Hosts:

• Michael Smith Jr. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smittysgp/
• Razko Kotler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razko282/

Guest:

• Denning Tan https://www.linkedin.com/in/denning-tan-7a26737/

In Episode 8, hosts Michael and Raz sit down with Denning Tan, an experienced entrepreneur and partner at the GenAI Fund, to explore his dynamic career in Southeast Asia’s startup ecosystem. Denning recounts his transition from a litigator in Malaysia and China to working with major companies like AWS, 123RF, and Carsome.

Denning dives into the rapid rise of B2B Gen AI startups, how remote work has transformed the region, and the strategic focus of the GenAI Fund, which supports pre-seed and seed-stage startups solving critical industry challenges. He offers his perspective on Malaysia’s startup scene, shedding light on the country’s potential and the evolving nature of its ecosystem, especially in comparison to tech powerhouses like Singapore and Indonesia.

Links:

• Pieter Kemps https://www.linkedin.com/in/pieterkemps/
• Laurence Si https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurencesi/
• GenAI Fund https://genaifund.ai
• 123RF https://www.123rf.com
• AWS (Amazon Web Services) – https://aws.amazon.com
• Carsome https://www.carsome.com
• Peak XV Partners https://www.peakxv.com
• SeedPlus https://seedplus.com
• Yahoo https://www.yahoo.com
• Catcha Group https://www.catcha.com
• Mayfield https://www.mayfield.com
• GSR Ventures https://www.gsrventures.com
• Qunar https://www.qunar.com
• Kleo (Netflix Series) – https://www.netflix.com/title/81234567
  

Hosts:

• Michael Smith Jr. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smittysgp/
• Razko Kotler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razko282/

Guest:

• Niko A https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolyaak/

Synopsis:

In Episode 7, hosts Razko and Michael engage in an inspiring conversation with Niko, a seasoned cybersecurity expert with a diverse international background. Niko recounts his extraordinary journey from Russia to South Korea on a LG Electronics scholarship, where he spent nearly a decade immersing himself in a new culture and advancing his expertise in software and technology administration. Transitioning from South Korea, Niko moved to Singapore to join Horangi, a dynamic startup co-founded by his friend Paul, and played a pivotal role in scaling the company from the ground up.

He shares insights into building a global cybersecurity community, influencing the industry, and navigating the acquisition of Horangi by Bitdefender. Throughout the episode, Niko emphasizes the importance of foundational education, continuous learning, and adaptability in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity. He also discusses the impact of Asian cultures on his professional demeanor, the rising role of AI in cybersecurity defenses, and offers valuable advice for aspiring cybersecurity professionals. Additionally, Niko touches on his passion for languages, personal wellness, and maintaining a balanced life amidst a demanding career.

Links:

• LG Electronics https://www.lg.com
• Horangi https://www.horangi.com/
• BitDefender https://www.bitdefender.com/
• Palantir Technologies https://www.palantir.com/
• DuoLingo https://www.duolingo.com/
• DefCon https://defcon.org/
• Higher Loyalty (Book by James Comey) https://www.amazon.com/Higher-Loyalty-Leadership-Transform-Business/dp/1250306784
• Evolve MMA (One Championship Gym) https://evolve-mma.com/
• Sunland Mountain Resort https://www.sunland.co.kr/
• GitHub https://github.com/

Hosts:

• Michael Smith Jr. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smittysgp/
• Razko Kotler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/razko282/

Guest:

• Candina Weston https://www.linkedin.com/in/candinaweston/
  

Episode Overview:

Our guest, Candina Weston, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the technology sector. Candina has held significant roles at Microsoft, including CMO and COO of Global Experiential Marketing and Director of Global Business Strategy. She has worked across the US, Europe, and Asia, driving transformative growth and innovation.

In this episode of The Generalists, Candina reflects on her journey, from starting as an intern to holding multiple global leadership roles across different continents, including Australia, the U.S., and Singapore. She shares insights into navigating corporate environments, driving transformation, and the value of building strong leadership foundations. The conversation touches on her decision to make Singapore home and the cultural shift she’s noticed in the entrepreneurial landscape of the region. Candina also delves into leadership styles, corporate change management, and the importance of being a strategic and people-oriented leader in today's fast-evolving business world.

We explore topics such as the role of leaders in facilitating organizational change, the importance of mentoring and sponsorship, and the critical need for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. As an advisor for She Loves Tech, Candina offers her thoughts on creating more inclusive work environments, fostering trust, and how leaders can cultivate spaces where diverse talents thrive. The conversation wraps up with Candina’s reflections on wellness, personal growth, and the transformative potential of AI in the marketing industry.

Links:

• Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com
• She Loves Tech: https://www.shelovestech.org
• INSEAD Business School: https://www.insead.edu
• Erin Meyer’s Culture Map: https://erinmeyer.com/tools/culture-map-premium/
• Blinkist: https://www.blinkist.com