A Rags to Riches Tale: Rosaline Chow Koo (Founder & CEO of CXA Group)
When it comes to international business, I often talk about how Asian diaspora groups should have an advantage given their cross-cultural skills and empathy. However, I rarely see these traits being used in the typical corporate environment in my network.
Today’s podcast guest is Rosaline Chow Koo, the Founder & CEO of Asia’s leading InsurTech startup, CXA Group and we chat about the advantages & disadvantages of navigating business in Asia as an Asian American serial entrepreneur.
Rosaline grew up in a poor and chaotic environment, developing survival skills and becoming street smart (especially during events like the L.A Watts riots). This adversity early on in life is what ultimately contributed to the success she has now, giving her the resilience and motivation to push through when times are tough.
Topics discussed (see below for timestamp):
- Life in the US vs Singapore
- The Asian diaspora advantage & disadvantage in Asia
- The challenges of doing business in Asia as a female
- How to break the glass & bamboo ceilings
- Why Asian Americans should consider moving to Asia (and why some shouldn’t)
- Advice for young people navigating their careers
Episode Topics & Timestamps
- 1:30 – Rosaline’s introduction & upbringing in the States.
- 7:20 – Rosaline’s career & entrepreneurial journey from the US to Asia
- 13:00 – What exactly is CXA Group? Why did she found it?
- 16:21 – Cultural differences when doing business in Asia. More opportunities in Asia?
- 23:05 – How did she navigate the barriers as a female Asian founder?
- 26:20 – Other advice for young people facing the bamboo & glass ceilings?
- 28:15 – Was Rosaline a born entrepreneur? What is her passion?
- 32:50 – Culture shocks when living in Singapore. Life in Asia & challenges when expanding CXA to other countries.
- 38:50 – Rosaline’s future plans & career advice for young people
