What happens when a corporate CEO turned global entrepreneur fuses strategic coaching with the power of AI? In this compelling Power Talk episode, Loic Potjes, Founder of Disruptive Leap, unveils a revolutionary approach to leadership, scale, and transformation. From escaping the “hamster wheel” to leveraging AI for exponential growth, this conversation is packed with insight for CEOs ready to rethink their game.
The Journey from Boardroom to Breakthrough
At just 31, Loic Potjes was already a corporate CEO, scaling Securitas operations across Africa. Yet by 40, he faced what he calls his “first midlife crisis”—a deep question:
“Is there life beyond corporate?”
That moment marked the beginning of Disruptive Leap, his consultancy-turned-coaching firm focused on helping CEOs scale faster, smarter, and more consciously using cutting-edge strategy and technology.
“Most CEOs are trapped in a cycle of hyperactivity that doesn’t actually move the needle. They’re exhausted—but not effective.” – Loic Potjes
The Hamster Wheel of Leadership
According to Loic, 9 out of 10 leaders are “prisoners”—held hostage by their employees, investors, or even customers. They put in 14-hour days but rarely pause to think on the business instead of in it.
Through CEO coaching and structured reflection, Loic encourages founders to lift their heads, realign with strategy, and unlock high-leverage opportunities.
“It’s not about working harder—it’s about thinking smarter. Strategic focus is the only escape from the hamster wheel.” – Loic Potjes
From Inbox Assistant to Strategic Co-Pilot
Many companies use AI to automate tasks or improve efficiency. Few, Loic argues, use it for transformational thinking. That’s where Disruptive Leap comes in.
His proprietary 90-minute AI-powered workshops function like “having 1,000 consultants in the room”, rapidly identifying blind spots, revenue opportunities, and bold new directions.
“AI is your most strategic partner—but only if you know how to dance with it.” – Loic Potjes
These sessions deliver instant insights previously only accessible through months of traditional consulting.
Who Should Take the Leap?
Loic’s ideal clients range from $15M startups to $500M enterprises, often founder-led and non-listed. But the real filter isn’t revenue—it’s mindset.
These leaders ask questions like:
- “What am I not seeing?”
- “How can I scale without losing control?”
- “How do I get out of the weeds and into innovation?”
“What links my clients is a hunger for clarity, transformation, and action.” – Loic Potjes
From Hong Kong to Colombia, CEOs in his programs learn to deploy AI as an execution accelerator, not just a research tool.
The Real Bottleneck—Human Behavior
Interestingly, the biggest obstacle to scaling isn’t tech—it’s people. More specifically, leaders’ reluctance to change.
“Technology moves fast. But our human minds are still slow, risk-averse, and conditioned by fear of failure.” – Loic Potjes
That’s why Loic’s hybrid model—combining coaching, AI priming, and execution accountability—is so powerful. It bridges the gap between insight and action.
Building a Movement, Not Just a Model
While Loic has plans to expand into digital tools and possibly publish content, he remains focused on real-time transformation over theory.
“Reading about AI is like reading about how to drive a car. It’s only when you get behind the wheel that the real learning begins.” – Loic Potjes
His mission is to democratize access to high-impact transformation—and help more leaders leap before they’re left behind.
Final Takeaway: Start Now or Risk Becoming a Dinosaur
Loic’s final challenge to CEOs is pointed:
“If you haven’t started using AI on the strategic edge of your business, don’t wait another week. Otherwise, you’ll be a dinosaur in a digital jungle.” – Loic Potjes
The future is already here. The question is whether you’ll lead it—or be disrupted by it.