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Mastering the Art of Networking: The Key to Unlocking Personal and Business Success

gmmag_editor October 14, 2024 No Comments

By Ian Speirs, director of Global Man

Networking is an essential part of both personal and business growth. It can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and ideas, but mastering the art of networking requires more than just exchanging business cards. At Global Man’s recent event, we had an insightful discussion on this topic, and one point stood out: the challenge of maintaining a balance between deep connections and making the most of the room full of potential new contacts.

One of our members raised an interesting dilemma—he often makes a great connection early on during networking events. Still, he spends the rest of the time with that person, fearing it would be impolite to end the conversation and meet others. While it’s great to connect, this approach might cause you to miss out on other valuable opportunities in the room.

Here’s where we need to flip the script. Networking is about creating value for all parties involved, and to do that effectively, it’s important to use your time wisely. Here are some actionable tips on how to network effectively without missing out.

3 Steps to Effective Networking

1. Acknowledge the Connection
When you’ve made a strong connection, acknowledge it! Let the person know that you value the interaction and that you’re excited about exploring potential opportunities together in the future. This lays a positive foundation.

2. Respect the Networking Space
Explain that you both are at the event to meet others and maximize networking opportunities. It’s important to meet a variety of people, and it’s likely they feel the same way. By taking the lead in this, you’re setting a respectful boundary while keeping the conversation open for future follow-up.

3. Commit to Following Up
Make a commitment to reconnect after the event. Exchange contact information or schedule a time to continue the conversation when there’s no pressure to network. This shows you’re serious about fostering the relationship, and it allows you to meet other potential connections at the event without guilt.

More often than not, the person you’re talking to will appreciate your initiative. Closing the conversation with grace and a clear intention to follow up leaves a positive impression and frees up time for both of you to expand your networks.

What Not to Do When Networking

Now that we’ve covered effective techniques, it’s equally important to know what not to do in networking situations:

Don’t monopolize someone’s time. Once you’ve made a solid connection, lingering too long can leave both parties missing out on other opportunities.

Don’t make it all about you. Networking is about building mutually beneficial relationships. Ask questions, show genuine interest in others, and focus on how you can provide value to them as well.

Don’t rush the conversation. While it’s important to move on and meet others, don’t cut the conversation short too abruptly. Always make sure there’s a natural close and a commitment to follow up.

The Importance of a Supportive Network

Networking is about more than just meeting new people; it’s about building a community. By joining a network of like-minded individuals, like the one we have at Global Man, you gain access to a powerful support system that encourages growth, accountability, and learning.

At Global Man, we offer high-quality networking and mastermind experiences that provide not just connections, but meaningful relationships with individuals who are serious about personal and business success. Being part of such a community accelerates growth, provides invaluable resources, and opens doors that might otherwise remain closed.

Why Join Global Man?

High-Quality Networking: Connect with successful and driven individuals who share your goals and mindset.

Mastermind Opportunities: Join masterminds that offer insight, accountability, and support in tackling your biggest challenges.

Personal & Business Growth: Surround yourself with those who inspire and push you to achieve more.

If you’re looking to grow both personally and professionally, there’s no better time to invest in your network. Join Global Man today and gain access to a world-class community of like-minded individuals dedicated to success. Don’t just meet people—build lasting, valuable connections that will elevate you and your business to new heights.

Ready to take your networking to the next level? Visit us at Global Man to learn more and become part of our thriving community!

https://globalwomanevents.com/club/1740

Gazmend Abrashi: The Man Who Challenges Success

gmmag_editor September 17, 2024 No Comments

Gazmend Abrashi is a well-known entrepreneur in Kosovo, with a career spanning over 30 years, leading several successful businesses in various activities in Kosovo, Albania, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Exclusive Group is the group of companies he has established and led over the years, engaging in distribution, wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, and recently, investing in the entrepreneurial residential complex in Gjilan, Monopol City. A highly energetic personality, a qualified economist who, for a time, challenged himself even in politics, serving as a member of the Kosovo Parliament and Coordinator of Kosovo in the Regional Cooperation Council of Western Balkan countries. He also serves as the Honorary Consul of Montenegro in Kosovo. He is well-regarded as an expert in macroeconomic development, offering necessary solutions for Kosovo’s economic development.

As a politician, a businessman, a teacher—how do all these roles align and merge within you?

For many years, my profile has been shaped around entrepreneurship. As a young person, I found myself in the business sphere, working initially as a sales agent and establishing my first business in 1989. My engagement in politics came as a call to contribute, particularly in the economic development sphere. It was a challenging and fascinating experience, demanding a lot of dedication. Being a member of parliament, despite the differing public perception, I can tell you it’s a full-time job and even beyond that for those aiming to work and contribute to the advancement of society beyond the Parliament’s halls. I performed this role with the utmost dedication. I don’t see myself as a politician. I’m an entrepreneur willing to put my knowledge and experience at the service of the country when needed and required.

What do you consider the pinnacle in your life, career, and personal journey?

Principally, one must engage and work towards their goals. The pinnacle moments differ based on the priorities at the time. I was raised in a family where education was a priority, and certainly, the attainment of education was an achievement. The successful start and development of my business have also been an achievement, which challenges me even today. Becoming a father was another pivotal moment for me, and it continues with the unique moments of witnessing my children’s growth and accomplishments. Every beautiful moment shared with family and colleagues creates pivotal points, which, together with the lesser ones, shape life’s reality.

Is it relatively more challenging to do politics or business in Kosovo?

Kosovo emerged from war, facing and continuing to face numerous difficulties. Surviving Milosevic’s apartheid and experiencing and enduring the challenges of building a new state has not been easy for any Kosovo citizen. Difficulties have been everywhere, and there are still challenges that need to be overcome. Each profession has its difficulties; doing politics and doing business are not comparable. These two professions are significantly different; their approaches, challenges, and responsibilities create the distinction.

For an entrepreneur who seems to only know success, how has this career been for you?

A lot of work, courage, and determination to achieve the set goals before oneself, and certainly, a select team of colleagues who, together, aim to achieve our aspirations. Looking back, I realize I never stopped, even when facing seemingly insurmountable difficulties. I’ve had the will and motivated my team to overcome obstacles. A career spanning over 30 years filled with a lot of work, professional and personal challenges, and satisfaction.

What do you consider your greatest pride in entrepreneurship?

My people, my colleagues with whom I’ve worked for years, some of whom are now retiring. I believe the strength of the company lies in the team—the staff that takes responsibility to achieve our set goals and believes in the leader’s vision. Today, Exclusive Group has around 600 employees, and they are the main asset making the company successful, something that makes me proud.

It seems you’ve experienced various dimensions of success. Is there still something you haven’t tasted as success?

I don’t grapple with the concept of success; what challenges me is the work and dedication to reach the set target, the defined goal. Success is never absent when you have the right commitment and necessary work towards the set goal. I consider a beautiful day spent with my children in Ulcinj a success because we all dedicated ourselves to gathering and spending time together. Success is a spiritual emotion, not material.

As a fulfilled person, do you have advice for young people who often desire to leave the country?

Follow your dreams, and seek opportunities to realize these dreams, but be aware that no one else will fulfil your dreams for you. Each goal you set for yourself must be achieved with a lot of work and dedication, knowing clearly where your destination lies. Even choosing to leave the country requires significant commitment to learn the language, have a profession, and have the determination to adapt to new circumstances without the comfort you have in your own country. I strongly believe Kosovo is a land of opportunities. Let’s hope we overcome these political difficulties and focus on the economic development of the country to ensure a land of opportunities for the younger generations, enabling them to see possibilities and a future in our country. The entrepreneurial spirit of our citizens is admirable, and with fewer opportunities, they will find their place in our economy. It remains a leadership obligation to create a favourable economic environment for this entrepreneurial spirit to flourish in the right direction.

Gazmend and family – what is your role within the family, and how involved are you at home? Are you one of those heads of the family where work ends when you arrive home, or do you continue work at home?

Despite numerous obligations at work, I try to be as close to my family as possible. I have three children: Astrit, 27 years old, Art, 21 years old, and my daughter Arba, 15 years old. I strive to be close to them, understand their world, and support them on their journey. All three have their obligations and concerns, but they know they can always count on their father. If the question pertains to whether there are “men’s work” and “women’s work,” and whether I have hesitations or prejudices? No. I was raised by my mother, Bahtije, a woman dedicated to societal emancipation, along with my sister Linda, who has been by my side throughout life, in a family where the organization of work and management of family obligations were evenly distributed among all. Only by doing so could we be successful.

Do you have a motto, a character, or a story that identifies you?

The role model in my life is my father, Aziz Abrashi, one of Kosovo’s most distinguished economists, a man with high human virtues who, at the most crucial times for Kosovo, led the Trepça Complex, which at that time employed over 20,000 people. Next year will mark ten years since my father passed away. He still enjoys the memories and respect of those who knew him for his dedication to work, professionalism, contribution, and his vision for Kosovo’s economic development. He continues to be my role model to this day. As for my motto, it stands at the entrance of the company alongside the management mottos: “There are no impregnable fortresses, only weak generals.”

Empowering Minds: Chris Fronda’s Quest to Make Logic for Everyone

gmmag_editor August 30, 2024 No Comments

Chris Fronda is the creator of the LOGIC MOVEMENT, dedicated to making logic accessible to everyone. With a background as a Product Manager at a Fortune 1000 company and experience as a self-taught software developer and entrepreneur, he is considered an expert in logic and deep tech. Chris began his career at National Instruments, where he managed a $25 million product line, and later ran a systems integration business working with clients like Apple, NASA, and Pfizer. He has also been involved in cutting-edge web, mobile, and blockchain projects, including building apps that were ahead of Snapchat and Instagram. In 2018, Chris shifted his focus to researching Formal Logic, driven by a desire to address issues like misinformation, the education gap, and the future of learning. His passion led to the creation of Logictry, a platform designed to democratize access to knowledge and opportunity. Chris’s mission is to empower anyone with a desire to learn by providing the tools and resources they need to thrive. Through Logictry, he strives to make logic free and accessible to all.

Can you share the inspiration behind the LOGIC MOVEMENT and how your journey led you to prioritize the democratization of logic and education?

The inspiration for the LOGIC MOVEMENT stemmed from a deep-rooted passion for truth-seeking and problem-solving, nurtured by my early love for logic, debate, and chess. Growing up with a mother who was an educator focused on children with special needs and those from poor socio-economic backgrounds, I learned the importance of ensuring that every child has a chance to succeed. This belief in equal opportunity became a core value in my life. As I transitioned into the world of technology and entrepreneurship, I began to question how technology could be used not just to innovate but to address societal issues like misinformation and educational inequity. My research into Formal Logic, especially its teaching at institutions like Oxford, revealed the critical role logic plays in developing critical thinking and decision-making skills. The founding of Logictry on the same day the UN launched World Logic Day felt like a sign that this mission was both timely and necessary. The LOGIC MOVEMENT was born out of a desire to democratize access to logic and education, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, can develop the skills to think critically and make informed decisions. In pursuit of bringing more public awareness to the LOGIC MOVEMENT Co-Founder and partner, Chelsea Toler, secured a partnership between the UN and Logictry to host World Logic Day in our home Austin, TX. Over the last three years and together with our team we have grown this convening to become the largest World Logic Day celebration in the world being recently featured on KXAN, KVUE, and FORBES.

How did your experiences as a Product Manager and entrepreneur shape your vision for making logic accessible to everyone?

My experience as a Product Manager at National Instruments, where I managed a $25 million product line, taught me the importance of creating products that are not only innovative but also accessible and beneficial to a wide audience. This experience, combined with my entrepreneurial ventures, reinforced the idea that technology should be a tool for empowerment. However, I also recognized that technology alone isn’t enough; it must be paired with educational resources that are accessible to everyone. This is where Logictry’s Interactive Content comes into play. By offering personalized learning paths and tools that guide individuals through complex decision-making processes, we aim to make formal logic not just an abstract concept, but a practical, everyday tool that can be used by anyone, anywhere.

What challenges did you encounter when transitioning from technology and product development to focusing on formal logic and education?

Transitioning from the tech industry to focusing on formal logic and education brought several challenges. One of the biggest was shifting from a product-driven mindset, where success is often measured by metrics like user adoption and revenue, to an education-driven approach, where the impact is more nuanced and long-term. Another challenge was making the abstract concepts of formal logic accessible and engaging to a broader audience. With Logictry, we tackled this by developing Interactive Content that doesn’t just teach logic but also guides users through real-world scenarios, helping them apply logical principles to complex decision-making. Lastly, there was the challenge of ensuring that our content was rigorous enough to be respected in academic circles while remaining accessible to everyone, particularly those who, like my mother’s students, might not have had the same education opportunities.

In your research on formal logic, what were the most significant findings regarding the impact of misinformation and the education gap on society?

One of the most significant findings was the interplay between misinformation and the education gap. Misinformation thrives in environments where critical thinking skills are underdeveloped, often in communities with limited access to quality education. This creates a vicious cycle: individuals without these skills are more susceptible to misinformation, which further hampers their ability to make informed decisions and limits their opportunities. I also found that while technology has the potential to democratize access to information, it can reinforce existing inequalities if not paired with efforts to enhance critical thinking and logic skills. This is why it’s crucial to integrate formal logic into mainstream education and why Logictry’s Interactive Content is designed to bridge this gap by offering tools that help users critically evaluate information and make better decisions.

How does Logictry work to bridge the wealth and education gaps, and what specific tools or resources does it provide to empower individuals?

Logictry bridges the wealth and education gaps by making logic and critical thinking accessible to everyone, regardless of their socio-economic background. Our platform offers Interactive Content that guides users through complex decision-making processes, helping them develop the skills they need to thrive. We provide personalized learning paths that adapt to each user’s knowledge level, ensuring that everyone can learn at their own pace. These tools are offered at little to no cost to eliminate financial barriers, making them available to individuals who might otherwise lack access to such resources. In addition, our content is designed to be relevant to real-world situations, enabling users to apply what they learn directly to their lives—whether that’s making better decisions at work, understanding complex social issues, or improving their academic performance. This approach not only helps bridge the education gap but also supports the impact my mother dedicated her life to achieving: ensuring that every child has a chance to succeed.

Your career includes working with high-profile clients like Apple, NASA, and Pfizer. How did these experiences influence your approach to problem-solving and decision-making?

Working with high-profile clients like Apple, NASA, and Pfizer taught me the importance of combining innovation with a deep understanding of user needs. These experiences showed me that the best solutions are those that are both groundbreaking and practical. This has influenced my approach to Logictry, where we emphasize evidence-based decision-making and the ability to think critically in dynamic situations. These clients also underscored the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives in achieving the best outcomes. At Logictry, we’ve applied these lessons by developing Interactive Content that not only teaches logic but also helps users navigate complex decision-making processes in a way that’s informed by diverse viewpoints and real-world challenges.

You’ve developed apps that predated Snapchat’s Snapmap and Instagram’s Reels. What insights can you share about staying ahead of the curve in tech innovation?

Staying ahead of the curve in tech innovation requires a combination of foresight, flexibility, and a willingness to take risks. When developing apps that predated Snapchat’s Snapmap and Instagram’s Reels, I focused on understanding not just where the market was but where it was heading. This involves staying informed about emerging technologies, understanding user behaviour trends, and being willing to experiment with new ideas before they become mainstream. Another key insight is the importance of focusing on the core value proposition—what unique benefit does your product offer that others don’t? By staying true to that core value, you can avoid getting lost in the noise of trends and fads. Finally, building a passionate and innovative team is crucial because it’s the collective creativity and expertise of a diverse team that drives true innovation.

The LOGIC MOVEMENT emphasizes equal opportunity in education. How do you envision this movement evolving in the future, especially with advancements in AI and digital learning?

As AI and digital learning continue to advance, I see the LOGIC MOVEMENT evolving to leverage these technologies to further democratize access to education. AI, for example, can be used to create highly personalized learning experiences that adapt to the needs of each student, ensuring that everyone can learn at their own pace and in a way that suits their learning style. This could be particularly transformative for those who have been underserved by traditional education systems. Additionally, as digital learning platforms become more widespread, the LOGIC MOVEMENT will focus on ensuring that logic and critical thinking are central components of these platforms. Logictry’s Interactive Content, for instance, is designed to guide users through complex decision-making processes, helping them build the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex and information-rich world. Ultimately, I see the movement growing into a global initiative, with partnerships across educational institutions, governments, and tech companies to make logic and critical thinking an integral part of education everywhere.

What role do you believe formal logic plays in improving decision-making in both personal and professional contexts, and how can it be integrated into mainstream education?

Formal logic plays a crucial role in improving decision-making by providing a structured framework for analyzing arguments, identifying biases, and evaluating the validity of information. In both personal and professional contexts, the ability to apply logical principles helps individuals make more informed and rational decisions, whether they’re navigating complex business challenges or personal life choices. Logictry’s Interactive Content is designed to teach these principles in a way that’s engaging and relevant to real-world situations, guiding users through complex decision-making processes step by step. To integrate formal logic into mainstream education, it’s important to start early, embedding logic lessons into the curriculum from a young age. This can be done through interactive methods such as games, puzzles, and real-world problem-solving scenarios that make logic both fun and practical. Additionally, educators should be trained to incorporate logical thinking across subjects, ensuring that students are consistently developing these crucial skills.

Looking back at your diverse career, what key lessons have you learned about the intersection of technology, education, and societal impact?

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is that technology, while a powerful tool, is only as impactful as the intent behind its use. At the intersection of technology, education, and societal impact, it’s crucial to approach innovation with a sense of responsibility—ensuring that the technology we develop serves to uplift and empower rather than exacerbate existing inequalities. I’ve also learned the importance of accessibility and inclusivity; if technology is to have a positive societal impact, it must be designed with the needs of all users in mind, particularly those who have been historically marginalized. Finally, I’ve come to understand that education is the most powerful tool we have for societal change. By using technology, like Logictry’s Interactive Content, to enhance and democratize education, we can address some of the most pressing issues of our time—from misinformation to economic inequality—and create a more just and equitable world, continuing the impact my mother dedicated her life to achieving.

Scaling Success: How Chris Reynolds Empowers Entrepreneurs Globally

gmmag_editor August 26, 2024 No Comments

Chris Reynolds is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 14 years of experience in building and scaling online businesses that empower fellow entrepreneurs. As the co-founder of M3 Founders Community, he has cultivated a peer network of top-tier business owners, driving innovation and growth within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over the past eight years, Chris has launched 10 international business accelerators, providing crucial support to startups and established companies alike. He is also the visionary behind The Business Method Podcast, which he founded in 2015 and has since grown to over 600 episodes, featuring interviews with billionaires and founders of billion-dollar companies. Currently based in Barcelona, Chris has embraced the life of a location-independent entrepreneur for more than 11 years, living in various countries and travelling the world while expanding his ventures. His commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success globally has made him a pivotal figure in the business community. Through his work, Chris continues to inspire and guide entrepreneurs to achieve their fullest potential. With a deep passion for entrepreneurship and a global perspective, Chris Reynolds is redefining what it means to build and scale successful businesses in the digital age.

With over 14 years of entrepreneurial experience, what key principles have guided you in successfully scaling multiple businesses?

Commitment and consistency. You don’t fail when a business fails; you fail when you give up. Period. As long as you don’t give up, you’re not going to fail. It may take longer due to the business or niche you’ve chosen, but if you stay consistent and keep plugging away, you’ll make a significant impact. Business is a compound interest game—the more you compound your learnings, experience, and skillset, the more valuable you’ll become, and the more you can apply this to the business world to achieve success. Most entrepreneurs who have hit seven figures or higher have put in a decade of effort, and that’s often what stops people from truly trying to start a business or stick with it. It typically takes 10 years or more to make a million dollars.

How did your journey as a location-independent entrepreneur begin, and what motivated you to maintain this lifestyle for over 11 years?

Simply put, I read The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss, which is the bible for many location-independent entrepreneurs. It inspired me to live anywhere in the world while working, making money, and building a business online. This kind of freedom is unique to our generation—previous generations couldn’t work anywhere in the world like we do today. When I read the book, I knew this was going to be my life. I first read it in 2009, and I immersed myself in its ideas. I knew I was going to build something online, travel the world, and live abroad. For about nine years, this lifestyle was natural to me. I stayed in places where other location-independent entrepreneurs gathered, like Thailand, Rio de Janeiro, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Bulgaria. COVID put a pause on my travels, leading me to stay in Austin, Texas, for two years. For those nine years, it never felt difficult to maintain this lifestyle—it was just natural, and I felt deeply connected to the global community of like-minded entrepreneurs.

What inspired you to co-found the M3 Founders Community, and how has this peer network evolved since its inception?

M3 started as a mastermind group during COVID-19, which we initially called the Corona Crisis Mastermind. Seventy-two people signed up, and we supported them through the challenges of the pandemic. We saw the inside of businesses as they were failing, and how these entrepreneurs needed to shift. We witnessed the raw emotions of people struggling during that time. After running that mastermind, we decided to formalize it into a more structured community, which eventually evolved into what we now call M3. The community grew as people wanted to connect more regularly and meet face-to-face. Our first live event was something really unique—a kidnapping survival course used to train the FBI, CIA, Navy SEALs, and other high-profile individuals. This experience bonded our group, and we realized we had something special. Now, M3 hosts two events per year: one adventurous, like booking a desert camp in Morocco or renting out yachts in Cabo San Lucas, and the second event focused on learning from and meeting someone who has built a billion-dollar company. We also hold monthly dinners in Barcelona, where we connect seasoned entrepreneurs and they can bond over a dinner designed to deepen the attendee’s connections.

You’ve created 10 international business accelerators over the past eight years. What are the most critical factors for a business accelerator’s success, and how do you ensure these factors are met?

The success of a business accelerator depends on creating the right environment—both physical and emotional. It’s like putting bumpers on a bowling alley or setting parameters for a child; you need to create an environment where participants can get into the right headspace to achieve significant results in a short period. This includes choosing a location that energizes and inspires entrepreneurs. For instance, we often chose Thailand—a place known for adventure and escape. Entrepreneurs love the idea of an adventurous getaway where they can focus on their business while also enjoying the local culture, like visiting elephants, climbing mountains, or exploring Buddhist temples. Accountability is key—we had participants report their results daily, work in teams, and push each other to move the needle in their businesses. The final 48 hours of these events were always the most intense, with incredible results achieved due to the hive energy, motivation, and collective effort. These experiences were incredibly rewarding, and I thoroughly enjoyed running these accelerators.

The Business Method Podcast has over 600 episodes featuring interviews with billionaires and founders of billion-dollar companies. What has been the most surprising or impactful lesson you’ve learned from your guests?

That’s a tough question because, with so many interviews, there are countless golden nuggets. But if I had to sum it up, I’d say the most impactful lessons are: do something you love, give your business time to mature, and focus on one thing. First, if you build something you don’t love just for the money, you’re going to burn out or want to exit eventually. I always ask myself if I can see myself running a business for the next 10 years. If the answer is yes, then it is much more likely it is something I truly love. Second, it takes years to grow a business. Many entrepreneurs exit prematurely and don’t give their businesses the time they need to reach their full potential. Just like a child, there are many phases in the growth of a business, and each phase compounds the last. A business that is over 10 years old can often harvest so many more rewards than a younger business. Lastly, focus is crucial—every billion-dollar founder I’ve interviewed has blinders on, focusing on one business and one business only. While some entrepreneurs are truly serial entrepreneurs and thrive on juggling multiple ventures, those who focus on one business often see it scale much faster.

How has the landscape of online entrepreneurship changed since you first started, and what emerging trends do you believe will shape the future of this space?

The landscape has changed dramatically. When I started as an entrepreneur around 2007, we didn’t even have smartphones—we were using Blackberries. The release of smartphones has completely transformed the way we do business, work, live, and travel. With a smartphone, we can access our money, book flights, find directions, and handle all aspects of travel and business on the go. This has made location-independent work much easier. Post-COVID, remote work has become the norm, and more people are working from home or other remote locations. The trend towards freelancing and entrepreneurship will only continue as people seek more freedom and flexibility. The world is moving faster than ever, and while it’s exciting, it’s also a bit daunting. But I believe we’ll adapt and thrive in this new era. More and more people will become freelancers and entrepreneurs as they pursue the freedom to live and work wherever they choose.

What challenges have you encountered while managing businesses across different countries, and how did you navigate the complexities of a location-independent lifestyle?

Managing businesses across different countries comes with unexpected challenges, often related to cultural differences. For instance, in Brazil, it was incredibly difficult to get things done on time, which drove me nuts as an American. In Peru, I sometimes wouldn’t get a response to essential emails for seven to 10 days, which was frustrating. The first time I hosted an event in Brazil, I promised myself I’d never go back, but I was convinced to return twice after that. It was a struggle, but I had to learn to adapt and accept the cultural norms of the locals I was working with. When you learn to accept and understand these cultural norms doing business there becomes so much easier and enjoyable. Thailand was fantastic to host events because the people there are very respectful and business-oriented. You need to understand that things are done differently in different places, and if you can’t be flexible and tolerant, then international business might not be for you. But if you can adapt, you’ll learn a lot and grow from the experience.

As someone deeply involved in the entrepreneurial community, what common traits or habits have you noticed among the most successful entrepreneurs you’ve worked with or interviewed?

Successful entrepreneurs are committed, capable of taking big risks, and focused on the long haul. They are value-driven and have the resilience to handle the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. They also surround themselves with ethical, like-minded people who share their values. Managing and mitigating risk is essential, and so is the willingness to invest time and energy into a business for the long term. These traits, combined with a love for learning and growth, are what set successful entrepreneurs apart.

How do you balance the demands of hosting a podcast, running businesses, and maintaining a dynamic lifestyle across various countries?

For me, it’s all one thing—I call it my life. I love creating content and organizing events where entrepreneurs can connect, change their lives, and make lasting memories. I love running businesses, starting new ventures, and helping people grow their businesses. I also enjoy travelling to unique locations for business conferences, whether it’s in Estonia, Chiang Mai, or a remote part of Europe. Of course, balancing time and energy is crucial. I’m selective about the people I spend time with and very particular about my goals. Every quarter, I set four goals: mental (related to business), physical (health), emotional (relationships), and spiritual (purpose). This approach ensures that no area of my life is neglected and keeps me excited and challenged. It has kept my life in balance for a long time.

What advice would you give to entrepreneurs who aspire to build and scale their businesses while maintaining a location-independent lifestyle like yours?

Start yesterday, and if you didn’t, then start today. I recommend reading The Entrepreneurial Leap by Gino Wickman and The Star Principle by Richard Koch. These books will help you determine if you’re truly an entrepreneur and guide you in choosing the right business. Selecting the right business is crucial—it’s the difference between feeling like you’re pushing a boulder uphill versus having the wind at your back. Once you’ve decided that entrepreneurship is your path, think long-term. Ask yourself if you can see yourself working in this business 10 years from now and still be happy. If the answer is yes, then it’s worth pursuing.

For aspiring location-independent entrepreneurs, my advice is simple: book a ticket. Once you make that leap, the rest will fall into place. In today’s world, it’s easier than ever to fix mistakes or adjust plans. The likelihood that you will get stuck or stranded somewhere where you couldn’t get yourself out of is very small, so just go for it. When I started, I wasn’t making a ton of money, but I booked a one-way ticket to Costa Rica and figured the rest out along the way. It was the most life-changing decision I made, and something I’ll never regret. It set the stage for the incredible journey I’ve been on ever since. So, pick a destination—whether it’s Scandinavia, Africa, Southeast Asia, or anywhere else you’ve dreamed of—and just go. You’ll figure out everything else along the way!

Meet RR Haywood – The Bestselling Indie Author Fighting Back Against AI

gmmag_editor June 14, 2024 No Comments

RR Haywood is one of Britain’s bestselling independent authors and a passionate champion of self-publishing. But recently a threat greater than the zombie pandemic in his hugely successful The Undead series is giving him cause for concern: AI. Fearing that indie authors could become extinct in the face of bot-built books churned out by unscrupulous hustlers, he is fighting back with NO-AI.

Within just over a decade, RR Haywood has gone from aspiring writer to one of the UK’s most successful indie authors.

He’s amassed more than four million sales to date, is a Washington Post and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, and is the creative mind behind Britain’s bestselling horror book series – The Undead.

With more than 40 books to his name, nearly 30 of which are Kindle and Audible bestsellers, and a screen adaptation of The Undead in the works, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Haywood is looking confidently to the next 10 years of his career.

In fact, it’s quite the opposite. He genuinely fears that within as little as five years he — along with all other self-published authors — could well be “extinct”, muscled out of the market by a competitor that only a few years ago Haywood was happily writing about in his sci-fi smash, DELIO.

Now, though, DELIO’s big bad — artificial intelligence — doesn’t seem quite so fictional.

Sure, AI’s not self-aware (yet), and hasn’t expressed any interest in taking over the planet, but it doesn’t need to. The likes of Chat GPT are already sophisticated enough to turn the literary world upside down if used irresponsibly, and Haywood says he is already seeing the repercussions.

He says that Amazon, the go-to publishing and sales platform for indie authors, is being increasingly flooded with thousands of AI-generated books, dashed out by “unscrupulous hustlers” at the touch of a button.

And this is a battle of quantity, not quality.. They may not be great reads but with most bot-made books costing less to buy than titles by flesh-and-blood authors, and few indicating their AI origins, they pose an “existential threat” to DIY authors, who increasingly stand little chance of recouping their money, let alone turning a profit.

“On average, it costs someone a minimum of a few thousand pounds to self-publish when you take all the things required — professional editing, cover design, proofing, and formatting— into consideration,” explains Haywood.

“And that doesn’t factor in the author’s time actually writing the book, which can take several months.

“Every book published is, in fact, a record of the author’s blood, sweat, and tears, but the opportunity for all that hard work and financial investment to pay off is becoming slimmer all the time.

“AI software is now at the point that anyone can churn out books without any real talent or care, and unscrupulous hustlers have seized on this in a bid to cash in.

“Consumers are already struggling to identify what’s real from what’s not, and with thousands of new AI-generated books hitting Amazon and other sales platforms every week, the problem is only getting worse.

“Should this continue, all self-published authors will take a big financial hit while many will almost have no hope of ever breaking even or being able to write for a living.

“This may sound apocalyptic but we could see the extinction of independent authors within five years, which would be a terrible loss when you consider how entertaining, rewarding and breathtakingly bold and original self-published books can be.”

Within a decade, RR Haywood has established himself as one of the UK’s bestselling indie authors, with fans around the world clamouring for the latest entries into his The Undead series and other works.

The prospect of tomorrow’s talented indie authors never being able to break away from the nine to five is particularly galling to Haywood, who was able to retire from his career as a policeman in 2019 after almost two decades in service.

A voracious reader since childhood, especially works of horror and science-fiction, he had long dreamed of becoming an author but for many years thought it was a world “not for the likes of me”.

“The traditional idea of an ‘author’, certainly among mainstream publishers, was and still remains to a large degree someone from a middle-class background, with a university education and most likely an expensive creative writing course or two under their belt.

“That’s why the rise of self-publishing was a godsend. It finally took the keys away from publishers and meant that anyone stood a chance of making it.

“I decided to take the plunge after reading an amazing self-published novel bought off Amazon called Three Feet Of Sky by Stephen Ayres.

“There was no shortage of ideas for stories in my head so I thought I’d give it a go, teaching myself not only the mechanics of book publishing but also the nuts and bolts of writing at the same time.”

His first published book, Undead Day One, was by his own admission “as rough in the middle as around the edges”, but with each successive instalment, Haywood continued to hone his writing skills and build his audience.

He then collected the first seven books together in The Undead: The First Seven Days, which gradually took off, leading Haywood to secure a three-book deal with publisher 47North for his Extracted trilogy, which went on to become a global bestseller.

But while he has continued to release select new books through traditional publishers, his signature series, The Undead, has always remained self-published.

“I’ve always intended to keep self-publishing The Undead,” says Haywood. “Frankly, I love the total creative freedom that indie publishing gives me, along with the immediacy of connecting with readers.”

But his experiences with the latest eight novellas in The Undead series, collectively falling under the umbrella of ‘Series Five: The Rain’, have for the first time led him to question the long-term viability of self-publishing.

Each of the new books has gone on to top the Amazon charts upon release but Haywood says that he and other indie authors have experienced significant publishing delays via Amazon, which he attributes to a “flood of AI books clogging up the system”.

This, he adds, has “served as an early wake-up call” about the disruptive effect of AI.

And because bot-made books are exclusively sold online, it is a problem primarily facing indie authors. Writers whose books are released through mainstream publishers will be less affected as their titles are also sold in book shops and other brick-and-mortar retailers.

Haywood has joined a growing list of creatives who are calling for government and corporate intervention to help level the playing field against AI.

In the meantime, however, he has taken things into his own hands, creating the world’s first stamp of authenticity to show that a book has been written by a human and not by AI.

The ‘NO-AI label, an acronym for ‘Naturally Original – Authentically Invented’, now features on the covers of all Haywood’s books.

Bestselling indie author RR Haywood fears that left unchallenged, a flood of AI-created books could drive self-published authors to extinction within five years. In response, he has created the NO-AI label to make clear to readers that his books are written by a human, not machine.

He has also made the label freely available on his website as a download for other authors and publishers to use.

“The NO-AI label is a line in the sand being drawn by genuine authors against the AI-exploiting hustlers,” he says.

“There’s strength in numbers. The more who use it on their books, the easier it will be for readers to instantly distinguish real from artificial.

“And that’s key because who willingly wants to read a story crafted by a computer, lacking the soul that authors pour into each and every book?

“I don’t think my readers have ever had any doubts that the gritty, darkly humorous, and character-driven fiction that’s become my signature is written by anyone or anything other than me!

“But all the same, the NO-AI label only makes this clearer and I’m thrilled that it’s really taken off, with over a thousand downloads already..

“It makes me feel justified in fighting back but, more than that, it makes me feel hopeful again for the future of independent publishing, the place I came from and where I’m proud to remain.”

RR Haywood’s books, including The Undead, are available on Amazon For more information, visit www.rrhaywood.com or follow RR Haywood on Twitter or Facebook.

A Sustainable Values-based View of Life

Editor @ Global Man October 12, 2022 No Comments

By Paul Palmarozza

Our Society Today

The daily stream of newspaper articles and numerous scientific reports about the increasingly high degree of stress, depression, obesity, violence, broken families, drug addiction, self-harm, participation in perverted sexual practices – the list goes on – all seem to point to the fact that we are not following the right path. There is need to first acknowledge the problems and then find a way to improve the conditions.

Here is one view of the main problems:

Major values of the day are wealth, power, fame & pleasure. While not wrong in themselves, the problem is that excess in these domains has become the norm. For example, pornography and marijuana are now rapidly expanding businesses. In the business world large company CEOs make 2-300 times the average annual salary of their employees and only stay in that position for 3-4 years. ‘Take the money and run’ seems to guide them, the short-term gain mentality permeates many aspects of businesses and what is ignored is how best to serve the needs of our society, which is the right way to success and sustainability.
We are a predominantly materialistic society wrongly believing that greater happiness will be attained by having more wealth, power, fame, and physical pleasure. Media continually lists the 100 richest, 100 most famous and 100 most powerful. Do you see listings of the 100 most Compassionate, Generous, or Humble?
There is little or in some cases, no spiritual education offered to young people and participation in the traditional religious services has substantially decreased for the older generations.
The family, which is the fundamental unit of a culture, is in a dangerously weakened state causing increased stress and tension in young people raised without the love and discipline offered by both parents. Divorce now is an accepted norm and there is even talk of allowing people to do it online.
Highly advanced technology has resulted in increasing dependence on the internet and social media, with unregulated damaging material available, even to young children. Artificial Intelligence will bring even greater dependency on technology, without proper understanding by individuals.
There is an overemphasis on my freedom and equality; my rights – not my duties. Ego-based thinking dominates in our highly competitive society.
A wake-up call has sounded by Climate Change, which has become a global problem. Examination has revealed that several decisions based on short term financial gains for business, have caused a serious violation of Nature for which the world is beginning to pay a very serious price.

A Good, Truly Rich Life.

These issues must be addressed if a more empathetic, ethical, and healthy society is to be developed. How can this happen?

The essence of the new direction is first honestly acknowledging the problems and challenges we are facing and then turning the attention inwards by quieting the moving mind; surrendering the excess baggage of ego-based ideas and feelings; and simply connecting with our true ‘inner being’.

By addressing the more spiritual dimension of our being we are accessing a great power which has always existed, but has not been availed enough. In recent years several useful practices have been introduced and successfully used to improve the state of being. The main ones are:

Mindfulness

A practice to help bring us to stillness, to be in the present moment with full attention, instead of relying solely on past experiences or letting the mind wander into the future imagining what will be. With a quiet mind and heart, we are then better able to objectively consider important questions, in order that right and good decisions are better able to be made.

Meditation

Meditation has been practised for thousands of years in the various cultural traditions. While there are different systems of meditation, the practice itself is universal. It helps create a real sense of unity, which is crucial in our world today. The essence of the practice is about attention, one-pointed attention, be it on a mantra or on a flame. There will be the inevitable distracting thoughts which consume vast amounts of our energy. We need to let go of these attachments and stay faithfully with the mantra.

Other practices such as Yoga or Silent Retreats are also observed with the same purpose, to quiet the ever-moving mind and calm our feelings to bring one to a more balanced state so that true reason and love can prevail in our daily decisions.

Living Natural Human Values

We will then be prepared to follow the natural human values in how we think, how we relate to others and how we act in our daily life. A natural value is one which is inherent in the nature of a human being. For example, when you ask anyone what it feels like if they consciously tell a lie, the overwhelming response is that it is not comfortable, physically, mentally, or emotionally. This is valid and it is the reason that lie detector machines can work, as there is a natural reaction within when we do not speak the truth. To speak the truth is natural, to lie is unnatural.

Here are some brief examples of the application of these natural values:

How We Think

We should establish a stable and balanced state of mind when making decisions.

There are many decisions that need to be made every day, usually with several options. These may involve significant external pressures, for example, to meet expectations of other people, or internal pressures, such as, I want to win and gain personal recognition. We need to concentrate in order to be clear about our motives and the guiding principle that should be used as the basis for the decision. Key values in this realm are:

Inner Stillness; Self-control; Calmness.

How We Relate to Others

We should establish and maintain a harmonious environment for all activities with other people.

When a high level of voluntary co-operation is in place, the results are greater than the sum of the individual parts. Crucial to the personal efficiency, motivation and satisfaction, is a positive atmosphere, where mutual respect and an active concern for the needs of other people prevails. The values:

Co-operation; Respect; Compassion

How We Act

We must learn to deal effectively with challenges, mistakes and uncontrollable external factors.

As life is full of uncertainties, the best way to respond to the inevitable challenges, be they self-imposed or from an external source, is to maintain a balanced and unattached state, then our full faculties are available to discern the best response. The related values here are:

Equanimity; Steadfastness; Determination.

The Results

By putting these values into practice, by living them, great benefits accrue for all; family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, the community, nation, society at large, and you. This is real success. The natural results here are:

Happiness; Peace; Unity

Service

When one lives these values then a natural motivation arises to serve the needs of others, to give. A wonderfully relevant quote from Winston Churchill on the subject: ‘You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give.’

In considering the fundamental nature of service, there are three vital elements that influence the quality: Intention – the motive behind the service, that is, for whose benefit is the service. Attention – relating to the execution of the service which is at its finest when done attentively with love and care. Retention – refers to the degree to which an individual claims credit for their actions. The less the better.

Service in Practice- Make a Positive Contribution to Climate Change

The key elements of the problem; the greed and corruption of a few and the misuse of Nature’s resources have been noted. A very brief summary of the way forward: Rational Laws, Planting Trees- Protecting Existing Forests, Engaging the Power of the Young & Politicians and Personal Contributions e.g., Support renewable energy either by installing solar energy or using a power company that has good credentials.

There is a long way to go, but we need to start now and continue marching together on the value-based, sustainable way forward. If so:

Considerably more detail on these subjects is offered in the book Cultural Cycles & Climate Change, which offers a Nine-Step Action Plan from More Quiet Time to a Good Life. The lessons learned for history, from not only Western culture but also the Chinese, Indian and Arabic culture over the last 2500 years, are covered. More detail on the Climate Change problem and the proposed solution is provided, along with other examples of the application of natural values. All the subjects covered have benefited from the guidance of respected experts in their field. The book has been published in the UK, US and India and is available on different versions of Amazon.

Paul Palmarozza

Paul Palmarozza has 58 years of business experience including founding a company specialising in e-learning in 1987 which grew and became a listed company on the London Stock Exchange (AIM) in 2001. He retired from the organisation in 2011. Currently he the Founder/ Director of If I Can…CIC, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company which offers free Mindfulness based Values apps, and E-Books. If I can… www.ificanapp.com and Ethical Entrepreneur www.ethicalentrepreneur.org are examples. He is a Guest Lecturer at Regents University Business School, UK and has lectured at the Stillman Business School at Seton Hall University in the US and other business schools in India and UK.

His published books include From Principles to Profit- The Art of Moral Management (co-author with Chris Rees); If I can…Timeless Values for Today; In Praise of Silence; and Ethical Entrepreneur E-Book. His latest book, Cultural Cycles & Climate Change is published in the UK, US and India. The book explores the lessons learned from the Western, Chinese, India and Arabic cultures over 2500 years. The recommended Nine Step action plans involves honestly acknowledging the problems, more quiet time to enable better decisions and then living natural human values and serving the Common Good. The need to serve the Climate Change issue and the way forward are offered. https://culturalcycles.timelessvalues.co.uk/

For 45 years he has been a tutor of Philosophy for the London based School of Philosophy and Economic Science. He has also delivered lectures, seminars and courses and authored numerous articles on the subjects of Spirituality, Values and Principles in Education, Business and Life. See www.timelessvalues.co.uk His email address is [email protected]

Marco Castelli: Let Your True Self Shine

Editor @ Global Man September 18, 2022 No Comments

Marco Castelli always felt more creative and so felt truly drawn to his modelling material, he got into the modelling world from there. Marco was catapulted to Milan when he was contacted by several agencies and worked for several brands. He also created his own charity gala with an auction where the proceeds went to a cooperative for charity in Sicily. The theme of his auction was a great microcosm of his philosophy: There Is No Light Without Love. The benefits of modelling include the experiences in general, working with geniuses and admirable minds, travelling the globe to be shot where the effect is greatest, and discovering the reality of fashion.

Modelling is a part of Marco’s DNA for whom there are many great designers. Read Marco’s interview to find out what new era fashion is facing. Marco brings out his one true essence through artistic means where he excels into the uncommon. For Marco there is no such thing as coincidence and with good reason. Marco sees the future for what it is: individuated and expressive, and his brand Marco Castelli Collection finds a prescient foundation in this very philosophy. Marco Castelli Collection aims to provide garments that speak with the authentic voice of the wearer, enabling this authenticity to come to the light.

What are you most excited about with your brand?

The fact that I can create and share with the world my vision and sense of fashion.

This is central to my “why” and it is a key factor behind my motivation.

What are the benefits of modelling?

The benefits of being a model certainly are the experiences in general. Models have the luxuries of working with geniuses and admirable minds who interest and captivate you. Travelling the globe to be shot where the effect is greatest is of sincere benefit as it means that the job can be optimised for its result all while I am travelling the world and seeing different cultures and people. For my passionate and inquisitive mind, I must say discovering the reality of fashion and what it really is counts for another great benefit for models. Fashion allows models to try such a versatile range of clothing with different qualities and styles. This has allowed me to come to understand the value of each fashion brand and the real difference between fast fashion, mid fashion, and high-end fashion. It is a major reason I know perfectly that my brand has one specific direction and target.

What are your thoughts on the future of modelling?

Modelling is a part of my DNA. I think the model’s life is an opportunity to express one’s sense of fashion not only for a brand but also to identify a personality and give to the audience a dream of the perfect look.

Who are your favourite designers and what is it about them that inspires you?

There are many great designers, but what inspires me about them is their nature, music and energy.

This is important to me because this can completely change the appearance, the purpose, and the effect of a brand.

What is your opinion on the fashion industry?

We are facing a new era of life in general spheres of thinking and life. So in the fashion industry too: it’s time not to be only eco-friendly but to really be producing what the world needs! Less production and more quality is the climate’s call.

What is your biggest business regret?

I have no business regrets, naturally as a result of always following my dreams. The only thing I miss often is my family whom I love and from whom I have received unerring love.

What would you say is the most important life lesson that has shaped you into who you are today?

Fashion is art and art expresses personality.

It comes to eventually determine our identities as it moulds us into who we are to become. The producer behind my art I see again: A determined boy…humble thanks to the education of a splendid family—my great pride. From them I have gained my deepest life lessons. Thanks to them I learned to love myself as I am and to bring out my one true essence (personality). I learned that I have much to appreciate in my life and that loyalty is a key part of everything I do. I understand that you must bring out all the beauty there is in humanity & all our talents. I understand the need for substance’s transcendence over appearance! Another thing that is important is resilience. To me that signifies the ability to cope with stress and adversity, coming out strengthened, drawing on the positive side. Nothing ever happens by chance. We have as a world come to the realisation that everything that happens in the chain of events is exactly that—a chain of events with cause and effect tying each event to the next and the next to the earlier. Everything has a cause before it and every cause has its effect. Take, for instance, the example of dropping a ball. If you drop it, it will fall, and to the ground, because of the force of gravity. If you would like to see the ball do something more than hitting the ground like flying over a tennis court’s net, you will usually hit it with a racket and the harder you hit it, the more likely it is that it will go over the net. What is the central theme behind these laws? Cause and effect, as Paulo Coelho also mentions in his book—the alchemist! Reading that book can sometimes be as simple and necessary as making up the wardrobe.

You once said in an interview that we create our own destiny and go in the direction of our own imagination. What is your vision for the destiny of Marco Castelli Collection?

Through my garments I want to mirror people and bring out their own identity as they begin wearing my garments.

The soul of my project is TIMELESS. Through my garments I want to mirror people and bring out their own identity as they begin wearing my garments. One must be free to feel as they truly are (in a world of fake appearances & influences). The future of my collection will express itself in this: Be yourself & Be Awaken! “Love yourself for what you are, and you will be what you want! It’s nice to be told thank you for the beauty that you bring to the world.

Sometimes it is Good to Wait

Editor @ Global Man July 2, 2020 No Comments

DJ Jeizer has an inspiring journey in which small opportunities led him to his true path and passion

By Srishti Kapoor

Jeissen Jose Zerpa Bolivar is known by his stage name DJ Jeizer or simply Jeizer, he is a disc jockey and producer of different musical styles. His musical career began in 1998 in Venezuela (Caracas), where he lived during most of his childhood and youth. At the starting of his career, he began working on the Island of Margarita Venezuela as a DJ at the Hotel Pueblo Caribe. From that moment he realized that he was made for social and public life as he loved being surrounded by people from different languages and nationalities. This inspired him to follow his passion for music. In 2004, when 27-years old he had the opportunity to go to the Netherlands where he started learning Dutch and cooking at restaurants. Sooner he established a professional career as Chef Kok. He cooked in Spanish, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Italian, and French restaurants. Learning more and more made him realize that he could also produce music while cooking. He got the opportunity to participate in different events such as Dance Festival Breda Outdoor, finishing 2nd in the competition of Talent Stage. In December of 2018, Jeizer had the privilege of being at Yokuboclub presents a special We Rule Ibiza event with the Zaira Muños Organization. It was a beautiful experience for him to be in Ibiza. In the year 2019, he was hired by Europa FM in Tenerife. He has now released many singles and remixes with Axel Lopez. In 2017, he released his first song Take the Risk, signed by Streamin Music, the singles that had great reception both in Europe and in Venezuela. He then released multiple songs with Axel Lopez titled Thundercloud, Come Back to Me (The Remixes), The Closed Control, You Ready and Life Goes On. He has worked with multiple record labels such as Streamin Music in Holland, record label at Gelgica MF Records, Discografico at Gelgica MF Records, and Addicting Records label in Spain. In July 2020, he will be releasing a new song titled “Tranqi” with the record label, Addicting Records. For this he has signed with three new talents from Toronto, the singer Teria Morada, and the singer, songwriter and producer Rub Amaya Venezolano and signing by Axel & Venezuelan Jeizer.

Do you find it difficult to have such a broad range of international markets? Does your music differ in style depending on the country or even a city?

For me, as a DJ / Music Producer, I am always listening to all the different musical genres and I stay up to date with the music. In my case, as a producer, I try to bring my own sound and add it to what is on the market. I am always doing something different from others.

In your biography, you have mentioned that you had a love for music ever since you were a child. But why DJ? Why have you decided to be a DJ instead of a pianist or guitar player in a band?

It was really that vision for me, seeing directly while growing up as a DJ I had many musician friends around me but in the end, I decided to be behind the plates and entertain people with my music.

You are playing and listening to Urbano, Latin House, Commercial House, and Electro House. Do you ever see yourself growing in other music genres like Hip-Hop or RnB or even techno?

The truth is that music is always evolving every day. We see many musical genres and the truth is that I am currently working with other alternative genres to give the music a magic touch. Also, I try to give my own music the best melody and connection with the public.

Right now, there is one of the biggest world challenges that humanity is facing. How do you feel about the current situation with Coronavirus? How did that affect you?

Internationally, it is something that caused us many problems and delays, but we always continue to work from home with all the corresponding precautions. The truth is that at the moment I have no income so far in the Netherlands, there are no activities as a DJ. I wish if I could just start giving my people the best of my music.

Where do you see yourself in the next 2-3 years? What are your upcoming biggest projects?

My vision is to sign the main record labels and to be able to play at the best festivals in the world, this is achieved with perseverance, a positive mind, and hard work. I am happy to have the privilege of being here with you and give the testimony of my life as a DJ producer.

What advice would you give to the younger generation with the same passion? What would you suggest to young DJs on how to become successful?

The best advice I can give you is to never stop dreaming and when you have difficulty following the path you have chosen, continue it because every day is a learning experience for you. Always keep your eyes aiming up and do not forget something very important “Humility” this you should never lose, it is the fundamental basis of success. I am happy to give you the strength and desire to fight, I also have a lot to do. Keep going and never forget that it is good to wait.

Dr Vern Neville- Living life to the full

Editor @ Global Man September 17, 2018 No Comments

By Fati Gorezi

Dr Vern Neville is an athlete, coach and performance director. He has been involved in elite professional sport for over 20 years, including having trained 4 International teams in 3 different sports. He was a professional America’s Cup sailor and the ‘Head of Sports Science & Medicine’ for top America’s Cup teams, Prada and Luna Rossa. He holds a PhD in Sports Science and is a world leading expert in athlete fatigue and recovery management. He developed the world’s first online athlete recovery monitoring tool, RESTWISETM., which is used and relied on by thousands of elite athletes and teams. He has published, as lead author, over 12 first class research papers in top medical and sports science journals including a book chapter in the ‘International Olympic Committee Encyclopedia of Sports Medicine’. Vern has consulted for teams in International Soccer, Rugby, NFL, Formula 1, UFC, Netball and Olympic Sports, and has Coached and mentored hundreds of the world’s top athletes in more than 15 different sports, including a 7-times Olympic medalist and multiple World Champions

How do you remember the beginning of your career?
I never planned for my career to follow the path it has. My only true goal has always been to be the best at whatever I did. Sport and fitness have been my life since a young child and I have been fortunate to have experienced a career as a Pro Athlete, a Coach, a Sports Performance Director and now the Managing Partner of a gym equipment company. I have always had a keen interest in engineering and having visited and trained in more than 2,000 gyms and sports performance centres around the world. It was probably inevitable that I would end up designing gyms and fitness equipment. Each career has had its challenges and a steep initial learning phase, but without doubt, the toughest has been starting my own company and getting it to a profitable level.

Let’s talk about the growing popularity of fitness. Where is the market heading?
Health, energy management and longevity are hot topics at the moment. We all value, more than ever before, the importance of being healthy, having greater energy, being able to work harder and longer, and trying to slow the ageing process. Exercise and eating a ‘healthy’, low calorie, low sugar diet has now become a high priority to a larger percentage of the population, evident by the booming gym industry, with new gyms opening almost on a daily basis. But this isn’t sustainable, and the market will soon become extremely competitive which will lead to more creativity in the industry and a greater demand for boutique and different gyms.
However, I believe that there will be an even greater shift in the fitness industry in next few years with more and more people investing in high quality gyms at home. If one calculates the cost of going to a gym including the time to travel to and from a gym, and the time spent in the gym, this can equate to between £25,000 and £500,000 per year depending on one’s hourly value. So, it makes sense to invest in a quality and customised home gym, which can cost between £10,000 and £50,000, allowing for more efficient use of time for work or family.

Tell us about your specific ‘speciality’ in the fitness industry?
I founded ESP Fitness 6 years ago, out of frustration that there wasn’t any high-quality user-centered strength and power fitness training equipment. I felt that the majority of gyms and fitness equipment did not understand the requirements of the high- performance athlete or individual. ESP equipment is now used worldwide by many of the best athletes and teams including the UFC in Las Vegas, England Soccer Team, Manchester City FC, Mercedes F1 and hundreds of others.
ESP Fitness is about winning. It’s about being the best and demanding the best. We want to inspire everyone to become a champion and to be the best version of themselves. So, we strive to create equipment and facilities that inspire the individual to push themselves harder and further than they ever thought possible. ESP focuses on 3 main area; 1) The design of high performance strength gyms, 2) the design and manufacture of heavy duty, innovative, user-centered strength and power training equipment, and 3) the design and fitting of specialized acoustic gym flooring.

What would you say is the secret to success in the fitness industry?
The fitness industry has become extremely competitive and one has got to differentiate one’s self from the competition to be successful. The industry is evolving at such a rapid rate that it is important to have a thorough understanding of what is important to the user and how one can add value to their life. We all know that understanding the consumer is key, but do we take the time to really understand what is important to our target market and how we can add value to their life through our products or services? Modelling and learning from the market leaders with regard to how they are thinking, and evolving, is the fastest way to success in this industry. High quality products or services with as much added-value as possible are becoming more important. ESP guarantees all equipment steelwork with a lifetime warranty. When someone buys an item of ESP Fitness equipment, they buy for life.

What has been your biggest challenge and how have you met that challenge?
We manufacture almost all of our products in the UK and the cost of labour and materials is extremely high when compared with products imported from Asia. As a result, we have a far smaller margin than many of our competitors which can be challenging. It demands that we be creative in how we manage our sales and cashflow. Manufacturing in the UK allows us not only to ensure extremely high-quality, but also gives us the flexibility to provide a ‘customised’ service to our clients. We look to tailor our designs to the specific requirements of each client and by having control over the manufacture process allows us to provide a bespoke service and greater value for our clients.

Where do you see yourself in five years from now? And what will keep you going to reach your goals?
We are creating a global fitness Brand. I have a clear vision of where I want to take the brand and how we are going to achieve this. ESP’s slogan, “WINNING IS EVERYTHING” defines ESP’s approach to everything we do. ESP is a winning brand, for winners. We are looking to expand our brand globally and will be launching 16 new products this year and a big part of our focus will be on providing top-end customised solutions to the ‘Home and Hospitality’ markets. We are also looking to expand the ESP portfolio into other markets within the health sector, especially in education and nutrition.

What about your free time?
This is a tough question to answer, because there is no such thing as “free time”. I try to accomplish as much as I can in a 24 hour day based around my priorities on that particular day. Apart from work, work related activities and a few hours of sleep, I do 25 to 40 minutes of high intensity exercise every day and I read for at least 30 minutes a day. Whenever I can, I try to attend business strategy seminars and business networking events as well as major sporting events. When I am on the road, I try to visit or train in as many different training centres as I can. I also have a passion for wildlife and conservation and try to visit my family’s Private Nature Reserve, BRACKENHILLS, in South Africa whenever I can.

What is next for you?
My focus at the moment, and for the next 3 years, is to grow the ESP Fitness brand and our associated portfolio of health and hospitality businesses internationally. At some stage in the future, I would like to share my experiences and help other aspiring entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and avoid the many obstacles that I have encountered.