SPEAK LIKE A CEO 273: The Human Side of Leadership: Burnout, Growth, and Purpose. Peter Sorgenfrei
Peter Sorgenfrei is the leadership coach you want to have at your side. As a six-time CEO and founder, he understands the challenges and the overwhelm experienced by anyone who is unapologetically ambitious.
But he also learned the hard way that you have to listen to your body and mind to be successful and, more importantly, to keep your sanity.
In this episode, he takes us inside his journey as a founder, sharing the unexpected lessons that shaped his approach to leadership, resilience, and personal identity.
Peter opens up about one of the most profound realizations of his career: his happiest moments weren’t tied to financial wins but to seeing his team grow and thrive. Leadership, he argues, is about empowering others, fostering a strong culture, and prioritizing mission over metrics. But that mission-driven focus came at a cost.
In 2019, his relentless pursuit of success led to complete burnout – his body literally shut down. He recounts how he found his way back through rest, time in nature, and deep reflection, ultimately discovering a new passion: helping others navigate the same struggles.
Beyond business, Peter challenges us to rethink how we define ourselves. Too often, we introduce ourselves by our job titles rather than our values or passions. What happens when we shift that perspective? He shares how embracing identity beyond work can create deeper, more meaningful connections both personally and professionally.
Peter and Oliver also dive into the unconventional ways Peter builds and leads teams. From letting candidates suggest their own salaries to practicing radical transparency, his approach forces people to evaluate their worth and alignment with the company’s vision.
And when it comes to tough conversations, he believes real compassion lies in honesty – not avoidance. Whether it’s performance feedback or handling layoffs, delivering the truth with empathy builds trust and long-term success.
If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone searching for clarity in your work and life, this episode is packed with wisdom that will challenge you to rethink leadership, communication, and self-care.
Find out more about how Peter elevates leaders: https://lp.petersorgenfrei.com/
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