Episode 24: Lisa Askwith - Lateral Achievers
In Episode 24 of Leadership Conversations: The Untold Secrets of the C-Suite, Nick Jonsson sits down with Lisa Askwith, Director at Apex BRS, to explore the powerful concept of Lateral Achievers—leaders who build extraordinary success by thinking beyond traditional career paths and breaking conventional boundaries.
Lisa shares her perspective on what it truly means to cultivate a lateral mindset. Rather than following a linear climb up the corporate ladder, lateral achievers move across functions, industries, and experiences. They build diverse skill sets, broaden their worldview, and create unique leadership identities. Lisa explains how this approach not only accelerates personal growth but also unlocks innovation, adaptability, and long-term career resilience.
Throughout the conversation, Lisa highlights how lateral achievers stand out in today’s rapidly changing business landscape. As organizations face constant disruption, leaders who can connect dots across disciplines become invaluable. Lisa discusses how curiosity, courage, and continuous learning allow professionals to thrive even when navigating unfamiliar territory.
Key insights from this episode include:
Why non-linear career paths create stronger leaders
How to develop transferable skills across industries
The mindset shifts needed to break out of rigid career frameworks
How lateral thinking drives innovation and problem-solving
Why adaptability is the new leadership superpower
Lisa also reflects on her work in corporate social responsibility and leadership development, sharing real-world examples of how lateral achievers bring fresh thinking to complex challenges. She explains how embracing diversity of experience leads to better decision-making and more inclusive leadership cultures.
Nick and Lisa dive into the emotional side of career growth—how stepping outside comfort zones can feel risky, but ultimately builds confidence, clarity, and purpose. Lisa encourages listeners to reframe career “detours” as powerful opportunities for discovery and growth rather than setbacks.
This episode is especially valuable for:
Professionals feeling stuck in traditional career tracks
Leaders seeking fresh perspectives and innovation
Entrepreneurs navigating multiple roles
Anyone curious about designing a purpose-driven career
Lisa’s message is clear:
Success doesn’t have to follow a straight line. Sometimes, the most meaningful growth happens when you move sideways.
🎧 Tune in to discover:
How to future-proof your career
Why diverse experience beats narrow expertise
How to lead with creativity and confidence
What it takes to thrive in unpredictable environments
For collaboration opportunities, connect with Lisa Askwith and explore how lateral leadership can transform your career and organization.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-askwith/
Visit our website to find more podcast https://www.nickjonsson.com/leadership-conversations-the-untold-secrets-of-the-c-suite