By clicking “Accept all cookies”, you agree to the storage of cookies on your device to improve site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist with our marketing efforts. Check out our Privacy Policy for more information.

Podcast: Annelies Vlasblom on how optimism and room to fail lead to success

Article

Verhalen van:

Annalisa Koukouves

Interview door:

May 15, 2026

How can optimism shape your life's direction? The Storyteller’s Platform is the podcast for people who want to find meaning in their work and life. Each week, Annalisa Koukouves interviews pioneers and shares practical tips with listeners who want to make a difference with their work. In this episode, she speaks with Zeppa's creative director, Annelies Vlasblom, about how optimism and room to fail lead to success.

In this episode of The Storyteller’s Platform, Annelies Vlasblom how making an impact isn't about trying to do everything at once, but rather about dreaming big and finding the courage to take the first step. Through an eventful activist youth in squats and a journey as a self-taught individual, she eventually founded her own agency, Zeppa. In this episode, you'll hear why a deep-rooted belief in good is the foundation for a meaningful path full of milestones. How setbacks and the space to fail can guide you towards what you truly want, and how to successfully combine your skills and social drivers. Annelies explains why an optimistic outlook isn't naivety, but rather a strategic strength. And also what the combination of creativity and perseverance can bring you.

But... do you truly see the opportunities around you, or are you missing the 'gorilla' in the room? Scientific research shows that we miss half of what's happening right in front of us when we focus too much on one thing. Annelies proves the opposite by consciously choosing the perpetually half-full glass. As an expert in visual identity, she sees new possibilities even when facing headwinds. Whether she's helping organizations with branding, bringing Amsterdam's history to life with her 'Verhaalpaal' (Story Pole), or making an impact as a language coach for a refugee: she knows how an open, optimistic perspective can make the world a little more beautiful.

Do you want to know how to spot opportunities, confidently use your talents, and make an impact with a positive life trajectory? Then this conversation is for you.

Watch the episode here

Geen items gevonden.
Geen items gevonden.

Curious for more?

Then be sure to listen to the third episode with Björn Schipper, founding partner of One Plus Legal, and discover how to realize dreams that seem beyond your reach.

Never miss another episode? Subscribe to the podcast via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or sign up for the newsletter with fun extras, and leave a rating and review if the podcast inspired you.

About the creator: Annalisa works from A Lab, in the Werkhotel, as a cross-media storyteller, producer, strategist, and entrepreneur. Over the past 16 years, she has helped hundreds of experts and 200+ organizations to discover their stories, reach their target audience, and make an impact.

Geen items gevonden.
Geen items gevonden.
Geen items gevonden.
Geen items gevonden.

#WhereCuriousWorks