Fishing Without Bait: A Full Impact Mindfulness Podcast Redefining Success: Vulnerability, Sobriety & the Executive Mindset with Nick Jonsson | Episode 478
Aug 5, 2025
Nick Jonsson, an author and speaker renowned for his work on executive mental health, discusses vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. He shares insights on moving from a mindset of obligation to one of choice, confronting toxic masculinity, and the importance of community support for men. Nick also explores his journey through sobriety, making amends with family, and his efforts in suicide prevention with Limitless. His experiences lead to a new identity grounded in values, emphasizing the need for mindfulness in both personal and professional realms.
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Choice Over Obligation
- Nick shifted his inner language from "I have to" to "I choose" through sustained recovery work with his sponsor.
- Financial insecurity was the persistent fear he had to address to reclaim agency over choices.
Public Shaming As Leadership Mistake
- Nick admitted he once used public shaming and handcuffs to enforce discipline at a Vietnam office.
- He now recognizes that command-and-control leadership masked his insecurities and was harmful.
Identity Beyond Job Title
- Nick's identity detached from his job after a personal and financial collapse that forced rebuilding.
- He now values authenticity and presence over status symbols like cars or apartments.
