LinkedIn: Erik Qualman, Motivational Speaker, CEO & Bestselling Author
Twitter: @equalman
Website: equalman.com

What do you do currently?
I’m an author and speaker on modern leadership.

How and when did you get involved with the Mexican entrepreneurial ecosystem?
I’ve been invited here several times to speak at the various major cities and events in Mexico. I love the people and the culture here. Always an honor to be invited.

How would you describe the ecosystem in Mexico?
Gaining momentum fast. Noticeable difference from even two years ago.

What do you expect in the next 12 months?
Continue acceleration of global entrepreneurship in Mexico. I believe the government will start lending more of a helping hand as well as backing it with capital.

What are the main challenges?
Cultural – one needs to embrace failing fast, failing forward, failing better.

Describe your typical day
5:45 – 6:45: Exercise / Run / Gym.
6:45 – 8:30: Breakfast and help the kids get ready for school.
8:30 – 6:30: Meet with the team – dedicate one hour to writing, two hours to partnerships and then fill in the rest with what is necessary for that week.

Who is your favorite entrepreneur?
Spencer Hoffmann.

A recent book do you recommend?
Give and Take by Adam Grant.

Smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop?
Smartphone.

iOS or Android?
iOS.

Favorite App?
Duolingo.

Favorite social network?
LinkedIn.

Ideal vacation?
Sailing along the coast of Croatia.

What are your goals for the next 12 months?
Get to 48 countries where I have spoken and increase my global reach to 25 million. Increase the number of Universities that use my books to 500. Hoping soon to be able to deliver my keynotes in fluent Spanish!

One word that describes you?
Empowerment.

Previous interview: Amanda Jacobson