Like Swimming with Piranhas

The cut-throat world of Chinese entrepreneurs, with Zak Dychtwald

The defining characteristic of the environment in China has been its pace of change. And that has its impact on the latest generation of Chinese entrepreneurs who need to innovate to meet the tough demands of Chinese consumers.

The message is: adapt or get washed away. It's like constantly swimming with piranhas, says Zak Dychtwald, our guest on this episode. The skill to adapt to people's always evolving demands, is increasingly making Chinese companies globally competitive.

GUEST ON THIS EPISODE

Zak Dychtwald is the founder and CEO of Young China Group, a leading consultancy specializing in China’s market and workforce dynamics. With over a decade of experience in China, Zak is one of the few experts currently on the ground, offering invaluable insights into geopolitics from the ground, consumer behavior, and the country’s rapidly changing economic landscape.

Zak is the author of Young China: How the Restless Generation Will Change Their Country and the World and a frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review. His work is rooted in firsthand experience and data-driven research, providing actionable strategies for understanding the future of China.

Zak has spoken to audiences on six continents, including at Harvard University, the WSJ CEO Council, the Aspen Ideas Festival, and for the Economist Intelligence Unit. His engaging talks and workshops make him a sought-after speaker for leaders and organizations seeking to navigate China’s complex business and cultural landscape.

STATE OF ASIA podcast

Season 8, Episode 14 – published May 13, 2025

Hosts: Serena Jung and Nico Luchsinger, Asia Society Switzerland

Editor: Remko Tanis, Managing Editor, Asia Society Switzerland

Find previous and future episodes here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or search for 'State of Asia' in any other podcast app. We're also on YouTube.

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