December 2024

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 Mark McDermott, Co-founder and CEO of ScreenCloud, to uncover the leadership insights behind his entrepreneurial success.

From balancing technical expertise with customer-centricity to evolving his vision in response to real-world challenges, Mark shares practical lessons for navigating growth and uncertainty.

We explore how to build a resilient mindset, develop strong leaders within your team, and create space for innovation even amidst chaos.

If you’ve ever struggled with adapting your leadership style as your business scales or questioned how to stay true to your vision while serving your customers, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom.

Tune in for an inspiring and refreshingly honest take on leading with purpose and intention.

You can find Mark McDermott at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhmcdermott/

In the interview, Mark shares

• “Choosing leadership is about stepping into the unknown with courage and commitment—even when uncertainty looms.”
• “Your founding vision is the anchor of your entrepreneurial journey, but evolving that vision to meet customer needs is what creates true impact.”
• “Mark McDermott reminds us that delivering meaningful solutions isn’t about over-engineering; it’s about listening to and understanding your customers.”
• “Leadership grows alongside your business. Each new phase demands you to adapt and recommit to your vision.”
• “As leaders, we must ask ourselves: Who are we truly building this product for? Balancing technical expertise with customer focus is a superpower.”
• “Structured days for deep work and strategic thinking allow leaders to create space for reflection and innovation.”
• “Building a resilient mindset is key—be kind to yourself and lean on a support network during turbulent times.”
• “Leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself. Building a strong second level of leaders ensures your vision is upheld and executed.”
• “Side projects can be more than hobbies—they provide creative breathing room and keep the passion alive.”
• “Mark’s entrepreneurial journey is a masterclass in balancing technical vision, customer commitment, and leadership growth through all stages of scaling a business.”

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, Simon Hill, CEO of Wazoku, shares his unconventional journey from being labeled a “corporate misfit” to becoming a trailblazing entrepreneur.

If you’ve ever felt boxed in by traditional leadership structures or the rigid teachings of business schools, Simon’s story will inspire you to break free.

He reveals how leveraging both human and AI-driven insights can spark lasting innovation and drive real change.

With a focus on trust, transparency, and empowering teams, Simon dives deep into how modern leaders can create not just successful businesses but also meaningful, planet-wide impact.

Tune in for bold leadership insights that challenge the status quo and inspire you to lead with purpose and courage.

You can find Simon Hill at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrsihill/
https://www.wazoku.com/

In the interview, Simon shares

• “Simon Hill is shaking up the corporate world with his bold, visionary approach to leadership and innovation.”
• “From ‘corporate misfit’ to trailblazing entrepreneur, Simon’s journey is about daring to dream big and challenge the status quo.”
• “True change starts with a single idea—Simon believes in dreaming differently to drive meaningful transformation.”
• “Through ‘connected collective intelligence,’ Simon’s company, Wazoku, combines human ingenuity with AI to foster lasting innovation.”
• “Innovation isn’t about quick fixes; it’s a systematic approach to harnessing ideas for long-term impact.”
• “Simon’s leadership journey has been a lesson in trust, transparency, and empowering teams within a flat organizational structure.”
• “To lead effectively, Simon says you must focus not just on the business, but on personal evolution that aligns with visionary goals.”
• “Simon’s mission goes beyond corporate growth—he’s driving innovation that makes a real planetary impact.”
• “Leadership is a choice to act fearlessly and create impact, no matter the challenges.”
• “Simon champions innovation that serves both business and society, aiming to leave a legacy of positive change.”

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, Harald Røine, CEO of Buro Ventures, shares the raw realities of entrepreneurship—from burnout to breakthroughs—and reveals the mindset shifts that propelled him forward. 

Starting from humble beginnings as a gamer turned coder, Harald learned early that resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking were the keys to success. 

He opens up about the balance (and struggle) of managing work and life, especially as he faces the exciting new chapter of starting a family. 

His insights into AI’s role in the future of business offer a fascinating glimpse into tomorrow’s possibilities. 

Tune in for an episode packed with practical wisdom for any leader navigating growth, adversity, and the pursuit of a lasting impact.

You can find Harald Røine at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/haraldroine/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/buro-ventures/

In the interview, Harald shares

• “Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting young; it’s about the resilience to keep going, no matter the setbacks.”
• “In leadership, challenges are inevitable, but Harald reminds us to view setbacks as opportunities—and to approach them with gratitude.”
• “Harald’s story began with a love for gaming, but his journey became one of creating, adapting, and building resilience from age 12.”
• “Balancing work and personal life is an ongoing journey for entrepreneurs; Harald’s story underscores the power of prioritizing what truly matters.”
• “Seeing AI as a future force, Harald’s vision to create AI-driven companies reflects his forward-thinking approach and adaptability.”
• “Every leader needs a powerful mindset: Harald’s story emphasizes the need to believe in oneself, even when faced with failure.”
• “Burnout taught Harald a vital lesson—to listen to your body and turn challenges into stepping stones for sustainable growth.”
• “Entrepreneurship isn’t just creativity; it’s a balance of passion and pragmatism, a theme Harald knows well through his journey.”
• “The duality of entrepreneurship: it’s both exhilarating and demanding, requiring skills from marketing to networking—skills Harald embraced.”
• “Leadership is a choice: Harald’s story reminds us to choose growth, tackle challenges head-on, and never stop learning.”

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 Maulik Sailor, the resilient founder and CEO of Notchup and Innovify, to dive deep into his inspiring journey from engineer to entrepreneur. 

Maulik shares practical wisdom on leading through uncertainty, recruiting the right people, and balancing the human element with technology in a fast-evolving world. 

As we discuss the shifting demands of leadership, Maulik reveals his approach to handling stress, adapting goals, and embracing disruption with courage. 

For leaders seeking to build future-ready teams and navigate complex challenges, Maulik’s insights offer a powerful roadmap. 

Tune in for a conversation that will leave you inspired to make bold choices and elevate your leadership impact.

You can find Maulik Sailor at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauliksailor/

In the interview, Maulik shares

• “Leadership is a choice—a choice to step into the unknown, embrace challenges, and celebrate the leader within you.”
• “The journey from engineer to entrepreneur isn’t easy, but Maulik Sailor’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability it requires.”
• “When navigating an era of disruption, it’s essential to focus on short-term, adaptable goals rather than rigid long-term plans.”
• “Finding the right people with the right mindset and motivation is crucial—but turning knowledge into institutional wisdom is the true challenge.”
• “Leveraging technology to streamline operations allows human creativity to flourish—a balance of AI and human ingenuity is the future.”
• “Resilience is the foundation of enduring leadership, especially in today’s unpredictable business landscape.”
• “Stress and motivation coexist in leadership—building resilience and surrounding yourself with the right team is key.”
• “To cultivate a future-ready company, leaders must integrate innovative technology without losing the human element.”
• “Maulik’s insights remind us: while the path may be uncertain, your vision and choices define the journey.”

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, Viktor Underwood, CEO of Quickchannel, shares his remarkable journey from a three-person startup to steering a thriving video communications company. 

Viktor dives into the transformative power of radical transparency and trust, revealing how open communication and bold decision-making shaped his approach to leadership. 

He reflects on navigating tough times like mergers and layoffs, and the invaluable lessons learned about resilience and teamwork. 

For leaders facing their own challenges, Viktor’s story offers powerful insights into leading with authenticity and courage. 

Tune in to discover how embracing transparency can not only strengthen your team but also create lasting impact.

You can find  Viktor Underwood at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/viktorunderwood/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/quickchannel-ab/

In the interview, Viktor shares

• “Viktor Underwood’s leadership journey started in a basement office, choosing risk over comfort – a choice that set him on a transformative path.”
• “From overseeing mergers to navigating layoffs, Viktor reveals how radical transparency can unlock trust and resilience in an organization.”
• “By openly sharing the challenges we face, we strengthen our team’s commitment and creativity.’ – Viktor Underwood on the power of transparency.”
• “What happens when leaders make bold, unconventional choices? Viktor’s story shows the strength that comes from embracing the road less traveled.”
• “Transparency and trust: Viktor’s approach to leadership is grounded in the belief that open communication builds stronger, more cohesive teams.”
• “The road to growth isn’t easy, but it’s worth it.’ Viktor Underwood discusses his journey from a three-person startup to CEO of Quickchannel.”
• “Creating safe spaces for open dialogue – Viktor explains how anonymous Q&As in team meetings transformed company morale.”
• “Leadership can be a lonely path, but supportive networks and mentors have been essential for Viktor’s mental well-being and decision-making.”
• “Viktor’s future vision? Dominating the video platform market in the Nordics and driving growth with grounded, clear-sighted leadership.”
• “Leadership is a choice. Viktor’s story reminds us to choose transparency, resilience, and authenticity in every challenge we face.”