HIPE Stories is a show about High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs. These are entrepreneurs who are based in the Philippines who have the most disruptive ideas, scale their business to a big success, then go on to do something special—they pay it forward by helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. In the process, they turbocharge the entrepreneur ecosystem and create an economic multiplier effect. The multiplier effect is what makes entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive and this is something HIPE Stories will explore in its episodes with High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs.
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 8: Faith, Grit, and E-Commerce: How Steve Sy Built Great Deals
From great debt to Great Deals, Steve Sy’s journey is one of grit, perseverance, and faith.
In this episode of HIPE Stories, the founder and CEO of Great Deals shares the lessons behind his new book and the mindset that helped him build one of Southeast Asia's top e-commerce enablers.
7 Oct 2025
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 7: Coffee, Culture, and Catching Rabbits: A Pickup Coffee story
What does it take to scale one of the fastest-growing consumer brands in the Philippines? Jaime González Fernández, co founder of Pickup Coffee, shares how culture, consistency, and execution fueled their rapid rise from a single store to 400+ in just three years.
19 Sept 2025
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 6: How Greg Krasnov's Tonik started the digital banking race
What does it take to scale profitably in a fast-growing but nascent industry? Greg Krasnov, founder and CEO of Tonik, shares why reliability and execution are at the heart of sustainable growth, and what it takes to build a fintech business that lasts.
5 Sept 2025
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 5: Ron Hose on the Philippine startup ecosystem
What does it take to build a thriving startup ecosystem? Ron Hose — co-author of the first Philippine Startup Report, founder of Coins.ph, and Endeavor Entrepreneur turned board member — reflects on trust, talent, and what the Philippines needs to shape the future of entrepreneurship.
2 Oct 2024
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 4: Revolutionizing ride-hailing in the Philippines with Angkas
In this episode (https://www.rappler.com/business/hipe-stories-interview-revolutionizing-ride-hailing-philippines-george-royeca-angeline-tham/), Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala sits down with George Royeca and Angeline Tham, the couple who founded Angkas, the leading motorcycle ride-hailing app in the Philippines.
23 Sept 2024
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 3: Let’s get phygital: Nate Clarke on disrupting digital banking in emerging markets
In this episode (https://www.rappler.com/business/hipe-stories-interview-get-phygital-nate-clarke-disrupting-digital-banking-emerging-markets/), Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala sits down with Nate Clarke, co-founder and CEO of GoTyme, to dive deep into disrupting digital banking in emerging markets.
6 Sept 2024
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 2: Can you put HOPE in a bottle? Nanette Medved-Po can
In this episode (https://www.rappler.com/business/hipe-stories-interview-hope-in-bottle-nanette-medved-po/) of 'Rappler Presents HIPE Stories', Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala sits down with the Founder of HOPE and PCX, Nanette Medved-Po.
22 Aug 2024
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 1: Music to Mentorship: apl.de.ap on Obstacles & Giving Back
In this pilot episode (https://www.rappler.com/business/hipe-stories-interview-music-mentorship-apl-de-ap-obstacles-giving-back/) of 'Rappler Presents HIPE Stories', Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala sits down with music icon, six-time Grammy award winner, and co-founder of the Black Eyed Peas apl.de.ap.
22 Aug 2024
Rappler Presents HIPE Stories Ep. 0: Trailer
We're back with Rappler (https://rappler.com) Presents HIPE Stories!
In this show hosted by Endeavor Philippines Managing Director Manny Ayala, Rappler presents stories of the next generation of high-impact entrepreneurs in the Philippines.
Get ready for a season packed with inspiration, insights, and meaningful conversations that delve deep into the heart of entrepreneurship.
18 Jul 2023
HIPE Stories 2 Ep. 4: How Kenneth Cobonpue Built a Global Design Empire [VIDEO]
In this episode of HIPE Stories, we sat down to have a conversation with Kenneth Cobonpue, the founder of the globally-acclaimed design studio bearing his name who has an impressive client portfolio that includes renowned names such as Blackpink, Brad Pitt, LeBron James, and the Glass Onion movie.
Growing up in an artistic household, Kenneth was always encouraged to think outside the box. His mother, an entrepreneur and furniture designer, instilled in him the importance of unique, original designs. Kenneth Cobonpue's path to fame on a global scale is a monument to his fortitude, inventiveness, and everlasting faith in his profession. Kenneth has masterfully transformed his skills and experiences into designs that captured a global audience through rigorous training in prominent design institutions across the United States and Europe. Kenneth's works, which are inspired by his early experiences, are a flawless fusion of tradition and modernism with a dash of fantasy. His creations are a synthesis of artistic tradition and modern culture. Kenneth has forged his own way in the design industry by embracing his originality.
Join us as we delve into Kenneth Cobonpue's journey from a business student to a celebrated designer, creating innovative and unique designs, which eventually garnered him worldwide acclaim.
In this episode, you will learn the following :
Kenneth's visionary design approach that led to global recognition for his brand
Viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth on the path to fulfilling your true calling
Effective strategies to support the growth of emerging Filipino designers through targeted education and strong infrastructure
Misconceptions about design's financial potential that can discourage passion pursuit
The art of strategic scaling within the thriving design community to enhance your influence and professional capabilities
Visit Kenneth Cobonpue's Socials:
Website: https://kennethcobonpue.com/ (https://kennethcobonpue.com/)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kennethcobonpue (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kennethcobonpue)
Connect with Endeavor Philippines:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/) Website: https://philippines.endeavor.org/ (https://philippines.endeavor.org/)
11 Jul 2023
HIPE Stories 2 Ep. 3: Breaking Barriers as a Woman in SaaS with Alex Gentry [VIDEO]
In this episode of HIPE, we have Alex Gentry, a dynamic entrepreneur with a remarkable journey filled with diverse experiences and accomplishments. From being fascinated with science and computers at an early age to taking roles in magazine publishing, custom software development, and eventually co-founding Sprout Solutions, a leading HR and payroll software in the Philippines, Alex's passion for exploration and growth is undeniably contagious. Her unique perspective on fostering diversity in the entrepreneurial world, coupled with her dedication to emerging ecosystems, make her an invaluable resource for those looking to seamlessly merge their personal and professional dreams and contribute to lasting positive change.
In this episode, you will learn the following :
Discover the impact of women in entrepreneurship and their unique contributions to the business world
Explore the crucial role mission and purpose play in driving the success and longevity of startups
Uncover effective strategies for scaling your business and fostering a strong organizational culture
Learn how transitioning from SaaS to a platform model can unlock new growth opportunities and enhance client relationships
Delve into the importance of support systems for emerging ecosystems and diverse entrepreneurs, and how they pave the way for innovation and economic prosperity
Visit Alex Gentry’s Socials:
LinkedIn: https://ph.linkedin.com/in/alexandria-agbayani-gentry-3656834 (https://ph.linkedin.com/in/alexandria-agbayani-gentry-3656834)
Connect with Endeavor Philippines:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/)
Website: https://philippines.endeavor.org/ (https://philippines.endeavor.org/)
4 Jul 2023
HIPE Stories 2 Ep. 2: Ronald Robins' Journey from eSports Champion to Serial Entrepreneur [VIDEO]
In this episode of HIPE Stories, we sit down with Ronald “Rho” Robins, a professional gamer turned serial entrepreneur and the mastermind behind Mineski Global. Mineski Global stands as a pioneering force in the world of eSports and casual mobile gaming in Southeast Asia.
Rho takes us on his whirlwind 20-year entrepreneurial journey, starting from his humble beginnings as a young gamer in Cebu. Relocating to Manila for college, he formed a team with his friends and began competing in DOTA tournaments, achieving remarkable success and international recognition. Witnessing the support that other countries provided to their gaming teams, Ronald recognized the untapped potential in enhancing gaming cafes in the Philippines. This realization prompted him to establish Mineski Infinity, which has since evolved beyond cafes to encompass original eSports leagues, platforms, content, tours, and events across Southeast Asia. Today, Mineski Global continues to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of gaming, delving into eSports, casual gaming, and ticketing platforms.
Join us as we explore Mineski's humble beginnings, their ascent to becoming a world-class eSports tournament host, their strategies for navigating adversity during times of crisis, especially the pandemic, and Rho's personal evolution as an entrepreneur fueled by technology and a willingness to learn from failure.
In this episode, you will learn the following :
Mineski’s humble beginnings from eSports team to pioneering internet cafe
Scaling up from cafes to world-class eSports tournament host
Addressing adversity during crises, especially during the pandemic
Evolving as an entrepreneur, through the power of technology and learning from failure
Visit Ronald Robins’s Socials:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ronald-robins-294b8ab8 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronald-robins-294b8ab8)
Connect with Endeavor Philippines:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/)
Website: https://philippines.endeavor.org/ (https://philippines.endeavor.org/)
27 Jun 2023
HIPE Stories 2 Ep. 1: The Future of Food, Creating CloudEats with Kimberly Yao & Iacopo Rovere [VIDEO]
Join us in today’s episode with the dynamic duo of Kimberly Yao and Iacopo Rovere. Listen as they showcase their expertise in revolutionizing the food industry with the birth of CloudEats using innovative technology that delivers high-quality cuisine on-demand amidst the challenges of attracting the right talent.
From selling booze online and working in Philippine F&B as an expat to creating a revolutionary cloud kitchen concept, Kimberly Yao and Iacopo Rovere's entrepreneurial journey is full of unexpected twists. With the same passion and interest for food and e-commerce, fate led them to create CloudEats, a company that combines multi-brand, multi-cuisine, and multi-platform operations. Despite the challenges they faced during the pandemic and the initial difficulties in looking for the right talent, CloudEats has grown to become a success and is continuing on with a strong growth trajectory. What's in store for Kimberly and Iacopo in the near future is their plans to expand into Thailand and beyond. Their story is indeed far from over.
In this episode, you will learn the following :
An inside look at how cloud kitchens revolutionize the food delivery landscape
Explore the success formula of CloudEats by means of strategic technology implementation
Realize the important role of diversity in moving the food industry ahead
Learn the complexities of entering new markets and getting to know the diverse taste palettes
Know the innovative and supportive environment that results in a success for a startup
Visit Kimberly Yao’s Socials:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kimberlyyao (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyyao)
Visit Iacopo Rovere's Socials:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/iacopo-rovere (https://www.linkedin.com/in/iacopo-rovere)
Connect with Endeavor Philippines:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/endeavor-philippines/)
Website: https://philippines.endeavor.org/ (https://philippines.endeavor.org/)
27 Jun 2023
HIPE Stories 2 Ep. 0: Trailer
Season 2 is here! HIPE Stories returns to celebrate the power of high-impact entrepreneurs in driving innovation, creating jobs, and shaping the future. Join us as we showcase the remarkable journeys, insights, and strategies of the next generation of game-changers in the Philippines. Tune in on YouTube and Spotify every Wednesday for inspiring episodes that will fuel your entrepreneurial spirit. Get ready to be part of the HIPE movement!
9 Nov 2022
HIPE Stories 1 Ep. 4: ER Rollan, Co-founder of Growsari
The episode features ER Rollan, Co-founder and CEO of Growsari.
Having worked in Singapore for Procter & Gamble, Boston Consulting Group, and Unilever, ER has vast professional experience in dealing with various retail distribution channels as well as the sari-sari store distribution channel due to a personal knowledge of the integral role sari-sari stores play in Philippine retail, national economy, and society.
He recognized the potential of transforming the sari-sari store to not only help fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies better distribute their products and services but also to uplift the lives of the store owners and the communities they serve.
Prior to co-founding Growsari in 2016, ER started his career in Proctor & Gamble SG where he held a variety of roles, including senior manager for Consumer & Market Knowledge. He joined the Boston Consulting Group as an expert consultant at the Center for Consumer and Customer Insight in Southeast Asia. This was followed by a stint in Unilever, where he led brand development for its ice cream business in Southeast Asia and Australasia.
HIPE Stories is a show about High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs. These are entrepreneurs who are based in the Philippines who have the most disruptive ideas, scale their business to a big success, then go on to do something special—they pay it forward by helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. In the process, they turbocharge the entrepreneur ecosystem and create an economic multiplier effect. The multiplier effect is what makes entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive and this is something HIPE Stories will explore in its episodes with High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs.
We'd like to thank the Astbury for our studio! The Astbury is a private members club in Poblacion where the creative and cerebral live in the moment, and work, gather, grow for tomorrow. To know more, check out https://astbury.club/
PRODUCTION TEAM
Executive Producer: Chelsea Sullivan
Audio Editing: Bryan Paredes
Video Editing: GM Espeleta
Production Assistant: Judge Soler
Studio Design: Rona Aumentado
3 Nov 2022
HIPE Stories 1 Ep. 3: Bela Gupta D'Souza, Founder of Edamama
The episode features Bela Gupta D'Souza, Founder and CEO of Edamama.
Bela is the founder of Edamama—the leading parenting platform in the Philippines to shop for the most trusted childcare products and services, while discovering authentic parenting content and advice. Originally from India, Bela grew up in Japan, Thailand, and the US before moving to the Philippines, where for the past decade she has been an active contributor to the startup ecosystem as a founder, investor, and advisor. Bela graduated with an MBA from Stanford in 2011 and a Bachelor of Economics from the University of Mumbai, India.
HIPE Stories is a show about High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs. These are entrepreneurs who are based in the Philippines who have the most disruptive ideas, scale their business to a big success, then go on to do something special—they pay it forward by helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. In the process, they turbocharge the entrepreneur ecosystem and create an economic multiplier effect. The multiplier effect is what makes entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive and this is something HIPE Stories will explore in its episodes with High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs.
We'd like to thank the Astbury for our studio! The Astbury is a private members club in Poblacion where the creative and cerebral live in the moment, and work, gather, grow for tomorrow. To know more, check out https://astbury.club/
PRODUCTION TEAM
Executive Producer: Chelsea Sullivan
Audio Editing: Bryan Paredes
Video Editing: GM Espeleta
Production Assistant: Judge Soler
Studio Design: Rona Aumentado
26 Oct 2022
HIPE Stories 1 Ep. 2: Roland Ros, Founder of Kumu
The episode features Roland Ros, Co-founder & CEO of Kumu.
Roland is the founder of Kumu, a social entertainment app for millions of Filipinos around the world. Kumu became the first Filipino-founded app to be the #1 highest-grossing social app in the Philippines (and top 10 in multiple markets according to App Annie). Prior to Kumu, Roland built a career as a growth engineer, with a track record generating millions of customers for Fortune 500 and high growth tech companies in the United States.
HIPE Stories is a show about High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs. These are entrepreneurs who are based in the Philippines who have the most disruptive ideas, scale their business to a big success, then go on to do something special—they pay it forward by helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. In the process, they turbocharge the entrepreneur ecosystem and create an economic multiplier effect. The multiplier effect is what makes entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive and this is something HIPE Stories will explore in its episodes with High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs.
We'd like to thank the Astbury for our studio! The Astbury is a private members club in Poblacion where the creative and cerebral live in the moment, and work, gather, grow for tomorrow. To know more, check out https://astbury.club/
PRODUCTION TEAM
Executive Producer: Chelsea Sullivan
Audio Editing: Bryan Paredes
Video Editing: GM Espeleta
Production Assistant: Judge Soler
Studio Design: Rona Aumentado
20 Oct 2022
HIPE Stories 1 Ep. 1: Steve Sy, Founder of Great Deals
The episode features Steve Sy, Founder & CEO of Great Deals.
Steve is the CEO and Founder of Great Deals E-Commerce Corp. Great Deals is the leading e-commerce solution provider in the Philippines, and was recognized by the financial times as the fastest growing company in Asia Pacific. Considered an “Industry Disruptor,” Steve is also the co-founder of Shoppertainment Live Inc., Zagana, and Strat Quad. He is an Alibaba Business School E Founder Fellow, an Endeavor Entrepreneur, a Mansmith Innovation Awardee, and one of the Top 100 Filipinos to follow on Linkedln for inspiration and learning.
HIPE Stories is a show about High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs. These are entrepreneurs who are based in the Philippines who have the most disruptive ideas, scale their business to a big success, then go on to do something special—they pay it forward by helping the next generation of entrepreneurs. In the process, they turbocharge the entrepreneur ecosystem and create an economic multiplier effect. The multiplier effect is what makes entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive and this is something HIPE Stories will explore in its episodes with High Impact Pinoy Entrepreneurs.
We'd like to thank the Astbury for our studio! The Astbury is a private members club in Poblacion where the creative and cerebral live in the moment, and work, gather, grow for tomorrow. To know more, check out https://astbury.club/
PRODUCTION TEAM
Executive Producer: Chelsea Sullivan
Audio Editing: Bryan Paredes
Video Editing: GM Espeleta
Production Assistant: Judge Soler
Studio Design: Rona Aumentado
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