Paulo Aguiar – I Sold My Company to Start Teaching and Creating All Over Again (AI Educator From Brazil)

"It’s going to be harder than you think — but once it clicks, it’ll be way more fun than you ever imagined."

1. What sparked your journey into content creation — was it planned or spontaneous?

I spent 17 years working as a creative leader in major agencies and also launched ventures in communication and gaming. During that time, I was deeply involved in big festivals and awards — content was always part of my world, though never my main focus.

My partner, Vic Gaibar, is a successful content creator, and watching her journey inspired me immensely. About a year ago, I sold my company and started diving into studying and teaching AI. Creating content naturally became the best way to share what I was learning, connect with others, and keep growing.

2. How do you keep your creative energy high when trends move so fast?

Working with AI means being constantly exposed to updates, tools, and breakthroughs. It can feel overwhelming, but at the same time, it’s incredibly energizing. The creative possibilities keep expanding — and that’s exciting.

Over time, I’ve learned not to stress about keeping up with everything. In a world moving this fast, it’s better to stay curious than to try and stay in control.

3. What’s one behind-the-scenes habit that helps you stay on track?

These days, it’s really hard to create something truly original if all you consume is content from the internet. That’s why I intentionally feed my creativity in other ways — visiting museums, watching films and series, playing games, and exploring art and architecture. I also love to travel and connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

I try to bring those real-world and aesthetic experiences into my content, instead of simply recycling what’s already out there.

4. Do you ever feel pressure to “perform” online — and how do you handle it?

I’d love to say I don’t feel any pressure, but that wouldn’t be true. It’s inevitable — especially when your content starts performing well and opportunities come your way, whether it's brand deals, travel offers, or event invitations.

What helps me stay grounded is reminding myself that not every post needs to go viral. Some content is valuable simply because it positions you well or opens doors to unexpected opportunities. I try to measure success not just in numbers, but in what each post teaches me — or who it connects me with.

Sometimes, all it takes is one view from the right person to launch something amazing.

5. How do you decide what part of your life stays offline?

Right now, around 90% of my content revolves around education and experimentation with AI. I rarely share anything personal — not because I don’t want to, but because creating the content I already do takes a lot of effort.

So for now, keeping my personal life offline helps me maintain balance. But I do hope to share more of that side eventually.

6. Is there a piece of advice you live by, especially as a creator in the spotlight?

The same advice I often give others is what I try to remind myself of every day: Don’t overplan. Creating is more important than perfect planning. Focus on doing, testing, and learning — not just thinking about what might work.

Don’t blame the algorithm, and don’t compare yourself to creators with bigger numbers. Learn from both your successes and failures.

And most importantly, make things you genuinely enjoy. Creating consistently is hard work — but if you love what you’re doing, even the tough parts feel a little easier.

7. If you could give your younger self one message before going viral, what would it be?

It’s going to be harder than you think. But once it starts working, it’ll be way more fun than you ever imagined.

Keep going. And don’t stress over what people might think — they’re probably not paying as much attention as you believe.

8. If you could bring any emoji to life and spend a day with it — which one would it be and why?

Definitely the 🤖 emoji. I’d love to see the AIs I use daily come to life — just to have one honest, face-to-face conversation with them.

Bio:

Paulo Aguiar is a former creative leader with 17 years of experience in top advertising agencies and ventures in communication and gaming. Today, he’s carving a new path as an AI educator and content creator, using his platform to make cutting-edge technology more accessible and inspiring. After selling his company, Paulo turned his focus to teaching and sharing his knowledge through engaging, experimental content that bridges creativity, tech, and storytelling. With a sharp eye for trends and a passion for lifelong learning, he’s redefining what it means to be a creator in the AI era.

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Interviewed by: Niyati Gupta 

Edited by: Shantanu Singh