Undercover Boss, Faith, and Family: Lessons from Larry O’Donnell

10/02/2025 47 min Episodio 31
Undercover Boss, Faith, and Family: Lessons from Larry O’Donnell

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Episode Synopsis

Welcome to Backstage with Randy Phillips — a lighthearted dialogue meant to inspire every heart and home to live a life of purpose.In this episode of Backstage with Randy Phillips, Randy sits down with Larry O’Donnell—former President and COO of Waste Management, business leader, and servant leader advocate. Larry shares his journey of faith, leadership, and personal growth, including lessons learned from his daughter’s challenges and his experiences as the first Undercover Boss. He unpacks the CLEAN acronym for leadership, emphasizing servant leadership inspired by Christ, and how it applies to every relationship in life. From navigating tragedy to reshaping corporate culture, this episode is packed with inspiration and wisdom for leaders in every space. STAY CONNECTEDLifeFamily Media: https://www.instagram.com/lifefamilymedia/Connect With Pastor Randy: https://www.instagram.com/randypcd/Connect w/ Larry O'Donnell: https://larryodonnell.comBuy Waste Management: https://amzn.to/3EAXf55 CHAPTERS 0:00 Introduction to Larry O’Donnell and his journey1:14 Water skiing love story with Larry’s wife, Dare5:01 From lawyer to business leader: Larry’s career path6:58 Turning around Waste Management8:14 The CLEAN leadership principles9:22 Leadership through servant principles10:11 Larry’s journey to seminary12:54 Transition from business to seminary later in life14:00 Becoming the first Undercover Boss17:22 Building trust by listening to frontline employees20:07 Lessons learned from Larry’s father about servant leadership22:50 Navigating leadership through empathy and accountability25:48 The life-changing challenge with Larry’s daughter Lenley28:11 Finding peace through John 9 and trusting God’s plan30:45 Lenley’s impact on Larry’s faith32:54 Handling grief and faith as a couple35:49 Understanding workplace ministry37:28 Blending faith and career without fear39:02 Sharing Christ through genuine care41:02 The CLEAN acronym explained: Commitment, Listening, Empathy, Accountability, Notice43:01 The importance of mentors and having safe spaces to think44:10 The purpose of Larry’s book: Sharing struggles and lessons learned46:07 Lenley’s lasting impact on faith and others  Thanks for tuning in! Be sure to share this video with someone you know and subscribe to our channel so you don't miss a new episode!