Podcast

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.

What does it really take to walk away from a 30-year global banking career and start over — completely from scratch?

In this powerful episode, KK Gupta shares his courageous leap into entrepreneurship, revealing what most leaders don’t talk about: the fear, the loneliness, and the deep desire to build something that actually matters.

If you’re feeling stuck in a successful-but-unfulfilling role, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what legacy and leadership really mean.

KK doesn’t just talk strategy — he opens up about identity, discipline, culture, and how introverts can lead with quiet strength.

Tune in to hear how doing one thing well (and saying “no” to everything else) might be the boldest move you make as a leader.

You can find KK Gupta at the below links

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

In the interview, KK shares

• “I wanted to create something, craft something, and solve a problem deeply — not just clock in and clock out.”
• “Leaving behind the security of a 30-year career wasn’t easy — but staying would’ve meant ignoring a calling I couldn’t unhear.”
• “When you go from leading thousands to a team of one, the silence can be deafening — but also clarifying.”
• “Factum isn’t just a business — it’s a culture experiment in kindness, clarity, and doing one thing exceptionally well.”
• “Saying no is a leadership skill. Focus is how we honor what truly matters.”
• “You don’t have to be loud to lead. Introverts can lead just as powerfully — through intention, empathy, and presence.”
• “Covid didn’t just change the world — it gave me the courage to change mine.”
• “We’re not just solving problems. We’re building a place where people feel seen, supported, and challenged to grow.”
• “Authentic leadership is less about charisma — and more about the willingness to keep learning, listening, and leading with care.”
• “Legacy isn’t built in boardrooms. It’s built in the moments where you choose courage over comfort.”

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.

What does it really take to walk away from success and start over—again and again?

In this powerful conversation, Puneet Shivam shares how he’s made bold choices at every turn, trading comfort for challenge in pursuit of deeper growth and impact.

From the chaos of New York City to the cutting edge of AI, Puneet reveals the mindset shifts that have shaped his leadership journey.

If you’ve ever felt stuck at the edge of a big decision, this episode will inspire you to choose courage over certainty.

Tune in to hear how letting go might just be the most powerful leadership move you can make.

You can find Puneet Shivam at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/puneetshivam/
• https://www.rightskale.ai/

In the interview, Puneet shares

• “Leadership isn’t a title—it’s a choice you make every time you step into discomfort and say yes to growth.” 
• “I didn’t plan to become an entrepreneur—it happened when I followed the itch to solve problems and build something better.”
• “Leaving a successful company wasn’t easy, but I knew I had to let go of comfort to chase what was truly calling me.”
• “Your choices paint the picture of who you are. Every decision, especially the tough ones, becomes part of your identity.” 
• “New York challenges you like no other city—it demands your best and constantly reminds you of your potential.” 
• “Entrepreneurship is more than business—it’s about unlocking human potential and moving society forward.” “Financial freedom isn’t a luxury—it’s a mindset. And we must educate ourselves and others to claim it.” 
• “The real courage lies in choosing to grow, even when it means walking away from what’s already working.” 
• “At its core, leadership is about trusted partnerships—relationships built on integrity, resilience, and shared purpose.” 
• “If we can help people believe in themselves again, we’ll witness a tidal wave of innovation, compassion, and impact.”

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, Akhil Shahani—Managing Director of the Shahani Group—reveals how he transformed personal setbacks into a bold vision to revolutionize education across Asia.

From navigating the weight of a century-old family legacy to building an education-to-employment ecosystem, Akhil shares real talk on leadership, resilience, and reinventing outdated systems.

You’ll walk away with fresh insight on bridging the gap between theory and practice—and why empathy, adaptability, and critical thinking are the true markers of future-ready leaders.

If you’re a leader tired of playing by broken rules, this conversation is your permission to reimagine what’s possible.

You can find Dr. Akhil Shahani at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhilshahani/  
• https://shahanigroup.com/

In the interview, Dr. Akhil shares

• “Legacy can be a gift or a burden. The challenge is in choosing to build upon it rather than be confined by it.”
•  “I had an MBA from Kellogg, but still failed in business. That’s when I realized traditional education was missing something vital.”
•  “We need to move beyond textbooks and teach life skills like critical thinking, resilience, and adaptability.”
•  “We’re building Asia’s largest education-to-employment ecosystem—where students aren’t just educated, they’re employable.”
•  “Success isn’t just about academic scores. It’s about how well you communicate, adapt, and collaborate.”
•  “Being part of a legacy business means honoring the past while boldly reinventing the future.”
•  “You need both the visionary and the operator in a leadership team. One without the other is a recipe for chaos.”
•  “Think of life as a game—when you focus on the process instead of the outcome, stress becomes a teacher, not a threat.”
•  “Leadership isn’t about control. It’s about empathy, understanding your team’s dreams, and helping them get there.”
•  “We’re not just educating students. We’re equipping them to thrive in the real world—no matter where they start from.”

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 candid conversation, James Jackson, CEO and co-founder of Bumper, shares the behind-the-scenes of building a high-growth fintech—while staying humble, hiring intentionally, and protecting company culture across borders.

From fixing tractors on his farm to navigating billion-dollar payments, James proves that great leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about ownership, balance, and grit.

If you’re leading a team through rapid change or wrestling with how to grow without losing your soul, this episode is your playbook.

Tune in to discover how humility, vision, and discipline come together to create lasting impact.

You can find James Jackson at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-jackson-103ba412/    

In the interview, James shares

• “Our culture is rooted in humility—no egos, just people making things happen together.” 
• “Leadership means being willing to do the dirty work and the strategy—sometimes in the same hour.”
• “We built Bumper by seeing a financial gap no one was solving for—and then obsessively solving it.”
• “Hypergrowth doesn’t happen by accident. It takes bold moves, strong talent, and a culture of ownership.”
• “Hiring the right people isn’t about speed—it’s about patience and finding those who truly fit.”
• “Leadership is about creating a place where people want to take ownership, not where they’re told to.”
• “We’ve evolved from a buy-now-pay-later tool into a full payment orchestration platform. That’s scale with intention.”
• “Farming keeps me grounded. Fixing a tractor gives me clarity a boardroom sometimes can’t.”
• “Daily high-intensity workouts are my mental reset—they make me a sharper leader.”
• “Great leadership isn’t about being in charge. It’s about being in service—to your team, your customers, and your mission.” 

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.

What happens when you walk away from corporate security to chase a vision only you can see?

In this candid conversation, MJ—Managing Director of UHP Technologies and a serial entrepreneur—shares the raw truth behind 17 years of entrepreneurial grit, resilience, and reinvention.

From navigating early failures to building partnerships rooted in trust, MJ reveals what it really takes to lead with courage and empathy.

If you’re a leader facing uncertainty, struggling with setbacks, or seeking a deeper sense of purpose—this episode is your permission slip to keep going.

Tune in to rediscover why leadership is less about control, and more about choosing to lead with heart.

You can find MJ at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mj-manjunath-jyothinagara-6174451/

In the interview, MJ shares

• “I left corporate comfort not for certainty, but to discover who I could become without a safety net.”
• “Entrepreneurship tested me more than any boardroom ever did—and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
• “Persistence isn’t a tactic. It’s the bridge between vision and reality.”
• “When failure came knocking, I answered with resilience—and kept going.”
• “Support from my wife wasn’t just emotional—it was the fuel that reignited my dream when I almost gave up.”
• “Empathy isn’t soft—it’s strategic. It’s how you build leaders, not just businesses.”
• “Entrepreneurship in India needs more collaboration, not competition. Let’s grow together.”
• “My mornings with family are non-negotiable. That’s where I center myself before taking on the world.”
• “Credibility isn’t built through perfection—it’s built through transparency, trust, and time.”
• “Leadership isn’t about titles or balance sheets. It’s about choosing to show up—with heart, every single day.”

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.

What if your next leadership breakthrough came from a snowy day and a bag of leftover food?

In this episode, Tessa Clarke, co-founder and CEO of Olio, shares how she turned a moment of frustration into a global movement against food waste.

You’ll hear raw insights about leaving a corporate career, building something from scratch, and leading with values in a world that often rewards short-term thinking.

This isn’t just a story about sustainability—it’s a masterclass in courage, clarity, and solving real problems with bold leadership.

Tune in if you’re ready to challenge the status quo and lead with purpose, even when the path isn’t clear.

You can find Tessa Clarke at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessaclarkeolio/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/olio-share-more-waste-less/

In the interview, Tessa shares

• “A snowy day and a bag of unwanted food sparked the idea that would become Olio. Innovation often begins with frustration.”
• “Don’t obsess over ideas—focus on the problems that truly matter. That’s where real innovation lives.” 
• “Every entrepreneur starts small. Baby steps can lead to massive change if you’re consistent.” 
• “You don’t need to have all the answers—just the courage to take the first step and the resilience to keep going.” 
• “Values aren’t just words on a wall. At Olio, they guide our decisions, fuel our culture, and shape our impact.” 
• “Sustainability isn’t a trend—it’s a necessity. Even when the market wavers, our mission stays clear.” 
• “Building a community and a business at the same time isn’t easy—but it’s where the magic happens.” 
• “The future belongs to those willing to act—not just talk—on the big issues facing our world.” 

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.

What does it really take to walk away from comfort and step into the unknown as a leader?

In this episode, Lamar J Romero, founder and CEO of Hire Dragons, shares the gritty truth behind building a business from the ground up—Uber rides, failed experiments, and all.

He opens up about the internal battles every leader faces, especially the constant tug-of-war between comfort and greatness.

If you’ve ever wrestled with self-doubt, growing pains, or the pressure to scale without losing your soul, this conversation will hit home.

Tune in for a refreshingly honest take on leadership, resilience, and choosing impact over ego—every single day.

You can find Lamar J Romero at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lamarromero/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hiredragons/

In the interview, Lamar shares

• “true leadership isn’t given; it’s chosen every single day.”
• “i quit my comfy dell gig to promote tequila—because leaving a mark beats playing it safe.”
• “when your bank account says no, your determination says go—uber, lyft, bootstrapping: that’s the grind.”
• “mix tech with hustle—that pivot is what took hire dragons from idea to impact.”
• “covid didn’t break us; it made us adapt faster and lead more authentically.”
• “the real battle in leadership is comfort versus greatness—i pick greatness.”
• “leaving a monument isn’t about billions; it’s about building teammates up to win.”
• “in our culture, mistakes aren’t failures—they’re experiments to level up.”
• “after 12 years, i’m not slowing down; i’m doubling down on service through investing and advising.”
• “choice is the cornerstone of entrepreneurship—decide to lead, decide to leave a legacy.”

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.

What if your biggest leadership breakthrough came from breaking the rules of how things have always been done?

In this powerful conversation, Viktor Pryshlyak, CEO and co-founder of United Software, reveals how he walked away from traditional outsourcing models to build a global, trust-first tech company.

We explore what most founders miss about sales, why trust is non-negotiable, and how real leadership often means leaning into discomfort.

Whether you’re scaling a startup or leading a team through uncertainty, Viktor’s story is packed with real, relatable lessons on courage, clarity, and conviction.

Tune in to challenge your leadership assumptions—and walk away with practical tools to lead with more heart and impact.

You can find Viktor Pryshlyak at the below links

LinkedIn
 victor@usoftware.co.

In the interview, Viktor shares

• “Leadership isn’t about content—it’s about context and courageous choices in the face of discomfort.”
• “We saw a broken model in outsourcing—so we built one rooted in trust, transparency, and shared success.”
• “Entrepreneurship begins when you’re willing to leave your comfort zone—timing and courage make all the difference.”
• “Sales isn’t just for business—it’s a leadership skill, and it’s deeply personal.”
• “Founders from technical backgrounds often avoid sales, but it’s the first battlefield of real entrepreneurship.”
• “Trust isn’t a soft skill—it’s the foundation of scaling a business across 19 countries.”
• “We run quarterly reviews and keep Calendly open for tough conversations—because transparency builds long-term loyalty.”
• “Wars and recessions are out of our control—but how clearly we communicate our value? That’s on us.”
• “Fatherhood and leadership aren’t separate—personal experiences shape the leader you become.”
• “Success or failure isn’t the point—it’s what you learn when you dare to act.”

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.

What does it really take to lead with purpose in a fast-moving, high-stakes world?

In this episode, Kevin Kilty, CEO of Hub Pay, shares his bold journey from London’s finance world to launching a FinTech startup in Dubai—with zero startup experience and a lot of heart.

He opens up about the gritty realities of leadership, building culture across continents, and staying grounded when the pressure never lets up.

If you’re a leader navigating uncertainty, scaling a business, or simply craving more meaning in your work, this conversation delivers raw insight and practical inspiration.

Tune in to discover how impact and innovation can go hand in hand—without losing your sanity.

You can find Kevin Kilty at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkilty/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hubpay/

In the interview, Kevin shares

• “In six months of building a startup, I learned more than I did in over a decade of investment banking.”
• “You don’t need to have all the answers. Just start. The clarity comes from doing.”
• “FinTech isn’t just about technology — it’s about unlocking financial inclusion and societal progress.” 
• “Leadership is about defining your values early and then living by them—especially when things get tough.” 
• “The startup grind is relentless, but regular workouts are my meditation — they keep me centered.” 
• “We built Hub Pay on the belief that business can be both profitable and deeply purposeful.” 
• “The team you build is more important than any business plan. Culture trumps strategy every time.” 
• “True leadership means grounding big visions in practical, revenue-generating actions.” 
• “Startups are built on grit, not glamour. You grow by facing uncertainty, not avoiding it.”
• “Inspired by impact pioneers like Professor Yunus, I saw FinTech as a bridge to a better world.”

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.

What does it take to turn obstacles into opportunities and build a thriving business from the ground up?

In this episode of Choosing Leadership, Heather Udo, founder and CEO of Shoppable, shares how she went from growing up on a farm to leading a game-changing e-commerce company.

She reveals the mindset shifts that helped her land Fortune 500 clients, scale her business, and empower her team to operate independently.

If you’re a leader navigating challenges, wondering how to build a resilient team, or looking for fresh insights on adaptive leadership in a remote world, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom.

Tune in to discover how choosing leadership—every single day—can transform your career, business, and impact.

You can find Heather Udo at the below links

https://www.instagram.com/heatherudo1/
https://www.heatherudo.com/

In the interview, Heather shares

• “Entrepreneurs don’t wait for opportunities; they create them.” 
• “Setbacks aren’t roadblocks—they’re stepping stones to innovation.” 
• “A great leader doesn’t just build a business; they empower a team to run it without them.” 
• “Success isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about learning from it and moving forward with confidence.” 
• “The best way to scale a company is to make yourself replaceable.” 
• “Authenticity in entrepreneurship is more valuable than the illusion of overnight success.” 
• “If you want something badly enough, there is always a way to make it happen.” 
• “Leadership is a daily choice—one that requires courage, resilience, and vision.” 
• “Growth happens when you push beyond conventional limitations and challenge the status quo.” 
• “Your mindset determines your trajectory—choose one that turns challenges into opportunities.” 

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, Anders Jones, CEO of Facet, shares the hard-won lessons of scaling a disruptive FinTech company while navigating the challenges of modern leadership.

In this episode, James Kellett, founder and CEO of Spot Ship, shares how his journey from hedge funds to entrepreneurship shaped his approach to leadership, innovation, and resilience.

He reveals why investors make great founders, how AI is transforming the $500 billion maritime industry, and the leadership principles that drive his team’s success.

James also opens up about the relentless, high-stakes world of startups—where being ‘unkillable’ is the key to survival.

Whether you’re scaling a business or navigating tough leadership decisions, this conversation offers powerful insights on strategic thinking, autonomy, and adapting to market forces.

Tune in for an unfiltered look at what it takes to build a game-changing company in a rapidly evolving industry!

You can find James Kellett at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameskellett/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-ship/

In the interview, James shares

• “Entrepreneurship is the natural next step after investing. If you know how to allocate capital, why not build something yourself?” 
• “The best entrepreneurs make pivotal decisions with the same strategic mindset as top investors.”
• “We set out to be the ‘Bloomberg for ship brokers,’ but innovation led us to a much bigger vision.”
• “AI and data are revolutionizing the $500 billion maritime industry—those who leverage them will lead the future.”
• “A great leadership culture grants autonomy, demands agility, and fosters transparency—this is how we operate at Spot Ship.”
• “Startups are an adrenaline rush—relentless, stressful, but incredibly meaningful.”
• “If you want to survive in entrepreneurship, you have to be ‘unkillable’—resilient, adaptable, and driven.”
• “Success isn’t just about the idea—it’s about the culture, execution, and the people who believe in the mission.”
• “Leadership isn’t a position; it’s a choice. Every day, we decide whether to step up or step back.”
• “In business and in life, the bold choices define us—choose leadership, embrace risk, and create impact.”

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, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Rupesh Sanghavi—from selling brass gifts in college to building a multibillion-dollar e-commerce company.

He shares how calculated risks, empowering leadership, and bold decision-making shaped his success, offering invaluable lessons for anyone looking to scale their impact.

Rupesh’s story challenges the notion that leadership is about control—instead, it’s about trust, autonomy, and creating opportunities for others to thrive.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in your career or business, his insights will shift your perspective on what’s truly possible.

Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to think bigger, lead bolder, and create lasting change.

You can find Rupesh Sanghavi at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupeshsanghavi/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ergodecorporate/

In the interview, Rupesh shares

• “The seeds of entrepreneurship often lie dormant until the right opportunity presents itself.”
• “Leadership isn’t about control—it’s about empowering others to act as CEOs of their own domains.”  
• “Success is built on calculated risks, not blind leaps.”  
• “The right mentors can change the trajectory of your life—surround yourself with those who challenge and inspire you.”  
• “There are no set rules for life—only the ones we create for ourselves.” 
• “True leadership is trusting your team enough to let them lead.” 
• “Travel broadens not just the mind, but also the possibilities we dare to imagine.”
• “Building a business is not just about revenue—it’s about creating opportunities that transform lives.”  
• “Your past does not define your future—your choices do.”
• “Choosing leadership means stepping into the unknown with courage, again and again.”

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, Anders Jones, CEO of Facet, shares the hard-won lessons of scaling a disruptive FinTech company while navigating the challenges of modern leadership.

From overcoming imposter syndrome to building a high-performing remote team, Anders reveals why the strategies that got you here won’t take you to the next level.

He opens up about breaking outdated industry norms, fostering innovation, and the personal routines that keep him sharp.

Whether you’re a founder, executive, or aspiring leader, this conversation will challenge you to rethink growth, resilience, and success.

Tune in for actionable insights that will help you lead with clarity, adaptability, and impact.

You can find Anders Jones at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anders-jones/
jones.anders@gmail.com

In the interview, Anders shares

• “What got you here might not take you to the next level. Growth requires reinvention.” — Anders Jones
• “Entrepreneurship is often about recognizing gaps in the market—Facet was born from the need for transparency in financial advisory.”
• “In leadership, imposter syndrome is real. The key is embracing humility and learning from those around you.”
• “Resumes don’t tell the whole story—real-world skills and adaptability are what truly matter in a fast-paced tech environment.”
• “A fully remote company brings unique challenges, but intentional connection and culture-building make all the difference.”
• “Success in leadership isn’t just about strategy—it’s about personal discipline, reflection, and the ability to adapt.”
• “A strong morning routine isn’t a luxury—it’s an investment in sustained energy and clarity as a leader.”
• “Innovation isn’t just about new ideas; it’s about continuously questioning outdated norms and building something better.”
• “Every stage of growth demands a new way of thinking—what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow.”
• “Leadership is about making choices that reflect innovation, empathy, and resilience—not just chasing success.”

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, we dive into the unconventional leadership journey of Kjetil Kriken—founder and CEO of Paldo—who went from organizing festivals to building an AI-powered competitive intelligence company.

Kjetil shares how embracing uncertainty, tackling tough questions early, and staying adaptable have been key to his success.

We explore the role of sports in developing resilience, why leaders must anticipate market shifts instead of reacting to them, and how startups can avoid being blindsided by change.

If you’ve ever faced the challenge of navigating unpredictability as a leader, this conversation will give you practical insights and inspiration to stay ahead.

Tune in and discover how choosing leadership—every single day—can transform your business and your life.

You can find Kjetil Kriken at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjetilkriken/
kjetil@kriken.no

In the interview, Kjetil shares

• “Leadership isn’t a title—it’s a choice. Kjetil Kriken’s journey shows how embracing uncertainty can unlock unexpected opportunities.”
• “From festival organizing to leading an AI-driven intelligence company—Kjetil Kriken proves leadership paths are rarely linear.”
• “True leadership is about adapting, innovating, and never being blindsided by change. That’s the vision behind Paldo.”
• “Sports teach discipline, resilience, and strategy—qualities that shape strong leaders like Kjetil Kriken.”
• “Startup success isn’t just about the idea—it’s about tackling hard questions early, embracing change, and building with purpose.”
• “Great leaders see potential where others see uncertainty. Kjetil Kriken’s story is a testament to that mindset.”
• “What if Mondays weren’t dreaded but anticipated? Leadership has the power to transform workplace culture.”
• “The best leaders don’t just react to market shifts—they anticipate and navigate them strategically.”
• “Innovation isn’t about avoiding risk—it’s about embracing the unknown with clarity and confidence.”
• “Every leadership journey is unique, but one thing remains constant: the courage to step up and make an impact.”

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, James O’Sullivan, CEO of Project One Consulting, shares hard-won insights on navigating complex transformations with authenticity and resilience.

He challenges the traditional pursuit of profit, advocating instead for meaningful, sustainable change that truly serves clients.

James opens up about the dual layers of leadership—balancing project execution with company-wide vision—and how transparency builds lasting trust.

If you’ve ever struggled with leading through uncertainty or questioned how to scale without losing your core values, this conversation is for you.

Tune in to discover how seasoned leaders cut through complexity, embrace their individuality, and drive real impact.

You can find James O’Sullivan at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-o-sullivan-3a2596/
james.osullivan@projectone.com

In the interview, James shares

• “Leadership isn’t just about managing projects—it’s about shaping a culture where people thrive, not just survive.”
• “True transformation isn’t about chasing profit; it’s about delivering meaningful, sustainable change.”
• “Authenticity in leadership isn’t optional—it’s the foundation of trust and long-term success.”
• “Mature leadership turns chaos into clarity, helping teams embrace change instead of fearing it.”
• “Great leaders prioritize real conversations over rehearsed sales pitches—trust is built through transparency.”
• “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room; it’s about knowing when to listen and when to lead.”
• “Navigating complexity requires more than strategy—it demands a deep commitment to people and purpose.”
• “Growth isn’t just about scaling a business; it’s about staying true to your mission while making an impact.”
• “Stepping outside your comfort zone isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about expanding what you’re capable of.”
• “Choosing leadership means aligning with your values, leading with integrity, and embracing the challenges that come with it.”