Al Interviews Nick Jonsson | Keynote Speaker and Author
The Depression Files
In this deeply honest episode of The Depression Files with Al Levin, Nick Jonsson—keynote speaker, bestselling author, and co-founder of Executives’ Global Network (EGN) Singapore—shares his raw and personal journey through executive loneliness, depression, and addiction. Recorded on September 19, 2022, this conversation offers a powerful look behind the polished exterior of corporate success to reveal the emotional cost many high-performing leaders carry in silence.
From the outside, Nick’s life appeared successful. He held senior leadership roles, traveled globally, and built an impressive professional reputation. But behind closed doors, he was struggling. The pressure to perform, the isolation that comes with leadership, and the expectation to always “have it together” slowly took a toll on his mental health. In Nick’s case, alcohol became his coping mechanism—his way of numbing the pain and escaping the relentless stress.
During the interview, Nick opens up about how his emotional struggles began to manifest physically. Chronic fatigue, health issues, and a deep sense of emptiness became warning signs he could no longer ignore. What started as a way to unwind gradually turned into dependence, reinforcing the cycle of shame and secrecy that so many executives experience.
Nick candidly discusses how his mental health challenges were intertwined with physical symptoms, highlighting how the body often reflects what the mind is trying to suppress. Through this experience, he realized that true leadership is not about pretending to be strong—but about having the courage to ask for help.
The conversation also explores the stigma surrounding mental health in corporate environments. Nick explains why executives often feel trapped by expectations and fear being judged if they admit vulnerability. He shares how this silence keeps leaders isolated—and how breaking it can transform not only their own lives, but the cultures they lead.
Today, Nick uses his story to raise awareness about executive loneliness and the importance of emotional well-being. Through his coaching, speaking, and peer support work, he helps leaders build healthier relationships with themselves, their teams, and their success.
This episode is a powerful reminder that:
Success does not protect you from mental health struggles
Addiction is often a symptom, not the root cause
Vulnerability is a leadership strength, not a weakness
Seeking support can change—and save—your life
If you’re a leader who feels alone behind your success, Nick’s story will resonate deeply. His journey shows that healing is possible, growth is attainable, and you don’t have to walk the path alone.
Published: October 31, 2022
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