Lessons from growing Spotify, Google & Tencent — Dinner with Dan Brody, Vice President, Business Development of Tencent Games

Sometimes the most meaningful and inspiring conversations happen over casual meals. The Time Auction Blog is a snippet of our meetings with people who have found passion in their life and career, where we get a glimpse into their mentality behind their ventures.

Whatever it is you’re doing, enjoy life to the greatest extent! That was our biggest takeaway from Dan Brody, Vice President for Business Development at Tencent Games.

After serving at a variety of executive roles at companies like Spotify, Tudou and Google, and working as a Mandarin interpreter, Dan now works with gaming companies from Western markets for both licensing and investment.

Over dinner, not only did we learn about his journey in business development, but also his tips on being a good father, son and husband.

Is there a life motto or philosophy that you live by?

First and foremost is filial piety. Take care of your parents. I’m not saying that just because my mom is here. I have kids, and I want them to remember to take care of me when I’m old too.

Next down the list is to

Play hard and work hard.

It doesn’t matter whether if its work or life, have fun. Don’t do it for the money, do it for the fun.

Also on a side note, always apologize to your wife. No matter what, it’s your fault. Accept it. Happy wife, happy life. Unhappy wife? That ends with unending years of tears and pain.

Any book recommendations?

Good question. I love sci-fi so I’ll have to go with California Bones, a fantasy novel set in the Los Angeles. Another one would be the History of CRISPR, the book is about cracking the code and invention of genetic splicing technology, which is absolutely astonishing.

An action you’d like everyone to take away?

Volunteer more. Come to the next Time Auction bid and spend more time volunteering. It’s such an awesome programme. Also play more games, listen to more songs, and read more books. All in all, just enjoy yourselves to the greatest extent. We live in an amazing time. For centuries, humans have died quickly and have lived an impoverished life. It is only in the last few decades have we finally managed to prosper in peace. So when it comes to life,

Just enjoy it, and spend time with your loved ones.

Thank you Dan for raising 111 volunteer hours to Scout Association of Hong Kong, AFS Hong Kong and more!

BIG thank you to our sponsors Locofama & Deliveroo and volunteer photographer Ivy Fung!

For more amazing opportunities, visit Time Auction to volunteer and meet inspiring mentors!