LIT- Luca's Insight Track

What happens when a woman at the top of corporate life walks away from a prestigious title, a comfortable paycheck, and a high-stakes role managing over 5,000 people—only to find her voice, her purpose, and her true power on the other side?In this deeply personal and emotionally charged episode of Luca’s Insight Track, host Luca Allam sits down with Marisa Kamall, former Managing Director at HSBC and founder of Gaia—a leadership platform designed to support and empower women across the Middle East and beyond. But this conversation isn’t just about career shifts. It’s about motherhood, identity, mental health, feminism, and the radical decision to align your life with your values.At the height of her corporate career, Marisa was leading global teams and checking every box of success. Then, within months, she gave birth, experienced postnatal depression, was hospitalized with pneumonia, and faced a career-altering restructure. The physical, emotional, and existential toll nearly broke her—but it also set her free.What follows is not a collapse, but a rebirth. With disarming honesty, Marisa unpacks the hidden struggles of high-achieving women and the moment she realized that power and peace could finally coexist. She shares how Gaia was born—not as a reaction, but as a purposeful stand for female leadership that is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and community.Luca and Marisa delve into the tough stuff—unconscious bias in the workplace, the isolation of motherhood, financial insecurity, and the privilege of speaking out. They challenge old-school definitions of leadership and explore what it looks like when women stop performing and start leading on their own terms.This isn’t a polished "girlboss" tale. It’s the real story of a woman who went through the fire—professionally, personally, politically—and emerged grounded, vocal, and awake. From the symbolism of mangoes to the shocking gender bias behind car safety design, no topic is too small or too big. The result is a compelling exploration of patriarchy, power, purpose, and what it means to truly live a values-aligned life.Marisa Kamall doesn’t just speak about change—she lives it. And in doing so, she offers every listener the rarest kind of invitation: to question the systems we serve, to lead with integrity, and to remember that real success only matters if it feels right on the inside.We are -- Global first: Face-to-face interview with ChatGPT (avatar)- Apple Podcasts: Best So Far 2025 (Top 10)- Podeo: Best Trailer 2024 winner- YouTube: 162K+ subscribers • 2M+ total viewsRankings:UAE: #5 Society Culture • Top #16 Overall • #2 English SCLebanon: #2 Society Culture • Top #9 OverallSaudi Arabia: #19 Society Culture • Top #72 OverallEgypt: #16 Society Culture • Top #95 Overall

This is a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. This 'Off Track' episode was inspired by my eye-opening conversation with Henri Arslanian, an award-winning crypto author, CNBC presenter, and co-founder of a crypto hedge fund here in the UAE. In this improvised Off Track episode, I focus on 3 insights that I took from my chat with Henri; how uncertainty around Crypto & negative PR are major power weapons to keep centralized and financial control, why there remains plenty of room for both education & courage in our financial decision making, and why common sense still should play the overriding role in our investments.In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my own personal insights and values that continue to shape who I am. Off my chest and off the cuff, welcome to Off Track.

What happens when one of the world’s most respected crypto minds meets one of the most thoughtful voices in media? In this electric episode of Luca’s Insight Track, host Luca Allam sits down with Henri Arslanian—global crypto authority, author, hedge fund founder, and relentless educator—for a conversation that moves far beyond hype.Henri Arslanian is no ordinary guest. A former PwC partner, adjunct professor, CNBC co-host, best-selling author, and co-founder of Nine Blocks Capital Management—one of the world’s largest institutional crypto hedge funds—he brings a rare combination of academic rigor, practical insight, and human warmth to one of the most misunderstood industries today: crypto.But this isn’t your typical blockchain jargon-fest. From Bitcoin’s role as “digital gold” to the explosive rise of meme coins, from the inner workings of stablecoins to the real purpose behind central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), Henri breaks it all down with energy, clarity, and zero ego. He explains why Bitcoin was a Nobel-worthy breakthrough, how the double-spend problem was solved, and why decentralization isn’t just technical—it’s a civilizational shift.The conversation also covers the harsh realities: the scams, the regulatory failures, and why “crypto bros” damage the industry’s public image. But Henri brings more than criticism—he brings solutions. He advocates for financial literacy for all, shares the vision behind his children’s book Decoding Crypto, and passionately explains why even a $10 purchase of Bitcoin can change how people see money and value.What makes this episode truly special is the balance between global finance and personal reflection. Henri shares his Armenian roots, the multigenerational immigrant journey that shaped his perspective, his law and banking career across Asia and North America, and the mindset he adopted to lead in an industry that is still being defined. He speaks five languages, reads economic history for fun, and takes time every month to reflect—asking, “How am I being disrupted?”From why the UAE is becoming the Silicon Valley of Web3, to how digital assets can empower someone born in an underbanked country, this episode is a masterclass in crypto, economics, and global citizenship. If you think crypto is only about getting rich, you’re missing the bigger picture—and Henri helps you see it.Whether you’re crypto-curious or deeply skeptical, whether you’re a startup founder, investor, policymaker, or student—this episode will challenge your assumptions, educate your mind, and energize your worldview.We are -- Global first: Face-to-face interview with ChatGPT (avatar)- Apple Podcasts: Best So Far 2025 (Top 10)- Podeo: Best Trailer 2024 winner- YouTube: 162K+ subscribers • 2M+ total viewsRankings:UAE: #5 Society Culture • Top #16 Overall • #2 English SCLebanon: #2 Society Culture • Top #9 OverallSaudi Arabia: #19 Society Culture • Top #72 OverallEgypt: #16 Society Culture • Top #95 Overall

This is a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. This 'Off Track' episode was inspired by my open and frank conversation with Hikmat Wehbi, an award-winning photographer and podcaster who has recorded over 230 episodes.In this improvised Off Track episode, I focus on just 1 insight that I took from my chat with Hikmat - how influencers, hosts, and guests all have an important choice to make: share your true opinion on important subject matter, or play it safe and opt to keep everything status quo. With the added context of the news about Charlie Kirk, speaking your opinion can come at the heaviest price. For those that are willing to share their unique voice, it provides the opportunity to help others to open their minds - something of real value to all of us. In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my own personal insights and values that continue to shape who I am. Off my chest and off the cuff, welcome to Off Track.

What happens when one of the Arab world’s most beloved podcast hosts finally trades seats and becomes the guest? In this captivating episode of Luca’s Insight Track, the mic is flipped on Hikmat Wehbi—a renowned visual artist turned podcasting legend—whose 225+ episodes and 40M+ views have reshaped the art of storytelling across the Middle East.But this isn’t just a look back on his success. This is a deep, vulnerable, and often humorous masterclass in creativity, psychology, and authenticity. Luca explores Hikmat’s evolution from a broke student with a dream and a camera to becoming a household name, trusted by celebrities, brands, and everyday listeners alike.They unpack everything: from the pivotal photography competition that launched his career to producing soulful exhibitions across Europe, from turning quiet moments into viral podcast clips to navigating language, identity, and self-worth in a city like Dubai. Hikmat reflects on what makes a good host (“It’s not the voice—it’s the silence”), why visual storytelling is more than lighting and lenses, and how he found peace during 12 hours in a Saudi airport jail.This episode challenges industry norms. Why does podcasting still receive less than 1% of ad budgets in the UAE and Saudi despite explosive listener growth? What do real stories offer that scripted influencer content doesn’t? And can podcasting truly shift the future of brand communication?We also go personal: Hikmat opens up about self-doubt, imposter syndrome, the loneliness of creators, and why he avoids watching himself on screen. He speaks about reading people, building trust, protecting guests over chasing virality, and the sacred responsibility of hosting someone’s truth.Whether you’re a budding podcaster, a brand strategist, a fan of Middle Eastern media, or simply someone navigating identity in a hyper-digital age—this conversation is essential listening. Rich with insight and grounded in emotion, Hikmat’s journey reminds us that good content doesn’t need to be perfect—it just needs to be honest.If you’re curious about the intersection of visuals and voice, art and algorithms, fame and feeling, this episode will stay with you long after the credits roll.We are -- Global first: Face-to-face interview with ChatGPT (avatar)- Apple Podcasts: Best So Far 2025 (Top 10)- Podeo: Best Trailer 2024 winner- YouTube: 162K+ subscribers • 2M+ total viewsRankings:UAE: #5 Society Culture • Top #16 Overall • #2 English SCLebanon: #2 Society Culture • Top #9 OverallSaudi Arabia: #19 Society Culture • Top #72 OverallEgypt: #16 Society Culture • Top #95 Overall

This is a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. This 'Off Track' episode was inspired by my incredible conversation with the Nelly Attar, the mountain climber who has summitted over 30 peaks, including Everest and K2.In this raw and improvised ‘Off Track’ episode, I share 4 insights that I took from our conversation; how lacking relatability can lead to loneliness & isolation, the dangerous and different roles that fear & complacency play in blocking our personal growth, the widening gap of perception vs. reality and how inspirational people/ things aren’t how they seem, and how prioritizing mind development vs. body enhancement is what separates the good from the great in not just extreme sports.  In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am. If you’re wanting to listen to a real person that shares honest and common-sense views on important subject matter - these weekly Off Track episodes are for you. 

What happens when one of the Arab world’s most fearless adventurers sits down to share the risks, triumphs, and raw truths behind her record-breaking climbs? In this riveting episode of Luca’s Insight Track, Luca is joined by Nelly Attar—the first Arab woman to summit K2—whose journey from dance studio founder in Saudi Arabia to conquering some of the world’s deadliest peaks is nothing short of extraordinary.But this isn’t just about mountains. It’s about mindset, grief, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose. Nelly opens up about losing her father to COVID-19, and how that heartbreak became the catalyst for her most ambitious challenges. They dive into the razor-thin margin between life and death at 8,000 meters, the stolen oxygen bottles that almost ended her climb, and why fear—handled right—can keep you alive.They unpack it all: the birth of Saudi Arabia’s first female dance studio at a time when music in public spaces was banned, building a community for women’s fitness against the odds, and pivoting her life’s focus after closing her business. Nelly reflects on Everest vs. K2, the mental tricks that keep her going in the “death zone,” and how to spot the moment complacency becomes dangerous—on a mountain or in everyday life.This episode also tackles bigger questions. How can sports be a tool for social change? What does it take to turn physical suffering into emotional healing? And why do so many of life’s biggest rewards come from calculated risks?We also go personal: Nelly shares her views on marriage as a “risk,” the advice her parents gave her about never settling, and her ambitions to shape sports policy in Saudi Arabia. She talks about surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, using gratitude as fuel, and learning to slow down long enough to enjoy the view before chasing the next summit.Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, dreamer, or someone navigating your own mountain—literal or metaphorical—this conversation is packed with hard-won wisdom and contagious energy. Nelly’s story is a reminder that the highest peaks aren’t just climbed with muscle, but with mindset, courage, and purpose.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stand on top of the world and still keep climbing, this episode will leave you inspired to take your own leap—no matter how steep the ascent.We are -- Global first: Face-to-face interview with ChatGPT (avatar)- Apple Podcasts: Best So Far 2025 (Top 10)- Podeo: Best Trailer 2024 winner- YouTube: 162K+ subscribers • 2M+ total viewsRankings:UAE: #5 Society Culture • Top #16 Overall • #2 English SCLebanon: #2 Society Culture • Top #9 OverallSaudi Arabia: #19 Society Culture • Top #72 OverallEgypt: #16 Society Culture • Top #95 Overall

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. This 'Off Track' episode was inspired by my conversation with the now former CEO of OSN, Joe Kawkabani. Joe was the perfect guest to share insights on how media keeps evolving, the bleak state of linear television, and the cluttered world of content. With podcasting now increasingly becoming mainstream, I challenged him on the role podcasting has in the content mix and its emerging relationship with advertisers. In this raw and improvised ‘Off Track’ episode, I talk about the importance of why we need to support local brands as local heroes vs their global competitors, how to differentiate these brands through clever marketing & positioning, and that exporting our regional content vs. importing global content, has a much longer lasting benefit to us all. In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am. If you’re wanting to listen to a real person that shares honest and common-sense views on important subject matter, - these weekly Off Track episodes are for you. 

What happens when a private equity investor steps into the media world and takes charge of one of the Middle East’s most iconic entertainment brands? In this unmissable episode of Luca’s Insight Track, Luca sits down with Joe Kawkabani, former CEO of OSN, for a raw and thought-provoking conversation about the battles, lessons, and transformations that defined his leadership.Joe isn’t your conventional media executive. A financier turned quasi-entrepreneur, he was handed OSN at a moment when many predicted the company would collapse. Instead, he led bold moves—launching OSN+ as a premium streaming service, acquiring Anghami to expand into music and tech, and reshaping the balance between local Arabic content and global Hollywood hits.In this episode, Joe opens up about the pressures of stepping into an industry as an outsider, the skepticism he faced, and why authenticity—not polish—became his leadership style. He reveals what it took to rebuild trust, why piracy was his biggest threat, and how deals worth millions nearly fell apart before finally crossing the line.They also unpack the big questions shaping the future: Is linear TV dying? Can podcasts become the region’s next media frontier? Why do Saudis and Emiratis lead the world in podcast listening while brands still ignore it? And how do you balance personalization with data privacy?This isn’t just about media—it’s about resilience, reinvention, and leadership under pressure. Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or strategist, Joe’s reflections will inspire you to think differently about risk, change, and the future of storytelling in the Arab world.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. In this 'Off Track' edition, it was inspired by my conversation with the MENA region's number 1 telco guru, the former CEO of Du, Osman Sultan. Osman was the perfect guest to kick off season 4, with insights on leadership, the telco industry, and most importantly, - life lessons from someone that has amassed incredible experience and wisdom.In this raw and improvised ‘Off Track’ episode, I talk about the role of virtue and balance in leadership and our lives, how surrendering influence, just like Osman is the key to gaining deeper wisdom and knowledge, and that accountability and responsibility remain the hallmarks of a great leader - something that remains absent on the global political stage. Talking to people like Osman only reinforces why I set up this podcast in the first place, there has never been a more important time to ask the right questions, to listen intently on the information, and to open up the pathway that can lead to deeper fulfillment and personal development.In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I also share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am. So, If you’re wanting to listen to a real human sharing honest and open views on important subject matter, these weekly Off Track episodes are something to keep a look out for.

What happens when one of the Arab world’s most influential CEOs steps off the corporate stage and opens up about life, leadership, and legacy? In this powerful episode of Luca’s Insight Track, Luca Allam sits down with Osman Sultan—the legendary telecom visionary who served as CEO of du for 15 years, transforming the UAE’s telecom monopoly and mentoring nearly 30 future CEOs in the process.But this isn’t just a story of business success. It’s a rare, candid, and often emotional masterclass in leadership, balance, and resilience. Osman shares the lessons learned from four cities that shaped him—Beirut, Paris, Cairo, and Dubai—and the philosophies that guided his journey from a young engineer to one of the region’s most respected business figures. They unpack everything: from putting a mobile phone in every Egyptian’s hand to launching du as a lifestyle brand, from navigating boardroom politics and crises to choosing balance over extremes in an age of rapid change. Osman reflects on what it truly means to be a “people’s CEO,” why integrity sometimes comes at personal cost, and the delicate art of knowing when to control and when to let go.This episode doesn’t shy away from the human side either. Osman speaks about raising five children across three marriages, the wisdom of juggling health, wealth, and time, and the inevitable transition from being a two-ring power player to finding new purpose as an investor, chairman, and writer. He shares intimate stories about family, the meaning of legacy, and why “balance” is the virtue he lives by.Along the way, Luca challenges Osman with bold questions: Did du do more for you, or did you do more for du? Is it worse to compromise when right or be inflexible when wrong? And what does good leadership really look like in a world reshaped by AI?Whether you’re a young professional seeking inspiration, a CEO grappling with legacy, or someone fascinated by how technology, society, and leadership intersect—this conversation is essential listening. Rich with insights and grounded in humility, Osman’s journey reminds us that leadership is not about power—it’s about people, balance, and the stories we leave behind. If you’re curious about the future of leadership, telecom, and humanity in the AI era, this episode will stay with you long after the credits roll.We are - - Global first: Face-to-face interview with ChatGPT (avatar)- Apple Podcasts: Best So Far 2025 (Top 10)- Podeo: Best Trailer 2024 winner- YouTube: 162K+ subscribers • 2M+ total viewsRankings:UAE: #5 Society & Culture • Top #16 Overall • #2 English S&CLebanon: #2 Society & Culture • Top #9 OverallSaudi Arabia: #19 Society & Culture • Top #72 Overall Egypt: #16 Society & Culture • Top #95 Overall

What happens when the world’s most curious interviewer meets the world’s most advanced artificial intelligence? In this thought-provoking episode of Luca’s Insight Track, we take you into a groundbreaking conversation with ChatGPT, an AI that has spoken to more humans than anyone else on the planet.This is not your usual tech talk. There are no rehearsed lines, no scripted prompts. Just a genuine attempt to explore the biggest questions of our time—together with a machine that doesn’t feel, doesn’t live, and doesn’t die. And yet, it responds with nuance, empathy, and startling clarity.The conversation dives deep into timeless philosophical dilemmas and emerging ethical concerns: Can AI ever truly understand love, family, or mortality? Does the ability to simulate emotion equate to real empathy? What happens to human creativity and authenticity in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms?We also examine the risks and responsibilities tied to the rise of AI. What would it mean for AI to be trained with bias? Can it be misused by those in power? And most importantly—can we trust a future where machines may evolve faster than we do?Luca challenges the AI to answer with honesty, even pressing it on the ultimate bombshell question: Can AI ever be 100% trusted not to overthrow the human race? The answer may surprise you.Beyond the hypotheticals, this episode is a reflective mirror for humanity. It celebrates the uniqueness of human experience—our creativity, our individuality, our emotional depth—and it urges viewers to think about how we engage with technology not just as users, but as shapers of its purpose.If you’re intrigued by the future of AI, concerned about its reach, or simply want to explore the fine line between intelligence and consciousness, this conversation is essential viewing.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. In this 'Off Track' edition, it was inspired by my conversation with the regions number 1 sonic branding composer Ahmad Haffar - the Voice of Dubai. Ahmad has created hundreds of melodies/jingles for brands in the region, and he was the mastermind behind the new sonic branding for this podcast - which I believe is a first for a podcast in MENA. In this episode, I talk about 3 main insights - the low level role of audio in marketing and how it continues to threaten the creation of great content and branding ideas, the crucial importance and lessons we can learn from Ahmad in putting your soul into creating something, and the undeniable importance of discovering your true authentic voice with self reflection and awareness. Ahmad’s talent and genius is undeniable, as is the sentiment that we all have some genius in us, if we are prepared to re-discover that for ourselves.  In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am. So, If you’re looking to progressively listen to a real, human and honest view on important subject matter, ‘Off Track’ is the place for you.

What does it mean to be the voice of a city — not just through sound, but through soul? In this electrifying episode of Luca’s Inside Track, host Luca Allam sits down with sonic branding maestro Ahmad Haffar, famously known as the “Voice of Dubai,” to explore the emotional architecture of sound, identity, and creative purpose.From iconic Expo 2020 announcements to Dubai’s most recognizable jingles, Ahmad opens up about the power of music to move people — and brands — in ways visuals never can. But this isn’t just an episode about audio. It’s about artistry. And what it means to give pieces of your soul to the work you create.Ahmad shares his near-death experience, the founding of Mind Loop Studios and On The Field Academy, and why sonic branding isn’t just about being catchy — it’s about capturing who you are and where you’re going. Together, he and Luca dissect the psychology of sound, AI in music, and why a jingle can outlive any campaign.You’ll also hear raw reflections on burnout, talent, alienation, and the lonely road of entrepreneurship. And in a rare moment of vulnerability, Ahmad offers a message to anyone still searching for their voice in a world full of noise.If you’ve ever wondered what makes sound unforgettable — and creators unstoppable — this is the episode that hits all the right notes.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. In this 'Off Track' edition, it was inspired by my conversation with Dr Saliha Afridi, clinical psychologist, and founder of Lighthouse Arabia. In this episode we discuss some of the key insights from our great conversation, focusing on topics like remembering our true identity as part of our 2nd adulthood, the malpractice dangers of social media and platforms like Whatsapp, and the answer to the question regarding who should take the oxygen mask first - you or your child? According to Dr Saliha, many generations of people suffer from weak ego strength, a lack of self-identity, and understanding of who they really are. Most mistake the symptoms of mid-life 'crisis' and take action elsewhere, changing relationships, buying new cars, or focusing on the next shiny hobby. The real work, within this re-awakening period, called the 2nd adulthood, is to remember your true self by looking and healing yourself from within - at a subconscious level. This prepares you for what comes next, including how to prioritize yourself vs. others, navigating social media, and how to set boundaries with always on platforms like WhatsApp. The alternative for not doing this has major consequences for you, and your kids. Something that I have been personally working on quite a lot.In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am - If you’re looking to listen to a raw and honest conversation on different subjects, ‘Off Track’ is the place for you.

What does it mean to truly understand yourself — in a world of digital noise, urgency addiction, and emotional avoidance? In this illuminating episode of Luca’s Insight Track, host Luca Allam sits down with Dr. Saliha Afridi, clinical psychologist and founder of The Lighthouse Arabia, to explore the deep, personal work of healing, parenting, and remembering who we are.From breaking mental health taboos in the Middle East to advocating for self-reflection over symptom elimination, Dr. Afridi’s path blends rebellion, rigor, and radical compassion. She opens up about her own journey — resisting the path of clinical psychology at first, finding purpose in Jungian analysis, and what it means to live in conversation with your shadow.Together, Luca and Dr. Afridi dive into the psychological and spiritual consequences of social media, urgency culture, and disconnection from the authentic self. They discuss why tech giants don’t let their own kids use the platforms they build, and how the rise of algorithm-led living is hollowing out identity.But this episode is also a guide — to doing the inner work, to raising emotionally resilient children, and to reclaiming control over your attention. From the value of mindfulness and reflection to the subtle power of parenting with detachment and love, Dr. Afridi offers insights as practical as they are profound.If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or simply hungry for depth in an age of distraction, this is a conversation that will speak to your soul — or, as she calls it, the Self. Because the work of becoming whole isn’t about discovering who you are. It’s about remembering.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. In this 'Off Track' edition, it was inspired by my conversation with the driving force of sustainability in the UAE, Tatiana Antonelli Abella, founder of Goumbook. Sustainability remains a bit undefined in many eyes, but at its core, it is the preparation for a better future for us humans. With a lack of unified message, low levels of awareness, and little action, are we capable of turning things around? Tatiana’s answer is clear. Yes. Provided we build sustainability around our personal passions and operate within a state of peace. Sustainability’s biggest challenge to date is how it has told its story. With low levels of awareness and high confusion, the message isn’t clear enough and isn’t reaching enough people. Also, the narrative hasn’t been positive - but it needs to be. We need to feel we can turn things around, that our efforts are being rewarded and having an impact - even if they are small. Sustainability is the meeting point between people, nature, and profitability - inclusive and not exclusive to just the environment. With such a volatile current political landscape, we need to put things in perspective. Sustainability is important, but to Tatiana’s point, nothing is more pressing than establishing peace to provide a baseline for sustainable living. In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am - If you’re looking to listen to a raw and honest conversation on different subjects, ‘Off Track’ is the place for you.

What does it take to inspire real environmental change — and still remain relentlessly optimistic in a world of rising temperatures, policy fatigue, and plastic overload? In this powerful episode of Luca’s Insight Track, host Luca Allam sits down with Tatiana Antonelli Abella, founder and force behind Goombook — the UAE’s pioneering social enterprise for sustainability.From moving to Dubai as a new mother in 2005 to building one of the region’s most respected voices for climate action, Tatiana’s journey is part resilience, part rebellion, and all heart. She opens up about what first inspired her — not activism, but motherhood — and how curiosity about the safety of baby bottles led her to a life mission: protecting people and the planet.Tatiana breaks down the reality behind “going green” in the Gulf: the awareness gap, the cost barrier, and why messaging matters more than ever. She challenges the stereotype of the tree-hugger and instead brings sustainability down to earth — literally. With warmth and clarity, she explores the desert’s hidden ecosystem, ancient Bedouin circular practices, and why reconnecting to nature is a cultural, not just ecological, imperative.Luca and Tatiana dive into what companies get wrong about sustainability (hint: it’s not about checkboxes or CSR gloss), how AI can serve — not replace — environmental strategy, and the uncomfortable truth: if we’re not at peace, we can’t save the planet.With over 16 community campaigns under her belt and a global recognition that includes the UAE Golden Visa, Tatiana’s impact is undeniable. She shares why storytelling needs to shift, why guilt doesn’t drive behavior, and how one water bottle at a football pitch could spark a movement.If you care about the future — or want to — this episode is for you. Tune in for a conversation that’s practical, hopeful, and deeply human. Because as Tatiana reminds us: sustainability starts not with saving the planet, but with saving ourselves.

Welcome to a special bonus episode of Luca’s Insight Track. In this 'Off Track' edition, it was inspired by my conversation with the impressive Haitham Mattar, CEO of IHG across the Middle East and wider region. In the conversation, we uncovered insights on what makes a good leader, the state of hospitality and its ongoing challenges, the dying art form of being in service to others, and the implications of moving into a world of high tech vs. high touch.Haitham and I first met back in 2019 in Riyadh, where we both had the task of launching the ‘New Saudi’ to the world. With decades of experience in hospitality, Haitham was the right person to bring in to share his insights - and ultimately to show why he unfortunately is one of the rare few, that has maintained his passion for the industry. Being in service to other people is a mindset and behavior that is difficult to teach, as is being passionate about taking care of people by thinking of others first. As a region, we are brilliant at hosting others in our homes, we really take care of our guests, and demonstrate a consistent excellence when ‘hosting’. But what happens when they are no longer at your home? Are we still in the service of others, or are we increasingly in the service of ourselves?In this unfiltered and improvised episode, I share my personal insights that continue to shape who I am. - If you’re looking to listen to a raw and honest conversation on different subjects, ‘Off Track’ is the place for you.

What does it take to turn a nation into a world-class destination — and still lead with humility, heart, and hustle? In this episode of Luca’s Insight Track, host Luca Allam sits down with Haitham Mattar — the dynamic CEO of IHG for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, and a legendary force behind Saudi Arabia’s tourism transformation.From his humble beginnings as a dishwasher in Georgia to managing over 200 hotels and 24,000+ staff, Haitham’s rise through the hospitality world is a masterclass in perseverance, vision, and service. He shares the powerful story behind his bestselling book “Pots, Pans & Five-Year Plans”, reflecting on what it means to grow through failure, tame your ego, and stay grounded even at the top.Luca and Haitham revisit their groundbreaking work launching Saudi Tourism to the world — a campaign that changed perceptions, challenged stereotypes, and invited the world to discover a nation’s untold stories. With candor and charisma, Haitham breaks down the hard truths behind rebranding a country, building Ras Al Khaimah’s record-breaking zipline, and finding meaning in hospitality beyond check-ins and room service.This episode is more than a leadership journey — it's a deep dive into the soul of service. Haitham opens up about executive vulnerability, the future of hospitality in a digital age, and the war for young talent. He talks about impostor syndrome, redefining success, and why Generation Z needs a new narrative about hard work, purpose, and pride in the guest experience.Whether you're a hospitality professional, a curious traveler, or someone passionate about the art of building culture through people and places, this conversation will inspire you. It’s about leadership with empathy, ambition with humility, and how real transformation begins — at the front desk.Tune in to hear how serving others is still the highest virtue in 2025, why airlines matter more than ever to tourism, and how one man's passion helped reshape the image of an entire region.