A Candid Conversation with Keith – A Journey of Resilience and Wisdom

In an insightful interview with Keith, a figure whose journey has spanned from the crisp air of Alaska to the esteemed halls of the Pentagon, we delve into pivotal moments that have shaped his perspective on life and leadership.

A Turning Point at the Pentagon

Keith begins by reflecting on a defining moment in his life – the 9/11 attack at the Pentagon. This harrowing experience, he shares, starkly highlighted the fragility of life and reshaped his tactical thinking. It was a realization of vulnerability within what was perceived as a safe environment. This event profoundly influenced his decision to extend his military service and underscored the importance of valuing life and relationships.

A 500-Mile Journey of Self-Discovery

Keith also discusses his transformative experience walking the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile trek that taught him about endurance, pain, and the human spirit. He emphasizes how this journey was not just physically challenging but also a deeply spiritual experience that offered insights into pain management, the beauty of human connections, and the burden of material possessions.

From Combat to the Corporate World

Transitioning from military life to the corporate sector, Keith shares that humility and the acknowledgment of not knowing everything were the most valuable skills he brought into the boardroom. He stresses the importance of hiring people smarter than oneself and fostering a culture of learning and listening.

Authorship and Influences

When asked about his book, “Taking the Mask Off,” Keith reveals that it was written in a non-traditional way, with the title coming after the content. He discusses how the book’s foundation spans from the wisdom of Dr. Seuss to the teachings of the Bible, encapsulating the journey of life he learned from childhood into adulthood.

Mentoring Startups with Diverse Perspectives

With varied experiences as a soldier, executive, and author, Keith brings a wealth of knowledge to his mentorship of startups and small businesses in the aerospace industry. He emphasizes the importance of starting from the bottom, understanding different perspectives, and unlocking opportunities with fearless creativity.

A Message to the Younger Generation

Keith advises the younger generation to ensure their ladder is leaning against the right wall. He encourages them to pursue their passions, value family, and embrace lateral moves for broader experiences.

The Essence of Leadership

The Challenges of Conformity

Keith candidly speaks about the challenge of conformity in the business world and the importance of staying true to oneself. He advises embracing one’s uniqueness and contributing authentically.

Keith’s Core Philosophy

At his company, One Core Consultants, Keith focuses on unlocking unforeseen opportunities and fostering fearless creativity. He shares an example of helping a client expand their market scope, demonstrating his approach to entrepreneurial problem-solving.

Parting Wisdom

Finally, Keith leaves us with a profound thought: the journey is your reward. He encourages everyone to appreciate their journey, give back to the community, and think about the legacy they want to leave.

Here you can watch the full interview : https://youtu.be/AYuNhmMdSDY

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Dr. Morissa Schwartz