In episode #1 of the Leadership and Wellbeing podcast, Hayden Fricke had the privilege of speaking with Oliver Horn, CEO and Managing Director of Nutra Organics. Oliver shared his personal journey and unique strategies for achieving mind and body wellbeing, offering a wealth of wisdom for leaders striving to balance high performance with personal health.

Why Wellbeing Matters in Leadership

Effective leadership demands more than just professional expertise; it requires a healthy foundation of physical, mental, and emotional resilience. In today’s fast-paced business world, leaders often find themselves juggling multiple responsibilities, leaving little room for self-care. Oliver’s story is a testament to the power of prioritising wellbeing as a cornerstone of successful leadership.

The Shift to Vulnerable and Authentic Leadership

Early in his career, Oliver experienced the pressure to embody traditional leadership traits: control, decisiveness, and authority. However, this approach left little room for authenticity or connection. Through coaching and personal growth, he embraced vulnerability as a strength. By fostering deeper connections and creating psychologically safe spaces, Oliver transformed his leadership style, paving the way for innovation and collaboration within his teams.

Key Takeaways for Leaders

1. Embrace Vulnerability: Leaders often feel compelled to have all the answers. Oliver discovered that sharing his challenges and being open to feedback fostered trust and authenticity.
2. Practice Cultural Curiosity: With global experience, Oliver emphasised the importance of suspending judgment and approaching cultural differences with respect. This mindset not only enhances collaboration but also strengthens cross-cultural leadership.
3. Combine Movement and Conversation: Traditional coaching environments can feel restrictive. Oliver found that integrating activities like walking or sharing meals during coaching sessions created a relaxed atmosphere conducive to meaningful discussions.
4. Redefine Leadership Success: Oliver’s journey underscores the importance of self-awareness in leadership. By recognising the impact of his mindset and habits, he cultivated a healthier work-life balance, enhancing both personal and professional outcomes.

Practical Steps for Leaders

To optimise your wellbeing and leadership impact:

• Prioritise Self-Awareness: Regularly reflect on your actions and decisions. Consider incorporating journaling or mindfulness practices into your routine.
• Create Psychological Safety: Foster an environment where team members feel safe to express their thoughts and ideas.
• Invest in Personal Growth: Seek coaching or mentorship opportunities to gain fresh perspectives and develop your leadership potential.
• Balance Performance with Wellbeing: Schedule regular check-ins with yourself to assess whether your habits align with your goals and values.

Why It Matters for You

Whether you’re a CEO striving for boardroom excellence, an HR Director focused on building a thriving culture, or a Wellbeing Manager aiming to foster psychological safety, these insights can help you drive meaningful change in your leadership journey. By optimising your mind and body, you’re not just enhancing your leadership but setting the foundation for sustained personal and professional success.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If Oliver’s insights resonate with you, take a moment to reflect on how you can integrate these strategies into your leadership approach. For more resources on leadership and wellbeing, explore the latest from Steople or tune in to the full Leadership and Wellbeing podcast episode.

Connect with Hayden:

• Websites: haydenfricke.com | steople.com.au
• LinkedIn: Hayden Fricke