Blending Digital Leadership With Fitness: An Interview With Inspirational Intrapreneur And Entrepreneur 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.
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
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