Made it in Thailand

I sat down with Karsten Aichholz to talk about how he built a business in Thailand that still runs without him. We get into what he learned about hiring in Bangkok, why he hires for challenge and fit instead of shiny resumes, how he adds a team sit‑in during interviews, and the simple Elvis Test he uses to check written English. He also shares why he moved his team fully remote in 2016 and how that helped people stay.We also talk about his content work, from Thailand Starter Kit to Expat Den, and how a long health insurance spreadsheet turned into a useful guide for thousands of expats. If you are building in Thailand or hiring across cultures, there are a lot of practical ideas in here.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Karsten Aichholz:https://www.karsten.me/https://www.expatden.com/https://www.safeandnotsorry.com/Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.👉 Visit: https://fractiond.io/00:00 Building a Business in Thailand03:06 Navigating Thai Bureaucracy08:49 Transitioning to Expat Resources14:40 Hiring and Retention Insights18:13 Cultural Adaptation in Hiring27:19 Rebranding and Expanding Beyond Thailand30:30 Conclusion

In this episode, I sat down with Jake Mooney, a marketing agency founder in Chiang Mai whose unique strategy combines calm marketing principles with the power of video content and live events. Jake shares how moving to Thailand with no safety net led him to embrace authentic networking and leverage workshops and video marketing for meaningful growth. If you’re curious about building trust and business connections through content and event-hosting in Thailand’s dynamic market, Jake’s journey offers eye-opening lessons and inspiration.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Jake Mooney:https://greenlightstudio.co/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-threlkeld-mooney/Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire. 👉 Visit: https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction02:32 Building a Marketing Agency in Chiang Mai04:47 Challenges and Advice for Starting a Business in Thailand08:08 Understanding Calm Marketing12:30 The Importance of Strategy in Marketing15:30 Leveraging Workshops for Business Growth23:59 Connecting Authentically on LinkedIn26:29 AI in Video Content Creation29:33 Starting with Video on a Budget34:28 Authenticity in Business Videos43:31 Marketing Tactics for 2025 and Beyond47:56 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

In this episode, I sit down with Brendan Cunningham, the Regional Business Development Director for ASW Consulting, to discuss the intricacies of starting and running a business in Thailand. Brendan shares his journey from Australia to Thailand, the critical importance of hiring the right people, and the challenges of retaining talent in a competitive market. We dive into effective strategies for team building, the nuances of Thai culture, and the essentials of creating a positive office environment. Brendan also offers valuable networking tips and explains the importance of understanding individuals rather than generalizing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just curious about doing business in Thailand, this episode is filled with practical advice and real-life experiences.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Brendan Cunningham:- Website: https://consulting.aswhiteglobal.com- Email: Brendan@consulting.aswhiteglobal.com- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendancunninghamDoing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction01:24 Brendan's Journey to Thailand05:24 Challenges of Starting a Business in Thailand07:47 Effective Hiring Strategies22:36 Retaining Talent in SMEs34:43 Accountability in Leadership35:01 Building an Open Office Culture36:56 Understanding Cultural Differences43:40 Generational Differences in the Workplace52:20 The Value of Networking01:01:23 Hiring the Right Team01:05:34 Final Thoughts

In this episode, I speak with Jimmy Bernberg from Iglu to discuss the nuances of starting and running a business in Thailand. Jimmy, a Swedish citizen living in Thailand since 2016, shares his journey from landing his first job in Thailand to becoming a Senior Sales Manager at Iglu. We dive into the benefits of the BOI and outsourcing models, the lifestyle and community perks of living in Thailand, and valuable tips for establishing legal work. If you're considering Thailand for remote work, business development, or are just curious about the expat lifestyle, this episode is packed with insights and real-life experiences. Plus, Jimmy shares his love for motorcycle racing and how the hobby has connected him with a vibrant community of expats.This episode is NOT sponsored.Connect with Jimmy Bernberg:- Website: https://iglu.net/scott/contact (directed to Jimmy)- Email: jimmy@Iglu.netWant to hear my personal experience with Iglu?- Email: iglu@fractiond.io (directed to Scott)Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction02:31 Working Remotely and COVID-19 Impact04:15 Joining Iglu and Career Transition06:59 Navigating Work Permits and Legal Compliance09:57 Outsourcing vs. Setting Up Your Own Business16:49 Understanding BOI and Employment Visas25:07 Exploring Thailand and Beyond26:40 Motorcycle Racing in Thailand27:53 Networking and Community Building32:39 Work Opportunities and Trends in Thailand39:25 Employee Engagement and Retention at Iglu44:00 Conclusion

Discover insider strategies for navigating Thailand's booming e-commerce landscape with expert Kelly Hezemans, who reveals the hidden challenges and opportunities for both new sellers and established businesses looking to succeed on Thailand's major online marketplaces. Whether you're starting an online business in Thailand, expanding from physical retail to digital commerce, or optimizing your existing e-commerce strategy in Southeast Asia, this comprehensive interview provides proven tactics for success on Shopee Thailand, Lazada Thailand, and TikTok Shop. Learn how to overcome platform algorithms, gain product visibility, master localization strategies, and compete effectively in Thailand's competitive digital marketplace where the top 10 listings capture 80% of all traffic. Perfect for entrepreneurs, business owners, digital marketers, and anyone interested in Thailand's rapidly growing online retail sector, covering everything from marketplace optimization and traffic generation to cross-border e-commerce and Southeast Asian consumer behavior.This episode is NOT sponsored.Connect with Kelly Hezemans:- Website: https://iboostonline.com/- Email: hello@iboostonline.comDoing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction00:54 Kelly's Background and Move to Thailand01:49 E-commerce Market Differences04:18 Challenges and Strategies for E-commerce in Thailand06:31 Marketing and Visibility on E-commerce Platforms09:10 Operational Tips for E-commerce Success16:11 Launching on Multiple Platforms: Shopee vs. Lazada18:57 Building Brand Awareness and Trust25:27 Data-Driven Decisions and Analytics31:42 Future Trends in E-commerce33:51 Conclusion

In this episode, I chat with Tom Pryor, co-founder of Baht Gold, about why high karat gold, such as 23k gold, is not commonly sold in jewelry stores in the US. Tom shares his extensive experience with Thai gold, his journey into the gold business, and the unique advantages of high karat gold. We discuss the purity and durability of 96.5% gold, the cultural and market differences between Thai and Western gold products, and practical tips on buying and selling gold in Thailand and internationally. Learn about the craftsmanship of Thai gold jewelry, the significance of hallmarks and maker's marks, and the economic and cultural factors influencing the gold market. Plus, get insights into the role of high-quality gold in supporting animal welfare through Tom's business model.Connect with Tom Pryor:- Website: http://www.23kgold.com/- YouTube: ⁨@pryortuck⁩  00:00 Introduction01:05 Tom's Journey to Thailand and Gold04:42 The Birth of Baht Gold Company09:21 Understanding Thai Gold Purity16:52 Navigating Gold Shops in Thailand24:42 VAT on Gold Jewelry in Thailand25:30 Avoid Buying Gold in Tourist Areas26:05 Understanding Gold Quality Levels26:53 The Reality of Fake Gold28:15 Different Tiers of Gold33:06 Custom Gold Products38:14 Exporting Gold from Thailand42:02 Selling Gold in the US44:24 Purchasing and Selling Silver in Thailand47:18 Why High Karat Gold is Rare in US Jewelry Stores51:15 Conclusion📖 Download my FREE gold buying guidehttps://www.scottpressimone.com/gold-guide📖 Download Tom's FREE gold cheat sheethttps://www.scottpressimone.com/gold-cheat-sheet

In this episode about Thailand's hidden crisis, I interview Friso Poldervaart, who transformed a simple pandemic response into Bangkok's leading homeless support organization. Discover the alarming reality of Bangkok's homelessness epidemic—where 60% are elderly surviving on just 600 baht monthly—and how Bangkok Community Help has distributed nearly 4.5 million meals to Thailand's hungry. From creating Thailand's first inner-city homeless shelter to providing 750 scholarships that keep underprivileged Thai children in school, this grassroots initiative shows how volunteer work in Thailand creates lasting impact. With 3,000 volunteers tackling poverty in Bangkok slums, they're addressing Thailand's elderly crisis through sustainable solutions rather than temporary aid. Learn how travelers, expats, and donors worldwide can contribute to helping Thailand's vulnerable communities.🏠 VISIT Bangkok Community Help: https://bangkokcommunityhelp.org💰 DONATE - Just $140 sponsors a child's education for a full year!👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 VOLUNTEER - Join 3,000+ volunteers making a difference in Bangkok▶️ Instagram: @bangkokcommunityhelp▶️ Facebook: @bangkokcommunityhelp🌍 SHARE this video to spread awareness about Thailand's vulnerable communities00:00 Introduction01:13 Starting Bangkok Community Help04:23 Transition to an Official NGO06:19 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Skills10:36 Empowering Volunteers and Community Involvement15:52 Success Stories and Impact20:41 Challenges Facing the Elderly in Thailand26:10 Education Barriers and Solutions29:59 How to Get Involved

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I met with Bertrand Theaud, the founder of Statrys, to explore how he built a thriving fintech company from the ground up. Bertrand dives into the foundational decisions of setting strict work hours from 9 AM to 6 PM and creating a structured company culture aimed at preserving work-life balance. He also shares compelling anecdotes about his career switch from aviation to fintech, the importance of SEO in their marketing strategy, and why Bangkok proved to be the ideal hub for their operations. This episode is packed with valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business professionals alike.GUEST LINKShttps://statrys.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/statrys/https://www.linkedin.com/in/bertrandtheaud/https://www.youtube.com/@UC39jphb_m0Cv6MHHWGyP8iQ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction01:27 About Statrys: A Payment Platform03:26 Bertrand's Career Path06:56 The Aviation Business and COVID Impact09:57 Growing Statrys12:40 Building Trust in Fintech14:09 Adventures and Entrepreneurial Spirit20:13 Statrys' Unique Value Proposition27:30 Operations in Bangkok and Hong Kong29:22 Expanding in Asia and Europe30:54 The Importance of In-Person Collaboration37:55 Company Culture and Work-Life Balance43:03 Marketing Strategies and SEO Success49:31 Video Content and Social Media Presence57:12 Building a Team in Thailand01:00:33 Conclusion

I sat down with Chef Bing, a seasoned chef from New York now running a successful New York-style pizza restaurant in Bangkok, Thailand. Listen to Bing's fascinating journey from New York to Bangkok, his culture shock, and the challenges he faced adapting his cooking style to meet Thai tastes. We'll delve into his early career, the setbacks he experienced, and how he eventually established Chef Bing Pizza. Learn about his approach to crafting unique pizza recipes that appeal to both Thai and international palettes, his innovative business strategies, and his plans for future expansion. Whether you're a pizza enthusiast or looking for entrepreneurial inspiration, this conversation is packed with insights, personal anecdotes, and valuable lessons.00:00 Introduction01:37 Bing's Culinary Journey in New York06:55 Challenges and Adjustments in Thailand13:26 Launching Chef Bing Pizza16:22 Overcoming Early Struggles19:37 Gaining Momentum and Recognition21:20 A Humbling Experience23:38 Adapting Pizza for Thai Customers24:17 The Secret to Our Sauce and Crust26:28 Balancing Authenticity and Local Preferences29:18 Top Pizza Choices and Customer Preferences32:23 Challenges in Hiring and Retaining Staff36:25 Expansion Plans and Future Goals39:54 Catering Services and Community Impact45:00 Conclusion

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I had the pleasure of speaking with Manuel Ferreras Moreno, a versatile entrepreneur and high school physics teacher who co-founded Ravenwing in Bangkok. Manuel shares invaluable insights into navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in Thailand, especially for foreigners—from tackling language barriers to understanding local regulations. He highlights his philosophy of sustainable growth and fair treatment of employees, touching on the importance of trust and ethical business practices. Tune in to discover how Raven Wing is helping businesses flourish in a unique and complex market.00:00 Introduction03:18 Transition from Academia to Entrepreneurship08:03 Moving to Thailand and Teaching Experience15:37 Starting a Cannabis Business in Thailand20:16 Choosing a New Business Path21:53 Introducing Ravenwing25:31 Motivations Behind Ravenwing29:37 Challenges for Foreign Entrepreneurs40:09 Vision for the Future41:26 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs42:38 ConclusionGUEST LINKS:https://www.ravenwing.cohttps://www.instagram.com/ravenwing.cohttps://www.facebook.com/ravenwingthhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ravenwingth

In this episode of Made It In Thailand, I sit down with Forrest Lee, an American expat who's been living in Thailand for four years. Forrest shares his journey from leaving the US Army to becoming a popular YouTuber in Thailand, discussing his motivations, experiences, and the unique cultural aspects of living in Thailand. We delve into his financial strategies, the challenges of visa arrangements, and his personal life, including dating and building a community. Forrest also reflects on his family's immigrant background and his father's remarkable escape from a communist labor camp. Join us as we explore Forrest's insights on thriving in Thailand and the lessons he's learned along the way.00:00 Introduction03:59 Childhood and Upbringing10:17 Father Escaping the Cultural Revolution17:57 Forrest's Military Experience24:30 Discovering Thailand32:50 Moving to Thailand33:23 The Allure of Bangkok37:16 Avoiding Common Mistakes41:58 Visa Strategies45:59 Cost of Living48:10 Building a Network50:21 Dating in Thailand58:11 Family and Future Plans01:06:43 Final Thoughtsthailand, business, entrepreneurship, leadership, travel, expatriate life, thai culture, thai society, high trust society, family-oriented culture, thai-chinese community, cultural diversity, bangkok, thai elite visa, long-term visa, personal finance, investment, delayed gratification, financial discipline, passive income, education, army transition, tech startup, content creation, fitness and discipline, dating dynamics, personal growth, catholic community, family planning, travel experiences, educational background, independence, personal improvement

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mark Friedman, the managing director of Baan Thai Immigration Solutions. Mark shares his experiences navigating Thailand’s ever-changing immigration landscape and offers practical advice on setting up a business in the Land of Smiles. From visa challenges to cultural nuances, Mark's insights are essential for anyone looking to start a new chapter in Thailand. Discover the complexities and opportunities that make Thailand a unique destination for expatriates.Expanding your business in Thailand? I can help.https://www.scottpressimone.com/thailand-consultation/00:00 Introduction02:01 Mark's Legal Journey and Career Highlights03:56 Falling in Love with Thailand04:59 Navigating Immigration Challenges09:17 Starting a Business in Thailand13:34 Understanding Thai Immigration Law22:00 Recent Changes in Thai Visa Policies27:49 Qualifying for the DTV Visa28:00 Recent Tax Changes in Thailand31:48 Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)33:49 Thailand Privilege Visa35:19 Long-Term Stay Options40:08 Permanent Residency in Thailand46:04 Running a Business in Thailand52:20 Decompressing in Thailand55:56 ConclusionGUEST LINKS:https://btisolutions.co/https://www.youtube.com/@baanthaiimmigrationsolutionshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-friedman-a8b93111/SHOW NOTES:https://madeitinthailand.com/ep13DISCLAIMER:Mark Friedman, our guest in this episode of Made it in Thailand, does not practice law in Thailand. He operates as the Managing Director and a shareholder of Baan Thai Immigration Solutions, a company that employs licensed Thai attorneys and legal counselors. While Mark can provide strategic immigration advice to individuals immigrating to the US, he does not engage in legal practice within Thailand. For legal matters, Baan Thai Immigration Solutions utilizes the expertise of its qualified Thai legal professionals. Our discussion during this episode is not meant as legal or immigration advice. If you require advice or legal guidance, you should consult with a Thai immigration attorney or counselor. 

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, we sit down with Stuart Pollington, co-founder of Easson Energy and owner of Smart Traffic and Smart Digital Group. Stuart shares insights from his journey from the UK to Thailand, his experiences in digital marketing, and how he ventured into energy efficiency. Discover how Easson Energy helps businesses reduce energy wastage and CO2 emissions, and learn about the importance of adapting to local cultures when doing business in Thailand. Tune in for valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, team building, and saving energy costs.00:00 Introduction03:45 Building a Career in Digital Marketing05:47 Experiences in the Philippines06:36 Comparing Business Environments: Thailand vs. Philippines14:36 Taking Over and Growing Smart Traffic19:36 Founding Easson Energy37:42 Challenges and Opportunities in Solar Energy38:07 Overcoming Objections and Hurdles40:52 The Role of Easson's Partners41:54 Strengths and Dynamics of the Team48:13 Adapting Business Strategies in Thailand52:32 Building a Strong Team Culture55:34 Long-Term Business Planning and Advice01:02:03 Navigating the Board of Investment (BOI)01:06:11 Personal Insights and Future Goals01:10:55 Connecting and Networking in Thailand01:12:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts#thailand #business #entrepreneurship #leadership #energyefficiency #sustainability #automation #energycostsavings #renewableenergy #co2reduction #greenbusiness #expatlife #networking #BOIThailand #digitalmarketing #SEO #SmartTraffic #SmartDigital #EasonEnergy #dataanalytics #employeeengagement #companyculture #workplaceretention #adaptability #smartbusiness #investmentinThailand #careerprogression #businessgrowth #technology #ROI #solarpower #netzero #monitoring #energymanagement #financialsavings #remotework #worklifebalance #globalprojects

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I’m joined by Tim Grassin, a trailblazing entrepreneur who’s made a name for himself in the competitive startup scene of Southeast Asia. Tim reveals the strategic moves that led him to establish a successful banner business, explore offshore talent, and eventually choose Thailand as his home. We also dive into his experiences navigating the COVID-19 pandemic while running businesses in the Philippines, and his thoughts on the burgeoning fintech opportunities in the region. Don't miss this electrifying conversation that offers a wealth of knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs.00:00 Introduction01:30 Tim's International Background01:45 Growing Up with a Diplomat Father05:19 High School in Kenya and Early Exposure to FinTech09:15 University Life and the Shift to Entrepreneurship16:41 First Business Venture: Presentation Design23:19 Second Business Venture: Digital Advertising28:52 Selling the Second Business29:50 Book Recommendations and Business Insights32:03 Moving to Thailand: A New Chapter34:05 Understanding the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)39:16 The Next Big Wave: Podcast and Coaching46:08 Optimizing Business Growth Strategies53:55 Final Thoughts

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, Simon Birkett joins me to discuss his remarkable career transition from commercial property to becoming a tech innovator in Thailand. Simon’s work with digital mapping revolutionized urban planning in Bangkok and even played a role in a U.S. presidential reelection campaign. Listen in as Simon reveals the highs and lows of doing business in Thailand, from initial setbacks to groundbreaking successes, and his current passion project focused on empowering young professionals.00:00 Introduction00:36 Meet Simon Birkett: From London to Thailand01:22 Simon's Early Life and Career Beginnings03:55 First Steps in Thailand: Opportunities and Challenges04:46 Language Skills and Cultural Adaptation08:34 The Business Landscape in 1991 Thailand14:25 Tech Ventures and Networking in Thailand25:29 Navigating Business Challenges and Competition29:09 Reflections on the Financial Crisis34:18 Lessons Learned and Advice for New Entrepreneurs42:40 Bangkok's Transportation Data Overhaul43:49 Visualization and MapInfo Collaboration44:13 Clinton's Campaign and Bangkok's Tech Scene45:59 The 90s Tech Buzz in Bangkok48:35 Challenges in Thai Banking and Bureaucracy51:59 The Birth of Tinman56:46 Addressing Recruitment Challenges01:02:23 Tinman's Approach to Better Job Matching01:09:45 Improving Workforce Quality in Thailand01:11:37 Connecting Students and Employers01:24:08 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, Jirawat "Kao" Tariya takes us through his inspiring path from studying animation in Chiang Mai to becoming a prominent web and UI designer in Bangkok. Kao reveals how critiquing everyday designs fueled his passion and how his problem-solving skills set him apart in a fast-paced industry. Listen in as he discusses striking the balance between a familial work atmosphere and professional boundaries, and provides insights for aspiring designers and business professionals alike.

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I sit down with Nick Bernhardt, founder of a market research and business intelligence company in Thailand. Nick opens up about his 12-year journey in Thailand, the challenges and triumphs of learning the Thai language, and the unexpected path that led him to start his own business. We delve into the nuances of Thai market research, the intricacies of establishing a company under the Treaty of Amity, and the economic shifts in the region.00:00 Introduction01:31 Journey to Thailand: Language and Lifestyle02:26 Challenges of Learning Thai03:32 Fluency and Real-World Application05:02 Starting a Business in Thailand08:10 Unexpected Entrepreneurial Journey15:35 Importance of Market Research17:10 Client-Centric Business Philosophy18:35 Adapting to Market Needs33:59 Efficient Business Operations34:42 Expanding Beyond Thailand37:27 Navigating Freelancers and Business Costs39:51 Market Trends and Economic Changes in Thailand45:10 Tourism and Remote Work Opportunities51:50 Household Debt and Financial Insights01:04:02 Starting a Business in Thailand: Treaty of Amity01:12:29 Community Involvement and Networking01:16:02 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I sat down with Jan Rohweder, founder of Marketing Bear, a successful digital marketing agency in Bangkok. Jan shares his incredible journey from Germany to Thailand, initially planning for a short stay but ending up building a life and career there. We delve into the challenges he faced in business, his key moments of success, and his involvement with the Australian Thai Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Jan discusses the balance between business and family life, offering insights on raising a child in Thailand and the importance of work-life balance. Join us for valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, networking, and making a life in Thailand as an expatriate.00:00 Introduction01:26 Jan Rohweder's Journey to Thailand04:08 Starting a Business in Thailand06:01 The Birth of Marketing Bear13:25 Marketing Bear's Unique Approach24:54 Challenges and Growth29:58 Networking and Community Involvement47:37 Building Relationships Over Hard Selling48:13 Journey to Becoming a Director49:16 Leading the Digital Marketing Subcommittee52:57 Mentorship and Paying It Forward57:06 Hiring and Employee Development01:06:13 Achieving BOI Certification01:12:34 Balancing Business and Personal Life01:22:19 Raising a Family in Thailand01:26:41 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I had the pleasure of speaking with Joana Button and Damian Sutton, a power duo who moved from Australia to Thailand and successfully established thriving businesses. Joana shares her transition from the travel industry to founding Simple Scalable Solutions and the Scalify platform, while Damian delves into his passion for Agile methodologies and his role as a technology leader. Together, they discuss the challenges of cultural adaptation, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and their mission to simplify technology for small businesses. Join us for a compelling conversation filled with insights, experiences, and invaluable advice for anyone looking to find success in Thailand.00:00 Introduction02:27 The Beginnings: How Joana and Damian Met04:23 Implementing Agile: Transforming Business Operations12:51 Leadership Styles and Values21:23 Challenges and Opportunities in Thailand36:21 Helping Small Businesses: The Birth of Simple Scalable Solutions45:58 Common Data Management Issues in Small Businesses47:48 The Importance of Objective Leadership49:33 Building a Comprehensive Platform51:29 Challenges and Solutions in Business Integrations53:46 The Value of Simplification in Scaling58:07 Navigating Business Ownership in Thailand01:07:42 Hiring and Mentoring the Right Talent01:16:55 The Role of Education and Continuous Learning01:23:37 Balancing Data-Driven Success with Joy01:28:46 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I had the pleasure of chatting with Ryan Farley, a seasoned content creator who made the leap from a lobbying job in Washington D.C. to co-founding a successful content agency in Thailand. Tune in to hear Ryan's journey, his challenges with writing quality content for SaaS startups, and his insights into the nuances of client relationships. Dive into the world of freelancing, marketing strategies, and the rewards of working with startups in this engaging conversation.00:00 Introduction02:14 The Journey Begins: Hitchhiking and Adventures10:19 Settling in Thailand: Teaching and Visa Challenges17:34 Transition to Professional Life in Thailand18:36 Navigating Thai Working Culture22:45 Freelancing and Founding Pith & Pip43:33 Challenging the Silo Mentality44:41 The Importance of Connection in Client Relationships46:54 Identifying Ideal and Bad Fit Clients48:19 Experimentation and Client Trust58:15 Balancing Freelance and Full-Time Work01:07:14 The Challenges of Hiring Good Writers01:14:59 Navigating Personal Relationships in Thailand01:25:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections