Embracing Power Dynamics in the Global Market with Luciana Doria Wilson

Pfeffer on Power

In this episode of the 'Pfeffer on Power' podcast, host Jeffrey Pfeffer, a professor at Stanford University's Graduate School of Business, is joined by Luciana Doria Wilson, co-founder of Managrow, a boutique member of AICA global corporate advisors.

Luciana opens up about her experience in Jeffrey Pfeffer's "Leading with Power" course, which shifted her perspective from execution to leadership, revealing the critical role of resilience, discipline, and strategic understanding of power dynamics, especially as a woman in a male-dominated industry. Luciana's insights will leave you empowered and ready to navigate your own career path with confidence.

Learn how ManaGrow's commitment to long-term relationships with entrepreneurs and investors across 40 countries has driven sustained growth and client loyalty. Tune in for practical advice on expanding your professional network, maintaining client trust, and creating lasting business success in today's global market.

00:00 Welcome

01:03 Meet Luciana Doria Wilson

02:01 Luciana's Early Career in Finance

03:05 Transition to Board Roles

07:07 Founding ManaGrow

09:52 Impact of Stanford's Power Course

12:06 Networking Strategies and Business Growth

15:27 ManaGrow's Unique Approach

17:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Pfeffer on Power is produced by University FM.

Episode Quotes:

The impact of the power course on Luciana’s business approach

[12:06] Jeffrey: So, what was the difference after you took the class? What did you do differently in terms of the networking that you had done before and then after the class?

[12:16] Luciana: So one thing is that I'm more selective. The other thing is the strategy behind my mind. So if I want to create impact, what is it that I need? Who do I need to speak to? I was able to get access to very interesting people during my career, but I wasn't using those relationships to do the things I thought were important or aligned with my values. So that's how it changed. It's a completely different picture from what I was doing before. I was able to help and get help, and this is something ongoing in my life.

What makes Managrow different?

[17:09] Jeffrey: It strikes me that a lot of what you're doing, other organizations are also doing, particularly investment banks and business brokers. What do you believe is your competitive advantage?

[17:21] Luciana: Most of the boutiques do only transactions, and the relationships with their customers are based on the deals. We work as a boutique, so we do not compete with banks because they are doing the largest transactions. And with the small ones, we are different because we know better the customers, investors, and entrepreneurs. So it's the concept of the boutique; that's why it's very different from those that are only doing transactions and don't care about long-term relationship that they are building between these entrepreneurs.

On getting out of your comfort zone

13:39: There is a lot about getting out of your comfort zone... It's something you choose, not something that happens.

Show Links:

• Managrow.com
• Luciana’s LinkedIn Profile
• Stanford Alumni Women’s Impact Network