Million Dollar Playbook: Empowering Talents in Tech, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability

Kuan-Ning Tseng
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Welcome to "Million Dollar Playbook Show with Kuanning Tseng," the podcast that showcases the world's most successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, with the aim of empowering, tech, sustainability, women, and youth. In each episode, Kuanning sits down with different guests to discuss their success, the challenges they've faced along the way, and the secrets to building a million-dollar business. From tech giants to eco-conscious fashion idols, "Million Dollar Voices" offers you an exclusive look into the minds of the world's most accomplished business leaders.

  1. From BMW to Blockchain: How Sarah Gottwald Reinvented Her Career and Became a VC Leader

    04/24/2025

    From BMW to Blockchain: How Sarah Gottwald Reinvented Her Career and Became a VC Leader

    From BMW to Blockchain Founders Group – Sarah’s Unfiltered Story of Reinventing Her Career in Venture CapitalWhat happens when you walk away from a top-tier corporate job—with no Plan B? In this episode of Million Dollar Playbook, we sit down with Sarah Gottwald, now the Managing Director at Blockchain Founders Group, to explore how she transitioned from a stable career in corporate strategy and M&A at BMW to becoming a key leader in Web3 venture capital.In this inspiring career transformation story, Sarah reveals:1. Why she quit BMW without a fallback job2. How she broke into the VC and startup ecosystem with zero experience3. The mindset shifts from corporate structure to startup chaos4. What makes a strong VC leader in the blockchain and Web3 space5. The power of documenting failure and building resilience as a first-time leader6. Her outlook on early stage investing, accelerator programs, and empowering global foundersWhether you’re considering leaving your corporate job, transitioning into tech or VC, or exploring the future of blockchain startups, this episode is packed with practical insights and raw reflections.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more founder stories, venture insights, and career shifts into tech and Web3.0:00 – Intro: Who is Sarah Gottwald?A brief introduction to Sarah’s background and career starts at BMW.1:20 – Climbing the Corporate LadderHow Sarah moved through finance, M&A, and strategy roles at BMW.2:45 – The First Signs of RestlessnessWhat made her question the corporate path—and crave something more.4:00 – The First Encounter with Startups & Venture CapitalHow BMW’s startup garage sparked her curiosity for the startup world.5:15 – Entering Blockchain: A Risky First StepBuying Bitcoin in 2017 and feeling completely lost.7:00 – Making the Leap Without a Plan BWhy Sarah quit her BMW job with no backup—and how she mentally prepared for the worst-case scenario.9:00 – Downsizing, Doubt & ResilienceHow she managed her personal life, finances, and mental health during the transition.11:00 – The Role of Influence & EnvironmentHow your closest 5 people shape your life—and how Sarah’s network evolved.13:00 – Why She Didn’t Start as a FounderExploring the influence of upbringing, friends, and societal norms on career choices.16:20 – First Steps in VC: From BMW Executive to VC InternHow she joined a small Munich-based VC and embraced starting over.21:00 – Becoming Managing Director at Blockchain Founders GroupAfter only 6–8 months in VC, she was offered the MD role—here’s how she handled it.24:00 – Learning to Lead: From Contracts to CrisisHow Sarah built her knowledge base, used Notion to track her growth, and handled responsibility.28:00 – Building Resilience: Documenting the StrugglesSarah’s method of listing every problem—and how it helps her deal with new challenges.30:00 – Scaling BFG: The Vision for 2025Why 2025 is the year of growth for Blockchain Founders Group—and the unique global markets they focus on.33:30 – Advice to Aspiring Founders & Career SwitchersSarah’s final reflections on overcoming fear, understanding your values, and designing a career that aligns with who you are.38:00 – Closing Thoughts: You’re Not Alone in the StruggleReal talk about founder challenges, mental health, and knowing when to ask for help.

    42 min
  2. 0 to 1 Million Followers: Instagram Hacks for 2025 - Growth, Brand Deals, & More!

    12/09/2024

    0 to 1 Million Followers: Instagram Hacks for 2025 - Growth, Brand Deals, & More!

    Adrian Blanz, a mega influencer who grew to almost 1 million followers in just 1.5 years, joins Kuan-Ning Tseng to spill the tea. We catch up with Adrian Blanz, a social media influencer and aspiring actor, as he shares his journey of personal growth, career pivots, and the highs and lows of content creation. Adrian opens up about building his massive Instagram following of 850K, the challenges of maintaining authenticity, and why he’s shifting his focus to acting while preparing for a move to the United States. Social media, Instagram growth secrets: Discover the strategies he used to rapidly build his massive following. 🤫📈 Behind-the-scenes of influencer marketing: Learn about brand deals, negotiations, and the truth about influencer life. 💰🤝 Finding your authentic voice: Adrian shares his personal journey of self-discovery and how it’s impacting his content. 🤔✨ From Instagram to Acting: Hear Adrian’s plans to break into Hollywood and his thoughts on overcoming rejection. 🎬🌟 PLUS: We discuss the future of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. 📱🔮 Adrian opens up about the importance of community and the challenges of staying true to yourself in a superficial industry. 💡🤍 And, of course, get ready for some laughs and behind-the-scenes stories! 😂🎉Don’t miss this insightful conversation with one of the most exciting creators in the world! Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction & Welcome Back Adrien 1:25 - Catching Up: Vienna, Relationships, and Personal Growth 2:04 - TikTok vs. Instagram: Building a Community4:12 - TikTok’s Potential Ban in the US: Impact on Creators 6:48 - Adrien’s Journey: From Taiwan to Europe and Beyond 8:35 - Chasing 1 Million Followers: Strategies and Viral Videos 12:22 - Pursuing Acting: Challenges and Aspirations 16:03 - Reflections on Success, Happiness, and Ego 19:11 - Shifting Content Styles: Authenticity vs. Aesthetics 23:30 - Lost Followers and Switching Content Niches 28:17 - Taking the Leap into Acting: Overcoming Fear 33:04 - Instagram Growth: Personal Challenges and Strategy 40:03 - European Lifestyle and Cultural Content Opportunities 48:00 - Insights on Brand Deals and Influencer Strategy 55:47 - Future Plans: Acting, Branding, and the US Move 57:13 - Closing Remarks & Looking Ahead to Next Year #InstagramGrowth 🚀 #InfluencerMarketing 💼 #ContentCreation 🎥 #AdrianBlanz #PodcastName #RelevantHashtags 🔗 Connect: Adrian’s social media:Adrian’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfollowadrian/?hl=enAbout the host: Kuan-Ning Tseng’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuanning-tseng/ Kuan-Ning Tseng’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuanning.tseng/?hl=en About the podcast: 🎙 Welcome to the Million Dollar Playbook Show with Kuan-Ning Tseng! 🚀 Dive into inspiring stories, expert advice, and behind-the-scenes insights from entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders shaping the future. 🌟🌍 Key topics we explore: ✅ Entrepreneurial Journeys: From Bitcoin millionaires to CEOs. 💡 ✅ AI, Web3 & Blockchain: The tech driving tomorrow. 🤖🌐 ✅ Personal Branding & Social Media: Build authentic connections & stand out online. 📸🤳 ✅ Sustainability: Create impact while growing your business. 🌱💼 ✅ Mental Health & Growth: Thrive in work and life. 🧘‍♀️✨✨ Most importantly, just a girl with a chill vibe bringing you all the insights and good energy. 🌸💼 #Entrepreneurship 💼 #BlockchainInnovation 🌐 #PersonalBranding 📣 #SustainabilityMatters 🌿 #ChillVibes 🌟 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    58 min
  3. Crypto Trader Reveals Leaving Corporate and Mental Health as the Secret to Sustainable Financial Freedom

    11/28/2024

    Crypto Trader Reveals Leaving Corporate and Mental Health as the Secret to Sustainable Financial Freedom

    In this episode of The Million Dollar Playbook Show, we sit down with James Porter, the founder of MONO, to explore his transformative journey in the world of cryptocurrency. James shares how embracing a modern nomad lifestyle has shaped his perspective on trading and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in navigating the complexities of the crypto space and highlights why prioritizing mental and physical well-being is essential for sustainable success. James also discusses the significance of finding your “why” in the volatile world of crypto and shares tips on securing health insurance as a digital nomad. From building a supportive community to unlocking the potential of online income through trading, this episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to thrive in the intersection of crypto, self-care, mental health and exploration. Podcast topics: [00:00] Balancing mental health, entrepreneurship, and the emotional challenges of trading [01:04] Mono’s vision as a lifestyle brand for nomads and the rise of Web3 post-pandemic [02:11] From WallStreetBets to cryptocurrency communities and financial literacy growth [06:21] Early Bitcoin adoption, pandemic-driven remote work, and breaking free from corporate [12:50] Financial literacy’s role in navigating crypto trading and career opportunities [16:21] From partying freshman to academic challenges and crypto resilience [17:16] Health, entrepreneurship, and Geni’s nomad insurance solutions [18:40] Growing Mono via Web3 utilities, social media, and partnerships [19:40] Global travel, living abroad, and saving with cryptocurrency [24:32] Financial freedom and global connections [25:02] Ease of travel in Europe and learning from different cultures [27:42] Personal growth and the importance of enjoying one’s own company [28:09] Mono’s vision and global reach and building a global brand for modern nomads [29:10] Healthy social media use and balancing life [31:39] Breaking stigmas and promoting therapy for self-improvement [34:37] Comparing traditional masculinity with modern struggles [37:56] Navigating modern dating and overcoming internet hesitations [41:34] Disconnecting from technology and shaping a meaningful life [43:38] Love for fatty tuna and rice, and culinary adventures [45:26] Building a supportive community for Mono Nomads 🔗 Connect with James and MDP: - James on X: https://x.com/el_mono_main - Mono: https://www.mononomads.com/ - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    48 min
  4. SPECIAL EPISODE: From Average Student & Hotpot Waitress to Top Tech Woman Featured by Nasdaq & Passionate Entrepreneur

    10/07/2024

    SPECIAL EPISODE: From Average Student & Hotpot Waitress to Top Tech Woman Featured by Nasdaq & Passionate Entrepreneur

    🚨📢 SPECIAL EPISODE ALERT! Don’t miss out on this! 🔔⚠️ In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of none other than our podcast host, Kuan-Ning Tseng. From growing up in Asia with strict parents to taking the bold step of studying abroad and transitioning to life in Germany, Kuan-Ning shares more about her life. Discover valuable career insights, her experiences as a hotpot waitress, and the risks she took to follow her passion. Kuan-Ning is now the co-founder of Fund The Planet, where she leads efforts to harness blockchain technology to combat deforestation and protect ecosystems globally. With dual master’s degrees from Boston University and Munich Business School, she has been recognized as a top tech woman by Nasdaq and featured on I24 TV News in France. Tune in to hear how she drives impactful change in sustainability and innovation. Don’t miss this exclusive episode, full of career insights, personal growth, passion, and inspiration! 🌍🌱 [00:00] Introduction to Kuan-Ning's Journey [04:15] Growing Up with Strict Parental Expectations [09:45] Deciding to Study Abroad [14:30] Adjusting to Life in Germany [20:00] Career Shifts and Lessons Learned [25:12] Working as a Hotpot Waitress [30:45] Founding Fund The Planet [35:50] Technology and Environmental Conservation [40:18] Remote Working: Pros and Cons [42:12] Realizing Entrepreneurial Potential [44:21] Lessons from Founding a Company [47:02] Importance of Operational Experience [49:04] Advice for Young Professionals [50:58] Rebranding and Future Plans for the Podcast [52:48] Conclusion and Listener Engagement 🔗 Connect with Marco and MDP: - KT’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuanning-tseng/ - KT’s Twitter: https://x.com/KuanNingTseng1 - KT’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuanning.tseng/ - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    53 min
  5. From Being Mocked to Majestic: Chinese Electric Cars Can Now Rival The Finest Global Premium Car Brands

    08/12/2024

    From Being Mocked to Majestic: Chinese Electric Cars Can Now Rival The Finest Global Premium Car Brands

    A new episode means a new and special guest. For this week’s show, we welcome Dr. Daniel Kirchert! Dr. Kirchert is a seasoned executive in China’s premium auto industry, known for his expertise in marketing, sales, and business development. Before joining BYTON, he served as the managing director of Infiniti China and president of Dongfeng Infiniti Motor Co., Ltd. At BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd., he was the senior vice president of sales and marketing, leading initiatives that set industry benchmarks. The episode further explores the market competition faced by Chinese EV companies, the improvement in quality perception, and the importance of offering good value in the US market. Tesla's ambitious plans for expanding production and advancing autonomous driving are examined, along with the future of transportation, including flying taxis and autonomous driving innovations. [00:05] Recognizing and improving on values as an entrepreneur. [03:19] Influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and had a big startup experience in China [09:55] Transition from employee to entrepreneur mindset [13:04] A visit to Tesla sparked the idea of starting a new car company. [19:12] Timing was a challenge, but design innovation and team dedication were positives. [22:06] German engineering, Silicon Valley tech, & Chinese manufacturing unite for innovation [28:04] Chinese Brands need help to go Global [30:52] Chinese cars excel in digital experience and energy efficiency [36:47] Branding is essential for Chinese car brands entering the market [39:21] App streamlines car service process and enhances customer experience. [45:01] Building trust and brand is essential for long-term success [47:55] Chinese electric vehicle companies facing fierce market competition [53:40] Chinese car brands making progress in quality perception [56:29] Consumer choice in US market based on price-to-value ratio [1:02:27] Elon Musk's commitment to Tesla's growth and innovation [1:05:13] Exploring the future of transportation: flying taxis and autonomous driving [1:11:18] Exploring different types of air taxis and their use cases. [1:14:00] Advocating for integration and open-mindedness 🔗 Connect with Dr. Daniel and MDP: - Dr. Daniel’s LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/dr-daniel-kirchert-戴雷-a0375b48 - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    1h 16m
  6. Central Control of Money Leads to Huge Problems, Financial Crises, and Endless Money Printing

    07/18/2024

    Central Control of Money Leads to Huge Problems, Financial Crises, and Endless Money Printing

    In our latest podcast episode, Kuan-Ning Tseng sits down with  Marco Krohn, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Genesis Mining Company.  The story goes back to the time after obtaining a PhD in theoretical physics and working at an investment bank, he discovered bitcoin and never looked back. Marco Krohn is also a co-author of ‘Decrypting Money,’ aiming to make years of his knowledge more accessible to the world using storytelling methods. His background enables him to look at the current financial system from a different point of view. As a co-founder of multiple successful blockchain companies, including Genesis Digital Assets and Genesis Group, Marco has been at the forefront of the cryptocurrency revolution, driving innovation and profitability in the industry.  During the episode, we delve into Marco's extensive background and discuss the critical issues surrounding AI alignment with human values, the risks of centralized monetary control, and the genius of Satoshi Nakamoto. Marco shares his insights on the recurring pattern of currency debasement in monetary history, the security challenges in Bitcoin, and the significance of decentralized systems requiring consensus without time ordering of events. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge from a leading expert in the field and explore the intricate dynamics of the cryptocurrency world. PS. Not financial advice. Do your own research.  [00:01] Discussing AI's alignment with humans and the risk of centralized monetary control [02:22] Realization of the genius of Satoshi Nakamoto [07:03] Central control of monetary system leads to single point of failure [09:30] Currency debasement is a recurring pattern in monetary history. [14:12] Decentralized systems require consensus without time ordering of events [16:30] Bitcoin consensus ensures unique existence and decentralized agreement. [20:52] Miners act as auditors for transactions in the same block [23:01] Challenges in the security of Bitcoin [27:12] Realization of narrow worldview regarding traditional financial system [29:14] Subprime loans led to toxic assets and a financial crisis. [33:21] ETFs offer safety and diversification [35:17]  Digital ownership proven through public-private key encryption [39:35] Bitcoin origins and emphasis on security [41:32] Sharing small bits of personal information can lead to privacy risks [45:28] Deep Mind's AlphaGo shocked the world by defeating top Go players. [47:26] Advancements in AI and machine learning [51:33] Statistical approach to machine learning using huge data vs. need for intelligence [53:38] Deep neural networks led to significant progress in AI capabilities. [57:55] Exploration of the properties of money, Bitcoin, and blockchain [59:56] Importance of shared information and reminder of not being financial advice 🔗 Connect with Marco and MDP: - Marco’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-krohn-2b34231b6/ - Marco’s Twitter: https://x.com/mkrohn5 - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    1h 1m
  7. Entrepreneur Addresses Racism, Asian Culture Misconceptions, and Teen Plastic Surgery in Korea

    06/26/2024

    Entrepreneur Addresses Racism, Asian Culture Misconceptions, and Teen Plastic Surgery in Korea

    This week’s episode features Boredkiki , the founder of  KIKISUNNIES , an innovative new sunglasses brand. She is an active and influential holder within the Ape community both in Korea and globally. Kiki is deeply engaged in the Web 3 space, particularly with the Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) NFT project, which was launched in 2021 by Yuga Labs. Kiki discusses her experiences growing up in Israel and her involvement in Web 3 and NFT projects. She touches on making friends internationally, adapting to different cultures, societal expectations in Asian culture, and challenges with technology in Korea. The episode also explores the growing sunglasses market, the importance of human connection, the future of the NFT community, and how older Koreans are embracing new technology. [00:02] Growing up in Israel and navigating traditional Asian family dynamics. [02:49] Started KIKISUNNIES  and launched Made by Apes project [07:48] Making friends through international connections [10:22] Easy to make friends in Israel despite challenges [15:21] Adapting to different cultures can impact one's sense of identity [17:49] Asian culture's judgment on appearance and societal expectations. [22:35] Challenges of using Google Maps in Korea [24:57] Sunglasses market growing fast, becoming a necessity item [29:50] Building friendships in a new environment [32:08] Made lifelong friends in high school [36:50] Kiki provides logical answers in a simple way [39:03] Belief in the power of human connection and the future of NFT community [43:49] Older members in the Korean community embrace new technology [46:02] Community engagement and business opportunities through NFT projects 🔗 Connect with Kiki and MDP: - Kiki’s Twitter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pichapen/- Kiki’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boredkiki.eth/ - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    49 min
  8. Ex-Lieutenant's Take on Enhancing Your Social Media Presence: Get Organic, Authentic Engagement and Genuine Influencers

    06/06/2024

    Ex-Lieutenant's Take on Enhancing Your Social Media Presence: Get Organic, Authentic Engagement and Genuine Influencers

    Join us in this captivating episode as we explore the inspiring journey of Picha Prateepavanich with Kuan-Ning Tseng, an expert in digital content with a keen understanding of social media and a unique background in law enforcement. Picha holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration and has seamlessly blended her diverse experiences into a successful career. In this episode, Picha shares her path from pursuing a double degree to joining the police force, highlighting the challenges she faced and the lessons learned along the way. We delve into her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the personal qualities necessary for success and the cultural expectations from Asian parents regarding performance. Tune in to hear Picha's remarkable story and gain valuable insights into digital content creation, social media strategies, and navigating the web3 landscape. [00:03] Picha pursued a double degree, PhD, and applied for the police force. [02:37] Investigating projects before investing is essential [07:29] Realization of global privilege and desire to make a difference [09:58] Joined police force and challenges faced [15:05] Discussion on entrepreneurial journey and personal qualities [17:35] Discussion on Asian parents' views on performance [21:41] Success is not about luck, it's about hard work and effort. [23:47] Recognizing fake influencers and unfair practices in web3 communities. [28:02] Challenges of being a founder and learning operations [30:24] Importance of having the right team mindset for startup success [34:53] Teaching good work ethic and technological empowerment to son. [36:55] The importance of social media presence for showcasing skills and interests. [41:23] Importance of personal safety measures [43:36] Discussing the experience of not being part of a girly gang [48:12] Building Together creates a supportive community for female entrepreneurs. [50:20]Show gratitude to the guest for listening. 🔗 Connect with Picha and MDP: - Picha’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pichapen/ - MDP IG: https://www.instagram.com/milliondollarplaybookshow/ - Subscribe to us: https://www.youtube.com/@kuanning.t - MDP Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kuanning.tseng?_t=8hgD4SWoRcH&_r=1 - MDP Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0EcoONbS6NV6YESPRtKuLa?si=ec1040c8f83b4dfd&nd=1&dlsi=68d6ec49d7f04cc8

    50 min
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About

Welcome to "Million Dollar Playbook Show with Kuanning Tseng," the podcast that showcases the world's most successful entrepreneurs and business leaders, with the aim of empowering, tech, sustainability, women, and youth. In each episode, Kuanning sits down with different guests to discuss their success, the challenges they've faced along the way, and the secrets to building a million-dollar business. From tech giants to eco-conscious fashion idols, "Million Dollar Voices" offers you an exclusive look into the minds of the world's most accomplished business leaders.

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