Leadership, Culture, and Crushing Excuses: A Conversation with “Leadership Larry” Midas
By: Hilario Caro, Talent Optimization at StaffBuffalo
In this lively episode of the Pain Points Podcast, Lauren Lewis sat down with Larry Midas, better known as Leadership Larry—business consultant, speaker, and author of We Tried That Once and Other Popular Excuses That Sabotage Business Success. With his trademark energy and humor, Larry shared how he left corporate America to control his time, built a career around helping others succeed, and developed a philosophy that blends strategy, culture, and people-first leadership.
From Corporate Comfort to Entrepreneurial Freedom
Larry enjoyed a successful corporate career, but when his kids hit high school, he realized he wanted more control over his time. “I didn’t want to be the dad who looked back and realized I missed it,” he said. With his wife’s full support, Larry stepped away from the “real job with real benefits” and launched his own business.
The leap was risky, but Larry’s servant-leadership mindset carried him through. “I’ve always been about solving problems and connecting people. Success for me has never been about me—it’s about helping others succeed.”
The Power of Public Speaking and Connection
Larry discovered his love of public speaking in sixth grade when he rewrote the school Christmas play and narrated it instead of being cast as a Christmas tree. That confidence never left him. Today, he speaks across the country (and even internationally) about leadership, culture, and strategy.
“Sometimes you just have to dive in headfirst and do something,” he explained. “Rip the band-aid off. That’s how you learn, grow, and figure out who you are.”
Common Excuses That Kill Success
Larry’s book, We Tried That Once, was born from years of hearing the same excuses from clients and prospects. Each of the 13 chapters tackles a different mindset that sabotages growth—ranging from “we don’t like conflict” to “culture stuff is crap.”
The book isn’t just theory—it includes 100+ action items to help leaders confront those excuses and replace them with practical, people-centered solutions.
“The highest compliment I get is when people tell me they hear my voice in the book,” Larry said. “It means the authenticity came through.”
Lessons for Leaders and Entrepreneurs
Larry sees today’s business landscape as both challenging and full of opportunity. Post-pandemic, engagement is low, staffing issues persist, and competition is global. But his advice is clear:
Focus on people, culture, and communication.
Don’t avoid conflict—reframe it as collaboration.
Keep strategy flexible. “A plan should be written in sand—it has to shift and adapt.”
Make work fun. “We spend more time at work than anywhere else. Why wouldn’t we want to enjoy it?”
Looking Ahead
Larry continues to consult with businesses, write, and travel the world as a keynote speaker. His brand, “Leadership Larry,” was coined by his then-five-year-old son—and it stuck.
“I may never retire,” Larry admitted. “Why would I stop doing what I love? I’m lucky to get paid to do something that never feels like work.”
Connect with us today and let’s explore how we can help you build meaningful, resilient connections.