Play It By Your Rules
Play It by Your Rules (formerly Leadership Insights)
This podcast is a call to mindful rebellion - an invitation to live and lead with more freedom, flow, and fun, especially at midlife.
I sit down with leaders, experts, adventurers, and changemakers who’ve dared to break the script and rewrite the rules - not for the sake of rebellion alone, but to realign with what truly matters.
These raw, real conversations explore bold career moves, life pivots, and the inner work of letting go of “shoulds.” You’ll hear stories of courage, clarity, and conscious risk-taking - plus practical tools to help you think braver, lead wiser, and live bolder.
Whether you’re at a crossroads or simply ready to play bigger on your own terms, this space is for you.
✨ Hosted by Mechthild (Meggi) Rombach —
Freedom Catalyst for Midlife Leaders | Coach | Speaker | Workshop Creator
🌐 Learn more: mindset-mastery.ch
Episodes

Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Episode 9: Leadership Insights with Alex Preukschat
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
Tuesday Feb 04, 2025
"If you want unconventional success, take unconventional approaches." 🌟
In this episode, I reconnect with Alex Preukschat, a global leader in blockchain, digital identity, and market strategy. With over a decade of experience in the crypto space, Alex has led high-performance teams and authored multiple books on Bitcoin, blockchain, and self-sovereign identity (SSI), including Self-Sovereign Identity and Blockchain: The Industrial Revolution of the Internet.
Beyond technology, Alex is deeply invested in personal growth, leadership, and the power of human connection. His career journey is a testament to continuous reinvention and the ability to navigate transitions—both professional and personal.
💡 Tune in to discover:
Why human connection is the most valuable leadership skill.
Alex’s unconventional take on hiring and promotion—why attitude, high standards, and integrity matter more than technical skills.
His biggest accomplishment: building strong relationships—from family to friendships and professional networks.
The importance of self-awareness and breaking free from conditioning to find balance in leadership and life.
🌱 New! A deep dive into life and career transitions—introducing a new question about navigating the neutral zone, the often messy and uncertain middle stage of change.
🌟 Plus: Rapid-fire insights, from must-read books to dream jobs and even his plan to cycle from Alaska to Patagonia!
Whether you’re leading a team, navigating a career shift, or reflecting on your personal growth, this episode will inspire you to lead with purpose and curiosity.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Thursday Jan 09, 2025
Episode 8: Leadership Insights with Stéphanie Kioutsoukis
Thursday Jan 09, 2025
Thursday Jan 09, 2025
”Curiosity, courage, and living fully—these are the cornerstones of my approach to leadership and life.” 🌟
In this episode, I sit down with Stéphanie Kioutsoukis, founder of Fresh Strategy and Fresh Solutions AI, to explore the art of leading with innovation, resilience, and authenticity. Stephanie shares her journey from corporate leadership at Unilever, GSK, and Novartis to building agile, values-driven organizations that embrace creativity and AI.
Are you a leader navigating career transitions or someone striving to balance ambition with alignment? This episode is packed with insights to help you harness your values, foster impactful teams, and lead with purpose.
💡 Tune in to learn:
Why curiosity and courage are non-negotiable in leadership.How to integrate work and life during the ”rush hour” years.Why hiring for attitude and outcomes trumps technical skills.
🌟 Whether you’re scaling innovation or rethinking your leadership style, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action and live boldly.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Friday Dec 06, 2024
Episode 7: Leadership Insights with Adama Sanneh
Friday Dec 06, 2024
Friday Dec 06, 2024
“In jiu-jitsu, your instinct is to fight back under pressure, but the best thing you can do is relax, stay in the moment, and trust your technique.” 🥋
In this episode, I sit down with Adama Sanneh, CEO and Co-founder of the Moleskine Foundation, to uncover the art of leading with creativity, resilience, and humanity. Adama shares how lessons from Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the South African philosophy of Ubuntu (“I am because you are”), and the transformative power of love can redefine leadership in today’s fast-paced world.
Are you a leader navigating high-pressure moments or someone seeking more connection and meaning in your work? This episode offers powerful insights to help you embrace challenges, foster authentic relationships, and lead with purpose.
💡 Tune in to learn:
How to stay grounded and make better decisions under pressure.Why love and connectedness are essential (even in the workplace).How to lead with values that inspire growth, balance, and impact.
🌟 Whether you’re leading a team or charting your career path, this conversation will leave you inspired to take your leadership to the next level.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Episode 6: Leadership Insights with Vijitha Eyango
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
Tuesday Nov 05, 2024
”Dream big, work hard, and align your vision with opportunity.” 🌟
In this episode, I reconnect with Vijitha Eyango, a former manager during my time at UNICEF Cameroon, whose career exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and impact. Vijitha’s journey has taken her from leadership roles at USAID, UNICEF, and in academia to founding Agriculture for Africa (A4A)—an NGO dedicated to empowering marginalized youth in Cameroon with life-changing agricultural skills.
Are you navigating career transitions, seeking inspiration for leadership reinvention, or aiming to leave a lasting impact? Vijitha’s candid reflections on leadership and career development offer valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike.
💡 Tune in to discover:
The values of compassion, timeliness, and honesty as cornerstones of effective leadership.Vijitha’s most significant career accomplishment: building a sustainable NGO that addresses real-world needs from the ground up.Her wisdom for young professionals: “Dream big, work hard, and ensure your vision aligns with real job opportunities.”Practical tips on balancing work and life by disconnecting from technology to focus on what truly matters.
🌟 Whether you’re scaling your impact, redefining leadership, or reflecting on your career journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire you to lead with purpose and authenticity.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Friday Nov 01, 2024
Episode 5: Leadership Insights with Kimberly Gire
Friday Nov 01, 2024
Friday Nov 01, 2024
”Fewer white papers, more whiteboards—take action and make a difference.” 🌟
In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kimberly Gire, a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience in banking, finance, and philanthropy. As the founder of Global Women Leaders, Kimberly has harnessed her expertise in treasury and investments to champion humanitarian, development, and climate initiatives worldwide. Her journey is a testament to the power of reinvention, resilience, and leveraging skills for global impact.
Are you seeking ways to align your career with purpose, redefine leadership, or balance ambition with family life? Kimberly’s candid reflections provide invaluable insights for leaders at every stage of their journey.
💡 Tune in to discover:
Kimberly’s top guiding values: trust, creativity, and persistence as the foundation for impactful leadership.Why clarity and trust are non-negotiables for successful teamwork.Her proudest accomplishment: raising a family while pursuing a fulfilling, high-impact career.A refreshing perspective on work-life balance: the importance of boundaries, self-care, and flexible working arrangements.Her career advice for young professionals: ”Leverage what exists, but don’t limit yourself—dream jobs are often the ones you create.”🌟 Whether you’re navigating your leadership path, searching for inspiration, or looking for actionable advice on making an impact, Kimberly’s journey will motivate you to lead with authenticity and courage.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Episode 4: Leadership Insights with Jess Markt
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
Tuesday Sep 10, 2024
”Empower people to be their best selves by encouraging creativity, supporting growth, and fostering inclusivity.” 🌟
In this heartfelt episode, I connect with Jess Markt, a global humanitarian leader and the ICRC Disability Sport & Inclusion Adviser. As a celebrated wheelchair basketball coach, Jess has transformed lives in conflict-affected countries like Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Syria. His work promotes not just physical rehabilitation but also societal inclusion, empowering persons with disabilities to realize their full potential and thrive as active contributors to their communities.
Are you passionate about inclusivity, resilience, or redefining leadership? Jess’s journey offers profound lessons for anyone committed to making a lasting impact.
💡 Tune in to discover:
Jess’s three guiding values: inclusiveness, accountability, and curiosity—and how they shape his leadership style.The transformative power of adaptive sports in fostering societal inclusion and personal growth.His most significant career accomplishment: building a global program that now reaches 10,000+ participants annually in 24 countries.Practical advice on achieving work-life balance, including the importance of downtime and self-care.His wisdom for aspiring leaders: ”Stay open—amazing things happen when you embrace the unexpected.”
🌟 Whether you’re looking to make a difference, explore adaptive leadership, or deepen your understanding of inclusivity, this episode is packed with actionable insights to inspire you to lead with purpose and heart.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Welcome & What to Expect: Leadership Insights with Meggi Rombach
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Welcome to Leadership Insights by Meggi Rombach 🌟
Leadership isn’t just about titles or positions—it’s about growth, resilience, and leading with authenticity. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, or striving for work-life balance, this podcast is your space for inspiration and actionable advice.
In each episode, I sit down with incredible leaders from diverse sectors—humanitarian, private, and beyond—who share their journeys, values, and lessons learned. Together, we explore the human side of leadership, offering insights to empower you to lead with purpose, curiosity, and courage.
💡 Expect engaging conversations, rapid-fire questions, and practical tips that will inspire you to tackle challenges, embrace opportunities, and carve your unique leadership path.
🌟 Whether you’re an aspiring leader, seasoned professional, or someone curious about personal growth, this podcast will fuel your mindset for success. Let’s redefine what leadership means—together.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Episode 3: Leadership Insights with Josh Adler
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
”Visionary leadership isn’t just about big ideas—it’s about perseverance, adaptability, and the courage to ask for help.” 🌟
In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Josh Adler, a trailblazing leader and innovator in education and entrepreneurship. As a board member of the African Leadership Academy, Josh is shaping the next generation of leaders across the continent. With a career rooted in empowering young changemakers, Josh embodies the belief that education is a catalyst for societal transformation.
Josh and I first connected during our MBA in International Organizations Management (IOMBA) in Geneva—a transformative year for us both. His journey since has been a testament to the power of visionary leadership and resilience.
💡 Tune in to discover:
The leadership qualities Josh values most: independence, resourcefulness, and knowing when to ask for help.His thoughts on hiring: the importance of problem-solving skills and perseverance.Why education is the cornerstone of sustainable societal change.His advice for younger leaders: ”Start watching YouTube earlier to learn, not just consume.”A shoutout to one of his role models, Adama Sanneh, whose leadership exemplifies creativity and impact.
🌟 Whether you’re navigating challenges, exploring leadership development, or seeking fresh perspectives on driving change, Josh’s insights will inspire you to lead with intention and determination.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Episode 2: Leadership Insights with Donna Williams
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
”Self-awareness, curiosity, and humility—these qualities transform leaders into forces of well-being and impact.” 🌟
In this rejuvenating episode, I connect with Donna Williams, a well-being entrepreneur, sports scientist, and mentor for women. Drawing from her extensive humanitarian career, Donna founded Emergencyoga, a platform offering free yoga resources to support those working in high-stress environments. Over the years, she has expanded her vision to deliver holistic well-being experiences that nurture mind, body, and spirit.
Are you exploring ways to cultivate balance, self-awareness, and meaningful leadership? Donna’s story and insights will inspire you to lead with authenticity and compassion.
💡 Tune in to discover:
Donna’s guiding values: self-awareness, curiosity, and humility as foundations for impactful leadership.Her approach to work-life balance: embracing well-being practices to recharge and thrive.Tips for hiring: why self-awareness and humility matter more than technical skills.A must-read book recommendation: Chocolate by Joanne Harris, a reminder of the magic in the everyday.Rapid-fire wisdom: Donna’s reflections on leadership, inspiration, and creating spaces for growth.
🌟 Whether you’re a leader seeking balance or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers a nourishing blend of practical advice and inspiring perspectives.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Episode 1: Leadership Insights with Rathan Kinhal
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
Saturday Aug 17, 2024
”Be curious—curiosity isn’t just an attribute, it’s the key to unlocking endless possibilities.” 🌟
In this debut episode, I sit down with Rathan Kinhal, a strategic thinker and accomplished leader with extensive experience in consulting, humanitarian work, and development. Rathan’s leadership journey spans global transformations, fostering innovation, and building high-performance teams across diverse sectors. His philosophy? Aligning shared purpose with joy and authenticity.
Are you navigating change, leading diverse teams, or seeking inspiration for your career? Rathan’s reflections provide actionable insights for leaders at all levels.
💡 Tune in to discover:
Rathan’s top guiding values: shared purpose, authenticity, and joy in every endeavor.His proudest accomplishment: leading a massive organizational transformation during a time of global uncertainty.What he looks for in hiring: the importance of attitude, preparation, and collaboration over technical skills alone.His advice for work-life balance: prioritize your mind and body with daily habits that recharge and inspire.A timeless lesson: how curiosity fuels innovation and personal growth.
🌟 Whether you’re charting your own leadership path or supporting others in theirs, this episode is filled with wisdom and encouragement to lead with purpose and curiosity.
🎧 Listen now!
🔹 Enjoyed this episode? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform—it really helps more people find the podcast.
Don’t forget to subscribe/follow so you never miss an episode, and if you found value in this conversation, share it with someone who could benefit! Your support makes all the difference in spreading these insights further.

Play It by Your Rules (formerly Leadership Insights)
Are you tired of living by someone else’s script? Get inspired by those who’ve dared to live and lead differently.
This isn’t just about leadership titles. It’s about designing your life and career on your terms. Whether you’re navigating change, questioning your next move, or ready to break free from the “shoulds” holding you back, this podcast brings you raw conversations and practical takeaways to help you move forward - your way.
💡 What to Expect:
✔️ Unscripted Journeys – Candid stories from people who’ve rewritten their script.
✔️ Career Transitions & Reinvention – How they navigated uncertainty, overcame doubts, and built what’s next.
✔️ The Human Side of Success – Well-being, personal growth, and living with intention.
✔️ Real-World Advice – No fluff. Just actionable insights you can use now.
✔️ Life Lessons from Anywhere – Adventures, sports, creativity; how life outside work shapes how we show up inside it.
Why This Podcast?
I sit down with leaders, esperts, adventurers, and changemakers who’ve been there sharing pivotal moments, hard truths, and the decisions that shaped them. You’ll also hear from experts in leadership, career development, and transitions - and sometimes, something a bit rebellious and totally out of the box - so you leave with both inspiration and tools you can use.
If you’re a mid- to senior-level leader, a career changer, or simply asking “what’s next?”, these conversations will challenge your thinking and spark the courage to play it by your rules.
I’m Meggi Rombach, your host. After 20+ years in leadership roles across Procter & Gamble, UNICEF, and the ICRC, I now coach and connect purpose-driven professionals helping them get clear on what matters now, dream up the next chapter, and go after it.
🌐 Find out more about my ever-evolving coaching offers, upcoming workshops, and keynote speaking: mindset-mastery.ch
🔊 New episodes monthly. Listen & subscribe now!
🎵 Creative Commons Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com







