Why I Started Conversations that Lead: Exploring Leadership Insights

Yes, stepping into self-employment was a leap. After years of working in structured environments, suddenly I was on my own. No defined career path. No job description. No ready-made team to guide.

But that shift opened up a question that has always fascinated me: what does leadership truly mean?

A Longstanding Curiosity for Leadership and Teamwork

Even as a teenager, I found myself drawn to the topic. While others were watching entertainment on YouTube, I was watching videos on teamwork and leadership. Sounds nerdy, but actually brought me a lot of trouble with authority-loving teachers. Later, my master’s thesis focused on agile ways of working and explored how organizations can stay adaptive, human-centered, and effective.

Over the years, I saw again and again that leadership and culture are the true levers of change. Tools, strategies, and processes matter, but without the right leadership mindset, nothing sticks.

From Corporate Roles to Self-Employment

During my time at Bayer South East Europe, I had the chance to work as an Agile Coach, supporting teams in finding new ways of collaboration. Later, as a self-employed coach, I carried these experiences into projects with Bayer Germany and Takeda, helping teams reorganize, build engagement, and work on innovative projects in pharma and healthcare.

Each project deepened my conviction: organizations succeed not because of structure, but because of how leaders empower their people.

Leadership Beyond the Job Title

The move into self-employment challenged me in a new way. Without a formal work place, I wondered: How can I keep learning about leadership?

That curiosity was the seed for this interview series. I wanted to learn from people I admire. Leaders with impressive careers in both corporate and entrepreneurial worlds. What can they teach us about leadership today? Where do they see red flags? And how do they create workplaces where joy, safety and growth are possible?

Why This Series Matters

This interview series is not just content. It’s my way of continuing a lifelong learning journey. By asking questions, comparing perspectives, and reflecting on the answers, I want to uncover what truly defines positive, modern leadership.

Because at the end of the day, we all spend so much of our lives at work. Shouldn’t that time be joyful, meaningful, and worth the energy we put into it?

💬 What is leadership to you and how do you keep learning?