This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

In this episode, André Vanyi-Robin, founder and CEO of Plastiks.io, shares his journey from bank analyst to pioneering tech entrepreneur tackling global plastic waste.

André opens up about the delicate balance between humility and confidence in leadership, the power of short wins, and the importance of learning from failure.

He also talks about building a strong team that complements his weaknesses, and how his vision for sustainability is shaping the future of plastic consumption.

If you're a leader facing tough decisions or striving to make a meaningful impact, André's insights will resonate deeply.

Tune in to discover how his personal practices—like drawing inspiration from nature and martial arts—fuel his business success and leadership growth.

You can find André Vanyi-Robin at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrevanyirobin/
• [email protected]

In the interview, André shares

• "Leadership is about balancing ego with humility—knowing your worth while recognizing where you need support."
• "Plastiks.io aims to make plastic consumption fully transparent by 2029, with all plastic waste tracked for sustainable accountability."
• "The burning of the Amazon rainforest in 2018 led André Vanyi-Robin to ask, ‘What can I do to fight climate change?’ This question sparked the creation of Plastiks.io."
• "Transitioning from a bank analyst to a tech entrepreneur, André Vanyi-Robin's 30-year journey is filled with both failures and triumphs."
• "André believes in the power of short wins—sometimes tough decisions like downsizing are necessary steps toward success."
• "Surround yourself with passionate, smart people who complement your weaknesses and share your vision."
• "Recognizing and learning from failure is a crucial part of growth—this mindset helped André shape his entrepreneurial journey."
• "André finds inspiration in nature and physical exercise—Jiu-Jitsu and walking in nature help him gain perspective and make sound business decisions."
• "With fewer than 100 employees, Plastiks.io seeks to revolutionize global plastic waste management through blockchain technology and rigorous data tracking."
• "Raising capital remains one of the biggest challenges, but with perseverance, Plastiks.io aims to create a profitable, impactful software business for environmental sustainability."