How a McKinsey alum helps executives and kids find meaning through mindfulness
Dr Svea von Hehn, a psychologist and management consultant, has spent over a decade helping professionals find meaning in their work. Now based at a Berlin primary school, she teaches mindfulness to students and staff as part of a voluntary project. Her approach blends neuroscience with practical advice for both executives and young learners. Von Hehn began her career as an engagement manager for McKinsey in Dubai. Fourteen years ago, she left to establish her own firm, Return on Meaning, which now works with global corporations and senior leaders.
Over time, she noticed a troubling pattern: many high-achieving professionals felt deeply unhappy despite their success. This observation shaped her focus on mindfulness and emotional well-being. In her sessions, she often explains how the amygdala influences emotions and decision-making. Alongside her corporate work, von Hehn now dedicates time to a Berlin primary school. There, she teaches pupils and teachers techniques to manage stress and stay present. The project reflects her belief that mindfulness should be accessible to everyone, not just business leaders.
Von Hehn’s work bridges two worlds—corporate consulting and community education. Her pro bono teaching in Berlin shows how mindfulness can benefit both executives and children. With a doctorate in psychology and years of experience, she continues to explore how meaning and emotion shape professional and personal lives.
