This podcast episode, based on the work of Global Strategist Sophie Krantz, explores the theme of collaboration as a driving force for achieving global goals. The podcast argues that strategic alliances, even among competitors, can lead to innovative solutions and mutual success, especially in challenging economic times. It challenges the traditional notion of "crushing the competition" and highlights the importance of collaborative strategies.
The podcast draws parallels between the business world and the natural world, where collaboration is essential for survival and success. Examples of natural collaborations, such as the symbiotic relationship between fungi and plants (mycorrhizae) and the cooperative efforts of African elephants in creating water holes, are presented to illustrate this point.
The podcast then showcases real-world examples of “coopetition” among competitors, where companies and countries have collaborated to achieve win-win outcomes. These examples include:
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel in India: These telecom giants collaborated to lay submarine optical fibre cables, improving internet infrastructure across the country.
Telekom, Safaricom and Airtel in Africa: These mobile network operators in Kenya enabled interoperability of their mobile money services to enhance customer experience and financial inclusion.
Alibaba and Tencent in China: These tech giants partnered in a government-led initiative to develop a standard technology for digital invoicing, aiming to digitise operations and reduce fraud.
SESAME in the Middle East: This scientific research facility in Jordan brings together members from countries often in political conflict to promote scientific cooperation and peace.
Apple and Google in the USA: These tech giants collaborated on contact tracing technology during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Uber and Lyft globally: These ride-sharing competitors have collaborated on regulatory and policy issues to shape the future of urban mobility.
The podcast also highlights the concept of “10x” individuals (highly ambitious individuals who aim for tenfold growth) and the benefits of collaboration among them. It emphasises the multiplier effect that arises from the pooling of resources, ideas and energy when such individuals collaborate.
The podcast concludes by urging a shift from “Globally Aware” to “Globally Active” leadership. While “Globally Aware” leaders understand global trends, “Globally Active” leaders actively engage with them, leveraging global networks and driving change on a global scale.
The podcast ends by posing thought-provoking questions to the listeners, encouraging reflection on successful international collaborations and potential future partnerships.
When you change the way you see the world, you change the way you can shape it.
*Season one of The Global Edge podcast with Sophie Krantz is AI generated. Season two, launching early in 2025, will be hosted by Sophie Krantz.
