In this edition of Long Blue Leadership, host Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz ’99 talks with Emma Przybyslawski ’10, whose path has taken her from the front lines of combat zones to the founder’s chair at Strike Solutions.

With 1,634 confirmed kills and personal threats from ISIS, Emma Przybyslawski knows what high-stakes leadership looks like.

She opens up about her transition to the tech world, the power of the Air Force Academy network and the role that courage, flexibility and humor play in both survival and success. Whether you're in uniform or in a startup, Przybyslawski's insights on active listening and continual growth are essential to your success as a developing or seasoned leader.

1. Leadership Requires Courage and Action

   “You have to be courageous and lean forward… even when you’re not sure.”
   → Leaders don’t wait for certainty—they move, learn, and adapt.

2. Course Correction Is a Leadership Strength

   “You’re not always going to get it right, but you can course correct.”
   → Mistakes aren’t fatal if you’re willing to pivot and improve.

3. Ownership Is the Price of Admission to Elite Teams

   “You meet the standard or exceed it—or you're not on the team.”
   → High-performance cultures are built on individual accountability.

4. Active Listening Builds Trust and Influence

   “Sometimes somebody just needs you to listen… and engage without fixing.”
   → Listening is one of a leader’s most powerful tools.

5. Feedback Isn’t Personal—It’s Growth Fuel

   “Ask for feedback—and be willing to take it.”
   → Good leaders seek the truth about themselves, even when it stings.

6. You Can Lead From Any Seat

   Przybyslawski’s career includes transitions from cadet to combat controller to business owner.
   → Title doesn’t define leadership—character and action do.

7. Clarity of Standards Drives Excellence

   “There was no rank—just performance. You either deliver or you’re gone.”
   → Clear expectations reduce confusion and elevate teams.

8. Mission Over Ego

   Her willingness to return to the Academy after leaving shows humility.
   → Leadership often means swallowing pride for a greater goal.

9. Diversity Demands Curiosity, Not Assumptions

   “Ask people about their experience—don’t assume you understand it.”
   → Inclusive leaders replace judgment with curiosity.

10. Leaders Multiply Leadership

“Your leadership should raise the waterline for everyone around you.”
→ Leadership is about impact—lifting others as you grow.