Navigating the CEO Journey: Expert Insights from Loic Potjes of Disruptive Leap

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Loic Potjes, Founder and Managing Partner of Disruptive Leap. Loic brings decades of executive experience and coaching insight to the conversation, sharing what it really takes to lead effectively in today’s high-pressure business environment. From managing overwhelm and isolation to enhancing team engagement and time mastery, this episode offers a powerful roadmap for CEOs and founders who want to lead with greater clarity, balance, and impact.

The CEO’s Challenge: Moving from Reactive to Intentional Leadership

Loic opens the conversation with a personal note—his love of wine and community, especially as part of a wine club in Johannesburg. For Loic, passion outside of work fosters connection and personal renewal—qualities that matter just as much in leadership. But when the topic turns to the realities of being a CEO, the tone gets deeper: leadership is often lonely, reactive, and draining.

He explains how many CEOs find themselves overwhelmed, stuck in the busyness of daily operations, and losing clarity on what truly drives business growth. According to Loic, one of the most effective strategies for reclaiming purpose and focus is to transition from reactive task management to a proactive leadership rhythm. That starts with self-awareness: understanding what energizes you, what drains you, and how to build a team that fills your gaps. By making space for strategic thinking and empowering complementary teams, CEOs can realign with their zone of genius and free themselves from burnout.

Loic also discusses the power of consistent communication and engagement. Disengaged teams, he notes, are a global epidemic—with only 8% of French employees reportedly feeling engaged. To counter this, CEOs must not only lead with clarity but also create environments where employees thrive. Engagement starts at the top, and Loic shares practical steps for CEOs to model intentional leadership while nurturing team motivation and accountability.

About Loic Potjes

Loic Potjes is the founder and managing partner of Disruptive Leap, where he coaches CEOs and executive teams to lead with clarity, resilience, and impact. Drawing from his extensive background in leadership, Loic helps clients unlock their potential, align their priorities, and scale both personal and professional growth.

About Disruptive Leap

Disruptive Leap is an executive coaching firm focused on helping CEOs and leadership teams transition from reactive management to high-impact, purpose-driven leadership. With a focus on mindset, strategy, and sustainable performance, Disruptive Leap equips leaders to elevate both their businesses and their lives.

Links Mentioned in this Episode

• Disruptive Leap Website
• Loic Potjes on LinkedIn

Episode Highlights

• How Loic uses personal passions to build meaningful professional networks
• The biggest challenges CEOs face: overwhelm, isolation, and time mismanagement
• Why moving from reactive to proactive leadership is key to sustainable success
• Practical tips on building complementary teams and fostering engagement
• Loic’s coaching approach to help CEOs regain clarity and lead with intention

Conclusion

This episode is a masterclass in modern leadership. Loic Potjes reminds us that true CEO success goes beyond growth metrics—it’s about finding balance, modeling clarity, and building deeply engaged teams. Whether you're leading a startup or a mature company, Loic’s insights will help you navigate the complexities of leadership with more purpose and power.

Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest

More from UpMyInfluence:

We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.

Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.

What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.

Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!