In a world where leadership is often confused with performance alone, Volker Ballueder founded Obnatus to bridge the gap between commercial success and emotional intelligence.
In his interview with MysticMag, he shares how his dual background in sales leadership and therapy allows him to guide clients through high-pressure environments with clarity and self-awareness. His coaching goes beyond surface strategies, focusing on mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety to foster authentic leadership.
At Obnatus, growth isn’t just about hitting targets – it’s about becoming the kind of leader who inspires trust, alignment, and lasting impact.
What inspired you to establish Obnatus, and how has your background in sales leadership and therapy influenced your approach?
I set up Obnatus because I saw a gap – smart, capable people under pressure, trying to lead without the tools to stay grounded and emotionally intelligent. I’ve been a commercial leader, I’ve carried the targets, I know the pressure.
And I’ve also trained as a therapist. I blend both under my brand www.clarityarchitect.co.uk as a Personal Consultant. That means I help clients with the what and the why. Strategy and mindset. It’s not either/or. It’s real-world growth, with depth.
How do your coaching programs integrate emotional intelligence and mindfulness to foster authentic leadership?
Emotional intelligence isn’t a buzzword. It’s leadership currency. My coaching helps clients become more self-aware, emotionally present, and intentional. We work on how they relate to themselves and others – especially under pressure.
You wouldn’t believe how many senior leaders lack self-awareness or empathy. Mindfulness helps them slow down and make conscious decisions instead of reactive ones. Authentic leadership comes when you know who you are and lead from that place – not from fear or ego.
Can you share an example of how you’ve helped a client navigate a significant career transition or leadership challenge?
One client had just been promoted to their first senior sales leadership role. Great technically, but full of impostor syndrome and pressure to perform. We worked on building inner confidence, managing their team dynamics, and holding their ground with senior stakeholders.
Within 6 months, they’d built a high-performing team, earned respect across the org, and – more importantly – started enjoying leadership. That shift matters.
What role does psychological safety play in your therapy and counseling services, particularly within corporate environments?
It’s everything. No real growth happens without it. I create spaces where people can be honest – not just perform. In corporate settings, people are often in ‘protective mode’.
I help them take the armour off. When leaders feel safe enough to explore, be challenged, and reflect honestly – that’s where transformation starts.
How do you tailor your services to meet the unique needs of individuals versus teams or organizations?
With individuals, it’s about depth. I help them get clear on what really matters and how to lead from there. With teams, it’s about dynamics, trust and alignment.
With organisations, I focus on culture, leadership capability, and long-term impact. One-size-fits-all doesn’t work. I listen, adapt, and design what actually fits the situation.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Obnatus in the evolving landscape of leadership development and mental well-being?
I want Obnatus to be known for cutting through the noise. A place where leadership growth and emotional wellbeing go hand-in-hand. Where performance and humanity aren’t in conflict.
As leadership evolves, we need more honest conversations, more emotionally intelligent leaders, and fewer masks. Integrating therapy and coaching ethically and sustainably. That’s the future I’m building towards.
Find out more at: www.obnat.us
