RJ Kolton has led soldiers in combat, taught at West Point, worked under the Drug Czar in the White House, and built a private sector career in the government contracting world. Today, he brings all that experience to his Vistage CE group—one that’s made up almost entirely of GovCon CEOs. With government policy shifts constantly in play, RJ’s group stays grounded through a mindset he calls “stoic leadership”: focus on what you can control, support your people, and never lose sight of the mission.

This episode explores RJ’s unique leadership arc—from battlefield to boardroom—and what it takes to lead during uncertain times. He also shares why CEOs must think like athletes: “Last season’s wins are great, but you’ve got to show up ready to play this year.”

To get in touch with RJ you can email him at rj.kolton@vistagechair.com.