In this episode of This Kaleidoscope Career, host HelenJonsen interviews Catarina Dolsten, a medical doctor turned management consultant, Catarina shares her journey from practicing medicine in Sweden to her work in maternal and child health in Sub-Saharan Africa and Bangladesh,and eventually founding the Aktum Group in the United States.

Learn More about Catarina Dolstenon Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/crdolsten/

And at Aktum Group https://www.aktumgroup.com/

Throughout the conversation, Catarina emphasizes theimportance of curiosity and adaptability in navigating career changes. She also discusses her experiences moving a family to a new country, the cultural differences she observes, and howher throughline in diagnostics, analytics, and a love for people has propelled her into organizational management.

This insightful conversation highlights how one can blenddiverse skills and experiences into a fulfilling and dynamic career.

00:00 The Importance of Curiosity

00:30 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Career

01:26 Meet Catarina Dolsten

02:07 Early Career in Sweden

04:15 Transition to the United States

07:37 Working in Nonprofits

13:48 Founding the Aktum Group

21:57 Navigating the Pandemic as an Entrepreneur

26:29 The Problem with Long Meetings

27:53 Speed Round: Fun and Interests

29:28 Dream Destinations and Food Adventures

31:05 Hobbies and Cultural Interests

34:46 Reflections on Career and Life Lessons

42:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Favorite Book: The Slave (a classic from 1962) https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-slave-isaac-bashevis-singer/1102949794