Leadership at Every Altitude

What does it really mean to shape a market instead of chase one? In this episode of Coach’s Corner: Leadership Unplugged, host Laura Bennett sits down with Mike Nachshen — founder of Fortis Strategic Communications and former aerospace and defense executive — to talk about leadership at every altitude. From serving as a U.S. Air Force officer to leading international communications for a $16B business unit at RTX, to launching his own firm, Mike shares the hard-earned lessons that only come from operating inside high-stakes environments. We unpack the difference between visibility and influence, how strategic communications becomes a competitive weapon, and what it takes to build credibility in the aerospace, space, and defense ecosystem. Mike offers candid insight into stepping out of a prime contractor environment and into entrepreneurship — including the leadership muscles that had to stretch. We also explore his personal involvement with the Space Force Association at the New England chapter level, and why investing in the next generation of national security space leaders matters now more than ever. This conversation is thoughtful, honest, and refreshingly real — including a few unscripted moments that remind us leadership isn’t polished… it’s practiced. If you care about strategy, national security, entrepreneurship, or shaping markets with intention — this one’s for you. To connect with Mike, visit his LinkedIn page here. Learn more about Fortis Strategic Communications by visiting their website here.