I feel like you need to be a sub before being a dom

Fundamentally I disagree, but vet for what matters to you.

Leadership, communication, consent, and accountability don't require a submission first approach.

A philosophy that forces someone to perform outside of who and what they are is a major misalignment with my values.

It becomes apparent that we, somehow, choose our roles. As long as both parties in the relationship are being fulfilled, that is all that is needed.

People's brains are wired different to handle pain & pleasure. Different nervous system reactions to things as well. I can see your point about being a sub and gaining experience that way. But it wouldn't feel good to me physically so I doubt I would fully understand it's pleasures like someone who does feel them in pleasurable manner.