We speak with founders and leaders across different industries about their stories and how they’ve reached today, and we dive deep into the challenges, the joys, and, generally, what it takes to get there.
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We speak with founders and leaders across different industries about their stories and how they’ve reached today, and we dive deep into the challenges, the joys, and, generally, what it takes to get there.
The Art of Packaging Solutions with Mike Noldus In this episode of the What It Takes podcast, host Darren Valen interviews Mike Noldus, CEO of Karten BV, a leading producer of corrugated board boxes in the Netherlands. Mike shares his journey from aspiring entrepreneur to CEO, discussing the intricacies of the packaging business, the importance of experience, and the challenges of leadership and hiring. He emphasizes the significance of investing in people and machinery for business growth and outlines his vision for the future of Karten BV, including plans for expansion and innovation in the packaging industry. In this conversation, Mike Noldus discusses innovative packaging solutions, the essential traits of a successful CEO, and the lessons learned from football that can be applied to business. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's weaknesses, the difference between leaders and CEOs, and the misconceptions surrounding work-life balance. Noldus also critiques the current education system, advocating for a more practical approach that prepares students for real-world challenges. He concludes by defining what makes a successful employee and sharing key insights for aspiring CEOs.
Connect with Mike Noldus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikenoldus/
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Noldus and Karten BV 03:05 Understanding the Packaging Business Model 06:05 Mike's Journey to Becoming CEO 09:02 The Importance of Experience in Entrepreneurship 11:55 Navigating Challenges in Business 15:04 Leadership Style and Company Culture 17:55 Hiring Challenges and Strategies 20:57 Growth Strategies and Future Plans 32:13 Innovative Solutions in Packaging 34:07 Traits of a Successful CEO 36:41 The Difference Between Leaders and CEOs 37:44 Lessons from Football 41:08 Work-Life Balance Myths 44:26 The Younger Generation's Work Expectations 48:50 Reforming Education for Real-World Skills 52:24 The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education 57:11 Defining a Successful Employee 59:29 Keys to Success as a CEO
We speak with founders and leaders across different industries about their stories and how they’ve reached today, and we dive deep into the challenges, the joys, and, generally, what it takes to get there.
