Blending Digital Leadership With Fitness: An Interview With Tansel Adacan

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the journey of Tansel Adacan, a seasoned digital leader with a proven track record as both an intrapreneur and entrepreneur. From driving innovation across diverse industries to his lifelong passion for sport and fitness, Tansel shares how his unique blend of skills and inspirations – ranging from the world of gameshows to global business stages – has shaped his approach to success.

Tansel, you’ve had an impressive career. What inspired your approach to leadership?
My leadership approach draws from a mix of influences. Watching gameshows like Strike It Lucky taught me the value of engagement and quick thinking. I’ve always admired the resilience of action heroes in movies – they never back down, no matter the odds. More importantly, seeing my parents’ hard work to provide for our family instilled in me the importance of dedication and empathy. I’ve also gained valuable insights from autobiographies of leaders like Alan Sugar, Theo Paphitis, and Richard Bannatyne, which reinforced the power of perseverance and strategic thinking. It’s about balancing strength with empathy, leading by example, and always striving to do what’s right for the team.

You’ve described your career as a bit of a gameshow. Can you explain that?
Absolutely! Each phase of my career feels like an episode of Strike It Lucky. You never know what’s behind each decision—sometimes it’s a big win, sometimes a lesson. The thrill of navigating through challenges and opportunities has been a constant, much like the unpredictability of a great gameshow.

Fitness is a big part of your life. How does it fit into this narrative?
Fitness, for me, is the ultimate endurance challenge. Competing in bodybuilding events like the Miami Pro and Pure Elite felt like navigating a high-stakes challenge, similar to what you’d see on The Crystal Maze. You need discipline, resilience, and a touch of flair to succeed. Staying fit keeps me sharp and ready to handle the high-pressure ‘game’ of business.

You’ve mentioned your family’s reaction to your fitness journey. Can you share more about that?
Oh, my family thought I was losing it! While I could’ve been happily eating dolma, kebabs, and molohiya, I was in the kitchen experimenting with all kinds of recipes. I remember them peeking in, genuinely concerned, wondering why I was reinventing meals that didn’t need reinventing. But those culinary experiments have been a game-changer. They’ve helped me maintain outstanding fitness, and funny enough, they became an unusual skill I bring into the office. Colleagues often come to me for fitness tips or recipe ideas – it’s like my own version of Ready Steady Cook! (Cue Ainsley Harriott: “Hehe, yeah boi!”)

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking. How did you manage to speak at a massive event like SugarCon?
Speaking live in San Francisco at SugarCon was a surreal experience. Standing in that giant hall filled with customers and executives, I remember thinking, “Now’s my chance!” It felt like a Deal or No Deal moment, where you either seize the opportunity or walk away. I decided to go all in. My heart was pounding, but by the end of it, I felt like I could take on the world.

You’ve mentioned your love for gameshows, but what about movies?
Oh, I’m a huge movie fan! Jim Carrey’s films have always been a favourite. His ability to blend humour with heartfelt moments is something I really admire. Movies, much like gameshows, offer great lessons in timing, delivery, and connecting with an audience. That blend of entertainment and meaning resonates with me both personally and professionally.

You’ve certainly drawn inspiration from a variety of sources. How does this reflect in your professional life?
Whether it’s the quick wit of Barrymore, the energy of Carrey, or the high-stakes thrill of Deal or No Deal, it’s all about bringing that same engagement and authenticity into my professional life. Every interaction is an opportunity to make an impact, and keeping it genuine is key.

With your dual focus on digital and fitness, what advice would you give to company directors, or aspiring senior managers looking to balance their professional and personal growth?
Balance is key. It’s about building small, consistent habits, whether in business or personal life. In digital, that means staying updated with the latest trends and tailoring them to your needs. In fitness, it’s about maintaining routines that keep you mentally and physically sharp. Incorporating quick hacks into your lifestyle can make a big difference – like having a protein shake with supergreens for a quick nutrition boost or fitting in a training session during your lunch break. This way, you can stay on top of your fitness without sacrificing your evenings, leaving time for socialising or unwinding. Consistency in both areas helps you stay resilient and prepared for any challenge.

What digital trends are you most excited about for the future?
AI continues to be a game-changer, especially when used strategically. It’s not about jumping on every new tech trend, but about adopting tools that enhance your business while keeping the human element intact. Customisation and personalisation will remain crucial as we integrate more AI solutions into our workflows.

Conclusion:
Tansel Adacan’s journey exemplifies the power of blending digital innovation with personal resilience. His insights offer a roadmap for anyone looking to thrive in today’s fast-paced world. Whether in digital strategy or personal fitness, Tansel’s commitment to excellence, authenticity, and leadership shines through.

Photos by Dom Martin and Simon Howard @ SNH Foto