Made it in Thailand

Epizodai

• 
  How to Lead Teams in Thailand: Lessons From a Former dtac CPO | Nardrerdee "GoonG" Arj-harnwongse 06.10.2026 53min

  Nardrerdee "GoonG" Arj-harnwongse started her career as one of the first 30 employees at Lotus Supercenter. A few years later, the 1997 crisis hit, and she was in the room telling hundreds of new management trainees, face to face, that their jobs were gone.That set the pattern for a 30-year career inside Lotus, Tesco Lotus, Nokia, Unilever, dtac and Asset World Corporation (AWC). Acquisitions, a three-year decline, digital disruption, COVID. Every new role was supposed to be easier. None of them were.We discussed how to lead teams in Thailand through change, and what actually holds a team together when the business is under pressure. Why Tesco told Lotus staff it bought the company because they were good, and changed almost nothing in year one. How an anonymous internal app at dtac, with a 48-hour response rule for the CEO and every C-level leader, showed her how her people actually felt. Why Nokia refused to call itself a family. And the question foreign leaders ask most: can Thai teams take direct feedback? If you're leading a team in Thailand through a tough stretch, this one is worth your time.ABOUT THE GUESTNardrerdee "GoonG" Arj-harnwongse is a people and transformation leader with three decades inside some of Thailand's largest companies. She was employee #30 at Lotus Supercenter and helped staff through the Tesco acquisition, then held HR leadership roles at Nokia and Unilever, where she led people strategy across multiple countries during a turnaround. She served as Chief People Officer at dtac for nearly eight years, and most recently as Chief People Officer at Asset World Corporation. She now sits on a board and advises business owners on leadership and change.ABOUT THE HOSTI'm Scott Pressimone, a Fractional Commercial Leader with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign capital, founders, and CEOs bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities.https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottalanpress/https://fractiond.io/CHAPTERS00:00 Meet Khun GoonG02:25 1997 Thailand Crisis at Lotus03:58 Handling Layoffs Humanely06:18 Tesco Acquisition Shift08:25 Culture Change Training10:55 Restructuring as a Career12:11 Unilever Turnaround Story15:59 Raising Engagement Fast19:07 What is Fractiond?20:08 Changes That Stick20:59 Anonymous Feedback Platform25:37 COVID Feedback Pulse26:14 Trust Through Transparency28:26 Implementing Agile32:25 Leading Change Resistance34:19 Nokia Employability Mindset36:50 Rolling Out AI Change41:43 Great Leaders Traits44:09 Feedback in Thai Culture48:22 Board Life and New Chapter51:08 Final Tips#LeadingThroughChange #WorkingInThailand #ThaiBusiness #ChangeManagement #LeadershipInThailand #BusinessInAsia #FractionalLeadership
• 
  He Built a New Life in Thailand From Scratch | Vic Levitin 04.08.2026 51min

  Vic left Israel with his family after October 7th and is now three years into life on Koh Samui. He rebuilt from scratch with no local network and grew a SaaS to $90,000 a month, until his payment processor shut the whole category down and most of that revenue was gone in a day.We got into how he built it and what he took away from it. The parts of a business you don't control can end it, even when the product works and people are paying. Prove demand before you build. Know who your real customer actually is. And when anyone can build with AI, the audience is the hard part, which is why Vic now brings the people who own that trust in as partners instead of paying affiliates. He also talks about hitting $90K a month and feeling empty, and why he was already looking for the exit before the business got pulled out from under him.If you're building in Thailand or thinking about the move, this one's worth your time.ABOUT THE GUESTVic Levitin is an entrepreneur with two decades of building across e-commerce, SaaS, biotech, and AI. He founded CrazyLister, a design platform for eBay sellers that raised venture funding and passed $2M in ARR, and later led Diptera AI, a mosquito-control company now backed by the Gates Foundation. After moving from Israel to Koh Samui, he built an AI image platform for online creators to $90,000 a month. He now builds SaaS companies in partnership with domain experts across several industries.https://www.linkedin.com/in/viclevitin/https://www.viclevitin.com/https://dazy.ai/ABOUT THE HOSTI'm Scott Pressimone, a Fractional Commercial Leader with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign capital, founders, and CEOs bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities. https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottalanpress/https://fractiond.io/CHAPTERS00:00 Meet Vic02:33 Escape and Relocate03:30 First Year Struggles04:19 Why Koh Samui06:49 Visas and Legal Setup08:20 US LLC Playbook10:16 CrazyLister Origin Story13:31 Mosquito Tech Mission17:28 Rebuilding in Thailand18:58 Solar Business Reality Check24:46 AI Influencer SaaS Launch29:39 Validation Before Building33:11 Partnering for Distribution36:57 From 30K to 90K MRR38:31 Payments Rug Pull42:08 High Leverage Founder Work46:55 Meaning Beyond Money50:57 Closing#BuildingInThailand #SaaSFounder #ExpatEntrepreneur #WorkingInThailand #ThailandEntrepreneur #FractionalLeadership #BusinessInAsia
• 
  Corporate to Business Owner: What It Really Takes to Make the Jump | Steven McGinnes 02.06.2026 54min

  Event Details & Registrationhttps://www.scottpressimone.com/freedom-bkk/Steven McGinnes lives in Phuket, works from a sailboat, and has built the kind of life that looks effortless on LinkedIn. He's also one of the most honest people I've spoken with about what it actually costs to get there.That gap between the 4pm on the water and the 4am worrying about whether the invoice lands is exactly what this conversation is about. Steven spent his career in the creative agency world before going out on his own. He's watched enough people make the same avoidable mistakes to know which ones to flag early.We covered a lot of ground, but it kept returning to the same core tension: freedom and accountability scale together. The more of one you want, the more of the other you're signing up for. What most people making the jump from corporate underestimate is not the hustle. It's the invisible infrastructure they never had to think about. The vendor setup. The payment terms. The cash flow gap. The fact that 65% of business failures come not from a lack of clients, but from the timing of when money arrives versus when it goes out.We also got into the T-shaped skill set. You don't need to become an expert in finance or new business development or legal setup. You need to be competent enough that none of them kill you. And you need to start building your network before you desperately need it, because the people who wait until they're hungry are already too late.ABOUT THE GUESTSteven McGinnes is a Bangkok and Phuket-based independent operator and keynote speaker with a background in creative agency leadership across Asia. After building a career running client teams and regional creative operations, he went out on his own and has been working from Thailand ever since, with clients across Asia, the US, and beyond. He's co-organizing our upcoming June 26th event on making the jump from corporate to independent.https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenmcginnes/ABOUT THE HOSTI'm Scott Pressimone, a Fractional Commercial Leader and Interim Country Director with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign companies and founders bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities.https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottalanpress/CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction00:47 Meet Steven03:23 Event in Bangkok05:04 Three Reasons to Go Solo07:27 Identity and Disappearing Roles09:50 T Shaped Skills for Founders15:14 Sales Discomfort and Accountability19:57 Passion vs Paid Market26:05 Unknown Unknowns and Admin27:07 Vendor Setup Headaches27:32 Cash Flow Payment Delays28:35 Founder Mindset Shift30:24 Is It Worth It32:10 Freedom Versus Accountability33:57 Job Security Illusion37:24 Working From Thailand39:31 Doing It Above Board43:09 Hidden Costs Unknowns46:44 Build Network Early48:04 Choosing Clients Saying No49:39 Workshop Format Follow Up53:02 Final Takeaways Closing#CorporateToEntrepreneur #GoingFractional #BangkokBusiness #WorkingInThailand #IndependentOperator #ThailandEntrepreneur #FractionalLeadership #BusinessInAsia
• 
  The School Question Parents in Thailand Get Wrong | Donnah Ciempka 05.05.2026 51min

  The most common question in every family-focused Thailand expat group is "what's the best school?" and it's the wrong place to start. I sat down with Donnah Ciempka, who spent five years as Head of School at Ascot International Bangkok, to work through what parents actually need to be thinking about, partly because I'm raising my own children here and I wanted the honest version.We covered a lot of ground, but most of it kept coming back to the same thing: families committing to a 10 to 20 million baht education investment without running the numbers all the way through. School fees in Thailand increase two to six percent every year, employer-covered packages have largely left the picture, and what looks manageable at age four looks very different at age 14. We talked about bilingual education, why it requires a longer commitment than most families plan for, and why the timing window is narrower than people realize. Technology came up too, both as a parenting challenge and as something specific to Thailand, where what's accessible on social media operates under different conditions than what parents from Australia or the UK are used to. The point that stayed with me was simpler: kids who have never heard no or had to push through something hard are not being set up for what's ahead, and it falls on parents to hold that line. If you are raising children in Bangkok, or about to relocate here with a family, these questions come around eventually. Better to have them early.ABOUT THE GUESTDonnah Ciempka served five years as Head of School at Ascot International School, a leading K-12 IB World School in Bangkok. She has spent over 17 years as an IB consultant and visiting team leader across Asia Pacific, and completed three years as President of the Australian-Thai Chamber of Commerce (AustCham Thailand). Few people working in Bangkok's education space have her combination of in-school leadership and regional consulting experience.https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnah-ciempka-4a4b31b3/ABOUT THE HOSTI am Scott Pressimone, a Fractional Commercial Leader and Interim Country Director with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign capital, founders, and CEOs bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities.https://www.scottpressimone.com/CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:15 Leaving Ascot04:21 Expat Life With Kids08:38 Choosing Your School Path12:34 University Pathways Planning14:47 Real Cost of Education25:05 Bilingual Schools27:41 Culture and Community29:26 Language Proficiency Stakes31:11 Tech in Education35:57 Device Rules at Home38:18 Online Safety in Thailand40:45 Attention and Addiction44:08 Preparing for Change46:50 Thai Values to Learn48:19 Find Your Tribe49:54 Closing#InternationalSchoolsBangkok #BilingualEducation #ExpatsInThailand #RaisingKidsAbroad #BusinessInThailand
• 
  The Tax Mistakes That Are Costing Expats in Thailand More Than They Know | Bobby Casey 21.04.2026 59min

  What started as a conversation about Thailand's shifting tax environment with Bobby Casey turned into a full operational teardown of the most expensive structural mistakes location-independent entrepreneurs make. We cover the collapse of Hong Kong and Singapore as go-to nomad jurisdictions, why a Wyoming LLC is the correct default structure for non-US founders doing business in Thailand (and why most Americans set it up in a way that destroys their own privacy), the HoldCo structure that saves a $300K earner roughly $25,000 a year in self-employment tax, the bonafide residency test that most Americans living abroad have never heard of, and why California has a specific tax trap that follows you across borders even if you haven't set foot in the state in five years. If you are building a business while living or traveling in Southeast Asia, this is the conversation I wish existed when I first arrived in Bangkok in 2012.This video was NOT sponsored.About the Guest:Bobby Casey is the founder of Business Anywhere, an online platform serving location-independent entrepreneurs who need company registration, registered agent services, virtual mailboxes, banking solutions, bookkeeping, and tax consulting all in one place. He has built one of the most recognized compliance and tax optimization platforms in the digital nomad space, with a client base spanning dozens of countries and a content library of over 2,000 specialist articles. His practice focuses almost exclusively on the tax and structural realities of operating across multiple jurisdictions, and he has personally guided clients through some of the most complex cross-border compliance situations in the industry.https://businessanywhere.ioAbout the Host:I'm Scott Pressimone, a Fractional Country Director and strategist with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign capital, founders, and CEOs bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities.https://www.scottpressimone.com/Chapters:00:00 Introduction03:00 Thailand's Tax Crackdown06:14 Residency vs. Tax Residency08:06 Scott's Permanent Residency Story09:30 Stop Taking Advice From Facebook13:01 The Compliance Gray Scale14:44 Portugal, US LLCs and Tax Treaties17:03 Why Hong Kong and Singapore Are Dead22:05 The Seven-Figure Bank Account Trap24:02 Why a Wyoming LLC Wins26:19 When Simple Is Better27:48 The $300K American in Thailand31:49 The DIY LLC Privacy Mistake35:53 The HoldCo That Saves $25K a Year38:23 The German Nomad Simple Setup42:19 Why Paying Thai Tax Matters43:25 The California Tax Trap44:48 The Bona Fide Residency Test51:13 Final Mistakes and Oh Shit Moments57:37 How to Find Bobby Casey
• 
  High Performers Burn Out Faster. Thailand's Wim Hof Advanced Instructor Explains Why. 07.04.2026 1val 30min

  High-level operators are burning out because they have lost the ability to switch off their nervous systems, and most of them do not even know it is happening. I wanted to understand the mechanics behind this, so I invited Stuart Wilson to break it down. Stuart left a high-stress financial career in Dubai, went through an ayahuasca reset in the Amazon, and eventually became Bangkok's leading certified breath work and cold exposure instructor.Our conversation goes far beyond wellness. We get into the real intersection of executive performance, lifestyle design, and entrepreneurship in Bangkok. Stuart walks through the neuroscience of chronic stress and why a holiday will not fix a default mode network that never shuts down. From there we move into the operational realities of building Breath Inspired from the ground up, including candid insights on navigating intellectual property theft in Thailand, why Stuart actively prefers hiring local Thai talent over foreign staff, and what it actually looks like to scale a cross-cultural business with a Thai co-founder.ABOUT THE GUESTStuart Wilson is the co-founder of Breath Inspired, an Advanced Wim Hof Method Instructor, and the only Oxygen Advantage Master Instructor in Asia. After experiencing burnout in Dubai's financial sector, he relocated to Bangkok to build the region's premier science-backed breath work and cold exposure community alongside his wife and co-founder, Kam.https://www.breathinspired.com/ABOUT THE HOSTI'm Scott Pressimone, a Fractional & Interim Country Director and strategist with over a decade of executive experience on the ground in Bangkok. I help foreign capital, founders, and CEOs bridge the gap between Western expectations and Thai operational realities.https://www.scottpressimone.com/CHAPTERS00:00 - The Ice Bath Illusion05:01 - Burnout in Dubai09:36 - The Wim Hof Discovery13:20 - Default Mode Network23:20 - Building Breath Inspired35:12 - Copycats and True Fans48:13 - IP Theft in Thailand59:39 - Running a Cross-Cultural Business1:13:55 - Visas and Company Setup1:23:04 - The Hiring Mistake Expats Make#ExecutiveBurnout #DoingBusinessInThailand #WimHofMethod #BangkokBusiness #FractionalDirector
• 
  Scaling Operations in Thailand: The Systems The Biggest Brands Use | Chokdee Wisansing 24.03.2026 59min

  As foreign founders and corporate operators, we often assume that our successful global playbooks will seamlessly translate to the Thai market. The reality is that scaling operations here requires a deep, structural localization of our systems, our products, and our leadership style.In this episode, I sit down with Khun Chokdee Wisansing, former Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer for major conglomerates like KFC, AWC, and Central Group. We discuss the mechanics of bridging generational gaps, adapting global systems, and building high-trust, lean teams in Thailand.Core executive takeaways:• The global to local playbook: Why international giants like KFC succeed in Thailand by rigidly maintaining their world-class systems while completely adapting their product to the local palate and consumer behavior.• The 3 S framework of scaling: How to architect your strategy, system, and structure so that no single employee is bigger than the organization.• The talent retention trap: A Chief People Officer perspective on why job hopping for incremental salary bumps destroys long term executive influence, and how to successfully integrate new tech skills with senior leadership wisdom.• Demystifying Thai time: How to establish a high performance culture of punctuality, accountability, and mutual respect without aggressively clashing with local operational norms.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:49 Climbing the Ladder05:34 Why Job Hopping Fails08:01 Long Game Networking09:51 Systems People Mindset10:59 Strategy System Structure14:00 Clear Roles No Gray Areas17:43 Winning in Thailand17:57 Localizing Global Brands22:33 Thai Time and Respect27:19 Bridging Generations32:17 Respect And Learning33:18 Mentorship Through Coaching34:33 Stability In Uncertainty36:11 Lean Team Strategy39:20 Small Business Confidence43:01 Delivering And Trust44:06 Why Candy Crush47:34 Lead By Example49:34 Degrees Versus Skills53:11 Control Your Future55:57 Reach Out For Help58:03 ConclusionExpanding your business in Thailand?Connect with me for a diagnostic consultation:https://www.expatden.com/thailand-business-growth-strategy-session/Guest contact details:Khun Chokdee WisansingWebsite: http://www.candycrushthailand.comLinkedIn: Search "Chokdee Wisansing"
• 
  The Visa & Work Permit Truth for Founders in Thailand with Benjamin Hart 10.03.2026 1val 8min

  As foreign founders and corporate operators, we often underestimate the administrative friction of entering and scaling a team in the Thai market. The reality is that a competitive salary is just the baseline. The true cost of talent is hidden in the compliance.In this episode of Made it in Thailand, I sit down with Benjamin Hart, Managing Director at Integrity Legal, to discuss the operational realities of corporate structuring, foreign talent acquisition, and long-term residency in Thailand. We move past the surface-level advice and look at the actual mechanics of building a sustainable, compliant business in Thailand.Core Executive Takeaways:• The Hidden Sunk Costs of Talent: Why work permits, mandatory Thai staff ratios, and early burnout drastically shrink our operational runway.• The US Treaty of Amity Advantage: How American founders can leverage this agreement to secure 100% corporate ownership and bypass standard BOI oversight.• The DTV & LTR Corporate Trap: Why these highly publicized new visas carry hidden long-term compliance and residency risks for our executive teams.• The Thinking Backwards Framework: How to structure your local entities today to effortlessly survive the regulatory audits and PR applications of tomorrow.Structure your Thai operations for the long game: To de-risk your market entry and explore fractional executive support, connect with me for a diagnostic consultation at scottpressimone.com.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:20 PR & Citizenship08:03 DTV & LTR Visa Risks15:58 Working From vs. In Thailand34:16 Currency Flows & Strategy44:52 US Treaty of Amity49:13 BOI vs. US Treaty of Amity51:19 Market Outlook55:09 The Suez Canal Shift59:43 Market Entry Advice01:02:49 Hidden Sunk Costs01:07:27 ConclusionGuest Contact Details:Benjamin Hart, Integrity [email protected]: +66 2-266-3698 USA Toll Free 1-877-231-7533http://www.integrity-legal.com/www.youtube.com/@UCO6aDpt9xRwgueZvwIsBpWgGuest Contact Details:Benjamin Hart, Integrity [email protected]: +66 2-266-3698 USA Toll Free 1-877-231-7533http://www.integrity-legal.com/www.youtube.com/@UCO6aDpt9xRwgueZvwIsBpWg
• 
  From PhD to 150k Followers: Scaling a Digital Education Business in Thailand 24.02.2026 47min

  Most business owners underestimate the operational complexity of scaling a digital brand. This interview with Thai entrepreneur Wasinee "New" Phonsri, founder of Thai Lessons by New, breaks down exactly how she grew her following to 150K and built an education platform with multiple revenue streams. She transitioned from a solo creator to a highly leveraged, lean business.👉 If you are a founder or executive looking to build out your operational systems and team in Thailand, book a strategic diagnostic session here:https://www.scottpressimone.com/Key Business Takeaways:• Scaling a Creator-Led Brand: Despite managing 150K followers across YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok, New remains the sole content creator. She breaks down her Eisenhower Matrix time-blocking system, content batching strategy, and how she leverages AI and a lean team (a business partner and PR support) to increase output without bloating payroll.• The Partnership Inflection Point: After operating entirely alone for two years, New realized she was the bottleneck. Hear the decision framework she used to evaluate bringing on a business partner, and how this team expansion filled specific operational gaps (cold ads, evergreen funnels, payment infrastructure) so she could focus purely on product and content.• Revenue Architecture & Passive Income Design: How New structured her business across four distinct revenue streams to create predictable monthly recurring revenue while maintaining ultimate operational flexibility.• Decoding Thai Talent (The Education System): As a Thai native who spent 12 years in Australia, New provides critical context for foreign executives managing Thai teams. She explains how local education impacts workplace communication, decision-making autonomy, and why Western-style management often requires cultural adjustments.• Market Positioning & Customer Segmentation: New's customer base skews heavily toward early-retired executives and former CEOs. Learn how she uses their feedback to iterate on scalable course offerings.Why This Matters for Foreign Executives in Thailand:If you are building or managing a team in Thailand, understanding cultural differences is critical. New's unique background (Thai academic foundation + over a decade in Western work cultures) gives her the perfect vantage point to explain how Thai professionals learn, adapt, and work. Furthermore, her transition from a solo hustle to a structured, lean operation is a masterclass for any founder looking to prioritize systems and leverage over raw headcount.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction01:55 - YouTube vs Facebook02:25 - The Secret PhD04:40 - Why YouTube & Passive Income06:11 - Overcoming Camera Fear09:00 - Using Comments to Improve10:11 - Thai Education System14:56 - Learning Independence Early18:36 - Advice for Learning Thai21:41 - AI in Language Learning24:06 - Staying Adaptable with AI25:20 - Building a Scalable Business26:06 - Designing for Freedom28:00 - Why Keep 1-on-1 Lessons29:59 - Launching Patreon31:29 - Free Content Mission32:28 - Finding a Business Partner & Expanding the Team33:56 - Thinking Like a Company37:05 - Value-First Business41:59 - Time Management & Balance46:11 - Where to Find New👉 Ready to untangle your operations in Thailand? Book a strategic diagnostic session here: https://www.scottpressimone.com/About the Guest:New holds a PhD in Chemistry and spent a decade in academic research before pivoting to digital education. She now runs Thai Lessons by New, an education business with nearly 150,000 followers. Her lean, creator-led business model combines free decentralized educational content with premium offerings, generating revenue through Patreon, self-paced courses, and 1-on-1 tutoring.About Made it in Thailand:Hosted by Fractional Country Director Scott Pressimone, the Made it in Thailand podcast sits down with the country's top entrepreneurs, executives, and operators. We decode the operational, cultural, and strategic challenges of building businesses in Southeast Asia, bringing a practitioner's perspective to market entry, cross-cultural leadership, and scaling in the ASEAN market.#ThailandBusiness #CreatorEconomy #SEAsia #StartupThailand #BusinessScaling #MadeItInThailand
• 
  Selling Trust in a Low Trust Market: How Butler Garage Beats the "Cheapest" Shops 10.02.2026 56min

  In this episode of Made It In Thailand, we sit down with a young founder who built a premium service business in Thailand during COVID. He shares what it really takes to build trust, deliver accountability, and grow a business in the Thai market as an entrepreneur.Kei Sekiguchi, founder of Butler Garage, explains how he went from struggling to pay staff to running one of Thailand’s most trusted service businesses. We talk about customer service, leadership, hiring, and the realities of doing business in Thailand as a young business owner.In this conversation, we cover: – Building a business in Thailand as a foreigner – Why accountability matters more than price – Customer service mistakes most businesses make – Hiring and managing staff in Thailand – Founder mindset during hard years of growthThis podcast is for entrepreneurs, founders, and professionals interested in business, startups, and careers in Thailand.Subscribe for founder stories and real business conversations from Thailand.Guest Details:Kei Sekiguchi, Butler Garagehttps://www.butlergarage.com/https://www.instagram.com/butler.garagehttps://www.facebook.com/ButlerGarage/https://www.tiktok.com/@butlergarage
• 
  What 15 Years in Thailand Taught Me About Hiring, With ExpatDen Founder Karsten Aichholz 27.11.2025 31min

  I sat down with Karsten Aichholz to talk about how he built a business in Thailand that still runs without him. We get into what he learned about hiring in Bangkok, why he hires for challenge and fit instead of shiny resumes, how he adds a team sit‑in during interviews, and the simple Elvis Test he uses to check written English. He also shares why he moved his team fully remote in 2016 and how that helped people stay.We also talk about his content work, from Thailand Starter Kit to Expat Den, and how a long health insurance spreadsheet turned into a useful guide for thousands of expats. If you are building in Thailand or hiring across cultures, there are a lot of practical ideas in here.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Karsten Aichholz:https://www.karsten.me/https://www.expatden.com/https://www.safeandnotsorry.com/Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.👉 Visit: https://fractiond.io/00:00 Building a Business in Thailand03:06 Navigating Thai Bureaucracy08:49 Transitioning to Expat Resources14:40 Hiring and Retention Insights18:13 Cultural Adaptation in Hiring27:19 Rebranding and Expanding Beyond Thailand30:30 Conclusion
• 
  Mastering Video Content and Personal Branding in Thailand w/ Jake Mooney 06.11.2025 48min

  In this episode, I sat down with Jake Mooney, a marketing agency founder in Chiang Mai whose unique strategy combines calm marketing principles with the power of video content and live events. Jake shares how moving to Thailand with no safety net led him to embrace authentic networking and leverage workshops and video marketing for meaningful growth. If you’re curious about building trust and business connections through content and event-hosting in Thailand’s dynamic market, Jake’s journey offers eye-opening lessons and inspiration.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Jake Mooney:https://greenlightstudio.co/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-threlkeld-mooney/Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire. 👉 Visit: https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction02:32 Building a Marketing Agency in Chiang Mai04:47 Challenges and Advice for Starting a Business in Thailand08:08 Understanding Calm Marketing12:30 The Importance of Strategy in Marketing15:30 Leveraging Workshops for Business Growth23:59 Connecting Authentically on LinkedIn26:29 AI in Video Content Creation29:33 Starting with Video on a Budget34:28 Authenticity in Business Videos43:31 Marketing Tactics for 2025 and Beyond47:56 Final Thoughts and How to Connect
• 
  How to Hire & Retain Talent in Thailand: Expert Tips from Recruiter Brendan Cunningham 18.09.2025 1val 9min

  In this episode, I sit down with Brendan Cunningham, the Regional Business Development Director for ASW Consulting, to discuss the intricacies of starting and running a business in Thailand. Brendan shares his journey from Australia to Thailand, the critical importance of hiring the right people, and the challenges of retaining talent in a competitive market. We dive into effective strategies for team building, the nuances of Thai culture, and the essentials of creating a positive office environment. Brendan also offers valuable networking tips and explains the importance of understanding individuals rather than generalizing. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just curious about doing business in Thailand, this episode is filled with practical advice and real-life experiences.This episode is NOT sponsored.Get in Touch with Brendan Cunningham:- Website: https://consulting.aswhiteglobal.com- Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendancunninghamDoing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction01:24 Brendan's Journey to Thailand05:24 Challenges of Starting a Business in Thailand07:47 Effective Hiring Strategies22:36 Retaining Talent in SMEs34:43 Accountability in Leadership35:01 Building an Open Office Culture36:56 Understanding Cultural Differences43:40 Generational Differences in the Workplace52:20 The Value of Networking01:01:23 Hiring the Right Team01:05:34 Final Thoughts
• 
  Why Thailand is STILL the Best Place for Remote Workers: Visas, Work Permits, and Community 05.08.2025 47min

  In this episode, I speak with Jimmy Bernberg from Iglu to discuss the nuances of starting and running a business in Thailand. Jimmy, a Swedish citizen living in Thailand since 2016, shares his journey from landing his first job in Thailand to becoming a Senior Sales Manager at Iglu. We dive into the benefits of the BOI and outsourcing models, the lifestyle and community perks of living in Thailand, and valuable tips for establishing legal work. If you're considering Thailand for remote work, business development, or are just curious about the expat lifestyle, this episode is packed with insights and real-life experiences. Plus, Jimmy shares his love for motorcycle racing and how the hobby has connected him with a vibrant community of expats.This episode is NOT sponsored.Connect with Jimmy Bernberg:- Website: https://iglu.net/scott/contact (directed to Jimmy)- Email: [email protected] to hear my personal experience with Iglu?- Email: [email protected] (directed to Scott)Doing business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction02:31 Working Remotely and COVID-19 Impact04:15 Joining Iglu and Career Transition06:59 Navigating Work Permits and Legal Compliance09:57 Outsourcing vs. Setting Up Your Own Business16:49 Understanding BOI and Employment Visas25:07 Exploring Thailand and Beyond26:40 Motorcycle Racing in Thailand27:53 Networking and Community Building32:39 Work Opportunities and Trends in Thailand39:25 Employee Engagement and Retention at Iglu44:00 Conclusion
• 
  E-Commerce in Thailand: Expert Strategies for Shopee, Lazada & TikTok Shop Success 31.07.2025 37min

  Discover insider strategies for navigating Thailand's booming e-commerce landscape with expert Kelly Hezemans, who reveals the hidden challenges and opportunities for both new sellers and established businesses looking to succeed on Thailand's major online marketplaces. Whether you're starting an online business in Thailand, expanding from physical retail to digital commerce, or optimizing your existing e-commerce strategy in Southeast Asia, this comprehensive interview provides proven tactics for success on Shopee Thailand, Lazada Thailand, and TikTok Shop. Learn how to overcome platform algorithms, gain product visibility, master localization strategies, and compete effectively in Thailand's competitive digital marketplace where the top 10 listings capture 80% of all traffic. Perfect for entrepreneurs, business owners, digital marketers, and anyone interested in Thailand's rapidly growing online retail sector, covering everything from marketplace optimization and traffic generation to cross-border e-commerce and Southeast Asian consumer behavior.This episode is NOT sponsored.Connect with Kelly Hezemans:- Website: https://iboostonline.com/- Email: [email protected] business in Thailand? 🇹🇭Connect with experienced leaders, consultants, coaches, and advisors based in Thailand. Access talent quickly, without the cost (and risk) of a full-time hire.https://fractiond.io/00:00 Introduction00:54 Kelly's Background and Move to Thailand01:49 E-commerce Market Differences04:18 Challenges and Strategies for E-commerce in Thailand06:31 Marketing and Visibility on E-commerce Platforms09:10 Operational Tips for E-commerce Success16:11 Launching on Multiple Platforms: Shopee vs. Lazada18:57 Building Brand Awareness and Trust25:27 Data-Driven Decisions and Analytics31:42 Future Trends in E-commerce33:51 Conclusion
• 
  Buying Gold in Thailand: Expert Explains How to Buy 23k Thai Gold 29.07.2025 51min

  In this episode, I chat with Tom Pryor, co-founder of Baht Gold, about why high karat gold, such as 23k gold, is not commonly sold in jewelry stores in the US. Tom shares his extensive experience with Thai gold, his journey into the gold business, and the unique advantages of high karat gold. We discuss the purity and durability of 96.5% gold, the cultural and market differences between Thai and Western gold products, and practical tips on buying and selling gold in Thailand and internationally. Learn about the craftsmanship of Thai gold jewelry, the significance of hallmarks and maker's marks, and the economic and cultural factors influencing the gold market. Plus, get insights into the role of high-quality gold in supporting animal welfare through Tom's business model.Connect with Tom Pryor:- Website: http://www.23kgold.com/- YouTube: ⁨@pryortuck⁩  00:00 Introduction01:05 Tom's Journey to Thailand and Gold04:42 The Birth of Baht Gold Company09:21 Understanding Thai Gold Purity16:52 Navigating Gold Shops in Thailand24:42 VAT on Gold Jewelry in Thailand25:30 Avoid Buying Gold in Tourist Areas26:05 Understanding Gold Quality Levels26:53 The Reality of Fake Gold28:15 Different Tiers of Gold33:06 Custom Gold Products38:14 Exporting Gold from Thailand42:02 Selling Gold in the US44:24 Purchasing and Selling Silver in Thailand47:18 Why High Karat Gold is Rare in US Jewelry Stores51:15 Conclusion📖 Download my FREE gold buying guidehttps://www.scottpressimone.com/gold-guide📖 Download Tom's FREE gold cheat sheethttps://www.scottpressimone.com/gold-cheat-sheet
• 
  Are You Falling Into the Expat Ego Trap in Thailand? 24.07.2025 6min

  In this episode, I discuss the common pitfall that many experience: overconfidence, especially when starting a business in Thailand. By recognizing this psychology, expats can improve their personal growth and thrive in a dynamic work environment. I explain how the cultural differences between direct Western communication and indirect Thai communication can inflate your ego and lead to frustration. I also provide actionable tips on how to avoid falling into this trap, such as facilitating open communication, preparing Thai staff for meetings, and giving credit generously to create a sustainable business environment. If you’re looking to improve your leadership skills and build a thriving business in Thailand, this video is for you. 00:00 Introduction00:52 Cultural Differences: Western vs. Thai Communication01:28 The Frustration Cycle and Misconceptions02:15 Self-Reflection and Hiring Practices03:06 Building a Sustainable Business in Thailand03:43 Effective Meeting Strategies04:37 Encouraging Open Communication05:39 Conclusion
• 
  Don't Let These 3 Thai Workplace Myths Ruin Your Business in Thailand 22.07.2025 4min

  In this video, I debunk three common myths that expat business owners and leaders in Thailand often fall for, which can cost them time, money, and sanity. I've learned from my own experiences since arriving in 2012, and I'm here to help you avoid similar mistakes. We'll cover why Thailand doesn't need saving, the misconception that a few years of experience equals understanding, and the myth of needing to fully adapt to Thai business culture. By striking a balance between Western and Thai practices, you'll create a more effective and appealing work environment. Subscribe for more tips on running a business in Thailand!00:00 Introduction00:28 Myth 1: Thailand Needs to Be Saved01:13 Myth 2: Understanding Thailand After a Few Years02:36 Myth 3: Fully Adapting to Thai Culture03:11 Tips for Expats in Thailand03:58 Conclusion
• 
  Thailand's Hidden Crisis: Helping the Homeless, Hungry, and Elderly 17.07.2025 34min

  In this episode about Thailand's hidden crisis, I interview Friso Poldervaart, who transformed a simple pandemic response into Bangkok's leading homeless support organization. Discover the alarming reality of Bangkok's homelessness epidemic—where 60% are elderly surviving on just 600 baht monthly—and how Bangkok Community Help has distributed nearly 4.5 million meals to Thailand's hungry. From creating Thailand's first inner-city homeless shelter to providing 750 scholarships that keep underprivileged Thai children in school, this grassroots initiative shows how volunteer work in Thailand creates lasting impact. With 3,000 volunteers tackling poverty in Bangkok slums, they're addressing Thailand's elderly crisis through sustainable solutions rather than temporary aid. Learn how travelers, expats, and donors worldwide can contribute to helping Thailand's vulnerable communities.🏠 VISIT Bangkok Community Help: https://bangkokcommunityhelp.org💰 DONATE - Just $140 sponsors a child's education for a full year!👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 VOLUNTEER - Join 3,000+ volunteers making a difference in Bangkok▶️ Instagram: @bangkokcommunityhelp▶️ Facebook: @bangkokcommunityhelp🌍 SHARE this video to spread awareness about Thailand's vulnerable communities00:00 Introduction01:13 Starting Bangkok Community Help04:23 Transition to an Official NGO06:19 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Skills10:36 Empowering Volunteers and Community Involvement15:52 Success Stories and Impact20:41 Challenges Facing the Elderly in Thailand26:10 Education Barriers and Solutions29:59 How to Get Involved
• 
  Navigating Thai Work Culture: Essential Tips for Expats 15.07.2025 10min

  Are you an expat starting a business or working in Thailand? This video highlights common mistakes expats make. Learn from these mistakes expats make to thrive. In this video, I share essential tips to help you navigate Thai work culture effectively. Learn about respecting hierarchy, building personal relationships, understanding indirect communication, providing constructive criticism, adapting to Thai ways, and thoughtful gift-giving. These insights come from my personal experiences and common mistakes made by expats. Don't miss out on this valuable advice to ensure your success in Thailand. If you find this helpful, please like and subscribe!00:00 Introduction00:24 Hierarchy in Thai Culture01:31 Personal and Professional Relationships03:23 Understanding Indirect Communication05:34 Handling Criticism Delicately07:21 Adapting to Thai Culture08:33 The Importance of Gift Giving09:41 Conclusion