12 | Naki Osutei – How to Thrive and Energize Your Career

Have you ever wondered what happens when you finally hit pause... and life refuses to go back to “normal”?

In this luminous, no-filter conversation, Charles Achampong welcomes transformational leader Naki Osutei for a rare behind-the-scenes exploration into powerful reinvention, the hidden cost of relentless achievement, and the deep lessons you only learn by letting go. They unpack surprising truths about burnout, the messy grace of transition, and why habits and the courage to pause shape your future far more than title or performance.

If you’re craving clarity, longing for a more intentional life, or wrestling with losing your identity in the pursuit of ambition, pause with us. Don’t risk wasting months on autopilot. This episode brings both soulful stories and practical tools you simply won’t hear anywhere else. Tune in now and reclaim the wisdom in your own pause.

Timestamped Highlights

• [00:00] – When was the last time you let yourself start over on purpose?
• [01:02] – The art of reinvention: surviving (and thriving) through all the pivots
• [04:21] – The “accidental” leadership moment at sixteen that changed everything
• [10:13] – The voice you need when Imposter Syndrome shouts the loudest
• [18:01] – The lifequake year: cancer, pandemic, and burning the playbook
• [23:01] – Burnout’s hidden warning signs and a prescription you can’t ignore
• [27:23] – How “practice-based culture” unexpectedly transforms teams and lives
• [35:10] – Letting go of status: why identity loss just might become your freedom
• [44:28] – One question to ask when you feel restless or off-mission

Resources Mentioned

• DiverseCity Fellows
• CivicAction
• TD Bank
• CIBC
• Don Staley – Uncommon Favor (book)
• Richard Florida
• Julia Cameron – The Artist's Way (book)
• Capacity Canada

About the Guest

Naki Osutei is the Founder and Principal of PRESIQ, a trailblazing leadership and talent development consultancy redefining how organizations and individuals practice intentional change. Known for her cross-sector expertise, spanning non-profit, public, and private leadership and as a champion for burnout prevention and authentic work cultures, she brings 20+ years of wisdom to every client. Her journey from early community leader to banking executive, cancer survivor, and entrepreneur offers a grounded, human, and hope-filled model for anyone seeking real-life transformation.

🔗 LinkedIn | Website | Instagram

Important Links

• Connect with Charles: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
• Press Pause. Take a Leap. Change Everything - Get a copy of Charles book.
• Ready to spark change? Book Charles as keynote speaker for your event.

When We Pause is an original production hosted by Charles Achampong. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.