ERIK SCHMIDT CONSULTING & ADVISORY https://www.erikschmidt.co.uk
This week, I'm thrilled to sit down with Carsten Heron Olsen, the CEO, owner, and Race Director of Atlantic Campaigns, the organisation behind the world's toughest trans-ocean races. Carsten shares his highly unconventional journey to leading a global event company, proving that attitude, personal connection, and a hands-on approach often outshine a traditional CV.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Hiring for attitude and personal connection can build a tighter, more dedicated team than relying on standard resumes or formal contracts.
Leading from the front—acting as "the runner" who is fully hands-on and involved in the operational details—earns deep respect and unwavering loyalty from your staff.
Transformational, high-stakes experiences, such as rowing across an ocean, can drive immense personal growth for participants while serving as a powerful platform for charitable giving.
BEST MOMENTS
"I've never asked for anyone's CV. That's not interesting for me. The personal connection is very important for me."
"It's like a brotherhood, sisterhood. They see that I'm involved and they also see that it means something for me. I mean, they have seen me with tears in my eyes."
ABOUT THE GUEST
Carsten Heron Olsen is the CEO, owner, and Race Director of Atlantic Campaigns. Carsten brings a deeply human and unconventional approach to business leadership. Under his guidance, Atlantic Campaigns has transformed from a single Atlantic race into a growing global platform, recently expanding to the Pacific Ocean. His unique leadership style has cultivated a fiercely loyal workforce—some even sporting company tattoos—and has facilitated millions in charitable fundraising.
Connect with Carsten on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsten-heron-olsen-6b7994143/?isSelfProfile=false
World's Toughest Row (Official Website): https://www.worldstoughestrow.com/
About Atlantic Campaigns: https://www.worldstoughestrow.com/about-us/
Atlantic Ocean Race Information: https://www.worldstoughestrow.com/the-atlantic/atlantic/
ABOUT THE HOST
ERIK SCHMIDT CONSULTING & ADVISORY https://www.erikschmidt.co.uk
Erik is described as "exceptional", "undoubtedly one of the top global HR leaders" and "a strong strategic thinker and amazing change leader". After 35 years working with some of the most successful companies on the planet including Diageo, GE, LEGO, HSBC and Pandora, he now leads a successful consulting & advisory business where he partners with CEO’s, Chairs and Investors to help their companies achieve out-performance.
Connect with Erik on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmidt-erik/
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
