Eva echterhoff
Eva Echterhoff (née Altmann) is a succession strategist, certified systemic value-oriented business coach, and former ARD TV correspondent. She reported for Tagesschau and Tagesthemen from Hamburg and Central Germany, combining journalistic clarity with a sharp understanding of communication under pressure. Her academic background in psychology and linguistics shapes her analytical, human-centered approach.
As editor-in-chief of Radio K.W., she led a team of 15 and turned the station into a regional market leader with more than 450,000 listeners. At HHL, she served as Director of Media Relations, overseeing high-profile communication projects — including the honorary doctorate for Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Today, she supports SMEs and family businesses as a consultant, coach, and strategic sparring partner, focusing on clarity in communication, confident leadership, and sustainable succession.
Q & A with EVA
DO YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL OR LIFE MOTTO?
I strive to become the best version of myself — and to inspire others to become theirs.
WHAT CAN YOU NOT LAUGH ABOUT?
I cannot laugh at other people’s pain or shortcomings.
IF YOU COULD SHARE ADVICE WITH THE WORLD, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
No advice. Just presence — the kind that changes things.
DO YOU HAVE ANY REGRETS?
7,777 regrets a day — they keep me awake, humble, and alive.
WHEN DO YOU FEEL ALIVE?
When I swim in a three-degree lake — guiding my mind to lead, my body to trust, and my heart to enjoy.
WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IN?
I believe in choice, in humility — the kind that lets others rise with you — and in the strength that comes from both.
What is your peaceful place?
In the middle of chaos — endless Zoom meetings, family dinners, Deutsche Bahn. Peace is portable.
What was your last good deed?
Yesterday I turned a tense moment into laughter — a small reminder that we’re all human. I don’t expect my deeds to be big, just genuine.
WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU’VE NEVER DONE THAT YOU’D STILL LOVE TO DO?
To fly — unaided, unafraid, and slightly heavier than physics recommends.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC?
From „Tainted Love“ and „Eurythmics‘ Sweet Dreams“ to whatever makes my sons turn up the volume. Freedom has many sounds to me.
BEGINNING OR FINISHING? WHICH IS HARDER?
Beginning ... because that always needs the right spark.