Dennis Akkerman Interview

Q. Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to become a writer?

Ans. Hi, I’m Dennis Akkerman, a Dutchman living in Malaysia with over two decades of transformational leadership experience across more than 30 countries. I’ve learned a great deal from leading change in multinationals, but the biggest lesson from my own roller coaster life events is that true transformation starts from within. Being is always becoming — and that insight makes all the difference, in business and in life. For years, these ideas were waiting to be written. Now, I want to share them and offer a practical guide for people and organisations ready to truly transform.

Q. What genre(s) do you primarily write in, and what draws you to that particular genre?

Ans. Transformational leadership is my passion, my strength, and my purpose. More importantly, the world needs transformational leaders now more than ever; leaders who want to make a meaningful difference for themselves and for others. Leaders who create opportunities. Leaders who inspire and connect. Regardless of our title or status, we can all be leaders for positive change

Q. What is your favorite book, and what about it resonates with you the most?

Ans. The Vision Code, the number one go-to guide for visionary leadership.

Q. Who is your favorite author, and how have they influenced your writing?

Ans. Dr. Oleg Konovalov, author of The Vision Code, greatly helped me sharpen my vision and made me see how my books could become one of the channels to bring my vision to life.

Q. How do you balance writing with other aspects of your life, such as work, family, or hobbies?

Ans. I wrote my books during 'downtime' and 'offline' time, such as long-haul flights, after retreats, and in between projects.

Q. How do you show appreciation and love to your followers and readers? Do you actively engage with them on social media or through other means?

Ans. I’ve ditched all social media except LinkedIn, where I stay actively connected with wonderful people around the world. Still, nothing beats meeting in person, whether it’s a deep and meaningful conversation or just a quick catch-up.

Q. What do you enjoy most about being an author, and what keeps you motivated to continue writing?

Ans. The positive impact these books have had on others is beyond anything I ever imagined. They’ve also become great conversation starters about topics that matter deeply to the readers and to me. Lastly, the books are a tangible legacy that I would happily share with my great-grandchildren if I happen to live that long.

Q. Have you ever faced writer's block, and if so, how do you overcome it?

Ans. Never. The ideas and everything I want to share are already within me. I don’t know exactly where the inspiration comes from; it just flows. The only limiting factor is the time I need to put it into words.

Q. Can you share any interesting or funny anecdotes from your writing journey?

Ans. For my first book, The Naked Leader, I created a tongue-in-cheek promotion video filmed in the bathtub of my new house, fully naked. To avoid censorship and other trouble, I made sure the tub was full of foam though ;-)

Q. What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?

Ans. Don't ever think that your story is not important enough to share with the world. You are unique, and therefore your authentic story is already different from any other book written. Trust your gut and don't overthink. Inspiration comes at random times: jot your thoughts down and connect the dots later.

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or works in progress that you'd like to share with your readers?

Ans. My third book, 'Not my problem?' about Sustainable transformation, is planned for Q3-2026. I feel a few more books are waiting after that - will keep you posted!

Q. Finally, what are your goals and aspirations as a writer? Where do you see yourself and your writing career in the future?

Ans. My books are written to support people on their transformation journey and complement the other transformational work I do through speaking and coaching.