Ep. 020 - Global Visions with Oz Merchant

In this timely and illuminating episode, Raven sits down with six-time founder and global entrepreneur Oz Merchant to discuss the complexities of global expansion—especially for women leaders.

With over $147M raised and 18+ years in B2B SaaS and e-commerce, Oz brings his extensive knowledge and experience as the Program Director of Founder Institute Raleigh to this powerful conversation. Together, they unpack the nuanced challenges of scaling a business internationally, highlighting critical topics like understanding cultural differences, building credibility in male-dominated industries, and securing funding for diverse founders.

Oz shares actionable strategies for entering new markets, maintaining company culture across borders, and leveraging local partnerships for a successful expansion. From defining the “why” behind international growth to navigating the unique obstacles faced by women in leadership, he provides real-world insights that entrepreneurs can put into practice immediately.

Oz also dives into overlooked aspects of global growth, like evolving your leadership style as your company scales and tapping into emerging funding opportunities designed to support diverse founders.

Listeners will walk away with invaluable guidance on everything from infrastructure planning to sophisticated market entry strategies, making this episode essential for entrepreneurs at any stage of their global journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Consider if your business is truly ready for international expansion.
• Cultural understanding is crucial when entering new markets.
• Building local partnerships can significantly ease market entry.
• Funding opportunities exist specifically for diverse founders.
• Women entrepreneurs should seek supportive cultures for business.
• Navigating logistics and local customs is essential for success.
• Utilizing consultants can streamline the transition to new markets.
• Maintaining company culture is vital during international growth.
• Future trends indicate a rise in women-led global businesses.
• Assumptions about markets should be tested and validated.

DISCUSSION TIMELINE:

• 02:49 Challenges of International Business
• 06:09 Strategizing for Global Growth
• 09:12 Navigating Cultural Differences
• 11:59 Building Partnerships for Success
• 14:47 Funding and Financial Considerations
• 18:07 Consultants and Support Systems
• 21:04 Maintaining Company Culture
• 23:53 Advice for Women Entrepreneurs
• 27:05 Future Trends in Global Entrepreneurship
• 29:55 Top Three Hacks for Diverse Founders

CONNECT WITH OZ:
Oz's Website: www.ozmerchant.me Oz on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ozmerchant Oz on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ozmerchant/

HOST INFO:
Hi, y'all! I'm Raven O'Neal, a diversely curious serial entrepreneur with over a decade of experience. But the fun doesn't stop there. I'm also a mentor, wife, mother, and business expert. I see my business as an extension of all my personal and professional life experiences, embracing growth and learning from a few fumbles along the way.

Throughout my business journey, I've supported over 500 female-led startups, advised more than 200 founders 1:1, and played a role in facilitating over $100M in funding. My calling is to help women transform their businesses and lives through collaboration and partnerships. I look forward to being with you every step