Juan Carlos Lopez, Director of Data & AI at Schibsted Media: Swiss Army Knife Problem Solvers

In this powerful episode, Shannon sits down with ultra Catalyst leader Juan Carlos Lopez (JC), Director of Data & AI at Schibsted Media in Norway. With a career that spans telecom, energy, automotive, media, and e-commerce, JC has built a reputation for turning complex technical challenges into sweeping business transformations.

JC shares hard-won insights from the trenches—starting with the critical importance of breadcrumbing your value. He reveals how failing to make your impact visible, both internally and externally, can limit not just your own growth but also your team’s ability to continue driving change. Now, JC leverages storytelling and data to clearly articulate his value and gain the sponsorship needed to sustain momentum.

Together, Shannon and JC unpack what makes Catalysts uniquely successful across industries: the ability to form strong teams, connect the unconnected, and blend disciplines to create industry-defining innovation. Whether it's transforming e-commerce through AI or building internal movements that spark cultural change, JC’s playbook is a masterclass in strategic leadership.

You’ll also hear JC’s approach to leading through chaos—how he grounds himself first ("putting on his own oxygen mask") and then supports his teams with empathy and emotional intelligence during times of rapid change.

If you're a Catalyst looking to scale your leadership, amplify your impact, and drive meaningful transformation—this conversation is for you.

Original music by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lynz Floren⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.