The Luxembourg Mind Podcast - Business Beyond Borders

Prash

Business Beyond Borders (Stories of success from Luxembourg) is a video podcast series aspiring to bring to the forefront the incredible thought leadership, vision, and success of Luxembourg's business decision makers. We aim to provide listeners with a personal look at the journeys of our speakers, highlighting the challenges they faced, their connections to Luxembourg, and their insights on the big picture for the country. This podcast is a part of The Luxembourg Mind platform.

  1. Apr 29

    Business Beyond Borders E24: Laurent Mosar, Member of Parliament & Alderman for Lux City

    In Conversation with Laurent Mosar | Four Decades at the Heart of Luxembourg PoliticsIn this episode, Prash sits down with Laurent Mosar, former President of Parliament, current Member of Parliament, and alderman for Luxembourg City, for a candid conversation on the realities shaping Luxembourg today.With more than four decades in public life, Laurent does not shy away from difficult positions. He speaks openly about where he disagrees with his own party, and why experience gives him the freedom to do so. One example stands out: his support for extending voting rights in national elections to non-citizens, a position that challenges the current political consensus.We also dive into one of the most debated topics in Luxembourg today: safety and quality of life. Laurent acknowledges that concerns are rising, but puts them in a broader context, arguing that Luxembourg is not alone and that many of these pressures are being felt across major cities globally.On integration, the conversation turns to participation. In a country where around half the population was not born here, Laurent expects a shift in the coming years, with more residents stepping forward not just as voters, but as candidates shaping the political landscape.Along the way, we explore what quality of life really means in practice, how progress should be measured, and what it takes to stay connected to people after decades in politics.Whether you care about politics, city life, or Luxembourg’s future, this is a direct and thought provoking conversation.Watch, share, and let us know your thoughts in the comments.Business Beyond Borders is a video podcast series under The Luxembourg Mind, bringing forward the perspectives and experiences of Luxembourg’s decision makers.Chapters00:00 Meet Laurent Mosar: Four Decades in the Room01:27 The biggest challenges facing Luxembourg today03:14 What Quality of Life Really Means in Luxembourg City05:32 Safety and Order: Are Things Getting Better or Worse?09:18 Integration on the Ground: What Actually Works13:46 The Gaps in Integration We Still Ignore15:57 Why Expats Still Don’t Vote and How to Change That18:06 What Keeps Laurent Going After 40 Years in Politics21:32 Rapid Fire: Surprises, Opinions, and Curveballs28:28 Where to Start If You Want to Shape Luxembourg’s Future

    30 min

  2. Mar 1

    Business Beyond Borders E23: Agnieszka Zajac, Odgers Luxembourg

    Boards, CEOs & the Talent: Behind the scenes of leadership decision-making | Agnieszka Zajac,, Managing Partner, Odgers LuxembourgIn this episode of The Impact Founders (part of The Luxembourg Mind: Business Beyond Borders series), Alina talks to Agnieszka Zajac, Managing Partner of Odgers Luxembourg - a global Executive Search and Leadership Advisory firm.We go behind the scenes of how leadership decisions are really made - from CEO succession planning and next-gen leadership skills, to women leadership and age bias in the European talent market. Agnieszka shares her cross-border journey (and how she convinced Odgers’ headquarters to back Luxembourg as a serious market), why Luxembourg’s “smallness” is both a superpower and a trap, and what boards should prioritize if they want leaders who can handle what’s coming next. In this conversation, you’ll learn:- Why succession planning should start the day a CEO is hired- What “next-generation CEO” really means: agility, self-awareness, tech fluency, communication with impact- What Odgers does to push 50/50 shortlists and widen the pipeline of “board-ready” women- Why age + gender remain the biggest biases - and how to challenge them with process and evidenceIf you’re relocating to Luxembourg, building a leadership team, or thinking about your own next step, this episode is for you. The episode closes with a rapid-fire round: if you want to know Agnieszka’s view on the key trends which will reshape the industry and the skills we should all learn to stay relevant - stay with us until the end of the interview. Watch, share, and tell us your favorite takeaway in the comments.About the seriesThe Impact Founders spotlights entrepreneurs building with purpose - ventures rooted in innovation, impact, and long-term value creation. Part of The Luxembourg Mind, it highlights Luxembourg as a launchpad for high-impact entrepreneurship and cross-border leadership.#Luxembourg #Leadership #SuccessionPlanning #ExecutiveSearch #WomenInLeadership #Diversity #Talent #OdgersChapters 00:00 Intro: what we’ll cover (succession, women leadership, age bias, talent competition) 01:33 Agnieszka’s cross-border story and why she stayed in Luxembourg06:19 “Luxembourg magic”: access to decision-makers and the risk of being too conservative11:30 Executive education: how INSEAD shaped advisory approach16:32 Next-gen CEOs & succession planning26:10 Impact - hiring and inspiring leaders of tomorrow32:08 Women leadership: confidence and insisting on 50/50 shortlists 41:59 Age bias in Europe: why it persists and how to break it with process + proof45:19 Rapid fire: AI, courage, thinking beyond boundaries, adapting with AI50:24 Closing + gift: time, curiosity, and the “Order of Time” moment

    52 min

  3. Feb 16

    Business Beyond Borders E22: Samuele Pinta, Satispay

    Building Satispay Beyond Borders | Samuele Pinta, Co-Founder, SatispayIn this episode of The Impact Founders (part of The Luxembourg Mind: Business Beyond Borders series), we sit down with Samuele Pinta, co-founder of Satispay - an Italian-born fintech that reached unicorn status and now serves nearly 6 million users with a network of around 400,000 merchants.Samuele takes us back to the early days: three young founders - no office, no money, but lot’s of energy, conviction, and a willingness to build something that felt almost impossible. He shares the moment he joined the journey and how enthusiasm and intuition helped him to make that decision. We explore the milestones that shaped Satispay’s trajectory: learning to raise capital in a European context where founders were often expected to give up control, and building the kind of investor track record that supports long-term scale. The conversation then moves into what makes Satispay different. The real breakthrough, he argues, was creating a network independent from the credit cards and solving the “chicken and egg” problem of bringing both consumers and merchants into the same system.A strong theme of the episode is Luxembourg as a strategic base. Samuele explains why Satispay chose Luxembourg in 2018 as the place “from which we offer the service all over Europe.” We then go deep into what is at the cornerstone of everything that Satispay does - culture. As Satispay grew from 3 people to 700, the company had to rebuild its operating framework repeatedly defining 11 non-negotiable pillars that act as a compass for behavior and decision-making. These aren’t posters: any employee can reset a meeting simply by calling out when a conversation is no longer “user first.”Satispay’s hiring process mirrors this discipline. Candidates are evaluated against the pillars, and hiring decisions require strong alignment across interviewers - because bringing in the wrong person creates long-lasting damage, while the right person changes everything “from the day after.” We also touch on co-founder dynamics. Sam describes a culture of direct challenge and continuous exchange - but with one crucial condition: the founders trust each other because they know they’re aiming at the same destination.The episode closes with a rapid-fire round: if you want to know Samuele’s favourite App, the fintech trend he’s most excited about and his view of AI in payments - stay with us until the end of the interview. Watch, share, and tell us your favorite takeaway in the comments.About the seriesThe Impact Founders spotlights entrepreneurs building with purpose - ventures rooted in innovation, impact, and long-term value creation. Part of The Luxembourg Mind, it highlights Luxembourg as a launchpad for high-impact entrepreneurship and cross-border leadership.Chapters00:00 Meet Samuele Pinta01:28 From Family Business to Startup Co-Founder05:48 Early Challenges: Hiring, Fundraising & Scale10:08 Why Satispay: Rethinking Payments16:58 Why Luxembourg: A Gateway to Europe22:52 Scaling Culture: From 3 to 70028:16 Hiring for Values and Fit32:34 Co-Founder Dynamics34:37 Rapid Fire43:11 Angel Investing: Backing Founders

    45 min

  4. Feb 11

    The Luxembourg Mind Geopolitical Symposium 2026: From impact to action

    The 2025 Luxembourg Mind Geopolitics Symposium brought together leaders from business, policy, and professional communities for an evening focused on clarity, context, and practical guidance in a rapidly shifting global environment.As geopolitical uncertainty becomes a constant feature of strategic decision making, this year’s symposium set out to answer a simple but urgent question: not only what is happening in the world, but how leaders can navigate what comes next.We were honoured to welcome Xavier Bettel, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, who opened the evening with reflections on diplomacy, global tensions, and Luxembourg’s role on the international stage. Insightful, engaging, and characteristically warm, his remarks set the tone for the discussions that followed.The keynote address was delivered by Dariush Yazdani, Partner at PwC Luxembourg, who offered a data driven global outlook that combined strategic depth with clarity and perspective, grounding complex geopolitical dynamics in real world implications for leaders and organisations.The panel discussion featured Laura Rossi of Dechert LLP, Sud Sivaji of Aperam, and Gerard Cops of PwC Luxembourg. Their exchange explored how geopolitical shifts are reshaping regulation, supply chains, investment decisions, and leadership priorities, sparking thoughtful debate that continued well beyond the stage.The conversation was expertly moderated by Maria Pawelek and Yongyi, whose clarity and presence kept the discussion focused and engaging throughout the evening. Guiding the flow of the event was Prash Chandrasekhar, founder of The Luxembourg Mind, who served as master of ceremonies.The symposium brought together alumni and members from more than fifteen business schools and professional associations, reinforcing The Luxembourg Mind’s mission to foster informed dialogue, critical thinking, and meaningful connections across Luxembourg’s business and policy ecosystem.We extend our sincere thanks to our sponsor PwC Luxembourg, to Kenny Panjanaden, Charlène Krajniewski, and Eugénie Dewulf for their support behind the scenes, and to Fabio Mendes for capturing the evening.Thank you to everyone who joined us. We look forward to continuing the conversation in 2026.

    1h 21m

  5. 12/18/2025

    Business Beyond Borders E21: Carole Hartmann, Mayor Echternach, President-DP, Member of Parliament

    In this insightful episode, Prash talks to Carole Hartmann, Mayor of Echternach, President of the Democratic Party, and Member of Parliament, for a wide ranging conversation that explores her journey, her values, and her vision for Luxembourg's future.Carole reflects on her path from the legal world into national politics, sharing the motivations that shaped her public service and the responsibilities that come with leading a major political party. She discusses how Luxembourgs political landscape is changing, what it means to carry the DP forward, and the priorities she believes are essential for the country at this pivotal moment.We also look at her role representing Echternach, the importance of regional voices in national decision making, and the balance between local concerns and nationwide strategy. Carole opens up about the experience of being one of the few women at the top of a political party and the lessons she has learned about leadership, authenticity, and resilience.Beyond politics, our conversation touches on her involvement in civic and community life, the values that keep her grounded, and the goals she hopes to achieve in the coming years. The episode also features a lively rapid fire round, where Carole reveals her competitive spirit, hidden talents, and even the last board game she played, followed by thoughtful advice for young people hoping to contribute to Luxembourgs future.Whether you are interested in politics, public service, or understanding the people shaping Luxembourg's direction, this conversation with Carole Hartmann offers perspective, inspiration, and a closer look at leadership in action.Chapters00:00 Introducing Carole Hartmann01:08 The journey to becoming President of the DP03:30 Key priorities shaping the DPs direction04:40 The most urgent challenges facing Luxembourg today06:46 How coalition governments are formed and maintained in Luxembourg09:33 Representing Echternach while addressing national issues11:03 The state of gender diversity in Luxembourgish politics13:08 Carole's civic and social engagement outside Parliament15:22 Rapid fire round18:55 Carole advice for young people aspiring to enter politics

    22 min

  6. 11/07/2025

    Business Beyond Borders E20: Philippe Osch, Hitec

    In Conversation with Philippe Osch | Leading Innovation Beyond BordersIn this thought-provoking episode, we talk to Philippe Osch, CEO of HITEC Luxembourg, a company at the forefront of high-tech innovation across sectors like satellite communications, mobility, and industry 4.0. Philippe’s journey from Luxembourg’s classrooms to the helm of one of the country’s most globally active engineering firms offers a fascinating glimpse into what it takes to lead in an era of rapid technological change.We discuss how Philippe approached the leadership transition from longtime CEO Yves Elsen, balancing continuity with his own vision for HITEC’s future. He shares insights into some of the company’s most exciting projects, from pioneering technologies in the space sector to driving industrial innovation across Europe, and reflects on Luxembourg’s growing reputation as a hub for cutting-edge research and collaboration.A proud graduate of INSEAD’s Global Executive MBA, Philippe also opens up about his international education, the value of the INSEAD experience, and his time as President of the INSEAD Alumni Association of Luxembourg, where he helped connect and inspire leaders across industries.Beyond technology, Philippe discusses what makes Luxembourg’s innovation ecosystem unique, how the country can better support entrepreneurial ambition, and the mindset needed to thrive in globally competitive markets.We wrap up with a lively rapid fire round, where Philippe reveals his thoughts on tech vs. policy, space vs. finance, and a few personal choices that show his lighter side.Whether you’re passionate about innovation, leadership, or Luxembourg’s evolving role in Europe’s tech landscape, this conversation with Philippe Osch offers a mix of insight, inspiration, and forward-looking vision.Watch, share, and tell us your favorite takeaway in the comments!Business Beyond Borders is a video podcast series under The Luxembourg Mind, showcasing the thought leadership, vision, and human stories behind Luxembourg’s business and political decision-makers. Over the coming year, we’re bringing you conversations with 12 to 15 of the country’s most influential CEOs and leaders, exploring their ideas, motivations, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.00:00 Introduction to Philippe Osch and HITEC Luxembourg02:29 Taking over from Yves Elsen – balancing legacy and leadership change05:35 Exciting innovations in the pipeline07:38 Collaborating with government and public institutions on high-tech initiatives09:06 Growing up and studying in Luxembourg – the “superpowers” our kids imbibe13:04 Reflections on INSEAD’s Global Executive MBA – is it really worth the hype?14:31 Leading the INSEAD Alumni Association of Luxembourg – community, connections, and impact17:16 Is Luxembourg doing enough to foster innovation and entrepreneurship?19:10 Exciting projects shaping the future of Luxembourg’s tech and space sectors22:42 How HITEC achieved 60% of its sales abroad – lessons in international success21:30 Rapid fire round: tech vs. policy, space vs. finance, left hand vs. coffee, and more23:53 Advice for Luxembourgish firms aspiring for international success

    28 min

  7. 10/24/2025

    Business Beyond Borders E19: Elisabeth Villeminot, Sublime Terroir

    How Terroir Becomes Strategy | In Conversation with Elisabeth Villeminot (Sublime Terroir)In this captivating episode, we sit down with Elisabeth Villeminot, Founder and CEO of Sublime Terroir, whose work bridges entrepreneurship, culture, and the art of storytelling. Elisabeth transforms the idea of terroir, the unique character of place, into a strategic advantage, helping producers and brands express authenticity while competing on the global stage.She shares her journey from concept to company and how Sublime Terroir became a connector between excellence and opportunity, linking producers, partners, and markets through a blend of rigorous strategy and human connection. From her perspective, terroir is more than taste. It is an ecosystem of people, supply chains, sustainability choices, and trust.We explore Luxembourg’s unique position as an international hub for credibility and collaboration and how it provides fertile ground for brands seeking to translate local craft into global relevance. Elisabeth reflects on her founder story, the turning points that shaped her philosophy, and her belief that authenticity and innovation can and must coexist in modern entrepreneurship.Our conversation also dives into her vision for the future of terroir-led brands, the delicate balance between growth and integrity, and her work in fostering responsible partnerships that stand the test of time. And of course, we talk about wine, its culture, its lessons, and its role in connecting people.The episode concludes with our rapid fire round, where Elisabeth reveals her favorite Luxembourg hideaways, her must-read book on food and wine, and a glimpse into her plans for writing one of her own.Whether you are passionate about entrepreneurship, sustainability, or the stories behind exceptional craftsmanship, this conversation with Elisabeth Villeminot offers a rare blend of insight, inspiration, and grounded wisdom about building value that endures.Watch, share, and tell us your favorite takeaway in the comments.The Impact Founders is a new subset of the Business Beyond Borders podcast series, created to spotlight the journeys of entrepreneurs whose ventures are rooted in innovation, impact, and long-term value creation.This series offers a platform for purpose-driven founders to share their personal paths, business philosophies, and visions for the future, locally and globally. Aligned with the values of The Luxembourg Mind, it aims to elevate Luxembourg’s position as a launchpad for high-impact entrepreneurship and transformational leadership.Each episode invites listeners into an authentic and inspiring dialogue with entrepreneurs who are building companies not only to succeed, but to serve, to solve, and to thrive.Chapters00:00 Meet Elisabeth Villeminot and the vision behind Sublime Terroir01:29 From philosophy to fine dining what drew her into the world of wine03:50 Why Luxembourg makes the perfect home for entrepreneurship05:50 Lessons for founders building a business in Luxembourg06:28 Tackling challenges and attracting top talent in a small market08:14 Leadership in action how Elisabeth manages, mentors, and learns from her team11:27 Creating impact for growers, nature, and local communities14:54 Educating consumers and putting quality at the heart of every choice18:07 Negotiating across cultures and leading with sincerity and trust23:30 How climate change is reshaping the future of winemaking26:35 Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and energy management27:45 Growing up as a third culture kid and embracing a global mindset29:27 Rapid fire favorites from city spots to hidden wines and her next book33:08 A special Beaujolais tasting and her vision for authentic, lasting connections

    41 min

  8. 10/14/2025

    Business Beyond Borders E18: Corinne Cahen, Member of Parliament & Alderman for Lux City

    In Conversation with Corinne Cahen | From Shoes to Politics: A Life of ServiceIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Corinne Cahen, journalist turned entrepreneur, former Minister for Family Affairs and Integration, and now alderman for Luxembourg City, for a wide-ranging conversation that blends politics, civic life, and personal passion.Corinne shares her fascinating journey: from reporting news stories, to running her family’s shoe business, to stepping onto the political stage and shaping Luxembourg’s approach to family policy, integration, and diversity for nearly a decade.We reflect on the achievements she is most proud of, from parental leave reforms to building a more inclusive Luxembourg, while also discussing the areas she believes still need urgent attention. Corinne also offers insights into Luxembourg’s unique integration model, the lessons it holds for other countries, and the challenges and opportunities ahead for the nation’s political landscape.Beyond politics, we dive into her personal motivations, her enduring involvement in civic and cultural life, and her goals for the future. The episode also features our rapid fire round, where Corinne reveals everything from her favorite city hangout to what she would do if aliens abducted her, as well as her thoughtful advice for those seeking to shape Luxembourg’s future in business, politics, or civic engagement.Whether you are passionate about politics, social impact, or Luxembourg’s role as one of Europe’s most diverse societies, this conversation with Corinne Cahen promises insight, energy, and inspiration.Watch, share, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!Business Beyond Borders is a video podcast series under The Luxembourg Mind umbrella aspiring to bring to the forefront the incredible thought leadership, vision, and success of Luxembourg’s decision makers. Over the next year, we are interviewing 12 to 15 Luxembourgish CEOs, business leaders and political figures to explore their human side, their vision for Luxembourg’s future, and the lessons they have learned along the way.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Corinne Cahen and her unique career journey01:18 From journalism to managing the family shoe business05:08 Reflections on nearly a decade as Minister for Family Affairs and Integration12:02 Luxembourg City’s 72 percent expat population and lessons from the integration model17:00 Insights from her time as President of the Democratic Party18:00 What keeps Luxembourg's politics relatively centrist when our neighbors grapple with polarization19:55 Personal goals in her current political and civic roles21:27 Measure of success 2-3 years from now22:48 What inspires her continued civic and cultural engagement24:32 Rapid fire round with city hangouts, aliens, board games and more30:58 Advice for those looking to shape Luxembourg’s future

    34 min
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Business Beyond Borders (Stories of success from Luxembourg) is a video podcast series aspiring to bring to the forefront the incredible thought leadership, vision, and success of Luxembourg's business decision makers. We aim to provide listeners with a personal look at the journeys of our speakers, highlighting the challenges they faced, their connections to Luxembourg, and their insights on the big picture for the country. This podcast is a part of The Luxembourg Mind platform.

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