Name: Guidian Shturman Waiss

Title: Chief Innovation and Development Officer & Creative Producer

Organisation: FisioHAL & ROTU Entertainment and Media LTD

Guidian Shturman Waiss is currently involved in both the entertainment and healthcare industries, renowned for his multifaceted talents as a producer, creator, innovator, musician, audio director, composer, and technologist in immersive & interactive media. His dedication to storytelling and crafting immersive experiences has made him a revered figure in creating engaging content for audiences around the world.

In his pursuit of creative innovation, Guidian consistently integrates cutting-edge technologies such as AI, web3, and immersive tools into his professional endeavors. Currently serving as the Chief Innovation Officer at FisioHAL, an integral physical rehabilitation clinic within Mexico's most prestigious hospital, he is revolutionizing the way the hospital approaches patient experience and care. His role at ROTU Entertainment and Media LTD as a Creative Producer further exemplifies his ability to lead and inspire in the production of captivating entertainment experiences.

Beyond his professional achievements, Guidian has an extensive background commitment to humanitarian efforts. He has led multiple aid missions around the world and served as the General Commander of the CADENA Go Team Search and Rescue Group for 5 years.

Through these roles, he has contributed to successful missions across the world, demonstrating his dedication to making a significant impact on global relief efforts. Guidian Shturman Waiss stands as a beacon of innovation and creativity, continuously pushing the boundaries to improve experiences across the entertainment and healthcare sectors.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Guidian's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

One of the most formidable challenges I've encountered in my leadership journey has been mastering the art of delegation, especially when dealing with time-sensitive or high-stakes projects. In high-pressure environments, the temptation to take on too much by myself, believing that this is the only way to ensure success, can be overwhelming.

However, this approach is not sustainable and can lead to burnout, while also depriving team members of growth opportunities. Learning to trust in the abilities of my team members, even in critical situations, has been a pivotal aspect of my development as a leader.

This involves not just assigning tasks but also empowering team members with the confidence and resources they need to excel. It's about striking a balance between maintaining control over project outcomes and allowing team members the autonomy to innovate and problem-solve.

These occurrences have taught me invaluable lessons about leadership. I've learned that leadership is not just about steering the ship but also about trusting your crew and your own capabilities as a captain. My journey in mastering delegation tasks has not only made me a more effective leader but has also helped me foster a more resilient, innovative, and cohesive team.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey to leadership unfolded organically, rooted deeply in my intrinsic leader-type personality. From an early age, I found myself naturally assuming leadership roles in various settings, whether it was coordinating a group project at school or spearheading a community initiative.

This tendency to gravitate towards leadership positions was not so much a conscious decision, as it was a reflection of my innate desire to guide, inspire, and bring people together towards a common goal or project. As I progressed through my academic and professional career, this natural inclination towards leadership was honed and refined.

My dual degree from Berklee College of Music in Game and Interactive Media Scoring, and Contemporary Writing and Production, provided me with a solid foundation in collaborative and creative processes. Additionally, my involvement in humanitarian efforts, particularly as the General Commander of the Search and Rescue Team and a Team Leader at the CADENA NGO for Humanitarian Aid, solidified my leadership abilities in high-stakes situations, requiring not just strategic thinking but also empathy, grit, and the ability to make active decisions under pressure.

In my professional endeavors, whether leading innovative projects or guiding creative productions, my leadership style has always been characterized by a strong vision, a collaborative spirit, and a deep commitment to empowering others. The transition into these roles felt like a natural progression of my lifelong journey of leading by example, inspiring teams, and driving projects to fruition with a combination of passion, innovation, and strategic insight.

Ultimately, becoming a leader was less about seeking out positions of authority and more about embracing the opportunities to make a positive impact that came naturally to me. My leadership journey continues as I grow and learn with a drive to contribute meaningfully to the projects and causes I am passionate about.

3. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

A recent leadership lesson that has resonated with me anew is the fundamental importance of the team in the concept of leadership. The realization or reminder that leadership is inherently relational — it necessitates having people to lead — underscores the essence of what it means to be a leader. Working solo might involve managing tasks or projects, but true leadership is exercised in the context of a team.

This insight has reinforced the importance of building trust within my team. Trust is the foundation upon which effective leadership is built; it enables open communication, fosters a culture of mutual respect, and encourages a sense of security that empowers team members to take risks and innovate.

Leading by example has also been a pivotal aspect of this lesson. I've been reminded that actions often speak louder than words. Demonstrating the values, work ethic, and commitment I expect from my team members is crucial. It not only sets a standard but also shows that I am willing to do what I ask of them, creating a shared sense of purpose and direction.

Furthermore, the importance of transmitting and teaching knowledge to my team has been highlighted. Leadership is not just about guiding teams towards achieving objectives but also about contributing to their personal and professional development. Sharing knowledge, providing feedback, and being a mentor are all facets of leadership that contribute to a team's growth and cohesion.

This lesson has been a powerful reminder that leadership is about more than just oversight and direction; it's about nurturing a collaborative, trusting, and empowering environment where every team member can thrive and contribute to their fullest potential.

4. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

One book that has profoundly shaped my approach to leadership is "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek. This book emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of safety and trust within teams, which resonates deeply with my philosophy of leadership in both creative and humanitarian efforts.

Sinek's exploration of why leaders who prioritize the well-being of their team achieve remarkable results inspired me to reflect on my role not just as a leader or a commander, but as a caretaker of my team's collective spirit and morale. The concept that 'leaders eat last' serves as a daily reminder to place the needs of my team before my own, ensuring they feel supported and valued.

By integrating these principles, I have seen a dramatic increase in team cohesion and productivity in both my creative endeavors and humanitarian aid and rescue missions around the world.

5. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I were to offer a single piece of advice to a young leader, it would be this: “You don't have to be the best or the most intelligent person in every aspect of your work. In fact, as cliche as it sounds, if you find yourself consistently being the most knowledgeable or skilled person in the room, it might be time to seek out new environments and challenges.

The essence of strong leadership lies not in outshining everyone in every task but in assembling a team of individuals who excel in areas where you may not. Surround yourself with people who possess skills and talents that surpass your own in specific domains, and focus on leveraging their strengths to achieve collective goals.

This approach does more than just enhance the team's performance; it fosters a culture of mutual respect, learning, and growth. As a leader, your job is to cultivate an environment where every team member can contribute their best work, feel valued for their unique contributions, and have opportunities for personal and professional development.

Learning from those around you, acknowledging their expertise, and giving them the space to shine will not only propel your team to new heights but will also accelerate your growth as a leader. Remember, leadership is not about personal accolades or being the star player; it's about guiding your team towards shared success.

Demonstrating gratitude, respect, and a willingness to learn from your team sets a powerful example. It shows that you value their contributions and trust in their abilities. By leading in this manner, you'll not only achieve greater results but also inspire loyalty, drive, and a sense of ownership among your team members.

Always lead by example, showing humility and a relentless pursuit of excellence, and you'll cultivate a team that is not only effective but also deeply committed to the collective vision."

6. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

It is difficult to encapsulate my leadership journey within a single story, as the most meaningful moments often span across the entirety of my experiences. However, the essence of my leadership is best captured not through specific events but through the ongoing relationships and growth I witness in my teammates.

One particularly rewarding aspect of my leadership emerges when individuals who aren't under my direct command anymore—often those who have replaced me in a role—seek me out for advice, support, or guidance. These interactions are profound as they reflect a relationship built on genuine trust and respect, rather than an obligatory one.

Above all, the most significant marker of success for me comes from observing team members whom I've worked with and mentored. Seeing them not just take on new leadership roles but truly excel and transform into leaders themselves is incredibly fulfilling. It's in these transitions that I see the true impact of my leadership.

This process of succession, where knowledge and inspiration are passed on, allowing others to thrive and succeed, is how I measure my ability to transcend ordinary leadership. Watching someone I've guided become the best version of themselves and lead with confidence and compassion is the ultimate testament to the legacy I strive to leave behind.