Unlocking Deep Leadership Intuition

In this episode of Corporate Unplugged, Vesna Luca welcomes Hrund Gunnsteinsdottir—an Icelandic author, entrepreneur, and thought leader—for a compelling exploration of intuition, transformation, and authentic leadership. Together, they dive into how the Icelandic concept innsæi—often translated as “the sea within”—reshapes how leaders view themselves, their work, and the world.

It All Begins with Kindness and Creativity

The conversation opens with a gentle provocation: what truly matters as we lead through uncertain times? Hrund shares her guiding passions not as lofty concepts, but as everyday values. For her, it’s kindness, courage, generosity, and creativity that lay a foundation for meaningful leadership.

“I believe in people who are generous, courageous, kind, and creative.”  These aren’t just personal aspirations; she sees them as the backbone for anyone aiming to navigate the complexity of today’s world. In Hrund’s view, leadership—at its best—springs from a genuine care for others and a playful embrace of possibilities, setting the tone for the transformation explored throughout the episode.

What Is Intuition?

Hrund describes intuition as a subtle but vital intelligence. “Intuition is an effective way to use unconscious information to take better decisions and actions,” she shares. She emphasizes that intuition is more than a fleeting gut feeling—it’s an embodied skill, strengthened through discipline, self-awareness, and presence.

“While our conscious attention is just the tip of the iceberg, intuition represents the vast ocean beneath.”

 

The Meaning of Innsæi

Hrund unpacks innsæi’s layered meaning: the sea within (unconscious creativity), to see within (self-reflection), and to see from the inside out (leading and living with clarity). The concept, she says, invites leaders to tune into their own currents and navigate wisely.

“Innsæi is not just mystical—it’s a practical guide for clarity and meaningful change.”

 

Finding Courage Through Intuition

Throughout the episode, Vesna asks Hrund to reflect on moments when intuition called her to act. Hrund recounts times she left certainty for new opportunities. “You have a window for courage—don’t wait too long,” she advises, emphasizing how bold choices often come with risk.

“Combining self-trust with action is what propels us forward—even if the road isn’t clear.”

 

Rituals That Build Self-Connection

Journaling anchors Hrund’s daily life. “Writing clears the mind and helps me distinguish intuition from fear or wishful thinking.” She recommends making space for intuition—through morning pages, walks in nature, or simply pausing for presence.

“In a noisy world, quiet rituals give intuition room to emerge and guide decisions.”

Imagination: Intuition’s Sister

The dialogue shifts to imagination. Hrund calls it intuition’s sister: “If we don’t imagine better futures, we’ll never get there.” Imagination, she argues, is as critical as analytics—fueling hope, creativity, and resilience in modern work.

“Safe spaces for new ideas allow us to collaborate bravely and move beyond business as usual.”

 

Scaling Change and Systemic Leadership

Hrund discusses authentic change—not as mass training, but as forming constellations of engaged, self-aware leaders. She asserts, “Real transformation ripples outward from individual acts of attention and care.” In moments of uncertainty, “a well-honed intuition works better than pure analytics.”

A Vision for Tomorrow

Vesna invites Hrund to share her ideal future. Hrund imagines a world “colored by intuition and insight, respect for nature and each other, and vibrant growth.” Her advice for leaders (and her younger self) is simple:“Don’t second doubt—give it all you’ve got.”

What Does the World Need Most Now?

The episode closes with Vesna’s big question. Hrund’s answer:

“People deeply connecting with their inner selves and trusting their own judgment. Not confusing intuition with bias, fear or guesswork—but cultivating a well-honed intuition.”

 

If you enjoyed this episode, check out:

• Peter Senge: Systems Thinking for Real Change —

• Nora Bateson: A More Diverse Ecology of Knowing —

• Eda Çarmıklı: Exponential Humanity and Listening —