The Refit Podcast

Kyle Killian
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Business

Welcome to The Refit Podcast, hosted by Kyle Killian. This is where we talk about leadership the way leaders actually experience it—messy, uncertain, and nothing like the books make it sound. I'm Kyle Killian, founder of Kohora. I spent nearly three decades leading in military, corporate, and entrepreneurial environments—from intelligence missions in Iraq to senior roles at Nike, Converse, and Fanatics. And here's what I've learned: every single thing in business is a leadership problem.On this podcast, I sit down with CEOs, founders, operators, and fellow veterans who've transitioned to business leadership. We're not here to recite frameworks or share motivational quotes. We're here to talk about the hard thing about hard things—the decisions that didn't have a right answer, the conversations you couldn't avoid, and the moments that changed how you lead.If you've ever been in a situation where the playbook stopped working and you had to figure it out anyway, this podcast is for you.

  1. 6d ago

    SE01 E23 - Leadership Lessons from Hospitality | Kama Carter

    In this conversation, Kyle Killian interviews Kama Carter, CEO of Southall, about her journey in the hospitality industry and the leadership lessons she has learned along the way. They discuss the importance of standards, continuous training, and building a strong organizational culture. Kama shares her experiences in various prestigious establishments and how they shaped her approach to leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication, accountability, and fostering relationships within teams to create a cohesive and successful work environment. In this conversation, Kyle Killian and Kama Carter discuss the critical aspects of leadership, focusing on accountability, culture, and the challenges faced by leaders. Kama emphasizes the importance of honest feedback and addressing issues promptly to foster a positive work environment. They explore the loneliness that can accompany leadership roles and the need for patience in managing expectations. The conversation also touches on the rebuilding of the leadership team at South Hall and the pressures that come with being a CEO. Finally, they discuss the exciting future developments for South Hall and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset throughout challenges. Takeaways Leadership lessons often come from real-world experiences.Kama Carter's journey in hospitality began at a young age.Excellence in service requires attention to detail and standards.Training should be continuous and not just a one-time event.Culture is foundational to organizational success.Effective communication can transform workplace culture.Building relationships is key to a cohesive team.Understanding different roles fosters respect among team members.Accountability starts with leadership expectations.Creating a positive work environment enhances employee engagement. Accountability is rooted in honesty and prompt feedback.Leaders must address issues directly to foster a positive culture.Feedback is essential for accountability and growth.Loneliness is a common feeling in leadership roles.Patience is necessary when managing expectations and improvements.Rebuilding a leadership team requires tough conversations.The CEO role comes with significant pressure and responsibility.Quality and value must be prioritized in leadership roles.Mindset plays a crucial role in overcoming challenges.Future growth and development are essential for organizational success. Connect with Kama Carter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kama-carter-77a3284/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E23 - Leadership Lessons from Hospitality | Kama Carter

  2. Sep 24

    SE01 E22 - From Pilot to CEO: Navigating Challenges in Entrepreneurship | Bryan Currier

    In this episode of the Refit Podcast, Kyle Killian interviews Bryan Currier, founder and CEO of Advantage Technologies. Bryan shares his unexpected journey from aspiring airline pilot to successful entrepreneur, detailing the challenges he faced along the way, including the impact of 9/11, economic downturns, and the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of integrity, personal growth, and the need for continuous evolution as a leader. Bryan also discusses the values that guide his business decisions and the significance of building a loyal team. The conversation offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established leaders alike. takeaways Bryan's journey took an unexpected turn after 9/11.Starting a business can come from necessity.Integrity is crucial in leadership and decision-making.Evolving as a leader is a continuous process.Economic downturns can test a business's resilience.COVID-19 challenged businesses in unprecedented ways.Values matter when they come with a cost.Building a loyal team is essential for success.Entrepreneurship is often not the polished version seen online.Personal growth is intertwined with business growth. Connect with Bryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bcurrier01/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E22 - From Pilot to CEO: Navigating Challenges in Entrepreneurship | Bryan Currier

  3. Sep 15

    SE01 E21 - Leadership Lessons from the Outdoor Industry | Jessica Klodnicki

    In this conversation, Jessica Klodnicki shares her extensive career journey from an intern at the US Olympic Bobsled and Skeleton Federation to becoming a CEO known for revitalizing brands. She discusses the importance of authenticity, the challenges brands face, and the need for effective leadership that balances performance with culture. Jessica emphasizes the significance of listening to employees, transparency in communication, and preparing for acquisitions by building a compelling business narrative. Her insights provide valuable lessons for leaders in the outdoor industry and beyond. In this conversation, Jessica shares her insights on the importance of authenticity in consumer brands, the dynamics between executive teams and boards, and the critical role of transparency in building trust. She emphasizes the need for strong leadership, effective communication, and a focus on people, product, and profit to drive success. Jessica also discusses the challenges of integrating brands and preparing for future acquisitions, while offering advice on simplifying strategy and marrying passion with profession. Takeaways Jessica's journey began with an internship at the US Olympic Bobsled and Skeleton Federation.She transitioned from consumer products to sports marketing, eventually leading brands like Mizuno and Skullcandy.Jessica became known as the go-to person for fixing brands in distress.Key challenges for brands often include losing their roots and authenticity.Effective leadership requires a balance of process and entrepreneurial spirit.Listening to employees is crucial for successful change management.Transparency and communication are vital in leadership roles.Jessica learned valuable lessons during the acquisition process at KT Tape.Building a strong business narrative is essential for successful acquisitions.Performance and culture can coexist in a high-performing organization. The consumer and the customer can sniff out a lack of authenticity real quick.Executive teams often misunderstand the board's role and value.Board meetings can be enjoyable and productive with the right mindset.Building trust with the board requires transparency and open communication.Focus on people, product, and profit to drive business success.Integration of brands requires careful consideration of shared services.A strong leadership team is essential for future acquisitions.Evaluating a brand's health involves assessing product and customer relationships.Strategy should be simplified for better understanding across the organization.Marrying passion with profession leads to a fulfilling career. Connect with Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaklodnicki/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E21 - Leadership Lessons from the Outdoor Industry | Jessica Klodnicki

  4. Sep 8

    SE01 E20 - From Poverty to Purpose: A Leader's Transformation | Jeremy Ray Davis

    In this conversation, Jeremy Ray Davis shares his inspiring journey from growing up in public housing to becoming a C-suite executive in the mortgage industry. He discusses the lessons learned from his gymnastics background, the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership philosophy, and the importance of purpose in his work. Jeremy emphasizes the need for trust in communities and the impact of helping underserved populations achieve homeownership. His story reflects the challenges of overcoming poverty and the fulfillment found in meaningful leadership. In this conversation, Jeremy Ray Davis discusses the importance of finding purpose in leadership and how it can transform a business culture. He emphasizes the significance of mission and margin in a community-focused financial institution, sharing insights on maintaining conviction while navigating business challenges. Jeremy also addresses the emotional toll of not being able to help everyone and offers advice on rediscovering meaning through connection and coaching. Takeaways Jeremy Ray Davis grew up in public housing and became a C-suite executive.His gymnastics background taught him about effort versus opportunity.He started his career in the mortgage industry as a 'gopher' and worked his way up.Overcoming poverty was a significant motivation for his career choices.He experienced a pivotal moment of realization in his garage that changed his perspective on success.Jeremy emphasizes the importance of purpose in leadership and work.He believes in building trust within communities through meaningful connections.His leadership style focuses on understanding team members' boundaries and needs.He has helped tens of thousands of first-time homebuyers from underserved communities.Jeremy's journey reflects the importance of personal fulfillment over financial success. Purpose drives leadership and inspires others to follow.A strong culture is built on shared beliefs and values.Mission and margin are complementary, not competing forces.High retention rates are linked to a strong sense of purpose.Leaders must communicate their mission consistently.Helping others can lead to personal fulfillment.Acknowledging feelings of disconnection is the first step to change.Coaching and mentoring are vital for growth and self-discovery.Building community connections enhances trust and engagement.A purpose-driven business can achieve both social impact and financial success. Connect with Jeremy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyraydavis/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E20 - From Poverty to Purpose: A Leader's Transformation | Jeremy Ray Davis

  5. Aug 25

    SE01 E19 The Importance of Culture in Healthcare Leadership | Josh Sandler

    In this conversation, Kyle Killian speaks with Josh Sandler, president of Ovation Healthcare, about his transition from military service to healthcare leadership. They discuss the challenges of scaling a team, maintaining culture during rapid growth, and the importance of data utilization and automation in healthcare. Josh shares insights on leadership strategies, the significance of team dynamics, and the need for work-life balance in a high-stress environment. The conversation highlights the evolution of leadership styles and the importance of trust and empowerment within teams. In this conversation, Josh Sandler shares insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of trust, patience, and understanding team dynamics. He reflects on his military background and how it shaped his approach to business leadership, highlighting the need for regular communication and verification processes. Josh discusses the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, the significance of family, and offers advice for those transitioning from military to business. He also outlines future goals for his organization in the healthcare sector, focusing on innovation and community support. takeaways Josh Sandler emphasizes the importance of understanding different backgrounds in leadership.The transition from military to healthcare leadership can be challenging but rewarding.Maintaining team culture is crucial during periods of rapid growth.Data utilization is key to improving efficiency in healthcare operations.Empowerment and trust are essential for effective leadership.Growth can create stress, but it also presents opportunities.Building a strong team dynamic is vital for success.Leaders must adapt their styles as they progress in their careers.Work-life balance is important for team morale and productivity.Celebrating achievements helps maintain motivation and focus.  Building trust and patience is crucial for effective leadership.High-performing individuals often struggle with delegation and patience.Regular check-ins can help identify team bottlenecks and issues.Hiring for fit is essential for team cohesion and success.Understanding team dynamics is key to effective leadership.One-on-one conversations foster deeper connections and insights.Military discipline translates well into business leadership.Transitioning from military to business requires adaptability and courage.Work-life balance is vital for personal well-being and relationships.Family is a primary motivation for career choices and efforts. Connect with Josh Sandler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandlerjosh/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E19 The Importance of Culture in Healthcare Leadership | Josh Sandler

  6. Aug 4

    SE01 E18 The Art of Delegation in Leadership | James Franz

    In this conversation, James Franz, COO & President At UltiMaker, shares insights from his extensive career in operations and leadership. He discusses the importance of execution, planning, and accountability in business, especially during seasonal peaks. Jim reflects on his transition to the C-suite, emphasizing the need for effective delegation and trust within teams. He also addresses the challenges of navigating mergers, integrating systems, and managing cultural differences. Throughout the discussion, Jim highlights the significance of communication and building coalitions to overcome resistance to change. In this conversation, Kyle Killian and James Franz discuss the complexities of leadership during significant organizational changes, including mergers and manufacturing transitions. They explore the importance of building trust, managing team dynamics, and navigating cultural differences in a global context. Jim shares his experiences with decision-making, staff reductions, and the challenges of leading through uncertainty, emphasizing the need for clear communication and collaborative efforts to foster resilience and adaptability within teams. Takeaways James Franz is the COO & President At UltiMaker , specializing in 3D printing.His career spans over 30 years in operations and supply chain management.Execution and planning are critical, especially in seasonal businesses.Transitioning to the C-suite involves learning to delegate effectively.Trust is essential for successful delegation and team dynamics.Accountability is key to high-performing teams.Mergers require careful integration of systems and cultures.Communication is vital during organizational changes.Resistance to change can stem from past experiences with systems.Building coalitions and over-communicating helps in managing change. You're not gonna get everybody to agree with your decision.Building trust is crucial during mergers and acquisitions.Effective communication can bridge gaps in understanding.Leadership is about navigating through difficult decisions.Transitioning to new roles requires adaptability and learning.Managing staff reductions is a sensitive leadership challenge.Team resilience is built through shared experiences.Cultural differences can impact speed and efficiency in global teams.Face-to-face interactions enhance collaboration and understanding.Breaking down projects into smaller chunks can lead to success. Connect with James - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesfranz/?skipRedirect=true I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E18 The Art of Delegation in Leadership | James Franz

  7. Jul 28

    SE01 E17 From Military to Civilian: Leadership Lessons | Sean Papso

    In this conversation, Sean Papso shares his journey from military leadership to the civilian workforce, discussing the challenges and lessons learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of understanding team dynamics, the role of finance in business, and the impact of private equity on government contracting. Sean also reflects on the difficult decisions made during sequestration and the significance of engagement and communication in leadership. The discussion concludes with an analogy comparing the M&A process to marriage, highlighting the complexities involved. In this conversation, Sean Papso shares his experiences navigating the M&A process, managing emotions during transitions, and the importance of leadership in post-acquisition growth. He emphasizes the need for transparency in communication and maintaining a mission-focused approach. Sean also provides valuable advice for veterans transitioning into civilian roles, highlighting the importance of adaptability and understanding workplace dynamics. Takeaways Leadership in the military is structured but differs in civilian life.Understanding team dynamics is crucial for effective leadership.Different roles require different motivational strategies.Finance plays a critical role in business operations.Private equity can provide valuable resources and opportunities.Sequestration forced difficult workforce decisions.Decision-making involves considering the impact on individuals.Engagement with employees is essential for effective leadership.Communication is key to understanding team needs.The M&A process can be likened to a marriage, full of challenges. Getting to be at the table during the M&A process is a unique experience.The M&A process can be exciting but also uncomfortable during due diligence.Emotions can significantly affect execution during transitions.Maintaining employee morale is crucial during uncertain times.Transparent communication helps squash rumor mills post-acquisition.Leadership must balance workforce concerns with growth initiatives.The importance of staying mission-focused in a corporate environment.Veterans transitioning to civilian roles should be adaptable and flexible.Understanding the day-to-day responsibilities of a new role is essential.It's okay to change companies if the fit isn't right. Connect with Sean - https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanpapso/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E17 From Military to Civilian: Leadership Lessons | Sean Papso

  8. Jul 21

    SE01 E16 Future Aspirations in the Gig Economy: A New Perspective | Tom Gissler

    In this episode of the Refit Podcast, Kyle Killian speaks with Tom Gissler, Chief Executive Officer of Rolling Suds, about his unique journey in leadership and franchising. Tom shares insights on navigating career challenges, the importance of culture in leadership, and the dynamics of hiring for fit. He emphasizes the human element in business and discusses the challenges of scaling founder-led businesses. The conversation highlights the need for accountability and the delicate balance of leadership, especially when transitioning from a founder's vision to a structured operation. In this conversation, Tom Gissler shares his insights on leadership, the challenges of isolation, and the sacrifices made for work. He reflects on the importance of balancing professional responsibilities with personal life, emphasizing the need for strong communication and boundaries in leadership roles. Tom also discusses his future aspirations in the evolving gig economy and offers valuable lessons for new leaders stepping into established organizations. Takeaways Tom Gissler emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes in leadership.Building consensus is crucial for effective leadership and decision-making.Franchising provides a pathway for entrepreneurship with support and lower barriers.The human element in business is essential for navigating challenges and building culture.Hiring should focus on both skill set and cultural fit to ensure long-term success.Accountability is a key component of a winning team and culture.Scaling a founder-led business requires understanding the existing dynamics and staff relationships.Leaders must be willing to let go and trust their teams to drive the business forward.The balance between financial goals and human considerations is critical in business.Navigating the complexities of leadership involves managing expectations and relationships. Leadership requires navigating changes and managing founder dynamics.Isolation is a significant cost of leadership roles.Personal relationships can complicate accountability in the workplace.Sacrifices for work can lead to regret and missed family moments.Prioritizing family and personal life is essential for overall well-being.The gig economy is changing traditional career paths and expectations.Good communication and clear boundaries are vital for effective leadership.Empathy and servant leadership can lead to better organizational outcomes.Investing in family culture is as important as professional culture.Future leadership roles may involve more flexible, gig-based opportunities. Connect with Tom Gissler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-gissler-5a05a62b/ I hope you enjoyed this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.– Kyle and The Refit Podcast team Listen to The Refit Podcast on these podcast platforms:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7rLQ7Qaj1lvLq5kjjkDgmFApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-refit-podcast/id1870231828Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/f884c7b1-1ea6-4b18-ab2c-0e880dd08c02/the-refit-podcast #TheRefitPodcast #KyleKillian #Leadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #VeteranLeadership #HardThingAboutHardThings #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #CEOInsights #FounderStories #OperationalLeadership The Refit Podcast is where real leadership happens—no platitudes, no polished corporate speak, just honest conversations about the hard decisions that keep leaders up at night. Hosted by Kyle Killian, former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer with nearly 30 years of military, corporate, and entrepreneurial leadership experience, this podcast dives into the moments when the playbook stopped working and leaders had to figure it out anyway.

    SE01 E16 Future Aspirations in the Gig Economy: A New Perspective | Tom Gissler
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About

Welcome to The Refit Podcast, hosted by Kyle Killian. This is where we talk about leadership the way leaders actually experience it—messy, uncertain, and nothing like the books make it sound. I'm Kyle Killian, founder of Kohora. I spent nearly three decades leading in military, corporate, and entrepreneurial environments—from intelligence missions in Iraq to senior roles at Nike, Converse, and Fanatics. And here's what I've learned: every single thing in business is a leadership problem.On this podcast, I sit down with CEOs, founders, operators, and fellow veterans who've transitioned to business leadership. We're not here to recite frameworks or share motivational quotes. We're here to talk about the hard thing about hard things—the decisions that didn't have a right answer, the conversations you couldn't avoid, and the moments that changed how you lead.If you've ever been in a situation where the playbook stopped working and you had to figure it out anyway, this podcast is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Kyle Killian
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kyle Killian

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