Sumit Gupta

November 2024

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  • Leadership Journeys [201] – Mathias Wikström – “I started thinking I knew a lot, only to realize how much I still have to learn.”

    This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

    I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

    In this episode, I sit down with Mathias Wikström, CEO of Duconomy, to uncover the mindset behind leading for global impact. 

    Mathias dives into the highs and lows of turning big ideas into reality, revealing how personal growth, simplicity, and solitude fuel his mission to create a sustainable future. 

    He shares how his leadership philosophy—grounded in humility and stewardship—overcomes ego and invites collaboration on a worldwide scale. 

    If you’re looking to build a vision beyond business as usual and lead with authenticity, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 

    Join us for an insightful dialogue that redefines leadership as a shared journey of transformation. 

    You can find Mathias Wikström at the below links

    In the interview, Mathias shares

    • “True leadership isn’t about being in the spotlight; it’s about enabling others to shine and leading from behind.”
    • “Mathias Wikström believes in sustainability not as a buzzword but as a responsibility—leading Duconomy to make a genuine global impact through finance.”
    • “Personal growth is humbling; it often starts with the realization of how much you have yet to learn.”
    • “Leadership transcends the office. Mathias sees his work, home, and the world at large as deeply connected, where each area enriches the other.”
    • “The greatest barrier to global collaboration is often ego. Mathias shares how eradicating it is central to his mission of stewardship.”
    • “Simplicity keeps me grounded. From sugar-free living to walking 10,000 steps daily, I find balance through routines that align with my bigger vision.”
    • “Moments of solitude are vital. Alone by the sea, Mathias finds clarity and a chance to recalibrate his leadership ambitions.”
    • “In a world obsessed with productivity, Mathias challenges us to pause, reflect, and embrace introspection as a vital element of sustained success.”
    • “Imagine leadership as a symphony. This journey of change is a collective movement, where many voices are needed to create lasting impact.”
    • “True leadership is about stewardship, courage, and humility. It’s a daily choice to create positive change in our world, one step at a time.”

  • Leadership Journeys [200] – Jean-Paul (JP) de Jong – “Just because I look or sound different doesn’t mean I can’t be part of the conversation.”

    This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

    I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

    In this episode of the Choosing Leadership Podcast, I sit down with JP de Jong, CEO of WTS Energy, to uncover his fascinating journey from a globally unrooted upbringing to becoming a transformative leader in the energy industry. 

    JP shares how moving across cultures taught him adaptability, resilience, and the importance of asserting his voice in leadership. 

    We dive into the challenges of leading through change as WTS Energy shifts towards sustainability and innovation. 

    Whether you’re navigating tough decisions, managing diverse teams, or seeking to evolve your leadership style, JP’s story offers powerful insights and practical advice. 

    Tune in for an inspiring conversation that will help you lead with authenticity and confidence, no matter where you are in your leadership journey.

    You can find Jean-Paul (JP) de Jong at the below links

    In the interview, Jean-Paul shares

    • “JP’s international upbringing—from the Netherlands to Indonesia—shaped his worldview, making him a chameleon leader who thrives in diverse environments.”
    • “Growing up without roots, JP turned the challenge of feeling unanchored into a strength, allowing him to connect deeply with people across cultures.”
    • “Leadership isn’t just about holding a title—it’s about leading by example, making tough decisions, and staying true to who you are.”
    • “JP shares how learning to assert himself across cultures became the foundation for his confident and decisive leadership style.”
    • “WTS Energy is evolving toward sustainability, with projects in geothermal, biofuels, solar, and wind shaping the future of the company.”
    • “JP emphasizes the importance of educating the public and stakeholders, highlighting WTS Energy’s transition from oil and gas to renewable resources.”
    • “Investing in people is key to JP’s leadership philosophy—WTS Energy’s global training schools equip individuals with the skills needed for growth and innovation.”
    • “Leaders are more than their public personas. JP reminds us of the emotional depth and empathy that drive authentic leadership.”
    • “JP’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability—proving that even the most unrooted beginnings can lead to grounded, powerful leadership.”
    • “Leadership is a conscious, powerful choice—one marked by authenticity, purpose, and the courage to keep learning and evolving.”

  • Leadership Journeys [199] – Nicholas Rudge – “You Can’t Sprint a Marathon.”

    This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

    I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

    In this episode of *Choosing Leadership*, I sit down with Nicholas Rudge, CEO of OCL Vision, to explore the real challenges of leading with purpose in today’s fast-paced world. 

    Nik shares his journey from being thrust into leadership roles to intentionally shaping company culture, all while balancing personal growth and team development. 

    We dive deep into how questioning the status quo, managing ego, and embracing vulnerability can transform your leadership approach. 

    Nik’s insights on scaling a business while staying true to its values are invaluable for leaders navigating growth and change. 

    Tune in for practical strategies and fresh perspectives on leading authentically.

    You can find Nicholas Rudge at the below links

    In the interview, Nicholas shares

    • “Leadership sometimes chooses us. It’s not always a decision—it’s a path that unfolds, with others seeing in us what we might not yet see in ourselves.” 
    • “Transitioning into health care leadership was about aligning passion with impact. At OCL Vision, I saw a chance to combine values-driven leadership with making a real difference.” 
    • “True leadership starts with questioning everything—especially the practices that have always been ‘the way they are.’” 
    • “Leadership is about balancing confidence and ego. It’s knowing when to stand firm on your values and vision, without letting ego define your success.” 
    • “Leadership is a full-contact sport. You can’t sprint a marathon, and the same goes for leading—pace yourself and make time to recharge.” 
    • “Scaling a company while maintaining its core values is challenging. The key is creating a culture where the team moves from being told what to do to actively seeking answers.” 
    • “Self-awareness is critical in leadership. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses allows you to build a team where authentic leadership can truly flourish.” 
    • “Leadership can be lonely, but taking care of yourself is essential. Cycling and personal time help recharge my mental battery, allowing me to lead effectively.” 
    • “Leadership isn’t just about numbers or traditional measures of success—it’s about personal and communal growth, leaving a positive impact along the way.” 
    • “If you want to lead effectively, you have to roll up your sleeves and get into the trenches with your team. Leadership is as much about action as it is about vision.”

  • Leadership Journeys [198] – Carolina Salazar – “Before you address your team problems, take a walk around the corner”

    This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

    I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other’s stories – of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

    In this episode, I sit down with Carolina Salazar, founder and CEO of Design Thinking Sweden, to explore her journey at the intersection of leadership, innovation, and technology. 

    Carolina shares powerful insights on leading global teams across continents, building a people-centered culture, and overcoming the unique challenges of entrepreneurship. 

    Whether you’re striving to empower your team, innovate with purpose, or balance curiosity with leadership, Carolina’s experience offers practical strategies and fresh perspectives. 

    We also dive into her vision of integrating advanced technologies, including the metaverse, to shape the future of customer experiences. 

    Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to rethink how you lead and embrace innovation to drive meaningful impact.

    You can find Carolina Salazar at the below links

    In the interview, Carolina shares

    • “Curiosity and innovation have driven every step of my journey, from design thinking to immersive technologies.” 
    • “Building a strong team isn’t just about hiring talent; it’s about trusting their expertise and empowering them to lead.” 
    • “Leading across continents challenged me, but focusing on people-centered solutions ensured our success.” 
    • “Entrepreneurship is a road less traveled, filled with both obstacles and rewards that shape who we become as leaders.” 
    • “At the heart of our mission is blending technology with humanity to solve grand challenges.” 
    • “The key to leadership lies in balancing curiosity with a relentless commitment to learning and growth.” 
    • “Our future vision embraces advanced technologies, including the launch of a metaverse for enriching customer experiences.” 
    • “The ability to see different perspectives—whether through books or cultures—offers invaluable insights in leadership.”
    • “Design thinking isn’t just a method; it’s a mindset that helps solve the most complex, human-centered problems.” 
    • “Stay connected, stay curious—leadership is about continuous engagement with both people and innovation.”