228 - Why Leadership Isn’t Taught - It’s Lived - Lessons from Kyle Schwarz

Kyle Schwarz brings clarity to what leadership really looks like. A U.S. Naval Academy graduate and surface warfare officer, Kyle shares how a blunt rejection from his blue and gold officer nearly derailed his academy ambitions—but ultimately became a catalyst for transformation. He didn't quit. He trained, returned, and earned one of the strongest recommendations in years.

Now with 17 years of leadership experience, including more than a decade in recruiting, Kyle shows how those same principles apply in business. He draws sharp lines between managers and leaders, emphasizing the need for tough conversations, personal accountability, and seeing people as humans—not transactions. His approach at Risus Talent Partners rejects the churn-and-burn model. Instead, it prioritizes connection, fit, and long-term relationships.

Craig and Kyle discuss the dangers of avoiding confrontation, the flaws in transactional thinking, and how real leadership requires self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Kyle doesn’t just talk about leadership—he embodies it.

Want to learn more about Kyle Schwarz’s work? Check out his website at https://risustalent.com.

Connect with Kyle Schwarz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-t-schwarz/.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://podcast.allies4me.com/podcast-guest/.

Want to learn more about Craig Andrew's work at allies4me? Check out his website at https://allies4me.com/.