Exploring the Unique Business Culture of Brazil’s Northeast

In the latest episode of “Brazil (is not) for Beginners,” host Isaac Matzner dives into the dynamic nature of Brazil's Northeastern business culture with Saulo Castro, a Corporate Lawyer and Partner at Valença & Associados.

Saulo shares his background as a lawyer, bass player, and cook, and his experiences living in both the Southeast of Brazil and the US, in addition to the Northeast. They also discuss:

·       The unique culture and history of Brazil’s Northeast, highlighted by its 'backwards colonization' and significant Afro-Brazilian influences.

·       Insights into the region’s economy, including its transition from agriculture to renewable energy sectors, and the predominance of family-run businesses.

·       How the work culture of the Northeast differs from other Brazilian regions, with its emphases on strong family values and centralized decision-making of local businesses.

·       The region's investments in sustainability and renewable energy, highlighting the role of foreign companies and the local push for environmentally friendly practices.

·       And lots more…

Previous episodes you may enjoy:

Isaac chats with Denise Coronha Lima, Cross Cultural Specialist and founder of Rio Total Consulting.

Isaac speaks with Ana Buchaim, Chief People Officer at B3 - the Brazilian Stock Exchange.

Isaac interviews Phillip Klien, CEO of ClickBus, to explore the intricacies of Brazil's bus transportation industry and his unique perspective as a tech-executive with an American-Brazilian background.

Isaac sits down with Nick Johnston, co-founder of Bacio di Latte, São Paulo Urban Distillery/Jardim Botânico Gin and Social Beans to talk about his experience launching high-end consumer products in Brazil.

Isaac chats with Jorge Vargas Neto, CEO of BHub, about his entrepreneurial journey, and the complexities of tax and compliance systems when it comes to doing business in Brazil.

Isaac chats with Roberto Borcic, a partner at Pullman Morrison, and Jianggan Li, the Founder and CEO of Momentum Works, about Asian companies' expansion into Brazil.