My mouth works faster than my mute button. I've just learned to embrace it and run with it.

I've ended up business-friendly with a couple of my CEOs because I wasn't afraid to tell them what I really think, but it always scared my supervisors when I did. I'm cringing imagining your mountain. I've definitely been buried under that.

I think I helped them stay connected to the people when they were talking numbers. Factoring in people can changes your whole approach a situation. It sounds like you already have the respect of at least one of the boneheads. Hopefully you'll be able to help keep them connected to the people aspect of the business.