, sharing stories of struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply looking for inspiration, this episode offers wisdom and motivation to help you take that first step.
Special Offers
You can get 10% off for booking regular coding sessions for Saturdays 11 am - 12 noon for the January to June 2025 term using Coupon Code 'RTL' till 20 Dec 2024- Registration here - https://workshop4me.org/store/ols/products/coding-and-robotics-jan-to-june-2025Being active should be fun! https://www.shapeup.lu/ The first workout is free!Get 10 sessions one on one coaching and only pay 7! +352 621 645 296 Https://go.seduireunefemme.net -
Today marks the premiere of Open Mic Life's holiday series, Small Business Summit, where host Stoyana shines a spotlight on the vibrant world of small, women-owned businesses in Luxembourg.
In this compelling episode, Stoyana delves into the journeys of three remarkable entrepreneurs who have turned their passions into thrivin g professions, offering inspiration and insight to anyone dreaming of starting their own venture.
Luxembourg may be celebrated as a hub for multinational corporations, but this series explores a less-charted yet equally vital side of the economy: small and micro-businesses that cater to the nuanced needs of the local community. The debut episode features artist Maria Fokina, relaxation trainer Jeanelle Gresham, and high-conflict separation expert Amanda Wakefield – three dynamic women whose unique paths exemplify resilience, creativity, and purpose.
Meet the guests
Maria Fokina, who moved to Luxembourg to pursue her artistic aspirations, founded Art Kid in 2024. Her vision? To create a space where creativity fosters emotional well-being and builds community. Fokina shares how she transitioned from individual artistry to developing a platform that empowers others to explore their creative potential.
Amanda Wakefield, a seasoned corporate professional turned high-conflict separation expert, discusses her decision to pivot careers. She reflects on the importance of embracing life’s evolving seasons and recognizing the need for change. Wakefield’s work now focuses on guiding individuals through challenging personal transitions with empathy and expertise.
Jeanelle Gresham’s story is rooted in her role as a mother of two neurodivergent children. Inspired by their unique challenges, she embarked on a journey to develop holistic relaxation techniques through autogenic training. Today, she helps others find balance and serenity, drawing from her deeply personal experiences.
A treasure trove of insights
The episode doesn’t just celebrate these women’s achievements; it’s also packed with practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. From administrative and financial tips to training recommendations, the discussion provides a road map for anyone ready to transform their passion into a viable business.
As the series unfolds, Stoyana continues to explore the heartbeat of Luxembourg’s small business scene, uncovering the stories, struggles, and triumphs of those driving the local economy. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and actionable wisdom to help you take the first step on your entrepreneurial journey.
Special offers for OPEN MIC LIFE Listeners
For ARTKID you can get all December -40% on all workshops with the promo code CHRISTMAS24. Learn more on https://www.artkidlux.comAmanda Wakefield offers exclusive for OML listeners: Use code RTL20 for 20% off her signature transformation programs. Learn more on https://amandasbeyondcoaching.com/Learn more on Relaxation Training by getting in touch with Jeanelle Gresham on https://jeannellegresham.com/ -
Luxembourg is renowned as a global financial powerhouse and a prime business hub attracting some of the world’s biggest corporations, many of which establish their European headquarters here. But beyond the towering skyscrapers and multinational giants lies a vibrant ecosystem of small business owners, entrepreneurs who infuse the city with creativity, resilience, and passion.
Shining a Spotlight on Small Businesses This holiday season, podcast host Stoyana is taking the spotlight off the boardrooms and shining it on small business owners with the Small Business Summit. This special series aims to provide a platform for local entrepreneurs to share their journeys—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
Who are these small business owners? How did they transform their hobbies or side hustles into thriving enterprises? What challenges did they face, and how did they navigate the unique landscape of starting a business in Luxembourg? These are some of the questions tackled in this insightful series.
Luxembourg’s Unique Business Environment Luxembourg’s reputation as a business hub is well-earned, with its robust legal framework, strong financial infrastructure, and supportive government policies. For small businesses, however, this landscape can feel like both an opportunity and a maze. While the country offers resources for startups, navigating the administrative requirements, securing funding, and understanding tax and legal obligations can be daunting, especially for those new to entrepreneurship.
Open Mic Life’s Small Business Summit dives into these critical topics, demystifying the process and providing actionable insights for aspiring business owners. From finding mentorship to accessing financial support and avoiding the pitfalls of being treated like a corporate entity, these conversations aim to empower listeners to take the leap with confidence.
Meet the Entrepreneurs The Small Business Summit features 15 remarkable individuals from diverse industries, including tutoring, conflict mediation, fitness, fantasy writing, coaching, and event planning. While their businesses span a variety of fields, they all share a common thread: a deep passion for their work and a commitment to making a difference.
Tune In to Learn and Be Inspired Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the small business community in Luxembourg, the Small Business Summit offers valuable insights and inspiration. The series will air daily from December 9th to December 13th on RTL Play and all major podcast platforms.
Send your questions via instagram https://www.instagram.com/openmiclife/
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This week on Open Mic Life, Dutch entrepreneur Thijs Maas shares his remarkable journey from academia to building and selling a successful startup. Thijs dives deep into his expertise in blockchain and startups, access to crypto, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the challenges of starting and scaling a business.
One of the key themes Thijs emphasizes is the importance of believing in yourself and your vision. For most entrepreneurs, that initial belief often comes from family and friends, who are typically the first to fund your idea.
Thijs doesn’t shy away from sharing the gritty details of raising capital. He breaks down the different stages of funding, from the early bootstrap phase to the more sophisticated world of venture capital. In the beginning, Thijs stresses the importance of building relationships and leveraging your personal network.
As your company grows, the stakes get higher, and so does the complexity of raising funds. Thijs offers practical do’s and don’ts for approaching any investors from angels to venture capitalists.
Thijs also discusses the emotional and psychological side of fundraising. Focusing on the right investor in terms of vision fit, raise capital when you have to raise and hire when you have to hire. His success didn’t come overnight—it required discipline, resilience, and an openness to learning from every experience.
Interestingly, Thijs credits his first mentor, his grandfather’s brother, as a profound influence. Despite having no formal education, this man founded a university and even met the pope.
In addition to business strategy, Thijs shares tips for staying grounded in the fast-paced startup world.
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business or looking to take your startup to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration. Tune in to hear Thijs Maas on Open Mic Life, and don’t forget to subscribe for more stories, insights, and conversations from trailblazers across industries.
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Radio is arguably the media that stands the test of time and technological evolution. While it was the main source of information once to streaming it online or having it on in the background while driving – everyone listens to radio.
On this week’s episode of Open Mic Life, host Stoyana Ivanova interview’s Today RTL’s program director and host of the daily “The Sam Steen Show”. Sam brings a wealth of insight into the world of radio—its impact, its staying power, and its unique role as a classic medium for connection in a fast-evolving media landscape.
The conversation dives into what makes radio more than just a source of news or music. Sam shares his approach to curating content that not only entertains but also fosters a sense of belonging within Luxembourg's international community. They explore how radio, with its timeless reach and intimacy, serves as a bridge for listeners of all backgrounds, helping them feel connected and informed in a place as multicultural as Luxembourg. From behind the scenes, he reveals the thoughtful planning and creative decisions that go into each program to make sure every listener can tune in and feel represented. How they stay in tune with the audience, their desires and needs of information. A tough job considering the diversity of the listeners of Today RTL Radio.
But this episode isn’t just for radio fans—Sam also offers practical advice for anyone trying to get their own media platform or podcast off the ground. With tips on how to stand out, build authentic chemistry with your audience, and create content that leaves an impact, Sam's insights are great for aspiring creators navigating today’s crowded media landscape. His approach is rooted in a genuine respect for listeners, ensuring that each show resonates deeply and builds a loyal following.
Tune in for a captivating and important conversation on the media that connects contemporary society, a little bit of nostalgia and reliability.
You can listed to the Sam Steen Show every day from 06:00 – 10:00 and you can find all episodes on RTL Play.
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In a world where borders are increasingly blurred, love knows no nationality, no boundaries, and certainly no limits. On this week’s episode of Open Mic Life, host Stoyana dives into the heart of international romance and destination weddings with her guest, Diana Kazaniecki. Together, they explore what it means to fall in love and build a life with someone from a different culture, and the unique beauty and challenges that come with planning a wedding away from home.
Pack your bags (no passport required!) as Stoyana and Diana take listeners on a journey through the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Poland, Finland, Luxembourg, and the stunning Côte d'Azur. As they travel through these diverse landscapes, the pair uncovers the delicate dance of planning a destination wedding. From navigating long-distance arrangements to curating a truly personal celebration that reflects the couple's unique story, they reveal the nuances that make each moment worth the effort.
Their conversation is as honest as it is insightful, offering listeners a window into the reality of international marriage. They discuss the “before” moments—those crucial, sometimes uncomfortable conversations that need to happen before walking down the aisle. Marriage, as they note, isn’t just about a beautiful wedding day; it’s about being ready to create a family, merging different traditions, and embracing the shared responsibility of building a life together.
In today’s globalized world, more and more people find themselves building families far from the places they once called home, often in countries where they don’t speak the language or know the customs. For many in Luxembourg and similar multicultural hubs, this is a familiar journey. Stoyana and Diana explore the joy of mixing traditions, celebrating new holidays, and crafting a household where diversity is celebrated, all while balancing the everyday demands of life.
This episode of Open Mic Life promises an open-hearted look at the beauty of love that crosses borders and cultures. Whether you're planning a destination wedding yourself, are part of a multicultural family, or are simply curious about the world of international marriage, Stoyana and Diana’s conversation will leave you inspired and uplifted.
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The world of art auctions is one of glamour and prestige, uniting people through a shared passion for art, and iconic paintings by old masters regularly make headlines for achieving record-breaking prices at spectacular events in global art hubs.
These masterpieces pass into the hands of new owners, continuing their rich histories. But behind the scenes, there’s more than just spectacle – there’s sentiment, complex negotiations, and sometimes restitution, particularly for works wrongfully acquired through the tragedies of war.
At the heart of these transactions are the auction houses, where art and luxury lovers gather.
Sotheby’s, founded in the mid-18th century, is the oldest and largest internationally recognized fine art and luxury auction house. With such a rich history, institutions like Sotheby’s have a lasting impact on art history, playing a key role in preserving some of humanity’s most treasured creations. They also serve as guardians in turbulent times when artworks are at risk of being lost due to disasters or conflicts.
Art and luxury items aren’t just objects of beauty – they’re also investments. As new generations enter and exit the market, the profile of the art buyer continues to evolve. On this week’s episode of Open Mic Life, host Stoyana Ivanova sits down with Andrea Jungmann, the Managing Director of Sotheby’s Austria, Hungary, and Poland.
Andrea’s career includes the sale of Paul Rubens’ The Massacre of the Innocents in 2002 and the record-setting auction of Gustav Klimt’s Litzlberg am Attersee for $40.4 million in 2011. She has also been instrumental in the sale of restituted works by Klimt and Schiele.
In this episode, Andrea shares insights on becoming an art collector, how technology is transforming the auction world, shifting buyer demographics, the impact of humanitarian crises on art, and even how the weather played a role in the sale of Klimt’s second most expensive landscape.
Tune in for all this and more on this week’s episode of Open Mic Life!
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In today’s world, families and weddings come in all shapes and sizes, and there’s no one "right" way to start your own. Whether you envision a big celebration surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones, or an intimate day with just you and your partner, the choice is yours—and it’s perfect, whatever you decide.
While a quick trip to Las Vegas for a chapel wedding might not be an option for those of us in Europe, Luxembourg offers its own unique perks for couples considering elopement. In fact, it's one of the few countries where you can get married without witnesses, and the cost? Just 14 euros.
Planning a wedding is a thrilling time, filled with decisions about how to celebrate your love. For some, that means a traditional gathering with everyone who matters most. For others, eloping offers a deeply personal, simple way to say "I do," with just the two of you embarking on the journey of a lifetime—marriage.
Choosing to elope doesn’t mean you’re against weddings; it just means your special day is about you and your partner, a reflection of who you are as a couple and how you want to celebrate your love.
In today’s episode, host Stoyana is joined by RTL Today’s own Alannah Meyrath to explore the beauty of elopement. Together, they discuss why couples shouldn’t feel obligated to have a traditional wedding if it doesn’t align with their vision. If you’ve ever wondered about taking the road less traveled for your big day, this conversation is for you.
Tune in and join the discussion!
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We are back, WELCOME TO SEASON 2! On this episode Stoyana discusses with Haik what listeners can expect following the successful pilot season. They tease the incredible guests lineup, introduce a bonus series and give several life and professional updates.
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The Season 1 Finale is here! On this weeks episode Stoyana and Haik reflect on season 1. They discuss the essence of what bringing a passion project to life is - blood, sweat, tears and an immense amount of joy. They share their takeaways from the first season and their dreams about the next chapter.
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On this weeks episode Stoyana interviews Alrivira Ferreira, a visual arist who captures human interaction and connection in different ways. She discusses the balance she finds in her artistic expression in the rich palette between her own art, art restoration and teaching art. Stoyana and Haik discuss the trend of activists attacking famous art pieces and how this affects the view of the public on the causes they are championing.
You can learn more about Alvira Ferreira on her website: https://www.alviraferreiraart.com/home
Visit Art Space and see all the courses and workshops they offer: https://artspaceshop.com/
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On this weeks episode of Open Mic Life, Haik and Stoyana switch roles and you will get to listen to Haiks debut in interviewing our next guest. He welcomes Martin Müller M.D. of Venture Capital at CARMA FUND, focused on investments in Life Sciences & Healthcare. You will hear a conversation about anything between who the greatest basketball player is, medicine and pivoting to venture capital. A crash course into the investment world. A conversation about switching from medicine to investments, and in which areas can they overlap in terms of workflow and approach.
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This week's episode Stoyana starts with e very, very special announcement that also comes as a surprise to Haik. During the second part of the interview with Martin Jonsson of RTL. We start right where we left off and dive deep into how to do our due duligence as media consimers in order to stay properly informed. Haik gets his question, why certain evens get more media coverage than others answred. Finally, Martin elaborates on how AI will change the media and journalism industry, and how that will impact the human aspect.
You can read the referenced article "50 years an expat" by Maeve Ryan here: https://today.rtl.lu/news/luxembourg/a/2137650.html
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For the first episode of 2024 Stoyana has the priveledge to interview RTL Luxembourg Team Lead & Deputy Head of Digital Products, Martin Jonsson. They discuss what it's like for an international to dive into a new society and truly understand it. Martin sheds light on the importance of integrity in journalism and Stoyana asks him about the rhetoric he uses in his pieces.
Stoyana and Haik share some updates and fun holiday anecdotes.
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Stoyana interviews Prof. Phillip Paiement of Tilburg University on the business that stands behind academia. He answers questions on his research around law and governance in the Anthropocene, posed by Haik. They discuss the impact that right wing parties will have on reaching the climate targets, what life is like in academia, and how to decide on when to pursue a PhD. Tune in to hear this and more.
You can reach Prof. Phillip Paiement on [email protected]
To learn about and support SHARO foundation go https://sharo.bg/en/
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On this episode Stoyana interviews an old friend of hers and Haik. Amiel Baluch, born in the Netherlands, grew up in Saudi Arabia, studied marketing and strated his career in the Netherlands and early on achieved his dream of moving to Dubai and working in the car industry. They discuss the differences in consumer behaviour in the Middle East and Europe, the upcoming market trends and technology in cars and what (even if Elon Musk says differntly) is not to be expected in the near future. Tune in to hear about the steps taken to achieve a dream, the role of mentors and to debunk a few industry myths.
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Ahead of the festive season, Stoyana is interviewing the founder and CEO of a successful non-profit organization. They discuss the spark that leads you to decide to dedicate your work to a good cause, the challenges you encounter on the way and what takes to grow continuously for 16 years. Haik is of course on the mic, where he discusses with Stoyana the challenges many people face when they would like to get more involved in charitable work.
Learn more and support Operation Teddy Bear by clicking on https://plushenomeche.org/en/.
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