ADAPT Podcast

(0:58) André briefly introduces his work, from a Lecturer Product to a company’s and founder’s advisor.

(2:19) André believes that digital transformation is connected to Product Transformation, even though the latter term has something that the first doesn’t, which is becoming a more product-centric company.

(8:02) André considers that the biggest challenge for companies that nowadays become digital is their mindset of continuing to sell to a public niche instead of expanding it worldwide to whoever could benefit from it.

(12:10) Luís sustains the concept of the complexity of globalization in business.

(16:04) From André’s point of view, digital transformation enables companies to serve the client much more efficiently (in an easier and faster way), as the costs are lower, and the target can be aimed worldwide.

(19:15) Luís introduces the example of Saudi Arabia in agreement with André’s argument on how geographic borders are outdated when it comes to selling a product online.

(23:00) André deconstructs the concept of productivity by mentioning that the biggest challenge for the Portuguese IT sector is the reliability of cheap labor, which means low productivity.

(27:00) In response to André’s statement of the existing and necessary limited lifecycle of companies, Luís mentions an article of his authorship where he suggested Portugal should invest its millions in start-ups, instead of in big companies, such as TAP and banks.

(33:14) André and Luís agree on how investing a billion in start-ups in Portugal could improve its financial status and worldwide influence, starting with the payback on taxes.

(36:23) André brainstorms how the Portuguesese culture is an influence and a restrain for Portugal’s GDP per capita to be twice higher than it currently is.

(40:20) André explains what he would advise if start-ups, or any company that’s seeking to change, reached out to him to become more digitally integrated businesses.

(43:53) Even though André argues that every leader needs to find their path, he states the importance of not being bound to constraints inside of an existing company or a to-build company.

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ADAPT Podcast:https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book:https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard:https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:49) From her first digital project, a 2001 website sold one year later, to several other digital assets, Fernanda tells us about her background in marketing and business.

(5:03) Fernanda gives us her opinion about what she thinks is digital transformation by stating that being active on social media, and having an app or a website, doesn’t necessarily mean a company has transformed itself digitally.

(10:36) Big corporations, such as retailers, should not only build their commerce online but improve their communication with customers, understand how to use the content to their advantage, and use social media for engagement.

(13:26) Fernanda states how implementing the same strategy a retailer has on-site online, only restrains a company’s digital evolution.

(16:22) Fernanda mentions the lack of know-how and the pretense of fast and easy results when companies become (or try to become) digital markets. 

(19:49) Fernanda and Luis agree on how leaders must change their mindset about continually experimenting in the digital world.

(22:53) Even though big retailers have huge needed assets, such as their physical stores, Fernanda considers that, soon or later, they will be forced to merge into digital, and get the best of both worlds. 

(24:58) With a never-ending check, and a huge retail store in her hands, Fernanda confirms what she would do as the next steps of business improvement. Curiously, she starts by buying start-ups.

(29:22) For small entrepreneurs, Fernanda considers that some of the most significant advantages nowadays rely on the amazing possible distribution channels, the control of the customer experience online, and the choice of the prices and promotions of your products.

(35:05) Luís adds the relevant opportunity of testing new products fast and efficiently with no restrictions, as another advantage of selling online.

(36:38) Fernanda states that the biggest struggle of selling Nolita’s food products worldwide is to comply with the food restrictions of each country.

(38:39) Fernanda advises the audience to understand the importance of relationships in the business world, connecting a solid network with successful businesses.

(41:46) For young leaders, the journey shouldn’t be a lonely process, but a diverse and challenging one, surrounded by different-minded people, as Fernanda advises.

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ADAPT Podcast:https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Bookhttps://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecardhttps://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:10) Gabriel quickly introduces his professional path starting from his sales career at 15 years old, to working for several big companies, including now, DataRobot.

(3:04) Gabriel mentions that getting automatic value from the company’s data is the starting point for digital transformation.

(4:34) Gabriel gives an example of what valuable data looks like in a digital company.

(5:35) Luis sustains Gabriel’s point of view and gives an example of how companies can lose in the competitive evolution if data is not valuably used.

(8:15) As Gabriel explains, the size of a company and its bureaucratic structure can be both a vantage and a disadvantage for big traditional companies in the digital age.

(12:25) Gabriel defends that brainstorming and fast action are the big solutions for adapting traditional companies to the digital age.

(15:10) Luis continues the thought and adds the used strategy of creating smaller more digital and modern start-ups from the mother company as an option for the adaptation of the big corporate.

(20:02) To dive into the use of valuable data, Gabriel confirms the need for all the board members of the company to be educated about basic data science.

(24:19) Luis corroborates that executives have to learn about the tools that will sustain their companies to become digital to avoid being lost in the evolution of the market.

(27:16) After education, Gabriel states that having a powerful person in the board members of a company that speaks directly with the CEO, is the bridge for faster and more meaningful results.

(32:10) Gabriel gives a live example of the successful use of data.

(37:38) Gabriel advises young leaders to know how to listen to everyone: peers, coworkers, board members, clients, and competition, and make to understand their contexts.

(42:12) Luis adds the importance of not assuming who’s the customer, to keep asking questions, and to get actively involved with the customer.

ADAPT Podcast:https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Bookhttps://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecardhttps://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:00) Ronaldo does a quick introduction of his professional path starting from leading several companies, to creating his own, the Start-Tech, in 2017.

(3:42) Ronaldo explains his concept of Digital Transformation by explaining that it doesn’t necessarily mean changing every aspect of a company into technology.

(6:54) Ronaldo states that Digital Transformation is no longer an option, it is to be embraced by the companies that pursue not to lose the market.

(10:19) The illusion of positive short-term results is what Ronaldo thinks to be one of the biggest barriers for leaders to adapt to the Digital Era.

(14:55) Ronaldo brainstorms about how pride can affect a leader to transform and innovate when not accepting experts on board.

(18:10) “Today, data is the big money (...) and most of the attacks come from inside the company” Ronaldo answers concerning the importance of cybersecurity.

(21:15) Luis resumes Ronaldo’s statement about how hackers nowadays blackmail companies with stolen data.

(24:51) Our guest gives examples of actual cybersecurity threats and what to do to avoid them.

(29:34) Ronaldo explains how culture and nationality can influence the change of mindset about cybersecurity importance, specifically in terms of understanding cybersecurity as an investment and not an expense.

(33:13) Taking fast and accurate decisions is the biggest lesson learned from Ronaldo throughout his professional career. Luis agrees by responding “a bad decision is better than a non-decision”.

(35:38) Ronaldo advises beginners to learn how to manage people as part of the company’s ecosystem and to set a humble mindset of acceptance of other people’s expertise.

ADAPT Podcast:https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Bookhttps://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecardhttps://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:05) André tells us a bit about his background and his experience with investment banking and the transition to big corporations.

(3:00) Our guest talks about his experience with financial services working in Europe, his impressions of the 3G culture and how he made the decision to open his consulting business for small and medium healthcare providers. He gives insight on his strategy, based on the 3G business model.

(5:45) Luis gives insight on the Portuguese scenario on healthcare and the opportunities for change.

(8:06) André gives insights on the biggest advantages of digital transformation for traditional healthcare companies and goes beyond, sharing light on possibilities for all sorts of businesses.

(16:54) Luis and André discuss the opportunities for communication improvements and explore the disadvantages of not going through digital transformation.

(18:48) André clear up the disadvantages of digital transformation - especially when it comes to short term goals.

(23:37) Luis and André discuss the future of healthcare through a digital transformation perspective.

(28:15) Our guest let us know about the logistic side of the business, and how to solve its bottlenecks by using automation tools, bringing democratization of healthcare through a well managed supply system.

(33:40) André breaks down the biggest lessons from his career. They discuss the effects of failure and how to deal with frustration.

(39:44) Our guest shares his stoic vision, recommending courage, resilience and humility. They finish the interview sharing invaluable leadership lessons.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:30) Leandro starts the interview by sharing a bit about his background as electrical engineering, master and phD of Computer Science with focus on artificial intelligence.

(3:00) He defines digital transformation as the 4.0 industry and connects it with machine learning, artificial intelligence, 3D printing and general state of the art technology.

(4:45) Our guest discusses the benefits of the digital revolution to corporations and the general public - highlighting the opportunities for product and customer service improvement.

(6:30) Luis shares business solutions for exploring international markets.

(11:59) Leandro talks about the challenges of bringing digital transformation to traditional businesses, discourses about how digital transformation promotes scalability of operations.

(16:26) Luis asks Leandro about the future of digital transformation, in a timeframe of ten years. Leandro gives us insight into three main perspectives: privacy, data value and data analysis.

(20:39) Our guest shares examples of how data can improve operations.

(24:51) Luis asks Leandro’s advice on leadership, especially on how to deal with tech teams. Leandro gives us great practical advice on the alternatives and how to approach such challenges.

(29:36) Leandro tells us about his company’s pillars and features, such as A.I training.

(32:04) Luis asks about the biggest lessons Leandro learned from his career experience. Leandro inspires us with his insights on ethical work, teamwork, and a solution-focused mindset.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:40) Miguel introduces himself as a technology aficionado. He describes how the fascination with technology started and his path as an engineer in General Motors, to consultant for companies like PwC, to his experience within the telecom industry.

(4:57) Luis Goncalves asks our guest about the challenges he faced in the telecom segment, as digital transformation shifted telecommunications core business by the end of 2000s.

(5:40) Miguel elaborates on the potential of digital transformation as a disruptive agent. He differentiates disruptive technologies from transformative action.

(8:35) They speak about the speed of technological change, from Spectrum to Apple and Android.

(10:51) Miguel shares his views on the benefits of technology, with focus on productivity. He points out that productivity does not keep up with technological growth and gives insight on the economical impact of this inbalance.

(14:02) Our guest elaborates on the reasons for the imbalance between productivity and technology.

(19:24) Luis and Miguel discuss operations efficiency and process implementation. Miguel gives an example of successful implementation by Amazon, based on observation and user experience.

(25.45) They talk about the sections that hold the most power when it comes to digital transformation, and the need to defy traditional processes.

(28:37) Luis asks about the educational aspect of the digital transformation, and Miguel shares a fresh perspective on the balance between education and work.

(33:57) Miguel addresses the lack of method on the educational system and the need for continuous education throughout professional life. He shares light on methods to promote a more educational mindset.

(37:11) Luis and Miguel discourse about how productive technology can reduce work hours and practices to achieve that.

(42:30) Miguel Moreira examines the biggest lesson he learned from his career and shares a truly inspirational view on resilience and teamwork.

(45:42) Our guest then gives us golden advice for those who want to lead others, on how to become a leader.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(1:30) Venâncio introduces himself and the extensive experience he acquired as an entrepreneur and investor since 2003. He walks us through his two career paths as an entrepreneur as well as a consultant for big companies like Tractebel.

(5:20) Our guest elaborates on his experience bringing Amazon’s marketplace to Brazil.

(9:13) Venâncio shares his view of what the digital transformation entails.

(15:25) They discuss the biggest challenges for traditional organizations when facing digital transformation.

(18:45) Venâncio puts out very relevant questions on how we changed as humankind and the ongoing process of adaptation we necessarily will go through.

(21:09) They discuss the challenges of implementing a culture of change and flexibility into current organizations.

(25:00) Venâncio gives insight on how digital transformation can benefit an investment agency. He goes on to explain how he adapted the methodology of David L. Rogers to his scenario, increasing his results by tenfold.

(30:44) They discuss what was the biggest lesson from Venâncio’s career, the meaning of passion and purpose and its effects on a professional and personal level.

(36:01) Venâncio gives invaluable advice for young and inexperienced leaders out there.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

(2:10) Rui comes from a traditional workplace environment and explains his process of bringing digital transformation to CGD.

(3:55) Our guest goes on to explain how digital transformation is a mindset powered by technology.

(6:33) They discuss how digitalization has increased the value of customer service and the relevance of feedback.

(9:20) Rui shares the biggest advantages of the digital era for a traditional bank like CGD.

(13:10) They discuss the chatbot application developed by Rui - and the efficiency of product delivery.

(16:00) Rui now let us know about the drawbacks of a traditional business model regarding digitalization.

(19:00) Luis shares his views on the biggest issues with traditional structures applied to start up organizations. They discuss these systems and the problems that arrive with such structures.

(27:00) Rui and Luis go on to discuss the importance of placing the right people in the right positions.

(32:00) Luis proposes business models that can adapt to traditional or start-up environments. Rui gives his insights on innovative strategies.

(35:50) Rui elaborates on the process of digitization for a legacy bank. He gives DBS bank as an example of a successful solution.

(38:33) They go on to discuss fintechs as a way to adapt to the current scenario.

(42:40) Luis sheds light on the fintech possibilities based on his experiences with the banking industry.

(46:00) Rui let us know key points to develop leadership skills - from his extensive experience as a business leader.

(48:40) He then reveals the biggest lesson he took from his career.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard

“Most of the things you have in your life are transported to you in a container. You can connect demand with supply”

(1:00) Rui let us know his philosophy of life and career - by adding value you can find a real sense of direction in your career.

(4:00) He elaborates on the importance of shipping services and the huge impact it has on every consumer's lives. Rui goes on to tell us how he develops products - digital or physical ones - and the process behind it.

(8:00) They talk about the digital age - and how things changed with it. Rui elaborates on the two most important things in life; and how those were influenced greatly by the digital era.

(10:24) Luis asks about the dangers of not embracing the digital era. Rui makes a point of comparing generations and their equal importance when it comes to work performance. He offers a sobering view of how to stay relevant - no matter your age.

(14:47) Rui cites Clayton M. Christensen’s milkshake example: milkshake is not competing with milkshake, it's competing with donuts. He explains how consumers' motivation derives from passion.

(18:30) Luis gives examples of unexpected competitors for traditional businesses. They discuss the biggest misconceptions when it comes to product strategies.

(21:45) Rui gives insight on the biggest advantages of going digital, for entrepreneurs and civilians alike.

(26:22) Luis shares his perspective on the opportunities for smaller and unexplored markets. Rui throws light on setbacks for bigger companies.

(29:49) Rui elaborates on what the impact of the digital era will have on the future. He brings attention to education, industry and other aspects and how we must adapt all of these to our current and future reality.

(37:21) They talk about the changes since the pandemic started - the positive and negative aspects of product and logistics operations. Rui describes how human connection can make the difference between success and failure.

(43:00) Rui discloses the greatest lessons he took from his work experience. He provides concrete examples of how both sides of the story always matter.

(45:57) Luis asks for advice for leaders going through digital transformation. Rui shares thoughtful insights on perspective and value.

______________________________________

ADAPT Podcast:
https://adaptmethodology.com/podcast/

Digital Leadership Accelerator:
https://digitalleadershipaccelerator.com/

ADAPT Book
https://adaptmethodology.com/book

Digital Leadership Scorecard
https://adaptmethodology.com/scorecard