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Many leaders speak about resilience – far fewer openly embrace vulnerability, curiosity, and shared responsibility as cornerstones of leadership. For Koen Dejonckheere, longtime CEO of Gimv, these traits were shaped by a childhood rooted in responsibility, the influence of diverse mentors, and decades of navigating cycles of crisis and opportunity.In this episode of Human Voices, we explore the formative experiences that shaped Koen’s philosophy, the pivotal moments that taught him to listen deeply, and why he believes the best investors – and leaders – remain open, humble, and continuously learning.

At just 23, Jan de Witte stepped into his first management role and quickly learned that leadership isn’t about logic, but about listening. In this episode of Human Voices, he reflects on the early wake-up call that shaped his philosophy, the mentors who opened doors, and why vulnerability and resilience are two sides of the same coin. From the factory floor to the boardroom, this is a story of humility, endurance, and the quiet power of asking the right questions.

Bernard Delvaux has led transformations across industries – from steel to telecommunications to logistics. What defines his journey isn’t just the scale of change, but his willingness to keep leaping into the unknown. In this episode of Human Voices, he explores the mindset behind his boldest career moves, the mentors who believed in him, and why culture and ambition often matter more than strategy. It’s a story of reinvention, risk, and the energy that comes from never standing still.

Many leaders talk about courage. Olivier Chapelle, former CEO of Recticel, lived it through a career-defining leap that tested every part of him. In this episode of Human Voices, he shares how vulnerability became his strength through deep change, how one decision reshaped his leadership, and why embracing risk – even when it feels like madness – can be the key to growth. From his upbringing as a sensitive child to growing into a leader known for courage, resilience, and heart, this is a story of showing up fully human.

Dr. Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo, shares how empathy and scientific rigor can coexist to drive bold innovation. In this episode of Human Voices, she reflects on lessons from her Moroccan upbringing, the influence of role models like Marie Curie, and her journey through global leadership in the chemical industry. From launching sustainability strategies to championing vulnerability in the workplace, Ilham explores how authentic connection, curiosity, and a love of learning can transform both business and society.

How can leaders stay grounded while navigating global complexity? In this episode of Human Voices, Jean-François van Boxmeer, Chair of Vodafone Group and former CEO of Heineken, shares lessons from decades of leadership across continents. He explores the power of trust, curiosity, and humility, and offers advice on empowering others, listening deeply, and learning to “surf the waves” of change with authenticity and courage.

What does it mean to lead with both idealism and pragmatism? In this episode of Human Voices, we welcome Hilde Laga, founder of the law firm Laga and Chairwoman of ING Belgium. Hilde reflects on her early experiences – being the eldest child, reciting poems, and showing signs of persuasion – and how they shaped her leadership style. She shares why blending idealism with pragmatism creates grounded leadership, the value of asking questions in the Socratic tradition, and the importance of sustainable leadership. Hilde also reminds us to simplify, reflect, and act on what truly matters.

From Eldest Daughter to Industry Leader with Lieve Mostrey What builds true self-awareness in a leader? In this episode of Human Voices, we speak with Lieve Mostrey, former CEO of Euroclear and a seasoned leader in the financial sector. From being one of the few women in her engineering class to leading complex organizations through change, Lieve shares the pivotal moments and principles that shaped her leadership. She reflects on the power of observation, the role of vulnerability, and the importance of daring to ask more – offering practical advice for navigating complexity and empowering the next generation of female leaders.

Blending Empathy and Drive with John Porter What does it mean to lead with authenticity across cultures? In this episode of Human Voices, CEO of Telenet John Porter shares how early influences, global experiences, and a belief in vulnerability have shaped his leadership style. From learning a country’s history to leading with empathy, John reveals why using head, heart, and guts in equal measure is key to building trust and inspiring innovation.

The Five-Minute Decision That Changed Everything with Bart De Smet Most leaders wrestle with career-defining choices for months – sometimes years. But Bart De Smet, Chair and former CEO of Ageas, made the biggest decision of his professional life… in just five minutes. What led to this moment? And how did it shape everything that followed? In this episode of Human Voices, we dive into the mindset behind that moment, the advice that shaped him, and the leadership lessons he’s carried throughout his journey.

Welcome to Human Voices, a podcast by Egon Zehnder where we dive into the personal stories behind today's leaders. In every episode, we explore the introspective moments and leadership experiences that have fundamentally changed these individuals. Our conversations go beyond strategy and success, delving into human transformation, the risks taken, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you're an experienced leader or just beginning, we hope these insights spark inspiration and reflection along your path.