I think that one of the best ways to learn leadership isn’t studying “leadership” at all. Instead, study individual leaders in their natural habitat and decide what they do that you want to try. Articles by and about leaders and interviews with them are mini-case studies that show you an actual leader in a real situation.

That’s why, every week, I bring you a selection of post about individual leaders. This week I’m pointing you to pieces by and about Brad Maiorino, Anne-Marie Taylor, Sharon Sloane, Billy O’Grady, and Richard Doyle.

From Nicole Perlroth: Brad Maiorino, Target’s New Cybersecurity Boss, Discusses Being a ‘Glutton for Punishment’

“As a chief information security officer, Mr. Maiorino may have one of the hardest jobs in corporate America. In an interview, he explains why he doesn’t see it that way.”

From Jill Phillips: 5 questions with: Anne-Marie Taylor

“Taylor is the executive director of Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center, a local nonprofit that provides resources to neighborhood associations and groups. Prior to that, she was executive director of the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside. She also has served as a member of AmeriCorps.”

From Adam Bryant: Sharon Sloane of Will Interactive: See Yourself as Others See You

“A chief executive says she has learned that in a difficult situation, ‘Look at it as if you’re viewing other people playing your role.'”

From Paresh Dave: How I Made It: Billy O’Grady, City National Bank tech start-up advisor

“Billy O’Grady, 31, heads the Southern California technology and venture capital banking group at City National Bank. Based in Santa Monica, O’Grady advises technology start-ups and their employees on banking and wealth management decisions. He also helps companies get money between fundraising rounds through venture debt financing deals. His position is a new one for the 60-year-old Los Angeles bank, which is trying to attract clients from technology communities in Silicon Valley, Boston and New York as well. Clients include eco-friendly-focused retailer Honest Co. and YouTube network MiTu.”

From Barrie Mckenna: Meet Richard Doyle, the Canadian dairy farmer’s champion

“If Richard Doyle’s job was to save the family farm, his long career as the dairy industry’s top lobbyist would be considered a complete failure.”