Interview: Sophie Wachter - Fokus, Attitude, Impact

Sophie Wachter learned early on to fight for her goals. From her first kata training to winning a world championship title and building her own business – she shows what’s possible when passion meets a clear vision. A conversation about discipline, transformation, and inner strength.

Sophie, you started training your first katas at the age of six – years later, you’re standing on the mat as a world champion. What was that inner drive that carried you through all the highs and lows over the years?

The dream was actually there from the very beginning. I still remember clearly: when I was six or seven, I wrote in my best friend’s friendship book that my biggest wish was to become a karate world champion. I always had this goal very clearly in mind – and it carried me through many highs, but also through some very tough lows.

There were moments when I was injured, doubted myself, or questioned whether I should continue. But deep inside, there was always this drive, this image I had of myself. I wanted to prove it to myself and to the world – and I wanted to see how far I could go if I gave it my all.

Was there one particular moment – maybe even a specific day – when you felt: this is the beginning of a new chapter? When the top athlete became the entrepreneur Sophie Wachter?

It wasn’t so much a single day – more of a growing awareness. But one key moment was definitely winning the world championship title with my kata team in our home country, in front of more than 10,000 spectators. We were convinced: now our fringe sport will finally be seen. Now sponsors will come. After all, we had made history – for karate in Germany.

But then… nothing happened. No offers, no support. And in that moment, I decided: then I’ll just take matters into my own hands. I founded our own little “management,” contacted sponsors, negotiated contracts – and realized that I really enjoyed it. I wanted to see how far I could go in this field too.

I was in my early 20s – and I managed to finance three people through sponsorship money. Looking back, that was probably my first real step into entrepreneurship.

The transition from the national team to becoming an independent entrepreneur – was it a smooth change or more of a bold leap into the unknown?

It was a gradual transition – but definitely involved bold decisions. As I mentioned earlier, during my active time on the national team I independently negotiated sponsorship contracts, took care of partnerships, and accepted my first seminar requests.

Even during my six years in the Bundeswehr sports support group, I built my professional network step by step – simply because no one else would have done it for me. And although I was structurally well supported through the Bundeswehr, it became clear to me early on: when I eventually leave the sports support group, I want to stand on my own two feet – with karate, but also beyond.

Parallel to competitive sports, I studied business psychology – not necessarily with the goal of working in the field later, but to better understand economic contexts and gain solid knowledge for entrepreneurial decision-making.

The moment of suddenly standing there without a secure salary, managing my own projects and organizing everything myself was challenging – but that was exactly what attracted me.

Who were your strongest sparring partners during this time – were there mentors, role models, or even surprising supporters who influenced you?

I never had one single mentor, but many different people who shaped me in various ways – both in sports and in business.

On my karate journey, my sensei Efthimios Karamitsos had a strong influence on me. As a child, I regularly attended his seminars, observed how he interacted with people, and saw the clarity, discipline, and at the same time empathy he embodied. Later, I was allowed to teach at his seminars myself, and we had many valuable conversations – which continue to this day.

My family has also been and continues to be a huge support – not only emotionally, but also in practical ways. Many of them know the karate world very well and were able to give me valuable advice on how to strategically build my seminars and self-employment. My brother-in-law and sister in particular have often (and still do) offer me advice – over dinner, on the phone, or sometimes in passing. These conversations were extremely valuable to me.

And then there’s my best friend: ambitious, reflective, and successful in her field for years. We started exchanging ideas early on, motivating and supporting each other – as true sparring partners. Today, she’s my manager and we continue to grow together. It’s incredibly valuable to have someone by your side who not only believes in you but also shares your vision.

What are the most important skills or principles from karate that you apply directly in your business life – maybe even without consciously thinking about it?

A key principle for me is focus. In karate, you learn to block out everything else in the decisive moment and fully concentrate on one thing. That’s exactly what helps me in business: setting priorities, staying clear, not getting lost in details.

Then there’s a certain attitude – both outwardly and inwardly. I stand tall, literally, but I also bring an inner clarity and stability that help me deal with challenges. This attitude is deeply rooted within me – not put on, but grown through the sport.

Determination is, of course, also part of it. I’ve learned to think long-term and work toward a goal, even if the path isn’t always straight. And perhaps most importantly: respectful interaction with others. Respect is a fundamental part of karate – and it shapes my communication in business as well. Whether with clients, partners, or employees: appreciation and clarity go hand in hand for me.

Are there moments in your professional life when you tell yourself: now I need my karate mindset – focus, calm, control?

Absolutely. Especially when things don’t work out right away or I feel like I’m falling short of my own expectations, I think back to my karate journey. I’ve been doing this sport for over 25 years – and it hasn’t always been defined by success. There were long dry spells, phases full of doubts and setbacks. But I never gave up because I had an overarching goal: to become a world champion.

And it’s exactly this mindset – perseverance, even when things get uncomfortable – that I apply to my business today. Just because something doesn’t work immediately doesn’t mean it’s not possible. On the contrary: I’ve learned that the difficult phases are often the most important for growing beyond yourself.

That’s when I need my focus, my inner calm, and the conviction: I’ll find a way. Maybe not immediately. Maybe differently than planned. But I trust that I can do it – because I know what I’m capable of.
And when things really get tough and I’m having one of those terrible days, I call my best friend – my biggest supporter, who gives me an honest motivational speech and lovingly the kick I need. After that, things usually get better.

Kata thrives on precision, constant repetition, and the pursuit of perfection – how important are these principles in entrepreneurial thinking and action?

Perfectionism is both a blessing and a curse for me – and honestly, it’s something that has accompanied me my entire life. If you’re not willing to spend hours refining the same technique, then kata isn’t for you. It’s repetitive, sometimes exhausting, but that perseverance eventually takes you to a new level.

This principle also applies to my work life. I’m extremely detail-oriented and have high expectations of myself – but at the same time, I sometimes struggle to find the right moment to let go. This became very clear during my studies: I was often convinced that my term papers or my bachelor’s thesis weren’t good enough yet. In the end, I got a 1.0 – and if it was “only” a 1.2, it actually annoyed me.

Interestingly, I only know this feeling in areas that truly matter to me. Back in school, it was different – my focus was entirely on karate, and I just went through the rest.

I believe a certain level of perfectionism is incredibly helpful – especially in entrepreneurship. But you have to learn to recognize the moment when it’s good. When it’s enough. And then: let go, put it out there, let’s go.

You confidently navigate a business world that is often still male-dominated. How has your athletic background strengthened you in this – mentally and physically?

I grew up with brothers, and my brother-in-law has been part of the family for a long time – we trained together, debated, argued. I had to learn early on to stand my ground – physically and verbally. And that gave me a strong foundation: a clear stance, willpower, and a “now more than ever” mindset that carries me to this day.

In karate, it’s not your gender that counts, but your performance. Your presence. Your attitude. And that’s exactly what I take with me into business. I know what I’m capable of – and I work hard for it. I’m not the loudest in the room, but I know when to show up clearly and set boundaries.

Still, when I encounter overt or subtle misogyny, it hits me. Because I simply can’t understand why we’re still differentiating between men and women when it comes to value, competence, or decision-making abilities. Of course there are differences – but none that say anything about capability or legitimacy.

I don’t always play with the best hand – but I’ve learned to make the most of every hand I’m dealt. Or at least to try.

What has been your biggest challenge as an entrepreneur so far – a setback, a conflict, a failure? And how did you get back on your feet?

One of my biggest challenges is my own expectations. As an athlete, I learned to work toward a goal for years, accept setbacks, and keep going. But in entrepreneurship, I sometimes fall into the trap of believing that everything has to work right away.

Then I consciously remind myself of my athletic journey: how many years it took just to make it onto the national team. How many times I lost the same competition before finally winning it. And how much patience, discipline, and inner strength it took to become a world champion.

I need this shift in perspective again and again in business. It helps me not to be discouraged by short-term setbacks, but to keep going – with the trust that real development takes time. And that failure is not the end, but often the beginning of something that can become even better.

Is there a project, event, or milestone in your self-employment that you’re particularly proud of – because you grew beyond yourself?

Definitely. One of the most defining moments was my appearance at Wacken Open Air – the largest heavy metal festival in Europe. I stood on a stage and taught karate to over 300 metalheads. That was truly a step into the unknown.

Of course, when I give seminars in the karate world, I feel confident – people come for the sport, they know who I am and what to expect. But Wacken was something entirely different. No one knew what would happen if I suddenly started teaching karate there. It could have totally flopped – nobody participating, me standing on stage talking into the void, or people just walking away.

My best friend – who’s also my manager – encouraged me to take this step. She had more faith in me at that moment than I did. And I’m so glad I did it. Because it worked. More than that: the crowd joined in with incredible energy. The vibe was unreal.

And then that crazy moment: my name was on the official running order – right next to world-famous bands. I saw it and thought: How insanely amazing is this? Karate. At Wacken Open Air. And me right in the middle of it.

It was a moment that made me proud. Because I stepped out of my comfort zone – and because I was able to show that karate can be relevant and inspiring beyond the classic dojo world.

Success as a top athlete and success as an entrepreneur – two completely different worlds or surprisingly similar?

I think it really depends on how you define success for yourself. Is it about money? Visibility? Bookings? Or is it about the feeling of truly doing what you love – in your own way?

For me, they’re not that different. In karate, I learned early on to follow my own path – even when there was resistance. Teachers, critics, people who didn’t believe in me or laughed at me. And still, I stayed the course. Not loudly, but consistently.

Today, in my self-employment, it’s similar. I don’t define success solely through numbers or reach, but through the feeling that I get to live what fulfills me. And that I do it authentically.

Determination, perseverance, and a strong inner compass – these are the common threads between sport and entrepreneurship. And as long as I stay true to my path, that’s success for me.

You’re often referred to as a “power woman” – what does that term mean to you personally? And: Is “power” something you can learn?

Ah, the term power woman… I know it’s usually meant as a compliment, but honestly, I sometimes struggle with it. Because: a man who is successful and walks his path is rarely called a power man. So why this extra category for women? It sounds like some kind of exception – when it should have long been the norm.

Still: power in its true sense – inner strength, clarity, presence – is something you need. For yourself, for your path, for the decisions you make. For me, it’s closely tied to inner alignment: taking yourself seriously, taking responsibility, and acting consistently – even when it’s uncomfortable.

And yes, I believe you can learn that. You grow into it. Especially when you sense what drives you and what ignites your passion. That’s where you draw your power from.

What message or advice would you give to young women who are taking the step into self-employment or aiming for leadership roles?

Trust your gut – and if you feel that something is right for you, follow that path consistently. Clearly, structured, without constantly justifying yourself. There will be resistance – from the outside, but sometimes also from within. And it’s especially important not to waver in those moments.

I believe it’s essential to learn to recognize our own value – and to assert it clearly. That means negotiating just as assertively as many men do. Claiming what you deserve, instead of just hoping for recognition. Not because we have to, but because we can – and because we are worth it.

I’m not particularly fond of the constant man-woman comparison. But sometimes it’s important to take a look. And then consciously decide how you want to show up – clear, respectful, courageous. And above all: authentic.

You are a karate coach, self-defense instructor, brand ambassador, and speaker – what is the deeper mission behind everything you do?

As a child, I was impressed when athletes or public figures used their voice for something bigger. Not just for personal success – but for values, for principles, for other people. That shaped me. And that’s exactly what I try to do today: use my reach meaningfully.

I have a strong sense of justice and a deep need for equal opportunities – especially for women, for children, for anyone who may not start with the best conditions. With what I do, I want to empower people – through self-defense, mental impulses, and presence.

On my own journey, I’ve faced many setbacks – even ones that were simply unfair. I know how that feels, and I want to spare others that pain. That’s why, for example, I helped co-found the Hessian Athletes’ Association – to provide young athletes with a point of contact when they are treated unfairly or have no voice. I want to create structures that protect and empower – not just individually, but systemically.

I want to give my sport more visibility, break stereotypes, and show that strength can take many forms. And I want to pass on the experiences I’ve had on my journey – with all its highs and lows. If others draw courage from that to stay true to themselves and stand up for themselves, then my work has real meaning.

What societal role can – or should – former elite athletes play in business, education, or politics?

I think there’s a big difference between talking about a system and having gone through it yourself. Many decisions in sports, education, or even politics are made by people who have never actively participated in these structures. And no matter how good the intentions are, someone who has never walked in our shoes often cannot truly understand what it feels like.

Former elite athletes bring exactly this wealth of experience. We know the reality behind the scenes – not just the podium, but also the pressure, the training, the mental battles, the structural challenges. And that’s why we should take on more responsibility – not just as role models, but also actively in decision-making processes.

Yes, it takes energy to engage repeatedly. But if we want real change – for the generation after us – it’s not enough to just watch. We also have to be willing to bring in our experience. In business. In education. And sometimes in politics.

What is your favorite ritual before an important speech or business meeting – something that comes from your time as an athlete?

Definitely. I’ve been fortunate to work with an outstanding mental coach – Andreas Ginger – especially in preparation for the World Championship in Bremen. I learned an incredible amount from him, which I still use today. One of the most powerful tools: visualization.

When I step on stage today, whether for a keynote or a business meeting, I consciously imagine how I will stand, how I will speak, how I will occupy the space, and how I will reach the audience. This gives me confidence – especially since in the business world I often step onto new stages where people don’t know me like they do in the karate world.

Another ritual comes from my sports hypnosis training with Dr. Marco Rathschlag, with whom I also worked. Breathing exercises like box breathing help me center myself and stay present. In competition, just before starting, I used to close my eyes, take a deep breath, and activate my focus with a loud kiai. The motto: release pressure – bring in focus. In business, I usually skip the battle cry – but a powerful, conscious exhale and an inner “Let’s go! You’ve got this!” remain standard for me.

It may sound simple – but meeting yourself with clarity and energy before you start is the most important mental anchor for me.

If you had to write a kata for your life as an entrepreneur – what would you call it?

I actually had to think about this question for a long time – it’s not easy to answer. But I believe it would be called “Shin Gi Tai”. It’s a classic principle in karate that stands for the unity of mind (Shin), technique (Gi), and body/heart (Tai). Some translate it as “heart” instead of “body” – and it’s this holistic approach that also guides me in my business life.

Just like in karate, entrepreneurship doesn’t work through technique or strategy alone. It requires a clear mind, expertise – but also heart, intuition, and body awareness. The three elements influence each other. Only when they are in harmony does true strength arise – in the dojo as well as in daily life as an entrepreneur.

And finally: When you look five or ten years ahead – what will have changed, what will stay the same, and what do you absolutely want to have achieved by then?

That’s probably the hardest question in the entire interview – especially because I come from competitive sports. There, everything is always precisely scheduled: you know when the next championship is, what cycles you work in, what you want to achieve. Goals are clear, tangible, measurable. Always.

But life has taught me that things often turn out differently. And in recent years, there have also been very difficult personal and family moments that have shown me how unpredictable some things are – and how important it is to go with what truly matters in the moment.

What I can say for sure: karate will always be a part of my life. I love coaching – and above all, seeing how my athletes develop. I want to connect karate even more with the business context in the future – not just physically. There’s a lot of potential there.

And my ultimate goal? To be content. Not just checking off to-dos or collecting points on a list, but truly being at peace with what I do. To be happy with how I work, with whom I work – and who I am in the process.