Growth CEO Interviews
Your Oxygen Mask First: Seven Year Anniversary Reflection Interview with Dean Ritchey
October 10, 2024
Dean Ritchey sits down with Kevin for a candid conversation about his book Your Oxygen Mask First and what it really takes to lead at a high level without burning out.
They unpack the “oxygen mask” principle in real-world terms: how driven leaders hit the wall, why resilience isn’t soft (it’s strategic), and how to stay charged — mentally, emotionally, and operationally — while building something meaningful. You’ll also hear practical insights on learning as a competitive advantage, leading without becoming the “chief problem solver,” and the hidden costs of pretending you’ve got it all together.
If you’re building big goals with big responsibilities, this one’s for you.
Here are some highlights captured in clips:
Inspiration for the Book
Awareness Tool
Manage Your Mental Health
Building Amazing Teams
Or watch the full interview here:
About Lawrence & Co.
Lawrence & Co. is a growth strategy and leadership advisory firm that helps mid-market companies achieve lasting, reliable growth. Our Growth Management System turns 30 years of experience into practical steps that drive clarity, alignment, and performance—so leaders can grow faster, with less friction, and greater confidence.
About Kevin Lawrence
Kevin Lawrence has spent three decades helping companies scale from tens of millions to hundreds of millions in revenue. He works side-by-side with CEOs and leadership teams across North America, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and Europe, bringing real-world insights from hands-on experience. Kevin is the author of Your Oxygen Mask First, a book of 17 habits to help high-performing leaders grow sustainably while protecting their mental health and resilience. He also contributed to Scaling Up (Rockefeller Habits 2.0). Based in Vancouver, he leads Lawrence & Co, a boutique firm of growth advisors.