I have. It's near impossible to get to the top without a hunger for power, which, I agree, starts when these people are in middle management - so not as much in

I have. It's near impossible to get to the top without a hunger for power, which, I agree, starts when these people are in middle management - so not as much in founder-led companies (although not uncommon there either). Scheming, lying and political maneuvering at the expense of your peers is how you become the fake-friendly "Bob" or "Mike" calling the shots at the top. Non-founders who raise through the ranks largely depend on these traits. Feelings and empathy are selected away as they lead you to be passed over in promotions.