Virgílio Bento: “The success of a company is what I can create and how happy, energised and at peace I am. That’s Portugal to me”
Virgilio Bento, CEO of Sword Health and leader of one of Portugal’s notable unicorn companies joins host Tony Gonçalves for this episode of The Heart and Hustle of Portugal. Known as “V” among friends, Virgilio discusses why success doesn’t require leaving Portugal and emphasises the significance of fostering local talent and investment. V offers his straightforward insights on leadership, stressing the importance of focusing on value creation over chasing unicorn status. He also delves into the strengths of Portuguese culture and shares some of his personal favorite Portuguese dishes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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53:26
Neemias Queta: a giant among us: the rise of the first Portuguese NBA player is a story of resilience and routine
Neemias Queta is an icon: the first Portuguese NBA player. The 25 year old basketballer, currently playing for the Boston Celtics, shares his journey from his roots playing soccer in the streets of Lisbon to being drafted for the NBA in 2021 The Celtics player embodies a humbleness and kindness that rivals his competitive approach on the court, having won the NBA championship in 2024, in his first season with the team. Neemias also shares his favourite Portuguese comfort food and his goal to fulfil his mother’s desire: to get a university degree.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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34:01
Tony Gonçalves: Work Hard, be curious, be kind
Before we kick off the second season of “The Heart and Hustle of Portugal,” our host, Tony Gonçalves, steps into the guest’s chair to be interviewed by Francisco Pedro Balsemão. They discuss Tony’s storied career in the media industry and his deep roots in Portugal.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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55:41
Rerelease: George Mendes’s journey and the Portuguese Michelin starred restaurants that are competing globally at a higher level
George Mendes, the chef from Amar in Boston, shares his personal journey from his culinary school nickname 'George Burns' to earning a Michelin Star in New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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48:25
Rerelease: Rodrigues’ Sisters (not Roberts), reclaiming a name and their grandparents legacy
Filmmaking duo Marlee and Karlee Rodrigues share their experiences reclaiming their grandparents heritage using documentary as a means to perpetuate the culture. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Each week, join Tony Gonçalves—a U.S.-based Portuguese immigrant and successful media executive—as he explores the stories of those driving Portugal’s influence on the global stage. From visionary entrepreneurs to cultural pioneers, The Heart and Hustle of Portugal uncovers the unique ways the Portuguese identity thrives worldwide. As Expresso’s first English-language product, this series bridges cultures and connects the global audience to Portugal’s spirit of innovation, passion, and resilience.
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