In every career, there are leaders you encounter who don’t just shape your work, they transform the way you think, act, and engage with the world. For me, that person is our President/CEO at Visit Lake Charles- Louisiana’s Playground, Kyle Edmiston, CDME, CDTP. His leadership has influenced not only my professional journey but also the way I approach challenges, growth, and relationships. What distinguishes Kyle is his ability to not only teach these values, but to embody them every single day.
Over the past five years, here are just a few of the invaluable lessons that have transformed both my career and my perspective on life:
1. Lead by Example
Kyle embodies the principle of practicing what you preach. Every value, expectation, and standard he sets for our team is one he upholds himself. His consistency in both words and actions creates a culture of trust and excellence that resonates throughout our organization. It’s not just about what he says, it’s about how he shows up every day, modeling the work ethic and integrity that he expects from us all.
2. An Open Door and an Open Heart
Kyle’s open door policy is more than symbolic; it’s a reflection of his commitment to his team. His office is right by the kitchen, where many of us pass by daily, and without fail, he’ll turn from his desk to say good morning, ask about our weekend, or simply check in. No matter how busy his schedule may be, he makes time for connection. Whether we have a challenge to discuss, need advice, or just want a quick chat, we know we can walk through that door and be met with kindness, understanding, and a listening ear.
3. Transparency Builds Trust
Kyle believes that knowledge empowers us to lead with confidence. Whether it’s an update on strategic priorities or a challenge our organization is navigating, he ensures our team is informed. This level of transparency means that if any of us are approached by community members or stakeholders, we can represent Visit Lake Charles with confidence and clarity. More importantly, it fosters a culture of openness, reminding us that we are all valued contributors to the organization’s success.
4. Trust First, Then Guide
From day one, Kyle placed his trust in me, without hesitation or the need to prove myself. He recognized my potential and empowered me to pursue my goals without limitations. This foundation of trust gave me the confidence to take ownership of my work, explore creative solutions, and push the boundaries of what I thought was possible or what I could achieve. As I look back on the last five years, there are countless moments where I took risks and stepped outside my comfort zone, solely because I knew Kyle trusted me. Through it all, Kyle has been my biggest cheerleader. I’m honored to have him in my corner.
5. Luck Is When Skill and Opportunity Meet
Early in my career, Kyle shared a piece of wisdom that has stuck with me ever since. I remember it vividly: we were working from our temporary offices in Sulphur post-Hurricane Laura, and at 6:45 a.m., before anyone else had arrived, Kyle walked in for a chat. That weekend, there was a featured article about me published in The New York Times. I attributed the opportunity to luck, but Kyle quickly corrected me. He explained that it wasn’t luck at all, but result of my skills and the opportunities I had created for myself. His words shifted my perspective. He reminded me that success isn’t something that happens to you, but something you create.
6. Empowerment Through Opportunity
One of the greatest gifts Kyle has given me is a seat at the table. He’s invited me to conversations, brainstorming sessions, and high-level meetings that have challenged and stretched me in ways I didn’t know was possible. At first, it was intimidating to sit alongside seasoned professionals, but over time, these experiences have built my confidence and sharpened my knowledge on so many subjects. More importantly, they’ve helped me recognize the power and value of my own voice. I’ve learned that my perspective has merit and that I can drive meaningful conversations and outcomes. Kyle has a remarkable ability to recognize each team member’s strengths and invite them into spaces where their insights can make a difference.
7. Embrace Change, Even When It’s Uncomfortable
About two years into my time at Visit Lake Charles, we underwent a transformative shift with a new organizational chart and strategic plan. The transition was challenging, disrupting familiar routines and pushing us beyond our comfort zones. Yet, Kyle led us through it with empathy, clarity, and belief in our potential. He not only communicated the “why” behind the changes but also illuminated the possibilities they unlocked for both our team and the future of our organization. His guidance helped us see change not as something to fear, but as a gateway to new opportunities, greater resilience, and deeper purpose.
8. Prioritize Work-Life Balance
Kyle’s commitment to work-life balance has not only shaped our workplace culture but also redefined how I approach my own career. His workday ends at 5 p.m., and in the five and a half years I’ve worked with him, I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve seen him stay late. He encourages us to take time off, spend time with our families, and recharge when we need it. His philosophy is simple: burnout benefits no one. Through his example, I’ve learned that prioritizing balance isn’t a compromise, it’s a catalyst for achieving our fullest potential in every aspect of life.
9. Your Energy Sets the Tone
Kyle has shown me that leadership isn’t just about what we do, it’s about how we show up. As CEO, he shoulders immense responsibility, yet he consistently walks into every room with a smile, a positive attitude, and a genuine excitement to connect with each of us. His steady, joyful presence creates a sense of calm and optimism that permeates the entire office. On my most stressful days, a simple conversation with Kyle reminds me to shift my perspective, to meet challenges with grace, and to remember that our mindset is just as powerful as our actions.
10. Focus on the Lesson, Not the Blame
Kyle has taught me that mistakes are a natural part of progress, but how we respond to them determines our growth. When things go wrong, his focus is on what we can learn, not who’s at fault. This mindset has created an environment where we feel safe to take risks, experiment with new ideas, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Always knowing that even if we stumble, we’ll be supported in getting back up.
11. Your Legacy Is How You Make People Feel
Perhaps the most profound lesson I’ve learned from Kyle is the power of kindness and human connection. Time and again, I hear the same sentiment from people across the industry and community: “I love Kyle!” Whether it’s at a conference, industry event, or casual encounter, the words are always followed by a story about how he made them feel truly seen, valued, or just brightened their day with a smile and kind word.
When I first started my career, I was consumed by the pursuit of recognition and the desire to prove my worth. But watching Kyle has taught me that true success isn’t measured by titles or accolades. It’s measured by the impact we have on others. His legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and joy, and it’s a legacy I hope to carry forward in my own career.
KATHRYN SHEA DUNCAN 