You cannot run away from who you are—authenticity matters in every environment.
Adaptability (AQ) is just as critical as IQ and emotional intelligence (EQ).
Anita reflects on the influence of people and relationships over titles and roles. While she began her career in academia, she observed that a significant percentage of life sciences PhDs eventually leave academia — a number that has risen from around 80% to nearly 94%.
Consulting became a bridge between science and coaching. In consulting, she saw senior partners model the role of trusted advisor, which resonated deeply with her. Later, exposure to executive coaching within the pharmaceutical industry became a defining turning point, guiding her toward her current path.
• The real purpose of advisory boards
• How CEOs can determine if they need one
An unexpected journey from engineer to consultant
Early interest in understanding the bigger picture and cross-functional issues
Learning through failure and navigating crises, including launching a stock market and managing a bank run
Emphasizing “inner work” over external achievements
Bronwyn defines futurism as analyzing the consequences of today’s decisions on tomorrow’s outcomes.
She explains that futurists are less about predicting fixed futures and more about exploring possibilities, perspectives, and long-term implications.
Why asking “why” matters
Learning lessons in hindsight and passing them on through coaching
Carissa Reiniger reflects on her prairie roots in Edmonton, Alberta, where generosity, community, and service were core values.
Initially planning to pursue a PhD in psychology to work with juvenile delinquents, she soon realized she was more of a “doer” than an academic—prompting a shift from theory to action. Her move to Toronto introduced her to the world of business and community-driven impact.
Transitioning from corporate technical work to small business ownership
Discovering that marketing is entirely different in personal businesses
Philosophizing about life’s purpose from a young age
Observing how differently people respond to challenges at work
