What do a Netflix creator, a professional basketball coach, and a leadership mentor all have in common?

In this episode of Expats in Dubai, host Amber Waheed is joined by Hernando Planells, a man who has lived all three lives — and is now using his unique experience to guide the next generation in Dubai through the power of storytelling, sport, and mentorship.

Together, they explore:

• The complexities of growing up as a third-culture kid
• The importance of understanding your cultural heritage in shaping identity
• How parents can help children navigate dual identities in multicultural settings
• The role of empathy, communication, and authenticity in great leadership
• Whether the “Dubai bubble” is raising soft leaders, and how to build resilience in young people
• What it means to lead with purpose in a city built on global ambition

From navigating international careers to mentoring youth in a rapidly evolving city, Hernando Planells shares powerful insights on identity, leadership, and belonging that resonate far beyond the basketball court or the screen.

Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or simply someone in search of clarity and connection — this conversation is for you.

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Thank you for listening!

Questions/Feedback or to receive a copy of our 'stories across the emirate' newsletter, please email us on hello@wizbizla.com

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Join Amber Waheed in this episode as she shares a shocking financial fraud case involving a so-called "bulletproof plan" devised by a deceptive financial advisor. She shares her personal experience of navigating intricate contract clauses, uncovering a web of deception, and battling the collusion of a trust chairman.

Through this episode Amber reveals how fraudsters craft seemingly legitimate investment schemes that are, in reality, elaborate traps. She explores the fine line between financial fraud and legal loopholes, shedding light on the critical red flags investors must recognize before it's too late. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to safeguard their financial future against manipulation and deceit.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How financial fraud is often disguised as legitimate investment opportunities.
• The role of legal documents and contract clauses in protecting fraudsters.
• Amber’s real-life experience with fraudulent financial advisors in the UAE.
• How Guardian Trust Company Ltd. and its chairman played a role in this scheme.
• The warning signs of financial fraud and how to spot deceptive paperwork.
• How fraudsters extract investor fees while allowing investments to dwindle.
• Practical steps for protecting yourself from financial fraud and legal loopholes.
• The importance of scrutinizing financial contracts before signing.

Key Quotes:

• “Fraud isn’t just about deception—it’s about crafting an illusion of trust.”
• “When legal jargon shields fraudsters, victims are left powerless—until they fight back.”
• “If something feels too complicated to question, it’s probably designed that way for a reason.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Amber Waheed’s book: The Great Fraud Fightback (Available on Amazon)
• Wizbizla’s Scam Prevention Programme

Join the Conversation:

• Share your thoughts using #FraudWeek #TrueCrimeSeries #FraudPrevention
• Follow Wizbizla on social media for more insights on financial safety.
• Have a fraud story to share? Submit your experience at Wizbizla.com

Thank you for listening!

Questions/Feedback or to receive a copy of our 'stories across the emirate' newsletter, please email us on hello@wizbizla.com

Follow the show, subscribe on Apple Podcasts to be reminded whenever a new episode arrives https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/expats-in-dubai-podcast/id1569143426

Say hello on Instagram and get visual updates https://www.instagram.com/amber.waheed.wizbizla/

In this episode of Expats in Dubai, Amber Waheed is joined by Trefor Murphy, Founder of Cooper Fitch, to unpack salary trends in the UAE for 2025. Will expats enjoy a pay rise, or should they brace for a pay cut? Drawing from Cooper Fitch’s Salary Guide, they reveal which industries are set to thrive, how rising business costs are shaping salaries, and the strategies companies are using to address talent shortages.

Amber and Trefor also discuss the shifting landscape of expat packages, the challenges of retaining top talent, and whether now is the ideal time to venture into starting your own business. Packed with practical advice and forward-looking insights, this episode is essential for professionals navigating the UAE job market or employers planning their next move.

Don’t miss this deep dive into what 2025 holds for salaries, jobs, and opportunities in the UAE!

🌐 Powered by Wizbizla:
This episode is brought to you by Wizbizla, the trusted platform connecting expats in the UAE with accredited service providers like Cooper Fitch. Whether you're searching for trusted businesses or looking to showcase your services to the expat community, visit wizbizla.com to learn more and register today.

Thank you for listening!

Questions/Feedback or to receive a copy of our 'stories across the emirate' newsletter, please email us on hello@wizbizla.com

Follow the show, subscribe on Apple Podcasts to be reminded whenever a new episode arrives https://podcasts.apple.com/ae/podcast/expats-in-dubai-podcast/id1569143426

Say hello on Instagram and get visual updates https://www.instagram.com/amber.waheed.wizbizla/