empowering innovators
With a background in acting, journalism, and strategic design, I’ve built a career as a consultant, creative director, and coach—transforming ideas into compelling stories and successful businesses. Whether guiding CEOs or founders, people are always at the heart of my work.
I am passionate about technology, innovation, sports, and design. As an angel investor, I back startups shaping the future and help innovators craft strategies that captivate and inspire.
At 18, I launched my career in television as an actor and presenter, engaging millions. I hosted youth shows for RTL, Europe’s largest broadcaster, and shared the stage with Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, and German comedy icon Helge Schneider. My time at RTL included rigorous journalistic training at the prestigious Adolf Grimme Institut. I also played leading roles in feature films, sitcoms, and crime series across Germany’s significant networks.
After transitioning from television, I spent three years as an acting coach, blending American storytelling principles with Russian acting techniques. Many of the actors I mentored went on to secure roles in film and theater.
In 2007, the organizers of TED conferences in Germany hired me. My presenter, actor, and coach background made me a natural fit for preparing speakers. Over the years, I’ve coached over 350 speakers for TEDx events in Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. Around the same time, I entered academia, teaching at the Hasso Plattner Institute School of Design Thinking and the Strategic Design master’s program at the Berlin Design Academy.
In 2012, I founded PEAK, a consultancy dedicated to innovation and communication.
This work paved the way for my entry into the startup world. In 2014, I joined Berlin’s Axel Springer Plug and Play Accelerator, where I designed and led a three-month pitch program for years. I worked with hundreds of startups, helping founders craft compelling five-minute pitches to attract investors.
With nearly two decades of experience as a presenter, consultant, and coach, I have developed a proven methodology for creating concise, impactful pitches and inspiring speeches, including the globally recognized TED style. I outline my approach in my book, Beyond the Obvious.
Today, I’m a sought-after speaker and host at major conferences across the DACH region, including events by Architectural Digest, WIRED, the German Startup Association, Wirtschaftswoche, and more. My career continues to be guided by a straightforward principle: designing the future, one vision at a time.
A world in which everyone gets understood instantly.
The following attributes define my work ethos.
The future excites me. I envision what could be and translate these ideas into vivid, inspiring narratives. By energizing others with clear visions of tomorrow, I invite them to shape the future with me actively.
I have an insatiable desire to learn and improve. Exploring the journey from ignorance to mastery inspires me. I absorb and distill knowledge into actionable insights, empowering myself and others to make better decisions every step of the way.
I thrive on solving challenges. While others might feel discouraged by yet another breakdown, I’m energized by the opportunity to dive deeper. The more complex the problem, the more motivated I am to analyze the symptoms, uncover the root cause, and create sustainable solutions.
I excel at designing actionable roadmaps that bridge vision and execution. I help create strategies that deliver measurable impact by aligning goals with resources and opportunities. My ability to balance big-picture thinking with practical steps ensures that every plan is inspiring and achievable.
I lead with optimism and celebrate every achievement, no matter the scale. Even in the face of setbacks, I find the silver lining and stay grounded in humor. For me, positivity is a tool to uplift others and keep progress moving forward.
I’m fascinated by the unique qualities that make each person tick. Observing their styles, motivations, and thought processes allows me to unlock their strengths. By bringing out the best in each individual, I build high-performing and cohesive teams.
