At the Desk: High-Impact Advisory | Where Alignment Meets Action

W.E. Da'Cruz

At The Desk is where real questions meet real-world wisdom. Hosted by W.E. Da’Cruz—entrepreneur, scholar, speaker, and advisor—this podcast creates space for thoughtful conversations on principled leadership to create pathways for a purpose-driven life. Each episode draws from lived experience at the intersection of business, global engagement, academia, and family life, offering grounded insights for those navigating complexity with clarity and conviction. From Desk Notes (short, reflective insights) to Office Hours (long-form conversations and teachings), At The Desk explores what it means to lead with alignment—not just ambition. This is not about chasing titles or timelines, but about developing discernment, discipline, and principled execution in every season. Whether you are building a company, leading teams, shaping ideas, or redefining success on your own terms, At The Desk invites you to slow down to speed up, reflect deeply, and move forward with intention. Pull up a chair. The work begins at the desk Formerly The Digital Diplomat Podcast.

  1. The Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™ - Learn This 3-Step Framework to Help You Navigate People, Policies, and Processes to Position You for Global Leadership

    03/19/2025

    The Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™ - Learn This 3-Step Framework to Help You Navigate People, Policies, and Processes to Position You for Global Leadership

    Created by host W.E. Da’Cruz, the Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™ redefines the path to economic and strategic influence. This groundbreaking framework asserts that true progress isn’t solely driven by markets, but by citizen's mastering the dynamic interplay of People, Policies, and Processes. At the core of this theory lies a powerful approach to non-market strategies, equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to shape decisions, build high-impact relationships, and expand their influence—all without relying exclusively on traditional market forces. This episode provides an introductory pathway to: Building Strong Networks – Mastering stakeholder engagement and strategic communication. Understanding Policy Landscapes – Identifying opportunities and leveraging policies for growth. Developing Efficient Processes – Streamlining operations for sustainability and impact. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or community leader, this podcast provides a transformative roadmap for navigating the global landscape with intention and influence. Tune in and discover how to expand your reach, drive change, and unlock new opportunities through the Triangular Trade of Transactions Theory™. What's Next? Visit The Digital Diplomat to learn more about my journey.Join my LIVE online web classes to dive deeper into my three-step formula.Sign up to get updates for of my non-market strategy mobile app, helping you to navigate People, Policies, and Processes in real-time at your fingertipsApply to my Global Leadership ProgramSchedule a Private High-Level Global Advisory session

    7 min
  2. Becoming The Digital Diplomat - From Unemployment to Employer

    03/16/2025

    Becoming The Digital Diplomat - From Unemployment to Employer

    Welcome to The Digital Diplomat Podcast – Impacting Locally, Building Globally! I’m W.E. Da'Cruz, and in this series, I share my personal journey from unemployment to becoming an employer—an evolution that led to my identity as “The Digital Diplomat.” I dive deep into the lessons and challenges that shaped me, and I reveal my three-step formula—“The Triangular Trade of Transactions”—which has helped me master people, policies, and processes. If you’re a budding entrepreneur, a business leader aiming for global impact, or simply curious about the digital economy’s ever-evolving landscape, I invite you to join me. Together, we’ll explore actionable strategies, gain fresh insights, and uncover inspiring stories that prove it’s possible to start local, think global, and become the architect of your own success. Let’s embark on this empowering journey together! What's Next? Visit The Digital Diplomat to learn more about my journey.Join my LIVE online web classes to dive deeper into my three-step formula.Sign up to get updates for of my non-market strategy mobile app, helping you to navigate People, Policies, and Processes in real-time at your fingertipsApply to my Global Leadership ProgramIf this post inspired you or reminded you of someone who needs to hear this, tag them in a post and share this podcast link! You never know whose breakthrough is waiting on the other side of a perceived breakdown.

    9 min
  3. From the East Coast to the Iconic Eastern Market: How we're creating our "American Dream" in Detroit

    03/24/2024

    From the East Coast to the Iconic Eastern Market: How we're creating our "American Dream" in Detroit

    In this inspiring episode of The Digital Diplomat Podcast, host W.E. Da'Cruz takes us on a personal journey from the bustling East Coast to the iconic Eastern Market of Detroit. She shares the compelling story of how she and her husband, Dominique, are creating their version of the "American Dream" for their business and family amidst the city's revival. Tune in to discover the daily principles that guide her entrepreneurial spirit and familial commitments, all while contributing to Detroit's revitalization. Key Points Discussed: Journey to Detroit: W.E. Da'Cruz shares her motivation for moving from the East Coast to Detroit, seeking new opportunities and a fresh start in a city renowned for its resilience and spirit of revival.Principles for Success: Discover the core principles rooted in faith that W.E. Da'Cruz practices daily to grow her business and nurture her family. These values not only drive her success but also contribute to the broader community.Family Life Amidst Revitalization: Hear how Da'Cruz balances her professional ambitions with her family life, creating a nurturing environment for growth and development against the backdrop of Detroit's transformation.Contributing to Detroit's Revival: W.E. Da'Cruz discusses her active involvement in the city's revitalization efforts, highlighting how entrepreneurs and residents alike can play a part in shaping Detroit's future.Vision for the Future: Looking ahead, Da'Cruz shares her dreams for her business, family, and community within Detroit, offering a hopeful perspective on the city's continued resurgence.Listener Takeaways: Inspiration to pursue one's version of the "American Dream" in unconventional settings.Strategies for balancing business ambitions with family responsibilities.Insight into the importance of community involvement in urban revitalization.Practical principles that can guide personal and professional growth.Episode Conclusion: W.E. Da'Cruz's journey from the East Coast to Detroit embodies the spirit of adventure, resilience, and community. By sharing her story and the principles she lives by, she not only inspires listeners to chase their dreams but also to consider how they can contribute to the communities they are part of. Detroit's ongoing revival is a testament to the power of collective effort and visionary leadership, themes that resonate deeply in this episode of The Digital Diplomat Podcast.

    15 min
  4. 03/07/2024

    Positioning Your Local Business on a Global Stage: An Introduction

    In this foundational episode, we embark on a journey to understand the intricacies of the global economy and how local businesses can not only navigate but thrive within it. Through a detailed breakdown of economic principles, alignment strategies, and leveraging international support, we lay down the groundwork for local businesses aspiring to make a global impact. Key Points: Understanding the Economy:Simplified explanation of what an economy is and how it functions on both local and global scales.Importance of economic awareness for business owners aiming for global expansion.Aligning Your Business with Economic Principles:Strategies for local businesses to align their operations with broader economic trends and principles.Tips on adapting business models to cater to international markets without losing local essence.Introduction to United Nations Agencies:Overview of relevant United Nations agencies and how they can support businesses in achieving global reach.Insight into leveraging international guidelines and support for sustainable business growth.Engaging Others in Your Vision:Importance of building a global network and engaging international partners in your business vision.Techniques for effective cross-cultural communication and building a globally resonant brand.Call to Action:Encourage business owners to think globally while acting locally, with practical steps to start their global journey.Invitation to listeners to share their experiences or questions about going global.Episode Conclusion: Positioning your local business on a global stage is not just about expanding your market; it’s about adapting to and influencing the global economic landscape. This episode serves as a primer for local business owners looking to understand the global economy, align their business strategies accordingly, and engage with international agencies and partners. We're here to guide you through this journey, making the vast global stage a little less daunting and a lot more accessible. Next Episode Teaser: Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll dive deeper into the specifics of market research and cultural considerations for entering foreign markets. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your reach, we'll provide actionable insights to help your business thrive globally. Follow Youtube Channel for visual podcasts - https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldiplomat/videos To learn more about the host, W.E. Da'Cruz, and participate in additional resources, visit her personal website at https://thedigitaldiplomat.com. To learn more about her food manufacturing company, visit The Mushroom Angel Co. at https://themushroomangel.com. Connect on social here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wedacruz/

    17 min
  5. 03/05/2024

    How we fully-funded female Zimbabwean farmers to become agribusiness entrepreneurs all expenses paid

    In this inspiring episode of The Digital Diplomat Podcast, host W.E. Da'Cruz takes us on an enlightening journey to Zimbabwe, where a groundbreaking initiative has transformed female farmers into successful agribusiness entrepreneurs. This episode unveils the strategic steps and collaborative efforts that led to the full funding of this empowering project that also paid for their services as professionals. Discover how the right local partnership, diligent search for international funding mechanisms ie. U.S. Embassy, and a compelling proposal brought this idea to fruition in just a few months. Key Takeaways: Introduction to the Project: Overview of the initiative aimed at empowering female Zimbabwean farmers by turning them into agribusiness entrepreneurs.Selecting the Right Local Partner: The importance of finding a local partner who shares the vision and has the grassroots reach to effectively implement the project. Searching for International Funding: Strategies employed in identifying potential international funding sources that align with the project's goals. Insights into navigating the complexities of global funding landscapes.Crafting a Winning Proposal: Tips and strategies for writing a proposal that stands out. Key elements that made the proposal successful and advice for aspiring project leaders.Securing the Funding: The exhilarating moment of securing funding. Discussion on the timeline, challenges faced, and how they were overcome.Lessons Learned and Future Outlook: Reflections on the journey, lessons learned along the way, and the future vision for scaling the project or replicating it in other regions. W.E. Da'Cruz wraps up the episode by emphasizing the power of digital diplomacy and international collaboration in creating sustainable change. This story of empowerment, partnership, and success serves as an inspiring model for similar initiatives worldwide. Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast through social media, share the episode to spread the word, and consider supporting or initiating similar projects in their communities or networks. Follow Youtube Channel for visual podcasts - https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldiplomat/videos To learn more about the host, W.E. Da'Cruz, and participate in additional resources, visit her personal website at https://thedigitaldiplomat.com. To learn more about her food manufacturing company, visit The Mushroom Angel Co. at https://themushroomangel.com. Connect on social here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wedacruz/

    14 min
  6. 01/24/2024

    What is Citizen Diplomacy?

    In this latest episode, W.E. Da'Cruz delves into the fascinating realm of Citizen Diplomacy, unveiling the steps to activate grassroots global relations. For those keen on navigating the intricate intersection of digital, diplomacy, and development, this sneak peek provides a glimpse into exclusive subscription access content. Key Highlights: Understanding Citizen Diplomacy:Explore the concept of Citizen Diplomacy and its transformative potential in fostering connections between individuals and communities on a global scale.Activating Grassroots Global Relations:Uncover actionable steps to initiate and strengthen grassroots-level relationships that transcend borders. Discover how individuals can play a pivotal role in building bridges and fostering understanding.Exclusive Subscription Will Include Access Content: For those truly passionate about navigating the nexus of digital, diplomacy, and development, the full episode offers an in-depth exploration. Subscribers will have access to: Expert Interviews:Engage with experts in the field who share their perspectives on the evolving landscape of international relations and the role of citizen diplomacy.Case Studies:Dive into real-world case studies that exemplify successful grassroots initiatives, showcasing the impact of citizen diplomacy on a global scale.Practical Strategies:Receive practical strategies and actionable insights on how individuals can actively contribute to fostering positive global relations through digital means.Q&A Session:Participate in an exclusive Q&A session where W.E. Da'Cruz addresses subscriber questions, providing personalized insights into the challenges and opportunities of citizen diplomacy.Join W.E. Da'Cruz for a thought-provoking exploration of Citizen Diplomacy and the steps to activate grassroots global relations. Subscribe now for an immersive experience at the forefront of digital, diplomacy, and development. Important Links to Know: Follow Youtube Channel for visual podcasts - https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldiplomat/videos To learn more about the host, W.E. Da'Cruz, and participate in additional resources, visit her personal website at https://thedigitaldiplomat.com. To learn more about her food manufacturing company, visit The Mushroom Angel Co. at https://themushroomangel.com. Connect on social here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wedacruz/

    11 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

At The Desk is where real questions meet real-world wisdom. Hosted by W.E. Da’Cruz—entrepreneur, scholar, speaker, and advisor—this podcast creates space for thoughtful conversations on principled leadership to create pathways for a purpose-driven life. Each episode draws from lived experience at the intersection of business, global engagement, academia, and family life, offering grounded insights for those navigating complexity with clarity and conviction. From Desk Notes (short, reflective insights) to Office Hours (long-form conversations and teachings), At The Desk explores what it means to lead with alignment—not just ambition. This is not about chasing titles or timelines, but about developing discernment, discipline, and principled execution in every season. Whether you are building a company, leading teams, shaping ideas, or redefining success on your own terms, At The Desk invites you to slow down to speed up, reflect deeply, and move forward with intention. Pull up a chair. The work begins at the desk Formerly The Digital Diplomat Podcast.