S3E28 Olivier Egli | How Intuition Is Shaping a New Kind of Founder

In this episode, Olivia Iggley, founder of Be Like An Appletree, discusses the intricate balance between personal satisfaction and professional success. He shares his journey from corporate settings, where he experienced a dichotomy between rising up the ranks and feeling unfulfilled, to becoming a guide who helps others discover their purpose and potential. Olivia emphasizes that many individuals are stuck in a 'virtual waiting room' of life, reluctant to make significant changes due to a lack of clarity and courage. He advocates for understanding personal truth as the key to unlocking one’s potential.

Iggley introduces the concept of 'intupreneurs', entrepreneurs who prioritize intuition over traditional, transactional approaches to business. He explains how many founders embark on their journeys with superficial notions of purpose and impact but often lose their way due to disconnect from their authentic selves. Olivia stresses the importance of establishing a strong intention rather than chasing outcomes, likening the entrepreneurial journey to natural growth processes found in nature, which require patience and deliberate effort.

The conversation shifts to how businesses can embody values that are intrinsically linked to their founders' passions and beliefs. Iggley argues that businesses should not only meet market demands but also reflect personal truths to create real value. He suggests that profit is essential for growth, but should never overshadow the purpose of serving both people and planet. By aligning personal values with business objectives, entrepreneurs can foster compassion and transformative growth.

Olivia shares his observations on Portland's startup environment, highlighting a prevalent DIY mentality that can sometimes hinder growth. He notes that many entrepreneurs get stuck in their comfort zones, remaining in a bootstrap phase rather than scaling effectively. He aims to facilitate community-driven initiatives that encourage founders to look beyond just getting by and to dream bigger.

Towards the end of the episode, Olivia reflects on his personal dreams, distilling them down to a simple yet profound desire for peace. He emphasizes the importance of finding peace and purpose in work as a genuine success. Iggley envisions a future where he can continue nurturing 'intupreneurs' and creating spaces dedicated to holistic business education that aligns with nature and human values.