In this episode of Taiwanese Change Makers , host Adrian de Courcey sits down with En-chia Tsai, an award-winning entrepreneur, co-founder of Bened Biomedical (a pioneering neurobiotics company), and chairwoman of the Taipei Women’s Rescue Foundation. En-chia shares her journey from studying abroad in Ireland and the UK to leading groundbreaking research in psychobiotics—probiotics that improve neurological health for conditions such as, autism, Parkinson’s, and depression. She discusses how Bened Biomedical is revolutionising the gut-brain axis, and her vision for making Bened and Taiwan global brands in biotech. Beyond business, En-chia opens up about her impactful role at the Taipei Women’s Rescue Foundation, combating human trafficking, domestic violence, and digital sexual abuse. She sheds light on the dark reality of scam operations in Southeast Asia and how the foundation rescues victims while advocating for policy change. Finally, En-chia reflects on work-life balance as a working mom, her favourite spots in Taiwan (including Tainan’s street food!), and why Din Tai Fung remains her top restaurant pick. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, social impact, and resilience with one of Taiwan’s leading Change Makers!…

Join Adrian de Courcey in this insightful episode of Taiwanese Change Makers as he sits down with Annie Huang, the pioneering Managing Partner of Floreo Capital. Annie, a Harvard Business School graduate, is bringing the innovative concept of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) to Taiwan, revolutionising the way SMEs approach succession and growth. Discover Annie's remarkable journey, from her upbringing in Taiwan to her transformative experiences at Harvard, where she was exposed to diverse global perspectives and the power of the case method. Annie demystifies the search fund model, explaining its four key stages: fundraising, searching, operating, and exiting. She delves into the unique criteria for identifying ideal acquisition targets, emphasising the importance of quality revenue, earnings, and cultural fit. Learn how Annie's approach differs from traditional buyout funds, focusing on long-term value creation and a deep commitment to the businesses she acquires. Explore the untapped potential of Taiwan's vast SME landscape, where succession challenges and a lack of competition create a fertile ground for ETA. Annie shares her strategies for navigating this under-educated market, building trust with sellers, and overcoming the unique challenges of being a female leader in a male-dominated environment. From discussing the intricacies of fundraising to revealing her preferred sectors and the emotional intelligence required for successful acquisitions, Annie provides invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors alike. Discover how she's leveraging her global expertise to unlock the hidden gems of Taiwan's business world. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and the dynamic business landscape of Taiwan. Tune in to hear Annie Wan's inspiring story and gain a fresh perspective on the power of ETA in driving positive change."…

In this episode of Taiwanese Change Makers , host Adrian de Courcey sits down with Brian Hioe, a multifaceted force in Taiwan’s media, activism, and cultural scenes. Brian is one of the founders of New Bloom Magazine , an online publication dedicated to covering activism, social issues, and youth politics across Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific region. As a journalist and commentator, he has contributed to major outlets like The Guardian , The Washington Post , Al Jazeera , and the BBC . Brian is also the custodian of the Daybreak Project , an archive preserving the history of Taiwan’s Sunflower Movement, and has recently added “published author” to his impressive resume with the release of his debut work of fiction, Taipei at Daybreak . Oh, and in his spare time? He’s a DJ spinning techno and house music. Join us as Brian shares his unique journey—from being born in the U.S. and studying at Columbia University to making Taiwan his home and becoming a key voice in its social and political discourse. We’ll explore his motivations for moving to Taiwan, his work in journalism and activism, and how his creative pursuits, from writing to DJing, reflect his deep connection to the island’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in Taiwan’s social movements, the power of storytelling, or the life of a modern-day magazine editor, this conversation with Brian Hu is sure to inspire. Tune in to hear how one individual is driving positive change and shaping the narrative of Taiwan’s future.…

Join us for an insightful episode featuring Tammy Hu, a social entrepreneur transforming Taiwan's approach to sustainability. From her beginnings in banking and fashion to becoming the co-founder of B-Lab Taiwan and Domi, Tammy’s journey illustrates the power of purpose-driven work. As she shares her unique perspective on climate action, she highlights the importance of empowering individuals and organizations to make meaningful changes. Learn about her innovative strategies for shifting mindsets, fostering collaboration within communities, and building sustainable business models that generate positive environmental impact. Tammy also explores the significant role of grassroots initiatives in addressing pressing climate challenges. With a focus on community engagement, she shares inspiring examples of companies in Taiwan that are leading the way in sustainability. The conversation not only sheds light on the evolving climate policies in Taiwan but also urges listeners to recognize their own potential to contribute to a greener future. This episode is a call to action for anyone interested in environmental leadership and social impact. Tune in and discover how personal values can intersect with professional endeavors to drive change in our societies. Let’s spark the conversation on sustainability and empower ourselves and our communities to lead the way toward a brighter future. Don't forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on the episode!…