Neal Schawel, Founder
Neal has over 35 years of experience building trusted relationships with CEO's and business owners across a broad spectrum of industries. Prior to starting Direct Path his leadership experience included:
Vice President, The Peakstone Group
Vice President, Allegiance Capital
Director Private Equity Practice, RSM McGladrey
Certified reconciliation/mediator, Peacemakers International
National Trainer/faculty, The Josephson Institute of Ethics
Founder Couple Steps Marriage Coaching
Neal was also the founder of Pathways, Inc. a boutique consulting group that provided strategic planning, sales development, leadership training, and executive coaching for clients that include First Chicago Bank, The American Academy of Pediatrics, Chicago Title Company, and the American Bar Association.
Early in his career, Neal founded Volitant, Inc., a custom-tailored uniform service for airline pilots. His company was awarded new business contracts with Eastern Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines.
Neal and his wife Ruth have four sons. Two work in the restaurant/wine industry and two work full-time as record producers and musicians.
"Let's just say that when we get together as a family and our sons collaborate...we have really great parties".
Neal is a graduate of University of New Mexico, where he attended on an athletic scholarship.
adam schawel, Vice President
Adam joined the Direst Path Team team in 2021. Adam has a fantastic ability to interact and connect with people. He’s worked with a number of award winning hospitality venues and is highly respected as a leader in the field. Adam is also a Certified Sommelier. For any owner interested in talking about business over the perfect glass of wine…you ought to meet with Adam.