Asian Business Owners - A.B.O.

What happens when your first business gets shut down by regulations?For Gianne Chan, it meant facing a painful pivot but also discovering new paths she never imagined.In this episode, Gianne shares her journey from launching a CBD brand that couldn’t survive, to rebuilding with even more: a branding agency (Lexi Media), two mental health podcasts and a growing music career.What we talk about:How to navigate a forced business pivot without losing momentumThe role of mental health in entrepreneurshipWhy building community matters and how to do soGianne’s story is proof that setbacks don’t have to be the end but can actually be the beginning of something bigger.Content:00:00 Introduction to Asian Business Owners Podcast00:33 Meet Gianne: a Multifaceted Slasher01:28 Balancing Multiple Careers03:30 Journey into Entrepreneurship06:09 Mental Health and Personal Struggles08:36 The Birth of Two Podcasts10:33 The CBD Business Challenge14:10 Founding Lexi Media16:29 Starting a Business Partnership17:13 Meeting an Investor and Pivoting the Brand18:10 Challenges with Vitamin Patches19:25 Focusing on Community and Events22:06 Fireside Questions24:13 Balancing Creativity and Business32:05 Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts👉 To find out more about Gianne:On LinkedInOn Instagram Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drowning in admin and repetitive tasks?This QUICK WINS episode shows how a Virtual Assistant can save you time and sanity.You’ll learn how to:Delegate admin and meeting schedulingUse VAs to handle customer supportLeverage VAs for fast market researchDon't be an overwhelmed entrepreneur, start working smarter, not harder.Content:(00:00) Introduction to ABO Quick Wins(00:15) The Value of Virtual Assistants(00:34) Administrative Tasks Simplified(01:05) Enhancing Customer Support(01:44) Market Research Made Easy(02:20) Conclusion and Next StepsFollow me on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I wouldn't let a client constantly push my deadlines, so why do I do it to myself?I realised that builiding my personal branding is a priority and part of my business goals. If I'm not doing it, I'm building a job, not a business.This week, I get real about the work-in-progress strategy I'm using to break the cycle of prioritising client work over my own vision of my business.If you're an entrepreneur, solopreneur or freelancer feeling trapped by your own to-do list, this real talk is for you. I share with you my frantic week that started with a broken laptop 😅 and I explore practical steps to organise my time and manage my energy to ensure I work in and on my business to make it grow.Content:(00:33) A Personal Story: The Laptop Disaster(02:21) The Realization: Client Work vs. My Brand(05:28) The Daily Plan That Changed Everything(06:40) Seeking Advice and Shared Experiences(08:39) Conclusion: Your Business, Your RulesFollow the journey:💬 abo.pod🎧 Subscribe to Asian Business Owners wherever you listen! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re posting but not getting results, chances are you’re making one (or all) of these 3 common social media mistakes.In this QUICK WINS episode, you’ll learn how to:Avoid posting without a strategyRespect the differences between platformsActually engage your audience (not just broadcast)Content:(00:00) Introduction to ABO Quick Wins(00:32) Mistake #1: Posting Without a Strategy(01:42) Mistake #2: Ignoring Platform Differences(02:14) Mistake #3: Not Engaging with Your Audience(02:51) Conclusion and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stepping away was actually the most productive thing I did lately. Fresh off a two-week stay in Bali, here I am recording a freestyle solo episode to share how rest has been fruitful to me and gave me clarity on work and the podcast.I tried to reset and I'm sharing with you my honest reflection on the constant hustle, content emptiness and how I'm reshaping the future of the show (including the launch of "Quick Wins", 3-minute episodes designed to give you practical and actionable tips for your business.Did you feel the need to pause and recalibrate this summer? The need to find a smarter path forward? What you'll hear:Why intentional rest is a strategic business toolThe key realisations about balancing creativity with sustainabilityThe behind-the-scenes challenges and joys of running A.B.O.What I'm thinking to change for the podcast Content:00:00 - Introduction: A New Perspective00:28 - Bali: My Place To Rest02:31 - What I Realised About the Hustle Culture Trap03:52 - The Honest Truths About Podcasting & Content Creation05:22 - Listener Feedback That Shaped My Thinking09:59 - Introducing "Quick Wins" and a Smarter Season Ahead14:50 - How You Can Apply This Reset Mindset16:53 - Closing ThoughtsFollow the journey:💬 abo.pod🎧 Subscribe to Asian Business Owners wherever you listen!#MindfulBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset #AsianEntrepreneurs #PodcasterLife #BaliRetreat Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want to build a personal brand on LinkedIn but hate self-promotion?This QUICK WINS episode shares 3 simple ways to grow your personal brand authentically on LinkedIn.You’ll learn how to:Optimise your profile for visibility and trustShare content that connects with your audienceBuild meaningful relationships (not just followers)Content:(00:00) Introduction to ABO Quick Wins(00:15) The Power of LinkedIn for Professionals(00:23) Building Your Personal Brand on LinkedIn(00:48) Tip 1: Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile(01:49) Tip 2: Share Valuable Content Regularly(02:42) Tip 3: Engage with Your Network(03:10) Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s harder than growing a business? Keeping it alive through change.In this episode of Asian Business Owners, Gabriella Montandon — CFO and founder of Montandon Consulting — gets real about the reality owning an SME.She shares:Why cash flow is the #1 reason businesses fail (and how to fix it)The “No A**hole Rule” she applies to clientsHow to stay grounded when everything around you is changingThe difference between working in your business vs. on itContent:(00:39) Meet Gabriella: CFO and Founder(02:09) Staying Grounded in Business and Personal Life(05:00) The Satisfaction of Fixing Businesses(08:19) The Importance of Cash Flow(12:50) The No Asshole Rule in Business(21:09) Fireside Questions(23:58) Growing Your Business: From Start to Success(26:34) The Importance of Working On Your Business(30:43) Defining Success and Independence(37:08) Lessons Learned and Future Projects(43:39) The Power of Having Fun in Business👉 To find out more about Gabriella:On LinkedInMontandon Consulting's website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Struggling to turn Instagram views into actual sales?In this QUICK WINS episode, learn 3 simple tactics that drive real engagement and conversion through Instagram Stories.What you’ll learn:How to use interactive stickers to boost engagementHow to post time-sensitive offers to drive urgencyWhy behind-the-scenes content builds trust and salesPerfect for solopreneurs, eCom owners, coaches, creatives and anyone using Instagram and looking for results, fast.Content:(00:00) Introduction to ABO Quick Wins(00:15) The Power of Instagram Stories(00:44) Tip 1: Use Interactive Stickers(01:30) Tip 2: Post Time-Sensitive Offers(02:11) Tip 3: Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Content(02:44) Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Allen Law was living the classic workaholic lifestyle: long hours, constant stress, little time for health.Burnout forced him to step back and ask: what does real success look like?In this episode, Allen shares how fatherhood and health struggles led him to launch a wellness movement across Asia, from fitness studios to investing in startups that extend healthspan.We talk stress management, building healthy habits, and why entrepreneurs need to protect their energy if they want to build something meaningful. Allen’s story is a reminder that success without health isn’t success at all.Content:(00:29) Allen’s Background: From Hong Kong to Singapore(01:17) Early Career Burnout & Unhealthy Habits(03:51) The Turning Point: Family, Fatherhood & Fitness(06:13) Launching Seveno Capital: Investing in Wellness Startups(09:38) How Seveno Capital Supports Founders(11:31) Criteria for Investment: Impact & Healthspan(14:36) Managing Stress as an Entrepreneur(16:14) Building Healthy Habits & Self-Discipline(18:07) Fireside Quick Questions(21:15) Quitting Alcohol & Social Pressures(25:54) How to Make Wellness Accessible to All(28:20) The Truth About Anti-Aging & Healthspan vs. Lifespan(32:08) Upcoming Projects: Longevity World Health Hub(33:45) Lessons for Entrepreneurs(35:00) – Final Thoughts👉 To find out more about Allen:On LinkedInSeveno Capital's website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You want to use AI in your business but don’t know where to start?In this QUICK WINS episode, discover 3 simple and practical ways to leverage AI, even if you’re not techy.From marketing automation to data insights and faster customer support, these tips are built for busy entrepreneurs who want results without the overwhelm.Content:(00:00) Introduction to ABO Quick Wins(00:36) Leveraging AI for Marketing Automation(01:31) Analysing Customer Data with AI(02:16) Enhancing Customer Service with Chatbots(03:04) Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🚨 Big news: Asian Business Owners is getting even more practical.Introducing Quick Wins, short, sharp episodes packed with actionable business advice — in 3 minutes.Each week, you'll get tips on one specific challenge entrepreneurs face, from building an audience to using AI, handling burnout or boosting sales with Instagram.Short, practical, specific: listen to proven tips you can implement today.The first Quick Wins episode drops next week.✅ Follow the show so you don’t miss it! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you could gather some of the most valuable lessons from entrepreneurs in one episode?In this special episode of Asian Business Owners, you’ll hear my guests share their best advice. Real, relatable and straight from experience.This is a compilation of the insights that stuck with me, if you like it, I'll do another one like this with more advice from more guests.I hope you’ll find help here that makes you reflect and maybe even change the way you approach your business.Content:(00:29) Special Episode: Lessons Learned by Business Owners(01:13) Karin Chan: Be Your Biggest Cheerleader(02:18) Rasheed Shroff: Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone(04:13) Alison Chan: Her Dad's Inspiring Story From Laborer to Businessman(06:22) Kiri Sinclair on The Importance of People in Business(07:29) Jonathan Crockett's Advice To Be A Sucessfull Leader(08:06) Conclusion and Farewell👉 To listen to the full episodes:Karin Chan's episodeRasheed Shroff's episodeAlison Chan's episodeKiri Sinclair's episodeJonathan Crockett's episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to walk away from a stable career and start over completely?In this episode replay, Laurie Mias shares her journey from a stable life and job in Paris to launching her own wellness brand in Hong Kong.We talk about the challenges of leaving security behind, the emotional rollercoaster of starting from zero and the unexpected truths no one tells you about entrepreneurship.If you’ve ever wondered what it really feels like to risk everything for a new beginning, Laurie’s story is as honest as it gets.Content:(01:03) Introducing Laurie and MONO Skincare(02:11) Laurie's Entrepreneurial Journey(05:31) Starting Fresh in Hong Kong before MONO Skincare(08:47) The Birth of a Juice Business(13:02) Lessons Learned From This 1st Experience(18:33) Quickfire Questions(22:04) Transition to Wellness and Yoga(24:48) The Impact of Covid on Wellness Retreats(25:11) Founding MONO Skincare(25:24) Challenges in the Skincare Market(29:15) The Journey of Product Development(36:11) Launching a Revolutionary Product(42:11) Adapting to Market Needs(45:19) Future Innovations and Business Philosophy(49:07) Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs👉 To find out more about MONO Skincare:Their websiteTheir Instagram page Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen or re-listen to this episode that you particularly loved. Laurie's story is fascinating, as she quit everything: job, boyfriend, native country — and moved to the other side of the planet to reinvent herself. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you run a business when nothing is certain?In this special medley episode of Asian Business Owners, 3 founders share what it’s really like to navigate unpredictable markets, major transitions and high-stakes decisions without all the answers.Listen to:Christian Mongendre, founder of TreeHouse, on surviving COVID-19, navigating economic slowdowns and adapting to shifting food trendsJingjin Liu, founder of ZaZaZu, on leaving a C-level corporate job for entrepreneurship and exiting her business unexpectedly right before the pandemicNaman Tekriwal, co-founder of Breer, on turning leftover bread into beer, learning to brew from scratch with YouTube tutorials and finding product-market fitWhether you’re in a pivot, just starting out, or facing your own uncertainty, listen to these stories about adapting and making decisions without full clarity.Content:(00:00) Introduction to Asian Business Owners Podcast(00:27) Navigating Uncertainty in Business(02:10) Challenges in the Market and Media(05:49) Learning to Brew Beer from Scratch(09:53) Quitting Corporate for Entrepreneurship(12:55) Reflecting on Business Exits and Lessons Learned(13:55) Conclusion — Follow us and Hit Subscribe!👉 To listen to the full episodes:Christian's storyNaman's storyJingjin's story Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What do you do when the plan falls apart? From navigating COVID closures and market shifts, to trying something for the first from scratch with no experience, to leaving a thriving business right before the pandemic — these entrepreneurs show us how to keep moving with uncertainty. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of your favourite episodesWhen Ariane Zagury moved to Asia, she was pregnant, jobless and had no business plan.Today? She runs Rue Madame Fashion Group, a retail empire with over 50 fashion boutiques across Asia, including brands like American Vintage, Maje, Claudie Pierlot, Sandro, Jonak and more.In this powerful conversation, Ariane opens up about:– How she started from scratch in a new country– The bold moves that built her multi-brand group– Lessons from scaling in Hong Kong, Mainland China and beyondIf you’re pivoting, launching or dreaming bigger, listen or re-listen to this episode.Content:(00:45) Meet Ariane: Owner of Rue Madam Fashion Group(03:04) Reflecting on Success and Personal Life(08:23) Opening the First Shop in Asia(12:44) Quick Fire Questions with Ariane(14:33) Building a Retail Empire(18:59) The Reality of Business Plans and Profitability(20:44) Signing the First Joint Venture with American Vintage(22:08) A Journey of Persistence with SMCP(30:16) The Birth of Clemence Brand(31:52) The Fashion Scene in Asia(33:27) Expanding into Mainland China(35:06) Lessons Learned from Mistakes(00:27) Carmen's Summer Update(00:59) Meet Ariane, Founder of Rue Madame Fashion Group(04:59) Ariane's Journey from Finance to Fashion(10:19) Challenges and Successes in Retail(13:17) Fireside Questions with Ariane(15:49) Building a Client-Centric Retail Business(19:06) Balancing Vision and Business Focus(21:17) First Partnership with American Vintage(22:53) Persistence in Business(28:43) The Importance of Addressing Problems(32:25) Fashion in Asia(34:01) Expanding into Mainland China(35:40) Lessons Learned from Mistakes👉 To find out more:WebsiteLinkedInInstagram🎥 Follow A.B.O. Podcast also on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@abopod ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You particularly loved this story and I agree with you, her story is pretty inspiring. During this holiday season, while travelling or working, listen or re-listen to previous episodes you loved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You're at a crossroads wondering if it’s time to pivot?In this special episode of Asian Business Owners, 3 entrepreneurs in Asia share the exact moment they knew they had to change direction. From feeling off-track to redefining success and walking away from what no longer served them, these stories will help you trust your gut and take the next step with clarity.Listen to:Maaike Steinebach on finding your purposeRowena Gonzales on switching from corporate to freelancing to business ownerLaurie Mias on starting over on the other side of the planetWhether you're in a transition or afraid of making the wrong move, this episode is for you.Content:(00:27) Entrepreneurial Crossroads: Stories of Bold Pivots(01:01) Maaike - Female Empowerment and Technology: A Personal Journey(04:25) Maaike - The Gender Health Gap: Unveiling the Disparities(07:04) Rowena - From Corporate to Freelancing to Entrepreneurship: A Designer's Tale(12:38) Laurie - Taking the Leap & Starting Over: Moving from Paris to Hong Kong👉 To listen to the full episodes:Maaike: From CEO of VISA to FemTech Founder: Maaike’s Mission to Empower Women’s HealthRowena: She Left Corporate, Built a Design Firm — And Dit It Her WayLaurie: She Left Everything to Build a Skincare Brand- Here's What No One Tells You Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You might have experienced a pivot moment when you had to make a decision and choose a direction. In this upcoming special episode, three entrepreneurs in Asia share their pivot moment. Stay tuned! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.