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
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."
What is Choosing Leadership with Sumit Gupta?
As a leader, you are always making choices. Even when you think you have no choice.
And if you are unable to make a decision, you are choosing to stay in a state of indecision.
The only question is - are your choices taking you where you want to go?
I am Sumit Gupta, and this is "Choosing Leadership" - a podcast for high performers with big dreams - who know deep inside that there is more. This is a podcast for people who know they are more powerful than the level they are currently playing.
I have spent a long time feeling powerless, and that is why I see where you are powerful even when you cannot. I dare to say what most people would not. I dare to speak to the "tremendous power" which you already have rather than what you believe are your strengths and limitations.
This podcast is called "choosing leadership" - because that is what leadership is - a choice. The choice to step into the unknown. The choice to see fear as a friend. The choice to take courageous action rather than waiting for readiness.
Join Sumit in exploring this question when it comes to your leadership.
In each moment of life, are you Deploying Yourself or not?
In each moment of life, are you Choosing Leadership or not?