347: Leaving Corporate to Embrace Vision – Part 1 of My Conversation with Annyse Balkwill of LuminUS Group

What happens when a successful chemical engineer walks away from a corporate career to follow a calling she couldn't ignore? In this episode, I sit down with Annyse Balkwill, founder and CEO of LuminUS Group, to explore her remarkable journey from designing water treatment plants around the world to creating a consulting practice that transforms leadership teams and organizational cultures.

This conversation is a masterclass in trusting the universe, understanding your power, and building a business that reflects your deepest values. Whether you're contemplating your own leap into entrepreneurship or looking to deepen your leadership practice, Annyse's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:

• The unexpected moment that shifted everything: how a planning meeting introduced Annyse to a way of working that would become her life's calling
• Why the "knowing" came first and the spiritual practice of standing your post before you have any idea how things will unfold
• The power of co-creation. How a snowstorm and some wine led to the creation of the LuminUS deck (and what that teaches us about letting go of perfection)
• What it really takes to leave corporate life, including the inner work, identity shifts, and "crying in the fetal position" that most people don't talk about
• How to build a business on your own terms without forcing, without following someone else's playbook, and with deep trust in your unique path

About Annyse Balkwill

Annyse built her career in the water industry over two decades as a chemical engineer, designing water treatment plants globally and serving as a global product manager at GE Water & Process Technologies. Ten years ago, she founded LuminUS Group Management Consulting to create impact at a broader level. Through coaching, facilitation, and experiential learning, Annyse and her team work with leadership teams to unlock potential, build conscious cultures, and create the conditions for meaningful collaboration and sustainable growth. She is passionate about investing in women for leadership roles as a catalyst for the bold change needed in today's business landscape.

Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Annyse and learn more about LuminUS Group at www.luminusgroup.ca
• Listen to the podcast: Meaningful Conversations with Annyse
• Purchase the LuminUS deck at www.luminusgroup.ca/shop

This is part one of a two-part conversation. Stay tuned for part two where we dive even deeper into leadership, transformation, and what it means to build a truly generous business.