Esra Talu is the Founder & CEO of GoGlobal, a boutique advisory firm based in Miami, USA, dedicated to helping tech startups expand into international markets. With over 25 years of experience in entrepreneurship and investment advisory, she co-founded Deppo, Turkey’s first e-commerce company, in 1999 and led it to become one of the country’s top online platforms.
She is passionate about women’s empowerment, innovation, and sustainable growth. Having mentored and advised numerous startups, she has guided founders through fundraising, market expansion, and strategic growth. Esra serves as a Tech Partner to SelectUSA, a Judge and Mentor for global startup pitch sessions, and a speaker at international tech summits.
She is also the author of Breaking Boundaries: How I Built a Startup and Paved the Way for Others, now available on Amazon. In her book, she shares her journey as a pioneering female entrepreneur, aiming to inspire future founders to think globally and scale with purpose. Committed to fostering an inclusive startup ecosystem, she helps founders navigate the complexities of global business expansion.
If your business could have a mascot, what would it be and why?
If my business, GoGlobal, could have a mascot, it would be a Phoenix.
The Phoenix symbolizes resilience, transformation, and limitless growth—values that align perfectly with the entrepreneurial journey. Startups often face challenges, setbacks, and moments of reinvention, and just like the Phoenix rising from the ashes, successful founders adapt, evolve, and emerge stronger.
At GoGlobal, we empower entrepreneurs to scale beyond borders, overcome obstacles, and thrive in new markets. The Phoenix represents this spirit of bold ambition, fearless reinvention, and global impact, which defines both my journey and the mission of GoGlobal.
What strategies do you employ to maintain a healthy work-life balance while running your own business?
I believe that maintaining a healthy work-life balance while running a business is essential for long-term success. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that balance is not about rigid separation but about setting the right priorities. Here are the key strategies I employ:
- Prioritization & Time Management – I structure my day around priorities, not just tasks. I focus on what truly moves the needle—whether it’s strategy, client engagement, or personal growth. I use time-blocking to allocate time efficiently for both work and personal commitments.
- Setting Boundaries – I have learned to say no to unnecessary distractions and delegate tasks that do not require my direct involvement. Protecting my time allows me to stay focused and avoid burnout.
- Integrating Work & Passion – I love what I do, which makes it easier to integrate my work into my lifestyle. Whether it’s meeting entrepreneurs in inspiring places or collaborating globally, I find ways to make work enjoyable rather than stressful.
- Making Time for Family & Personal Well-being – Spending quality time with my family is non-negotiable. I make sure to disconnect when needed, enjoy time with loved ones, and engage in activities that refresh my mind—such as being in nature, traveling, or exploring art and culture.
- Staying Active & Mindful – Physical and mental well-being are crucial. I stay active through walks, meditation, and mindful breaks, which help me stay energized and creative.
- Embracing Flexibility – As an entrepreneur, I have the freedom to design my schedule. I embrace a flexible approach to work, ensuring that I make space for both professional and personal fulfillment.
At the end of the day, I believe that a fulfilled entrepreneur is a more effective leader. By maintaining balance, I can bring my best self to both my business and my personal life.
When faced with unexpected detours on your business path, how do you pivot with grace and resilience, showing fellow women entrepreneurs the way forward?
When faced with unexpected detours in my business journey, I embrace adaptability, strategic thinking, and resilience—turning challenges into opportunities for growth. As an entrepreneur, I have learned that pivots are not failures but necessary steps toward long-term success. Here’s how I navigate unexpected turns while inspiring fellow women entrepreneurs to do the same:
- Embracing Change as an Opportunity – I view challenges as a chance to redefine strategy and innovate.
- Making Decisions with a Clear Mind – In moments of uncertainty, I pause, analyze, and act strategically rather than reacting impulsively.
- Leaning on My Network & Seeking Support – I strongly believe in the power of community and mentorship.
- Staying True to My Core Values – Every pivot I make aligns with my mission, vision, and values.
- Being Transparent & Communicating Effectively – Transparency builds trust and confidence in uncertain times.
- Innovating & Finding New Paths to Success – A pivot is not about abandoning a dream—it’s about finding a smarter way to achieve it.
- Leading by Example – I always say: “Dare to start, dare to pivot, and dare to lead with confidence.”
How do you measure the success of your business beyond financial metrics?
I measure the success of my business beyond financial metrics by focusing on impact, relationships, and long-term value creation. Here’s how I evaluate success:
- Founder & Client Success Stories – Seeing startups secure funding and expand into new markets.
- Meaningful Relationships & Global Network Growth – Building trust and long-term collaborations.
- Thought Leadership & Industry Influence – Sharing insights through books, speaking engagements, and mentoring.
- Community Engagement & Ecosystem Development – Supporting women entrepreneurs and tech founders.
- Brand Reputation & Trust – Positive referrals from clients, partners, and investors.
- Personal Fulfillment & Alignment with Values – Waking up every day passionate about making an impact.
Can you share a memorable moment where you witnessed significant growth or transformation in your business?
One of the most memorable moments in my journey with GoGlobal was when we helped a tech startup navigate a critical turning point. They were struggling with investor readiness and market expansion, facing multiple rejections.
Through GoGlobal’s Investment Readiness process, we refined their pitch, restructured their financials, connected them with key investors, and advised them on market entry. Within months, they secured funding, formed strategic partnerships, and expanded into new markets.
Seeing their transformation from uncertainty to confidence was an incredibly fulfilling moment that reaffirmed why I founded GoGlobal—to empower startups to grow beyond borders.
What role do you believe mentorship plays in the success of small businesses, and how have mentors influenced your own entrepreneurial journey?
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in small business success by providing guidance, strategic direction, and access to networks. Throughout my career, mentors have:
- Helped refine my vision and strategies.
- Provided real-world insights beyond theoretical knowledge.
- Expanded my network and created opportunities.
- Encouraged resilience and confidence during setbacks.
Today, I mentor startups through GoGlobal, helping them secure funding, expand internationally, and refine their business models—offering them the same support that shaped my own journey.
What’s your work all about, and how does it make a difference in the world?
My work is about empowering tech startups to scale globally, secure funding, and achieve sustainable growth. Through GoGlobal, I:
- Help founders expand into international markets.
- Provide investment readiness and growth strategies.
- Support women entrepreneurs in breaking barriers.
- Build a thriving startup ecosystem through strategic partnerships.
- Inspire future entrepreneurs through my book, Breaking Boundaries.
My mission is simple: to help entrepreneurs think big, act strategically, and create a lasting global impact.
