Brian McRae walked away from a comfortable W-2 job to chase something more fulfilling—control, freedom, and impact. What followed was a leadership journey rooted in service. In this episode, Brian shares how he transitioned from the mortgage world to building a coaching and mastermind business that thrives on authentic relationships.

He didn’t advertise. He didn’t pitch. Instead, he launched a free monthly event focused on giving away practical strategies—like handwritten notes—that made attendees feel seen. Within three years, 60% of his business came through that event, and he never once asked for referrals.

Brian shares the "Ezra Principle"—study, practice, teach—as his guiding framework. He also talks about how building community led to the creation of The Boardroom, a mastermind group for financial professionals looking to lead with heart, not hustle.

His story is a masterclass in leadership through generosity and consistency. If you want to grow by helping others win, this episode is your playbook.

Want to learn more about Brian McRae's work? Check out their website at https://www.briankmcrae.com.

Connect with Brian McRae on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/briankmcrae/.

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/.

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/.

Alan Gregerman nearly lost everything after a stroke robbed him of his ability to speak and see. But instead of giving in, he turned that moment into one of his greatest leadership lessons. In this episode, Alan shares how navigating life without communication forced him to rethink how leaders engage, innovate, and lead. Through his recovery, he uncovered deeper truths about humility, clarity, and the need to constantly evolve.

Alan breaks down why most organizations fail at innovation—and how the smartest people in the room may not be the answer. His latest book, The Wisdom of Ignorance, argues that not knowing is often the key to seeing clearly and moving boldly. He introduces his six-part framework for unlocking genius: be purposeful, curious, humble, respectful, future-focused, and yes—just a bit paranoid.

With stories from his own life and business consulting career, Alan makes a compelling case for breaking with expertise, embracing fresh perspectives, and looking outside your industry for inspiration.

Want to learn more about Alan Gregerman's work? Check out their website at https://www.alangregerman.com.

Connect with Alan Gregerman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-gregerman-a33b236/.

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/.