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.

In this powerful episode, Christine Miller, founder of LoveWorks Center for Global Transformation, shares her unique perspective on how love can revolutionize leadership in the corporate world.

From the boardroom to the front lines, Christine explains how infusing love into business relationships can improve performance, foster loyalty, and drive growth—especially during challenging times.

She dives into real-world stories of leaders who embraced love in tough situations and saw dramatic shifts in their teams.

Christine also offers practical advice on balancing accountability with compassion, even in the most difficult decisions.

If you’re looking to lead with more heart and achieve breakthrough results, this conversation is a must-listen!

You can find Christine Miller at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mchristinemiller/
https://loveintheboardroom.com/

In the interview, Christine shares

• “Love isn’t always soft—it takes courage to lead with love, even in the toughest conversations.”
• “Infusing love into leadership isn’t just an ideal; it’s a transformative force that drives both humanity and accountability.”
• “One CEO encouraged his team to lead with love, and the result? A struggling store turned into a thriving success story.”
• “Balancing love with accountability means making hard decisions with fairness, care, and humanity.”
• “Every interaction, no matter how small, can plant a seed of love and trust—even in the corporate world.”
• “Christine Miller reminds us: ‘Love can be the bridge between challenges and breakthroughs, even in business.”
• “In a digital world, building trust starts with listening, finding common ground, and staying calm under pressure.”
• “When leaders embrace love, they create environments where people thrive, teams perform, and businesses grow.”
• “Love in leadership is about showing up with authenticity, compassion, and a commitment to the well-being of others.”
• “Christine’s work proves that love is a powerful leadership tool—it can transform workplaces, one relationship at a time.”

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 transformative leadership journey of Yuriy Adamchuk, a seasoned CEO who has mastered the art of blending financial expertise with mindful leadership.

Yuriy shares how he tackled the challenge of integrating diverse teams, built a culture of innovation, and stayed grounded through mindfulness and daily exercise.

From using poker strategies to sharpen decision-making to aligning financial principles with business goals, his insights are packed with value for leaders seeking clarity amidst complexity.

As he transitions to the exciting frontier of AI and software, Yuriy’s story inspires us to embrace growth, lead with empathy, and find balance in chaos.

Whether you’re scaling a team or navigating your next big challenge, this conversation will leave you with practical tools and a renewed sense of purpose.

You can find Yuriy Adamchuk at the below links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuriy-adamchuk/

In the interview, Yuriy shares

• “Yuriy Adamchuk’s journey from finance to global leadership is a testament to the power of adaptability, mindfulness, and strategic thinking.”
• “In leadership, it’s not just about making decisions under pressure—it’s about making the right ones that propel your team forward.”
• “Integrating teams into a unified organization is one of the hardest challenges for any leader. But building a cohesive talent pool to solve real customer problems is key to success.”
• “Financial literacy is not just important—it’s indispensable. Aligning your financial goals with your business ambitions creates a clear roadmap to achieving your dreams.”
• “Leadership isn’t just about steering the ship; it’s about knowing yourself and maintaining your own compass in turbulent times.”
• “Mindfulness and meditation help Yuriy stay grounded, make measured decisions, and maintain clarity—essential skills for leading in high-stakes environments.”
• “Running and cycling are Yuriy’s stress busters—they open avenues for creativity and problem-solving, often sparking the most innovative solutions.”
• “Leadership is a lifelong journey of growth. Surround yourself with the right people, seek bigger challenges, and always strive for improvement.”
• “Yuriy’s hobby of semi-professional poker sharpens his decision-making skills and helps him read people—a vital skill in both business and leadership.”
• “True leadership is about listening, empathizing, and empowering your team—making sure everyone feels valued as you work towards shared 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, I sit down with Amar Mistry, the CEO of My Money Matters, to uncover his inspiring journey from a working-class background to leading a mission-driven organization transforming financial literacy across the UK.

Amar shares how he navigated the daunting leap from corporate stability to the unpredictable world of startups, fueled by a desire to create lasting impact.

We explore the art of balancing intuition with data-driven decisions, the challenges of scaling a purpose-driven team, and the importance of building a legacy that outlives us.

Whether you’re a leader looking to take bold risks or someone striving to align personal and professional impact, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

Tune in to discover what it takes to lead with resilience, authenticity, and vision.

You can find Amar Mistry at the below links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amar-mistry/
https://www.my-money-matters.co.uk/

In the interview, Amar shares

• “There’s no better feeling than knowing your work profoundly impacts others—a sentiment only amplified when you’ve started with nothing and built something transformative.”
• “Amar Mistry’s journey from a working-class background to CEO of a mission-driven organization is a testament to resilience and passion.”
• “Transitioning from corporate stability to a startup is daunting, but trusting your instincts can lead to profound impact.”
• “Leadership isn’t just about growth—it’s about building a legacy that endures long after you’re gone.”
• “Scaling a business is more than just expansion; it’s about balancing internal leadership with external vision to achieve a greater mission.”
• “In a world overcrowded with data, intuition remains a powerful tool for decision-making—balancing analysis with instinctive leadership.”
• “Building financial literacy is as much about educating stakeholders as it is about empowering clients.”
• “For Amar, embracing life fully means aligning personal longevity with professional impact, ensuring vitality in every area.”
• “Meaningful leadership stems from authenticity and vision—it’s about pursuing goals larger than oneself while inspiring others.”
• “To innovate bravely, you must move beyond fear and commit to shaping a future filled with purpose and transformation.”

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 inspiring journey of Sug Sahadevan, founder and vice chairman of Test House Limited, as he shares how he built a global testing powerhouse spanning industries from banking to medical devices.

Sug reveals the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial path, including leaving a secure job to chase a bold vision.

From leveraging AI innovations to tackling the challenges of scaling a 500-strong organization, Sug’s story is packed with insights for leaders navigating uncertainty and driving impact.

Discover how he blends cultural influences into his leadership style and embraces collaboration to turn big dreams into reality.

If you’re ready to think long-term, innovate boldly, and lead with purpose, this conversation is for you!

You can find Sug Sahadevan at the below links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sug-sahadevan-bb3a681/
sug@testhouse.net

In the interview, Sug shares

• “Entrepreneurship is about creating something beyond a career—building a business, creating employment, and impacting diverse industries.” 
• “Leaving a stable job isn’t abandoning security; it’s embracing uncertainty for a larger dream.”
• “With AI at the forefront, we’re not just innovating—we’re redefining the testing landscape with tools like Thumba.”
• “Challenges are inevitable, but innovation demands strategic execution and bold experimentation.”
• “Leadership isn’t about doing it alone; it’s about building a team that aligns local expertise with global vision.”
• “Balancing stress is an art—whether through mentorship, a supportive board, or daily walks to clear the mind.”
• “A visionary board and strong advisors help steer the ship through uncharted waters.”
• “Diversity enriches leadership; blending cultural influences creates a unique and effective management style.”
• “A future vision is rooted in experimentation and learning—what we start today may only be realized by future generations.”
• “Innovation is not just about leading trends but setting the foundation for what’s next in quality and testing.”

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.”

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

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathiasw1/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/doconomy/

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.”

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

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jean-paul-jp-de-jong-82522a10/
• https://www.wtsenergy.com/

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.”

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

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

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.”

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

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/carosalazar/
• https://dtswe.org/

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.” 

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, Rune Theill, co-founder and CEO of Rockstart, takes us on a candid journey from his early days on a Danish farm to leading a purpose-driven investment platform. 

Rune shares how embracing risk and adventure shaped his leadership style, and why building a values-driven culture is essential for long-term impact. 

From navigating challenges in leadership to making strategic decisions that align with sustainability, Rune’s story offers invaluable insights for any leader striving to create real change. 

Tune in to learn how to lead with purpose, take bold risks, and build a mission-driven team that tackles the world’s biggest challenges. 

If you’re ready to rethink your leadership approach, this conversation is a must-listen.

You can find Rune Theill at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/runetheill/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/rockstart/

In the interview, Rune shares

• “Entrepreneurship is a continuous adventure—breaking norms often leads to meaningful progress.” 
• “Growing up on an organic farm taught me to embrace risk and adventure from a young age.” 
• “At Rockstart, it’s not just about investing in startups; it’s about building a community of purpose-driven founders.” 
• “Leadership means facing hard truths and growing through failures.” 
• “Long-term thinking is key to aligning investments with sustainable impact goals.” 
• “Our mission is to foster ventures that address the world’s biggest challenges in agri-food, energy, and sustainable living.” 
• “Feedback systems were instrumental in improving communication and alignment in our team.” 
• “Leaders must collaborate and share a vision if we want to truly transform society.” 
• “Instituting core values was critical in shaping Rockstart’s culture and aligning our team with shared goals.” 
• “The entrepreneurial spirit thrives when you take calculated risks and push boundaries.” 

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 Jennifer Vessels, a trailblazing leader who has transformed businesses globally by breaking through the fears that hold leaders back. 

From her days pioneering videoconferencing in Silicon Valley to launching her own successful ventures, Jennifer shares powerful insights on embracing change, navigating uncertainty, and leveraging diverse perspectives for growth. 

She introduces her PEACE framework—Purpose, Explore, Action, Collaborate, Empower—which has helped countless leaders thrive in today’s fast-paced world. 

If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by fear or unsure of how to lead through disruption, this conversation is packed with practical tools and inspiration to guide you through. 

Tune in and learn how to turn challenges into growth opportunities and lead with greater impact!

You can find Jennifer Vessels at the below links

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

In the interview, André shares

• “Courage is not the absence of fear, but the decision to move forward despite it.”
• “Leaders must continuously adapt in a rapidly changing world—and inspire others to do the same.”
• “Fear of disruption can paralyze leaders. The key is to confront those fears and turn them into growth opportunities.”
• “True transformation happens when diverse perspectives come together to break through barriers.”
• “The leap to entrepreneurship is fueled by passion, vision, and a strong support system.”
• “Jennifer’s PEACE framework—Purpose, Explore, Action, Collaborate, Empower—is a guiding light for navigating crisis and change.”
• “Embracing new ideas and staying curious is what fuels long-term leadership success.”
• “Even the best leaders face unforeseen challenges. The key is resilience and the ability to adapt quickly.”
• “In moments of crisis, take a step back, understand your purpose, and take small actions that move you forward.”
• “Leadership is about blending diverse skills—sales, marketing, digitalization—to help organizations thrive.”