OhanaPreneurs Show

“It’s Always the Leader’s Fault” - Unlocking Human Potential through Adaptive Leadership with Alex Aanderud

Episode Summary

Leadership and behavioral strategist Alex Aanderud shares his deeply personal journey from childhood trauma to becoming a sought-after expert in adaptive leadership, communication, and team performance. Alex reveals why he believes most workplace breakdowns are rooted not in systems, but in leadership incongruence—and how true transformation begins with self-responsibility. This episode explores his mission to combat depression in leadership spaces, his unique Vital Spark™ assessment, and why skillsets should come last when hiring. If you lead a team, mentor others, or are building your own OhanaPreneur path, this conversation will challenge and uplift you. Key Insight: “People need to feel seen, safe, accepted, and protected. If they don’t, they can’t perform. It’s always the leader’s fault—and that’s a good thing.”

Episode Notes

Takeaways:

• Why understanding human behavior and identity is the root of great leadership
• How to assess your team beyond personality tests
• The four internal needs every person has—and how great leaders meet them
• Why unresolved trauma can shape your business decisions
• How Alex’s personal story fueled his mission to beat depression in leadership

Connect with Alex Aanderud
Website: www.alexaanderud.com
Assessment: Vital Spark - https://vitalspark.ai/
Media Kit & Speaking Info: www.alexaanderud.com/media-kit

Connect with Sharon Otaguro & OhanaPreneurs
Website: www.sharonotaguro.com
Email: hi@sharonotaguro.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sharonotaguro

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