Hosts:

Michael Smith Jr: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/smittysgp/⁠

Razko Kotler: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/razko282/⁠

Guest:

JJ : https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgonloop/

Episode Overview:

In this candid conversation, hosts Michael Smith Jr. and Razko Kotler sit down with JJ, the founder and CEO of OnLoop, who brings 18 years of diverse experience—from his early days in India and formative experiences in Singapore to pivotal roles at companies like Uber and Accenture. JJ shares how these experiences shaped his leadership style and fueled his passion for rethinking team productivity. He introduces his unique five-layer productivity framework that prioritizes personal energy, clear goal-setting, and meaningful feedback to drive both individual and organizational growth. The discussion also covers the challenges of scaling a hybrid software and services business, insights into the Southeast Asian startup ecosystem, and personal strategies for maintaining mental, social, and physical fitness in the demanding world of entrepreneurship.

Links Mentioned:

• Onloop: https://www.onloop.com

Books Mentioned:

• Brief History of Intelligence by Max Bennett

• Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

• Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari:

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

Hosts:

Michael Smith Jr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smittysgp/

Razko Kotler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razko282/

Guest:

Asikul Alam Khan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asikulalamkhan/

Episode Overview:

In this episode, hosts Michael Smith Jr. and Razko Kotler welcome Asikul Alam Khan, the Founder and CEO of PriyoShop, a B2B digital commerce platform based in Bangladesh. Asikul shares his extensive 20-year journey across various sectors, including EdTech with StudentWish and IT solutions with Splendor IT, leading up to the creation and scaling of PriyoShop. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from B2C to B2B, achieving 16x growth in 24 months, and the strategic partnerships with major brands like Unilever and MasterCard. Asikul also delves into the Bangladeshi startup ecosystem, the importance of resilience, effective communication, and the role of mentorship in entrepreneurial success.

Links Mentioned:

PriyoShop: https://priyoshop.com

Accelerating Asia: https://acceleratingasia.com

bkash: https://www.bkash.com

Brac Bank: https://www.bracbank.com

The 12 Week Year: https://www.amazon.com/12-Week-Year-Others-Months/dp/1118509234/

vit: https://vit.com.bd

SBK: https://sbktechventures.com

Hosts:

Guest:

Episode Overview:

In this episode, hosts Michael Smith Jr. and Razko Kotler welcome Amanda Cua, the Founder and CEO of BackScoop, a media startup shaping the future of business media in Southeast Asia. Amanda shares her remarkable journey from the Philippines to Singapore, detailing the inception and growth of BackScoop, her role as the first employee at the Y Combinator-backed edtech Avion School, and her recognition as a Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 Honoree for 2024.

Amanda delves into her experiences navigating the challenges of launching a media platform and balancing personal growth with professional responsibilities. She offers insights into the Southeast Asian startup ecosystem, the importance of resilience, and the transformative power of taking calculated risks. Amanda also provides practical advice for young entrepreneurs and discusses the evolving landscape of media and technology in Southeast Asia.

Links Mentioned: