Andrei Niculae is one of the most recognizable DJs and vibe creators in Romania, known for his authentic energy and for the way he transforms music into a memorable collective experience. His voice and musical selections are part of the Radio Nostalgia universe, where he brings back to life hits that have defined generations.

C&B: How did your passion for radio begin and what memories do you have from the first moments you entered a studio?

Andrei Niculae: My passion for radio started at the age of 7, when I watched “Good Morning, Vietnam”, a film in which Robin Williams plays a radio DJ during the Vietnam War, and it made me say that this is what I want to do when I grow up. Years passed and I kept dreaming, but also taking small steps. I first wrote for a newspaper, and later I managed to audition for a radio station.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far and how did you overcome it?

Andrei Niculae: I think the most difficult moment was when, after 9 years in radio, I had to leave my home and build a radio station from scratch together with Monica Munteanu and Costin Gache. I never even dreamed that I would have my own radio station alongside my colleagues.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?

Andrei Niculae: I was lucky to learn from the best and to have the courage to try new things, even if sometimes they didn’t work out. Curiosity and the question “what if?” have always guided me. I think it’s essential to try things, otherwise you’ll never know whether they work or not.

C&B: How would you describe your professional journey from your first contact with radio to becoming a host appreciated by thousands of listeners?

Andrei Niculae: A roller coaster that I got on together with my audience and never wanted to get off. Some of the people who listen to me have become part of my life. I live a beautiful dream every day and I always wake up with a smile on my face. There has also been a lot of work and a constant desire to improve myself. I am still working on myself and I won’t stop.

C&B: If we met your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?

Andrei Niculae: I think they would say I’m crazy, passionate, and that I probably have ADHD. At least that’s what I think. I’ve always tried to surround myself with great people.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?

Andrei Niculae: The fact that I almost suddenly laid the foundation of Nostalgia Radio in Romania. Things were going well where I had grown, but this kind of opportunity comes once in a lifetime in my opinion, and it shouldn’t be missed.

C&B: What do you feel when listeners recognize your voice or write to you about your shows?

Andrei Niculae: Many times I don’t know how to react to compliments because in my mind I’m still the same boy from the Militari neighborhood who dreamed of being on the radio. But I have to admit that when someone compliments me, my heart fills with joy, it’s hard to describe. I believe my job is to somehow make the day better for the people who choose to listen to me, and when someone tells me that, it’s the greatest reward for me.

C&B: You said you wanted to try acting, television or even becoming a magician. How do you see expanding your career beyond radio?

Andrei Niculae: I tried many things out of curiosity when I was younger. But I have some extensions that, combined, present me more as an entertainer. I play music, host events, I have various online campaigns with brands I once only dreamed of, and I am a radio person. Someone once told me that I am, in fact, an entertainer in this life.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now and what moments of the day bring you the greatest satisfaction?

Andrei Niculae: Now I spend more time than ever at the radio because we are at the beginning and we have big plans, but I also try to attend various events, document almost everything I do online, and on weekends I play music. I love the chaos in my life and it would be very hard without it.

C&B: What did it mean for you to test the limits of your relationship in the context of an intense competition like Power Couple?

Andrei Niculae: Power Couple was an extraordinary experience for us that brought us even closer together, and for that I thank Emilia Vlad and Alex Fotea for choosing us. Besides testing our limits, I was happy to see my girlfriend Claudia blossom in every way. I am more in love with her than ever, and that is also thanks to Power Couple.

C&B: What was the most difficult challenge you experienced during the show and how did it challenge you personally?

Andrei Niculae: Probably the first challenge, riding a bicycle upside down, is something I never thought I would do in this lifetime. On a personal level, I would have liked to win more challenges, because it’s clear I would have gone home a long time ago if I didn’t have Claudia by my side, who was very good at everything.

C&B: What advice would you give to young people who aspire to build a career in media and entertainment?

Andrei Niculae: It’s always a joy to meet young people and I take every opportunity to tell them to dream, to try even if it seems impossible, and not to give up even if sometimes everything may seem boring. They should always try to do a little more than what’s written in the job description and not waste time. I hope that one day they will enjoy an interview like this one, for which I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Andrei Niculae’s story is about the courage to try, passion, and the constant drive to grow. From the child who dreamed of working in radio to the voice that now brings nostalgia and joy to thousands of listeners, his journey proves that when you follow your dream, the results will eventually follow.

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Cătălin Popa is an actor, trainer, and transformational coach with a deep passion for helping people discover their authentic potential and live the life they truly desire.
A disciple of legends Bob Proctor and Kim Calvert, Cătălin has extensively studied the science of manifestation and the transformation of consciousness.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence, in a way that sparks curiosity among those who don’t know you yet?
Cătălin Popa: I am a pragmatic dreamer. I believe that everything is possible as long as we have a strong desire and unwavering perseverance.

C&B: If we were to look at the storyline of your career or business, what have been the key moments that defined you?
Cătălin Popa: I consider the most important moment of my career so far to be in 2021, when I decided to join Bob Proctor’s coaching program, and he later became my mentor. In that same year, I also wrote the book Wake Up! You Are the Creator of Your Life. Last year, I began studying with Kim Calvert, who followed his path and achieved outstanding results.

C&B: What was the first concrete step you took to turn the idea of Magix Academy into reality?
Cătălin Popa: I truly believe in what Albert Einstein once said: “There are two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.” The first step was to believe. Magix Academy is just a small part of the vision I have and that I intend to bring into the world. Then came the action and the people who felt inspired by this project.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, no matter the obstacles?
Cătălin Popa: For me, I wish to evolve, to always become the best version of myself, and to fulfill my boldest dreams. One of these dreams is to help people realize that we are the creators of our own lives. And I enjoy doing this through my personal development programs and the artistic projects I’m involved in.

C&B: How did you look at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed up to now?
Cătălin Popa: This question makes me smile. I think I always had the desire. But there were many events I learned from—some happy, others constructive. I enjoy the journey I’ve had so far and wouldn’t change a thing. The past few years feel like decades. Very intense… and beautiful. Another quote that guides me is: “Do what you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Cătălin Popa: Only good things. Just kidding. They would probably say that I am ambitious, creative, and understanding. And sometimes demanding. The atmosphere within the team is very important to me. I believe it’s essential to feel good, to support one another, and to grow together. Personally, if the activity or the environment I work in isn’t pleasant, creative, and fun, I don’t get involved.

C&B: What is the most important decision you have made that changed your trajectory?
Cătălin Popa: The most important decision I have made so far was to have a mentor. People who inspire me, who do what I aspire to do, and with whom I resonate. This saves you a lot of wasted time and headaches.

C&B: What types of programs or courses do you offer, and which are the most popular?
Cătălin Popa: I run a mindset masterclass followed by a 12-week program where I show you step by step how to overcome blockages and create the life you want. These are things that, unfortunately, are not taught in school. I am grateful to my mentors and to these materials, and all I want now is to pass them on.

C&B: Can you share an example of success or transformation from a participant?
Cătălin Popa: I could share several examples. From totally unexpected healings to the creation of businesses generating significant amounts of money. The most important transformations happen when people realize that we are spiritual beings who have a body and live a physical experience. And we’re not talking about esoteric things, but about very concrete and practical aspects. Both religion and science have been saying this for a long time. But the real change occurs when we internalize and feel these truths in our own lives.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the greatest satisfaction?
Cătălin Popa: I wake up in the morning, around 6–7am. I spend the first hour and a half with myself. I read, write my gratitudes, and follow people who inspire me. It’s my favorite part of the day. Then, with the day’s intentions already set, I start working on the tasks for that day. One of my values is freedom. Therefore, I don’t have a fixed schedule. There are days when I work on 2–3 projects at once, and days when I only create or relax.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them every day?
Cătălin Popa: Freedom is one of them. Contribution. Family. Abundance. I only get involved in things I’m passionate about, that bring me joy, and that help me move toward my dreams. I love working with specialists and I don’t hesitate to delegate whenever I can. Also, no matter how creative I am, I like things to be organized. And I always start with the end in mind. Everything is created twice: first in our mind, then in physical reality.

C&B: How did Magix Academy come to life, and what inspired you to found this academy?
Cătălin Popa: I had several programs, both for adults and children, and I needed to bring them under the same umbrella. We did a brainstorming session, and we liked Magix Academy the most.

C&B: What are the development plans for Magix Academy in the coming years?
Cătălin Popa: The development plans for Magix Academy in the coming years aim to expand our courses and programs so that we reach hundreds and then thousands of people who want to transform their lives for the better. We want to build a strong brand, recognized for its positive impact, and grow as a team by attracting passionate people who share the same vision.

Cătălin Popa shows that success in business and in life comes from combining passion, discipline, and a constant desire to grow. Through his programs and Magix Academy projects, he inspires people to discover their potential and turn dreams into reality.

The post Cătălin Popa: Leadership, Mindset, and Strategies for Business Success appeared first on careers-business.com.

Lorand Soares Szasz is a reference name in entrepreneurial education in Romania, with over 17 years of experience in entrepreneurship, consulting, and SME development.

Lorand is an expert in business acceleration, who has inspired and educated over 200,000 participants through his in-person courses and hundreds of thousands more online.

Throughout his career, he has transformed countless lives and businesses, becoming one of the most-followed Romanian entrepreneurs on social media.

Lorand is known for his practical, results-driven approach and for his bold mission to grow entire nations by growing entrepreneurs.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence, in a way that sparks curiosity for those who don’t know you yet?
Lorand Soares: I am the man who teaches entrepreneurs how to escape daily chaos, increase sales and profit, and take their business to the next level—so that the company can run even without their constant intervention.

C&B: If we were to look at a narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key moments that defined you?
Lorand Soares: My professional life has had several turning points. The first was when I left Portugal, where I was working as a gardener. The physical work was tough, but that’s where I realized I didn’t want to spend my whole life at the edge of survival. I was blessed to be hired by the largest business coaching company in the world and to witness how small businesses around the globe were growing using the same system and methodology. That’s when I felt like I was born a second time.

The second moment was the first training I held in Romania. I saw how what I taught helped entrepreneurs completely change their way of working and achieve results. That’s when I understood I had found what I was meant to do. I felt I had discovered my purpose and calling.

And the third moment was more recent when I created in-person Immersions for entrepreneurs. There, I saw that it wasn’t just about inspiration and education anymore, but about real, measurable transformations in people’s businesses. That’s where I saw the greatest impact of our work on entrepreneurs’ lives, on their companies, and on society.

C&B: What were the main challenges in the early stages of building your company?
Lorand Soares: Like any entrepreneur at the beginning, I hit many walls. One of the biggest challenges was the lack of a system. Everything depended on me—from sales to delivery, to invoicing, and even solving clients’ problems. I was a one-man show. Everything revolved around me, and I was involved in everything. At the ego level, it felt great—I felt important and valuable—but at the level of profit, scaling, and health, I was headed straight into a ditch.

Then came the challenges with people. I hired too quickly, didn’t fire when I should have, put people in the wrong positions, and paid the price. I built teams, lost people, promoted the wrong ones, had to go back into operations, and rebuild everything from scratch, only better.

And of course, there was the cashflow problem—sustaining an entrepreneurial education company in Romania is not exactly the easiest thing. Less than 1% of Romania’s active population is involved in lifelong learning. We are not a people who are very hungry for education; we’re more attracted to gossip and entertainment.

Building a successful, profitable company without loans, investors, or debt was a real challenge.

But the hardest lesson was learning that I don’t have to do everything myself. That if I want to build something serious, I need a strong team—not just personal “superpowers.”

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Lorand Soares: Yes. To create a global educational ecosystem for entrepreneurs. A place where entrepreneurs can learn how to become free—to have money, time, and energy. I dream that one day, whether in Romania, Portugal, or Indonesia, entrepreneurs will know there is a place where they can learn to take their business from survival to excellence.

Every time I’ve faced challenges in business or tough times, I’ve reconnected with this dream.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed until now?
Lorand Soares: Full of enthusiasm, convinced that I was going to change Romania and later the world. Extremely confident in my own abilities. Sometimes even arrogant. I had no real business experience, and what I learned in theory sounded great, but when I faced the market, I got a big slap that woke me up to reality.

After six months in business, I hadn’t signed a single contract, couldn’t convince any client to work with me, and lost all the money I had. It wasn’t much, but it was everything I had.

Life and business taught me to be more humble and to rely more on the strength of my team, not just my own abilities. I learned that alone, I can move fast, but together with them, I can go far.

I learned to accept that I’m not perfect and that being vulnerable doesn’t mean I’m not worthy of teaching others. On the contrary, I can offer more useful lessons from blows, mistakes, and failures than from success.

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Lorand Soares: It depends on who. I know I have people on my team who admire me, and for them, it’s an honor to work with me. They are often blinded by this admiration.

I also have colleagues who see me with both my strengths and weaknesses. They accept me as I am and push me to become better.

And I have colleagues who see more of the negative than the positive in me and still stay in my company because the negative isn’t painful enough to drive them away.

I’m not a perfect leader or an exceptional manager. I try to respect my colleagues, but I admit that not all the time does my behavior reflect the appreciation I truly have for them.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Lorand Soares: To do what I want, not what others want for me.

C&B: What are the medium- and long-term development and expansion plans for Upriserz?
Lorand Soares: Our dream is to become a global platform for entrepreneurs and to contribute to the growth of economies in the countries we enter. We want to see more entrepreneurs running profitable businesses that also offer them greater freedom.

As for plans, we’d rather show them than talk about them.

C&B: What is Upriserz’s mission, and what sets the company apart from other digital projects in Romania and internationally?
Lorand Soares: Our mission is to grow entire nations by growing entrepreneurs. We believe that the prosperity of an entire country depends on how well small and medium businesses perform.

Upriserz stands out through personalized, practical learning that can be applied immediately in business, through its strong entrepreneur community, and through the credibility of demonstrated results. We don’t sell theory—we provide tools and processes that transform businesses step by step.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and which moments bring you the greatest satisfaction?
Lorand Soares: I usually wake up at 5:40. Until 6:00 is time for love—that means I stay in bed with my wife, and sometimes we just hold each other for minutes. It’s a way I recharge.

From 6:00 to 7:00 I read, study scripture, pray, and write a short message for my clients who follow me on my channels.

At 7:00 I wake up our daughter, and we have breakfast together. At 7:30 she gets ready for school, and my wife and I get ready to go to the gym.

From 8:00 to 9:00 gym time—we train the body so it can carry the mind.

From 9:00 to 10:00 hygiene and preparation for the workday. By 10:00 I’m at the office, and until 12:30 I have meetings, reply to messages and emails, make decisions, get involved in operations, and work on business growth.

Then I have lunch with my wife, and in the afternoon from 14:00 to 18:00 I work again. Often I create free content for courses; other times, I work with clients and the team. I split my time between roles as entrepreneur, salesperson, marketer, educator, and author.

My greatest satisfaction comes from interacting with my audience through social media and courses.

C&B: How did Upriserz come to life, and what inspired you to found this company?
Lorand Soares: Upriserz was born out of both a desire and a frustration. The desire to help more entrepreneurs and the frustration that I no longer had time for my family. I was traveling across the country, holding dozens of conferences every year, and sleeping 160 nights a year in hotels.

I realized that if I wanted to reach more entrepreneurs, I couldn’t do it through this system and business model.

That’s how the idea was born to create an online platform that could serve more entrepreneurs worldwide, not just in Romania.

C&B: What advice would you give to young digital entrepreneurs who want to build scalable and innovative companies?
Lorand Soares: First piece of advice: don’t fall in love with your idea, but with the client’s problem. If the problem is real and important, your solution will have a market.

Second: build a system, not just a product. A good product can die quickly, but a good system lasts and grows.

Third: don’t chase shortcuts. Entrepreneurship isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Discipline and consistency beat short-term enthusiasm.

And last but not least, get yourself a mentor! It will help you save time, money, and energy.

Lorand Soares Szasz remains a benchmark in entrepreneurial education, a leader who has proven that success comes from discipline, vision, and courage.

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Mihai Vutof – Co-founder of Paragon Music Festival – a 20-year-old with diverse experiences in the world of music events and marketing. Since the age of 15, Mihai has worked with various associations and organizations such as the Student Council, as a Graphic Designer, which brought him into networking contexts that sparked a passion for the world of music events. By the age of 18, he had already laid the foundations for a music festival dedicated to youth, involving them directly and promoting up-and-coming artists.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence to pique the curiosity of those who don’t know you yet?
Mihai Vutof: A guy who dove in headfirst, hit the wall, and got up every single time. I’ve learned firsthand what the Romanian event industry really means and what it’s like to build a large-scale local event from below zero. I’ve hit my head and it hurt, but everything happened for a reason and brought me to where I was meant to be.

C&B: If we were to follow the narrative thread of your career or business, what were the defining moments?
Mihai Vutof: Chronologically, I’m not sure where it all began, but even in high school, through student organizations like the Bucharest Municipal Student Council, I found myself in valuable networking contexts that eventually pushed me into the events industry. The most important leap for me was the Paragon Music Festival, a joint initiative between me and my former high school music teacher, Anamaria Sârbu. It was an initiative that brought together young student artists with nationally renowned performers. We had zero experience in organizing such events, but gradually, through meeting the right people in the industry and with a bit of luck, the festival actually happened—and in really good conditions, on September 15–16, 2023, at the Romexpo outdoor venue.

That festival opened many doors in my career, including my current role at the digital marketing agency Danco Vision, owned by one of Paragon’s main partners. Another key moment was working as Assistant Project Manager for the first edition of Unforgettable Symphonic Experience, a festival that truly showed me everything behind the scenes and all the people who make it happen.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey, and how did you overcome it?
Mihai Vutof: Without a doubt, the hardest moment was the end of Paragon Music Festival. Imagine: an 18-year-old and his music teacher managed to organize a festival from scratch in less than 6 months, with a lineup of over 50 artists, a 20-meter-wide stage, and a space of over 10,000 square meters. Still, being a first edition mostly self-funded, with budgets and costs changing daily, we ran into problems—especially in marketing (ironically, my field, which I had treated as the least of my worries). Because of that, many expenses couldn’t be covered, suppliers were put on hold after the event, and there was a whole other mess I won’t go into.

Still, about a month after the event ended, things settled down. I was in a period of both physical and mental recovery, with nothing on my plate. It was supposed to be my first year of university, but I hadn’t enrolled because I knew I wouldn’t have time in September–October. Everyone else was moving forward. Then came an opportunity from Daniel Ionescu, CEO of Danco Vision, to work at his digital marketing agency as a graphic designer. That offer saved me at that moment, and I’m still grateful for it to this day.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, no matter the obstacles?
Mihai Vutof: I always want to outgrow my own limitations in every way—that’s my drive. I love the saying: “When you feel like you can’t go on, go on a little more.” That mindset has helped me rise every time I’ve fallen, and achieve even better results.

C&B: What were you like at the start of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve transformed since then?
Mihai Vutof: If I take 16 years old as my starting point, there’s a huge difference between then and almost 21, my current age. At 16, I was a high school kid dreaming of popularity and partying all day, but I also loved to help and get involved in anything that could improve the world around me. Back then I had no work ethic, well-hidden social anxiety, and a serious case of rebellion and stubbornness.
Now, at 21, I still enjoy parties and helping people, and I’m still a bit stubborn—but I’ve learned where the limits are. All-night parties only on Saturdays, helping others only when they’re not taking advantage, and stubbornness only when I have solid arguments.
The main difference between the old me and the current me is that now I understand the gray areas, the nuance in everything.

C&B: If we talked to your team or collaborators, what would they say about you?
Mihai Vutof: Ana, my partner at Paragon, would definitely laugh and praise me like one of her award-winning students . The team at the marketing agency is very dear to me, and I like to think that after almost two years, I’m just as dear to them. I think they’d say good things about me—except maybe the occasional complaint about my stubbornness.
Throughout my career, I’ve worked with hundreds of people: brand owners and managers, artists, and insiders from festivals like Untold, Neversea, and Unforgettable. From all these people, I’ve learned valuable lessons. And if you ask them about me, I’m sure they’d use this phrase: “a resourceful guy.” That’s how I like to describe myself—resourceful.

C&B: What’s the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Mihai Vutof: In 2024, I randomly decided to apply for the Untold Creators by Visa mentorship program. There, I met some of the most important mentors I’ve had in my career. If I hadn’t joined that program, I probably wouldn’t still be connected to the events and music industry. I joined the program as an artist manager, and it was an extraordinary experience—my first time backstage at a global festival like Untold, analyzing everything going on behind the scenes.
It was an honor to win the first edition of this program, and it really helped me get back on track in this field.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or decision-making process? Was it natural or learned?
Mihai Vutof: A completely natural process. Trial and error, experiences in various management contexts, and honestly, a lot of luck—no point in lying. I consider myself extremely lucky, and sometimes I feel like things fall into place not how I want them to, but exactly how I need them to.

C&B: What sets your business or your professional approach apart from the rest of the industry?
Mihai Vutof: My authenticity and personal attitude toward the product I deliver—whether it’s an event or a graphic design piece. I put my heart into it, I do it wholeheartedly, and I bring a touch of creativity that, honestly, even I get surprised by sometimes.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what parts of the day bring you the most satisfaction?
Mihai Vutof: A regular day means a 9 to 5 at the office or working from home, followed by some extra projects until around 8 PM. After all that, relaxation, disconnecting, and socializing are top priorities. I’ve deprived myself of those things for too long. Now that my life is more stable, I want to enjoy the little moments—with family, friends, and sometimes even alone.

C&B: What values or principles guide your work, and how do you apply them daily?
Mihai Vutof: I’ve never defined them formally, but I’ve always wanted to do things honestly and make sure everyone benefits equally. I believe what you give is what you get back. I always try to give fairness, and a little extra—because that’s who I am. I like to help and know that in the end, no matter the original agreement, things are done right.

C&B: How did you come up with the idea to start this business and choose this name?
Mihai Vutof: Speaking about Paragon—we spent about a month doing intense name research. In the end, the answer was right under my nose. I didn’t even know what “Paragon” meant, but I had been obsessed with the word since childhood after hearing it in a video game. I used it for email addresses, accounts, social media channels—everything. By 2018, even my parents had borrowed it for their plumbing business. It basically became my family’s trademark.
Later I found out it means “a model of excellence”—funny, right?

The idea for the project came initially from Ana Sârbu. A year before Paragon, we had organized a pilot version in our high school courtyard, called Cervantes Summer Festival. Afterward, while joking around, we said: “Next year we’ll do it at Romexpo.” And we actually did it—at a whole new level, slightly different concept, and featuring national artists, but born out of a high school festival.

C&B: If you could send a message to those following your example, what would it be?
Mihai Vutof: Super simple: believe in yourself. I didn’t, and I’m grateful that the people around me believed enough for two lifetimes. I’m thankful for everyone who’s supported me throughout my career. Without their belief in me, I don’t know if I ever could’ve developed my own. With confidence—and reason—you can do anything.

Mihai Vutof’s journey is a true example of courage, perseverance, and authenticity. His path reminds us that staying true to our values can turn dreams into reality.

The post Mihai Vutof – The Story of a Co-founder Bringing Music to Life through Paragon Music Festival appeared first on careers-business.com.

Andrei Kurtuy is the co-founder and CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) of Novorésumé, a creative educational startup born out of a desire to make building a professional résumé more accessible. After personally experiencing the challenges of integrating into the job market in Denmark, he and two co-founders decided to turn that experience into a practical solution now used by over 15 million people worldwide.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence to spark curiosity in those who don’t yet know you?
Andrei Kurtuy: I’m a Romanian entrepreneur who, after sending over 1,000 résumés without receiving a single reply in my first year in Denmark, went on to co-found Novorésumé, a platform used by over 15 million people in more than 200 countries to create CVs and land their desired jobs.

C&B: Looking at the narrative arc of your career or business, what have been the key moments that defined you?
Andrei Kurtuy: The first defining moment was moving from Romania to Denmark at 19, knowing no one and not speaking the language. In the first year, I applied to over 1,000 jobs and didn’t get a single response. Instead of going back home, I took a bartending course, paid in installments. A week after I got my certificate, I landed my first job.
Then, in 2015, together with two university classmates, we took part in a project competition. I was frustrated by how clunky it was to create a résumé in Word, and with the help of Cristian (with a design background) and Ștefan (on the tech side), we laid the foundation of what would become Novorésumé.
In April 2016, we created a fictional résumé for Elon Musk as an experiment. It went viral internationally and brought in over 100,000 users in a very short time. It was a valuable lesson in how far well-crafted content can go.
Another important moment was learning how limited focus can be. We had a tendency to try too many things at once, and that cost us. The lesson was clear: learn to say “no” more often and focus on what we do best.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment so far in your journey, and how did you overcome it?
Andrei Kurtuy: The toughest moment was in 2016. I was 23, had just been rejected from my master’s program, was on unemployment benefits after my contract at the library ended, and we had just launched Novorésumé. Everything felt uncertain — I didn’t know whether to find a job, hope for the master’s program, or go all in on the startup.
There were months when I didn’t know what I was doing. The pressure was real. What helped me was being flexible — I said “yes” to anything that could teach me something. Eventually, someone dropped out of the master’s program, and I got in. That led to a job in Business Development and gave me some stability.
Looking back, I think that uncertain, broke version of myself — but willing to keep going — was exactly what I needed. I learned to build in the midst of chaos.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Andrei Kurtuy: Yes, from the very beginning, our goal has been to help people find the right job and build the career they deserve. I’ve personally experienced how hard it is to present your skills professionally, especially when you lack connections or resources.
Even when we made mistakes or the market changed, our core mission stayed the same: to make access to career opportunities more equitable. We’re not just building a résumé tool. We want to give people a real chance, regardless of where they come from or what they studied.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve changed since then?
Andrei Kurtuy: At 19, I was full of energy and ambition, but pretty naive. I believed that if I worked hard and got visible results — money, traffic, users — I would be successful. I was impatient and quick to change direction if something didn’t work fast.
Now, at 32, things are different. I no longer chase immediate results. Success, for me, means having the freedom to make decisions aligned with my values and to build a balanced life. I’ve learned that real progress is sometimes boring — it comes from consistency, not sprints. Reputation is built over years. Clarity comes from action, not perfect plans.

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Andrei Kurtuy: I think they’d say I’m authentic and transparent. That I take responsibility for decisions and don’t change direction every other day. That I stay calm under pressure — a skill I picked up as a bartender — and that I always try to see the big picture without losing sight of the details.
They’d probably also say I give them space to share ideas, try new things, make mistakes, and learn. I try to be a leader who values trust, continuous learning, and long-term growth — not just quick wins.

C&B: What’s the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Andrei Kurtuy: I think the most important decision was to keep the freemium model for Novorésumé. Even though over 90% of users use the free version, we chose not to switch entirely to a paid model.
That decision helped us tremendously in the long run: it increased our visibility, built trust, and allowed us to grow a large user base. Many of them become paying customers when they need more. It confirmed that you can build a sustainable business if you focus on the value you provide, not just on immediate profit.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or decision-making approach? Was it natural or learned?
Andrei Kurtuy: It was shaped by everything I’ve done so far. From bartending — where I learned to stay calm and work well with people — to my job at the library, which taught me organization and patience. Then in Business Development, I learned how important clear communication is and focusing on real human needs.
In decision-making, I try to combine data with intuition. We constantly analyze user behavior, test, and measure. But there are also moments when you have to make quick decisions based on experience and instinct — especially when data doesn’t tell the whole story or when innovation is involved.

C&B: What sets your business or professional approach apart from others in the industry?
Andrei Kurtuy: We focus on personalization. In our industry, many promote the idea that a one-size-fits-all résumé is enough. We believe every job is different — so the résumé should be adapted accordingly.
We also stand out in how we approach content: we don’t create it to impress, but to help. We write clearly, for real people. Most people search “how to write a résumé,” not “how to stand out through storytelling.” When we understood that, we grew organically by speaking the users’ language.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what moments bring you the most satisfaction?
Andrei Kurtuy: My day starts with movement — I either run or walk, and aim for 10,000 steps. It’s a daily reset that helps me think more clearly.
At work, as CMO, I handle everything related to digital marketing. I work with the team and external partners, test ideas, and constantly adjust. As fewer people follow brands and more follow individuals, I adapted — I now write a career-focused newsletter and create content that directly helps people.
The most rewarding moments are when we get messages from people who found jobs thanks to the platform. Outside of work, I unwind by reading. I just finished Lord of the Flies — still incredibly relevant.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them day to day?
Andrei Kurtuy: Stoicism has influenced me a lot — especially the idea of Amor fati — to accept and even love what happens to you, even when it’s hard. I try to see obstacles as necessary parts of the journey.
Authenticity is a core principle. I try to be transparent and consistent, which builds trust in the team. At the same time, I know everyone is different, so I approach relationships with empathy.
I try to protect my attention, which I see as a very limited resource. I only say “yes” to projects that have real impact, align with our strengths, and don’t burn out the team.
And I strongly believe in adaptability. In a constantly changing industry, continuous learning is essential.

C&B: How did the idea to start this business come about, and where did the name come from?
Andrei Kurtuy: The idea came in 2014, during a university competition. I was studying marketing, Ștefan was in Computer Science, and Cristian was in Multimedia Design. We joined forces and started working on a solution to a problem we all faced: how hard it was to create a résumé in Word.
We wanted to build an app where the design was already taken care of, and the user only had to fill in the information. That’s how the first prototype was born.
The name “Novorésumé” comes from “novo” (new) and “résumé” (CV). We liked the idea of a “new résumé” — something modern and professional. Plus, the domain novoresume.com was available, which was a big bonus.

C&B: If you could send a message to people following in your footsteps, what would it be?
Andrei Kurtuy: Don’t wait until you’re ready.
Many young people waste years waiting for the perfect idea, the perfect moment, or the certainty that it’s “worth it” to start. The truth is, learning comes from doing, not planning. Clarity comes when you begin — not when you’re just dreaming.
Talk to people who have the problem you want to solve. Don’t try to seem legit before you actually have something that works.
If you’re in your 20s, take risks. It’s the best time to try. If you wait too long, you might build confidence in the wrong direction — towards safety, avoiding uncertainty, routine.
You don’t need the perfect idea to start. You just need to start.
And maybe most importantly: enjoy the beginning. The long nights, the mistakes, the first little wins — those are the most valuable memories. You only build your first company once. Live the moment, not just the next step.â

This interview with Andrei Kurtuy shows us that success is not born out of perfection, but out of persistence, courage, and the ability to learn from failure. His story proves that obstacles can become the foundation of a remarkable career, and that true innovation arises from real-life experiences. Novorésumé is more than just a platform – it is a bridge between people and the opportunities they deserve.

The post Andrei Kurtuy – The Romanian Entrepreneur Revolutionizing Resume Building with Novorésumé appeared first on careers-business.com.

Peejay Vincent, percussionist artist and music producer, is the most authentic artist in Romania in the entertainment field (private events, clubbing, and corporate).

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence that would spark curiosity in those who don’t know you yet?
Peejay Vincent: I’m a complex and simple person, in the sense that I have a simplicity in the way I see things that even surprises me.

C&B: If we were to look at the narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key moments that defined you?
Peejay Vincent: The key moments were when I worked as a support engineer at Microsoft for major companies, and at the same time, I was a percussionist in a club in Bucharest on weekends. I realized that music and the joy of making people feel good while performing made me feel even better.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
Peejay Vincent: The most difficult and, at the same time, easiest moment was when I left my job as a support engineer at Microsoft to pursue music. After leaving Microsoft, I went through a year and a half during which my family’s income collapsed. Luckily, my wife supported my decision and took care of us financially and emotionally. After that period—which I saw as a time of testing and which I passed successfully—things started working again.

C&B: Has there been a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Peejay Vincent: Yes, my dream has always been to be a free man in what I do, and the ambition that has guided and still guides me is that nothing is impossible.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve transformed over time?
Peejay Vincent: Like any beginning in any field—you have to persist, to learn, to observe, and to collect what is good for you, because people are not the same even if they do the same thing in the same field. I was lucky to have connections through friends with good people who helped me rise and become who I am today.

C&B: If we were to meet your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Peejay Vincent: That I’m a soulful person and, above all, a hardworking professional.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Peejay Vincent: I accepted the challenge to play club music at weddings and christenings—something that changed the way weddings are done today. A combination of traditional music for the older guests and club music for the younger ones, so everyone is happy at the wedding. I’m glad that I’m among the first, or probably even the first, who opened the door for this kind of wedding.

C&B: How did you build your leadership style or the way you make decisions? Was it a natural or learned process?
Peejay Vincent: Building a career, no matter the field, takes time, a lot of work, sacrifices, and determination. For me, it was also a very natural process—I’ve learned a lot.

C&B: What do you think sets your business or your professional approach apart from the rest of the industry?
Peejay Vincent: With me, a promise made to a client is always kept. I’ve never promised anything I couldn’t do or deliver. I care a lot about professionalism and mutual respect. Moreover, the way I deliver my service is completely different. That’s why, after each performance, I’m 100% sure that at least two new clients will follow.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what moments bring you the most satisfaction?
Peejay Vincent: A typical day starts with waking up around 9 a.m., 11 or 12 sometimes, depending on what I had going on the day before. I sometimes work from home, mow the lawn if needed, cook when my wife is very busy with work. Usually, I cook at home. Later in the afternoon or evening, I go to the studio to produce music with other artists from the city. I also post on social media from time to time.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them day by day?
Peejay Vincent: My values and principles are: you are unique, be professional, always be respectful to those you work with and who respect you, and last but not least, be smart.

C&B: How did the idea of starting this business come to you, and how did you choose its name?
Peejay Vincent: My stage name, Peejay Vincent, simply came from the fact that I worked a lot with DJs (Deejays), and I thought Percussion Jocker would go well, similar to DJ – Disk Jocker. The idea to start this business came from the lack of this kind of percussion show in Romanian clubs. I am the first percussionist artist who started this kind of show in Romania, a few years ago.

C&B: If you were to send a message to the people who follow your example, what would it be?
Peejay Vincent: If you truly want it—if you feel that this is what you want to do in life—you’ll need a lot of work and seriousness. Don’t do it just because you see all kinds of videos on social media; otherwise, the end result will be a burden and a waste of time.

Peejay Vincent’s story reminds us that true calling always finds its way. The courage to follow your passion can transform a life—and a career.

The post From Microsoft to Live Percussion: The Story of Peejay Vincent, Pioneer of Music Shows in Romania appeared first on careers-business.com.

Constantin Paraschiv is an entrepreneur, business consultant, host of the show “Permis de Antreprenor” aired on Euronews Romania, and founder of several projects dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and developing the business ecosystem.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence to spark the curiosity of those who don’t know you yet?
Constantin Paraschiv: I’m an entrepreneur who believes in the power of community and education to turn business challenges into real opportunities.

C&B: Looking at the narrative thread of your career or business, what have been the key moments that defined you?
Constantin Paraschiv: Launching my first e-commerce projects, starting out in business consulting, meeting mentors who shifted my perspective, and the moment I decided to create “Permis de Antreprenor”—a media and community platform dedicated to entrepreneurial education—are all milestones that shaped my path.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment so far in your journey and how did you overcome it?
Constantin Paraschiv: The hardest moment was taking responsibility for the failure of my first e-commerce project during a time of economic instability. I overcame it by learning to ask for help and rebuilding my business on healthier foundations, without the fear of starting over.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Constantin Paraschiv: I’ve always wanted to prove that it’s possible to build in Romania a business ecosystem based on trust, partnerships, and know-how, and that ideal has constantly guided me.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you’ve transformed since then?
Constantin Paraschiv: In the beginning, I was impatient, full of ideas but lacking method. Today, I’m much more balanced, wiser in prioritizing, and better at building teams and communities that can take ideas to the next level.

C&B: If we met your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Constantin Paraschiv: I think they would say I’m persistent, sometimes a perfectionist, but always open to helping them grow and find their place in the team.

C&B: What is the most important decision you’ve made that changed your trajectory?
Constantin Paraschiv: The decision to share everything I learn through media projects, conferences, and mentoring has helped me not only create value for others but also constantly rediscover my motivation.

C&B: How did you develop your leadership style or your way of making decisions? Was it a natural or learned process?
Constantin Paraschiv: A mix: I learned a lot from people around me and from books, but many lessons came through trial and error. Today I guide my decisions with a rational process, but also with intuition shaped by experience.

C&B: What do you think differentiates your business or your professional approach from the rest of the industry?
Constantin Paraschiv: I focus on people and education. I don’t just sell products or services—I create environments where clients and partners can learn, connect, and grow together.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what moments bring you the greatest satisfaction?
Constantin Paraschiv: I dedicate my mornings to planning and strategic meetings, and my evenings to reflection and creativity. The greatest satisfaction comes from seeing the concrete results of the people I’ve helped.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them daily?
Constantin Paraschiv: Honesty, perseverance, and a partnership mindset. I like to demonstrate them through actions, in the way I treat every client, collaborator, or employee.

C&B: How did the idea for this business come to you, and why did you choose this name?
Constantin Paraschiv: The idea for “Permis de Antreprenor” came from the desire to offer entrepreneurs a symbolic “license” to learn and make mistakes, while also understanding that entrepreneurship is a path to be learned and practiced with responsibility.

C&B: If you were to share one message with those who follow your example, what would it be?
Constantin Paraschiv: The courage to start is important, but even more important is to keep going when the road gets tough. Surround yourself with good people, learn from every situation, and never stop growing.

Constantin Paraschiv offered us an authentic and valuable perspective on the challenges and successes of the entrepreneurial world. Through his initiatives, he shows that success comes from balance, adaptability, and a genuine desire to build for people.

The post Constantin Paraschiv’s Entrepreneurial Journey: Challenges and Victories appeared first on careers-business.com.