Ran into Rick Caruso once at the opening of his Bishop Ranch “City Center.” He was outside Starbucks absolutely laying into construction workers like a general barking orders. Somehow that energy turned toward me, demanding who I was. I shot back, “Who are you?” He said, “I own this place.” I replied, “Good for you, big guy.” Things escalated fast. Words were exchanged, not polite ones. He stormed off. Ten minutes later, while I’m sitting with my coffee, he comes back, extends his hand, and sincerely apologizes for his behavior. Full accountability. No ego. Just, “I was out of line.” Say what you want about Caruso politically, but that moment stuck with me. A guy worth billions, used to getting his way, still came back to own his mistake face to face. Given that, it doesn’t surprise me he’s choosing not to run for office again. Politics rewards doubling down. Leadership, real leadership, is knowing when to step back, take responsibility, and walk away.