Advertise on podcast: The Forward Thinking People Podcast with Namita Ramani

In this episode, in a conversation with Bijay Shah, the Master Franchisee of Business Network International (BNI) in the UAE and the person behind one of the most successful business networking ecosystems in the region. Bijay shares the entire journey, starting from the moment he first encountered BNI to building a thriving community that now spans hundreds of members across the UAE. He talks about the early challenges, the scepticism, the financial pressures, and the turning points that pushed him to take BNI from a side project to a full-time mission. This conversation breaks down the real meaning of networking and why most people misunderstand it. Bijay explains how to choose the right communities, build relationships that actually matter, and ask better questions that can completely change the quality of the connections you make. Founders, leaders, and entrepreneurs will find practical insights on team building, personal development, breaking limiting beliefs, and growing a business through community. Bijay also shares his favourite networking questions, the underrated skills that separate average networkers from great ones, and the principles that guided him as he grew BNI from 23 members to a powerful network across the UAE.If you want to build deeper relationships, expand your influence, or grow a business through meaningful connections, this episode offers lessons you can apply immediately.

In this episode, we wrap up an incredible season 2 of The Forward Thinking People by discussing the 7 traits that define forward-thinking businesses. After interviewing 12 entrepreneurs this season, we’ve identified the core qualities that separate businesses that grow with purpose from those that falter. Here’s a glimpse of what we discuss: ✔️ How clarity in organizational values drives smarter decisions. ✔️ The power of continuous learning for leaders and their teams. ✔️ Why competition is your greatest motivator for growth. ✔️ The art of taking smart risks without compromising your vision. ✔️ How exceptional customer service builds loyalty beyond transactions. ✔️ Why trust is the foundation of empowered teams. ✔️ The role of delegation in freeing leaders to focus on strategy. Whether you’re just starting or scaling to new heights, this episode is filled with insights to inspire your next steps. Let’s stay curious, courageous, and forward-thinking together. See you next season! Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

As 2024 draws to a close, we’re looking back at an unforgettable Season 2 of The Forward Thinking People Podcast. 12 Episodes. 12 Takeaways.  The Forward Thinking People Podcast brings you the stories of people who redefine what’s possible. We uncover the lessons that drive innovation, inspire bold ideas, and prepare you for the future of business. Whether you’re dreaming big or building something new, this podcast is your guide to confidently embracing the challenges ahead.  Let these stories motivate you, challenge your thinking, and remind you that the future is yours to shape. Here's to a fearless 2025.  Thank you to our guests, Warsha Joshi, Wolfgang Hohmann, Phil Bedford, Kamelia Salimi,  Sam Sayadan, Magdalena Orzechowska, Antony Guss, Dr Joy, Nick Glover, Kelly Lundberg, Fahed Bizzari and Brian Kurtz for helping us create a memorable season 2! Follow TFTP:  https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Brian Kurtz, a direct marketing legend who has had two remarkable careers spanning over four decades. Brian Kurtz shares his extensive experience from his 34-year tenure at Boardroom Inc. where he sold over 1.3 billion pieces of direct mail via direct response television (infomercials) and as the founder of Titans Marketing. Entrepreneurs, especially in the coaching business, will find Brian's insights invaluable as he extensively shares the marketing principles that have driven his success. Learn about the importance of lists, offers, and creative copy in marketing, the role of humility and passion, and the significance of direct marketing concepts. Brian also discusses how to build a lasting business, create effective coaching programs, and keep your clients engaged and renewing. Plus, discover practical tips on writing compelling, story-driven emails to engage your audience. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for real results in your business! Follow TFTP https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Brian: https://www.briankurtz.net/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-kurtz-a1934/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyN1q8huqel6DDidQsJ90RQ https://www.facebook.com/briankurtzofficial Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of the Forward Thinking People podcast, Namita Ramani sits down with Fahed Bizzari, a renowned AI consultant, keynote speaker, and serial entrepreneur.  Fahed shares his extensive journey, starting from his upbringing influenced by his serial entrepreneur father to his education and various business ventures, including the launch and growth of an SMS marketing company in the early 2000s.  He shared his transition to AI, sparked by a pivotal moment with ChatGPT, and how he's now guiding organizations towards AI maturity through his company Bellamy Alden AI Consulting. Fahed also discusses the critical role of high work ethic in leveraging AI, the potential future impact of AI on jobs and society, and his focus on teaching senior leaders and companies about the transformative potential of AI.  Tune in for valuable insights on AI, business growth, and the importance of maintaining a strategic mindset amidst technological advancements. Follow Fahed Bizzari: https://www.instagram.com/fahedbizzari/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fahedbizzari/ https://www.fahedbizzari.com/ Follow TFTP https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/

In this episode of the Forward Thinking People podcast, host Namita Ramani welcomes Kelly Lundberg, an international keynote speaker, personal brand strategist, and bestselling author, with over 20 years of experience. Kelly shares her remarkable journey from Scotland to Dubai, emphasising the importance of personal branding for entrepreneurs and CEOs. Throughout the discussion, Kelly highlights her experiences working with luxury brands, her career transition from fashion stylist to personal branding expert, and the evolving online landscape. She offers valuable insights on building credibility and trust, the significance of storytelling in personal branding, and the role of consistency and authenticity in a strong personal brand. Visit Kelly’s Website: https://kellylundbergofficial.com/ Follow Kelly on: https://www.instagram.com/kellylundberg.official/ https://www.youtube.com/user/styledbykelly https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylundbergofficial/ Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Visit Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

Join host Namita Ramani on the Forward Thinking People Podcast as she interviews Nick Glover, Social Impact Director at Waste to Wonder Worldwide.  Despite battling type 1 diabetes and surviving cancer, Nick has accomplished incredible feats including a triple Everest cycling challenge and an Ultraman triathlon.  His journey spans diverse roles in learning and development, finance, and sales at notable organizations. Nick emphasizes the importance of authenticity, ethical business practices, and making a positive impact, especially for underserved communities.  He shares insights on the necessity of fostering trust in coaching, balancing intuition with critical thinking, and the power of aligning personal and organizational values for sustainable success. The conversation also covers effective management strategies, recognizing raw talent, and building a resilient workplace. Nick's compelling story proves that with motivation, community support, and a clear purpose, extraordinary achievements are possible. Follow Nick Glover: https://www.instagram.com/nick.nickglover/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peopledevelopmentspecialist/ Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Visit Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of the Forward Thinking People podcast, Namita Ramani sits down with Dr. Joy Antony, the founder and managing director of Dr. Joy Dental Clinics, to talk about his incredible journey from opening a single clinic in Dubai back in 2004 to running 13 clinics with over 350 employees and more than 80 dentists. Dr. Joy opens up about how he got into dentistry (even though his heart was drawn to business), the challenges he faced along the way, and how he expanded his practice despite financial struggles and recessions. He also shares what it takes to build a successful brand, the importance of systems and protocols in scaling a business, and the tough decisions he made to stop practicing dentistry and focus on growing his company. We also dive into Dr. Joy’s leadership style, how he manages a large team, and how he balances the demands of business with personal life. He talks candidly about taking risks, learning from mistakes, and the one decision that changed everything for him. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a business owner, or just someone curious about what it takes to build and grow a business, this episode is packed with real-world insights and lessons from someone who’s been through it all. If you enjoyed this episode of the TFTP Podcast, follow our channel. Follow Dr Joy Antony: https://www.instagram.com/drjoydxb/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-antony-64645044 https://www.facebook.com/joy.antony.140/  Visit Dr. Joy Dental Clinic website: https://www.drjoydentalclinic.com/team/dr-joy-antony/ Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople  Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/  https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/  Visit Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of The Forward Thinking People Podcast, host Namita Ramani converses with Antony Guss, Vice President at Casual Life Furniture International Limited. They dive into Antony's impressive 41-year career, including his transition from Olympic skiing to a leading role in the outdoor furniture industry.  Antony shares insights into growing a business, navigating international markets, and developing strategic relationships with top-tier hotels. With topics ranging from overcoming challenges in Dubai's unique market to expansion strategies in Saudi Arabia, and the importance of fitness and persistence, this episode offers valuable wisdom for entrepreneurs at any stage. Follow Antony Guss: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antony-guss-2193a83a/?originalSubdomain=ae Follow Casual Life Middle East  https://www.instagram.com/casualifemiddleeast/ Follow TFTP on  https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Visit Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode, meet Magdalena Orzehovska, a passionate olive oil and balsamic vinegar connoisseur and founder of Aroma de Olio. Magdalena's remarkable journey features a career in project management, a battle against breast cancer, and her unique path to becoming the UAE's only certified olive oil sommelier and consultant. Discover how her personal health challenges inspired her to create a business dedicated to providing the finest extra virgin olive oil and the rigorous training and research she invested to master her craft. Learn from Magdalena's experience in networking, building an e-commerce platform, and the importance of ongoing education. If you enjoyed this episode of the TFTP Podcast, subscribe to our channel for more. Follow Magdalena Orzechowska: https://www.linkedin.com/in/magdalenaorzechowska/ Follow Aroma di Olio: https://www.instagram.com/aromadiolio/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/aromadiolio/ Visit Aroma di Olio website: https://www.aromadiolio.com/ Follow TFTP on: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-forward-thinking-people-podcast Follow Namita Ramani:// https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of the Forward Thinking People podcast, host Namita Ramani sits down with Sam Sayadan, co-founder of The Cycle Hub, to explore his inspiring journey from being a motorcyclist to creating one of the most beloved cycling brands in the UAE.  Sam shares his experiences in establishing Cycle Hub, the challenges he faced, and the importance of passion and persistence in achieving business success.  Discover how Cycle Hub has grown into a cornerstone for cyclists, offering top-notch products and fostering a community spirit.  Learn about the early days of cycling in the UAE, the importance of a good business partner, and the exciting plans Sam has for expanding Cycle Hub into new markets. Follow CycleHub: https://www.instagram.com/thecyclehub/ https://www.facebook.com/TheCycleHub/ Visit CycleHub website: https://thecyclehub.com/ Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Visit Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

From High-Profile Project Management to Thriving Entrepreneur: Kamelia Salimi’s Journey In this episode of The Forward Thinking People Podcast, host Namita Ramani talks with Kamelia Salimi, the managing partner at Zoga.  Kamelia shares her diverse background in project management and interior design, detailing her journey from overseeing large-scale projects like JW Marriott Marquis and Plaza Versace Dubai to co-founding Zoga, a leading wellness studio in Dubai.  She delves into the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, offering insights on managing a successful yoga business.  Kamelia also discusses the importance of location, team building, marketing strategies, and the role of a supportive community in running a profitable wellness studio.  Join us as we explore Kamelia’s inspiring story and her dedication to fostering health and well-being through yoga and holistic practices. Your engagement matters to us! Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Kamelia: https://www.instagram.com/travellin.yogi/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/kameliasalimi/ Follow Zoga Studio: https://www.instagram.com/zogadubai/ Visit Zoga Website: https://zoga.ae/ Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital:  https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of the Forward Thinking People Podcast, host Namita Ramani interviews Phil Bedford, a leading expert in relationship marketing, referral marketing, and business networking.  With over 15 years of experience in the UAE and GCC, Phil shares his inspiring journey from an unplanned move to Dubai to becoming a renowned international speaker and author.  He discusses crucial insights into leveraging social networks for business growth, overcoming common networking challenges, and the power of strategic relationship building.  Listen in to discover the secrets behind transforming networking into a superpower and achieving a healthy work-life balance. Your engagement matters to us! Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Phil Bedford: https://www.instagram.com/rebelnetworker/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philbedford https://uae.asentiv.com/our_team/philip-bedford/ https://therebelnetworker.com/my-story/ https://www.facebook.com/therebelnetworker.increasesales/ Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

In this episode of The Forward Thinking People Podcast, host Namita Ramani sits down with Wolfgang Hohmann, known as Wolf, the visionary behind Wolfi's Bike Shop. Wolfi shares his inspiring journey from being a chef in Germany to becoming a leading figure in the UAE’s cycling community. The conversation covers his early passion for cycling, the challenges faced in establishing a business in Dubai, and the strategic decisions that have shaped his career. Wolfi emphasizes the importance of resilience, community, and responsible selling in life and business. The episode also explores his recent decision to sell a substantial part of his business and his ongoing commitment to cycling in the UAE. Your engagement matters to us! Follow TFTP: https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Follow Wolfgang Hohmann: https://www.instagram.com/wolfidxb https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfgang-hohmann-11bb9218/ Follow Wolfi's Bike Shop: https://www.instagram.com/wolfis?igsh=amlkcGx0Y2Q0ZWx6 Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/

Today on the first episode of The Forward Thinking People podcast, we are in conversation with the incredible Warsha Joshi, a top business strategy adviser across MENA and the Managing Director of Dare To Scale. With over four decades of experience, Warsha has scaled multiple ventures to seven-figure revenues and navigated complex family business dynamics for sustainable growth.  Her leadership earned her business a spot among the top ten Great Places to Work in the MENA region. Warsha's expertise, certified mentoring, and masterful communication skills make her a powerhouse in business strategy. Follow TFTP on https://www.instagram.com/theforwardthinkingpeople Your engagement matters to us! Follow Warsha Joshi https://www.instagram.com/warshajoshi/ https://daretoscale.com/about/ Buy her book: https://amzn.eu/d/0bzom6Tb Follow Namita Ramani: https://www.instagram.com/namitaramani/ https://www.facebook.com/ramani.namita/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/namitaramani/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UConc_r4xXBwflx4XN9b5zNg/ Above Digital: https://www.abovedigital.com/