Interviewer:
Craig, you’ve built several successful companies in Latin America, including Biz Latin Hub and Medical Tourism Packages. What inspired you to take this entrepreneurial journey?
Craig Dempsey: My journey into entrepreneurship in Latin America was inspired by a combination of opportunity and personal experience. I’ve always been drawn to challenges, and Latin America presented a dynamic and emerging market with so much untapped potential. My background in the army played a big role in shaping my approach—discipline, persistence, and the ability to adapt under pressure have been invaluable traits in business.
Interviewer: How did your military experience help you transition into business?
Craig Dempsey: The military taught me patience and resilience. In high-pressure situations, you learn to focus on the mission and keep pushing forward, no matter how tough the circumstances. That mindset is critical in business, especially in Latin America, where processes can take longer, and you often have to deal with unexpected hurdles. I’ve faced delays, bureaucracy, and cultural differences, but the key is never giving up and always staying prepared.
Interviewer: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your companies in Latin America?
Craig Dempsey: One of the biggest challenges was navigating the legal and regulatory environments. Every country in Latin America has its own rules and processes, and they’re often more complex than in other regions. That’s actually why I started Biz Latin Hub—to help other entrepreneurs and companies simplify market entry and operations in Latin America. Another challenge was building trust and relationships. Latin America is very relationship-driven, and success often depends on who you know and how well you can integrate into local networks. It required patience, persistence, and a genuine effort to connect with people.
Interviewer: How did you overcome those challenges?
Craig Dempsey: I relied heavily on local expertise. Partnering with professionals who understand the market has been crucial. At Biz Latin Hub, we provide exactly that—local insights and support to help companies overcome regulatory and operational hurdles.
I also made a point of learning the culture and language. It’s important to show respect and adapt to local ways of doing business. Persistence was key—there were times I faced setbacks, but staying focused on the long-term vision made all the difference.
Interviewer: What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business in Latin America?
Craig Dempsey: First, be patient. Things can take longer than expected, but persistence pays off. Second, do your homework—research the market, understand the legal requirements, and know your competition. Third, build a strong network. Relationships are everything in Latin America, and having trusted partners will make your journey much smoother.
I also recommend working with experienced advisors. That’s why Biz Latin Hub exists—we’ve seen firsthand how valuable local expertise can be.
Interviewer: You’ve also launched Medical Tourism Packages. How did that idea come about?
Craig Dempsey: The idea for Medical Tourism Packages came from identifying a gap in the market. Latin America has world-class medical facilities and highly skilled specialists, but many international patients didn’t know how to access these services. I saw an opportunity to connect patients with reliable healthcare providers while also offering travel experiences.
It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact this business has had, not just for patients but also for local economies. It’s another example of how persistence and preparation can turn an idea into reality.
Interviewer: What role does mindset play in entrepreneurship?
Craig Dempsey: Mindset is everything. Success in business—and in life—often comes down to perseverance. My time in the army reinforced the importance of mental toughness. In entrepreneurship, you’ll face setbacks, but it’s about how you respond. I’ve always believed in pushing forward, adapting, and finding solutions instead of dwelling on problems.
Interviewer: Can you share an example of a time persistence paid off?
Craig Dempsey: Absolutely. When I was first setting up Biz Latin Hub, there were moments when it felt like we were hitting wall after wall. Whether it was regulatory red tape or operational challenges, we faced constant obstacles. But rather than giving in, we kept adjusting our approach until we found the right formula. That persistence is what ultimately made the business a success.
Similarly, with Medical Tourism Packages, launching during a time of uncertainty required a lot of faith and determination. It’s now thriving because we believed in the concept and stayed committed to seeing it through.
Interviewer: What final tips do you have for entrepreneurs considering Latin America?
Craig Dempsey: First, embrace the culture. Latin America is vibrant and full of opportunities, but success requires a willingness to adapt and connect with local people. Second, be prepared for bureaucracy and delays—have a plan but stay flexible. Third, never underestimate the value of local expertise. Surround yourself with professionals who can guide you through the process.
Lastly, stay persistent. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but if you keep pushing forward, the rewards can be tremendous.
Interviewer: Thank you, Craig. Your story is incredibly inspiring and full of valuable lessons.
Craig Dempsey: Thank you! I hope my experience helps others take the leap and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams in Latin America. With the right mindset and preparation, the possibilities are endless.
