The Most Disciplined Man in the World…Black Belt at 75…Marine… Business Leader…Meet Leo Cantu!

Have you ever wondered how your personal achievements and journey can shape your professional success? How do you recognize an employee's potential and invest in their growth for enhanced team performance?

On this week's The Matt Phillips Podcast episode, Matt interviews Leo Cantu. Leo’s multifaceted career spans several decades and diverse industries. Starting as Parts & Service Director at Leon Ames Ford in 1964, he later played a pivotal role in building Dick Wilson Ford in Huntington Beach, CA. Leo's journey continued with ventures in Washington, where he purchased Totem Office Supply and initiated a successful Employee Assistance Program. Moving to Napa, CA, he served as Parts & Service Director at Magnussen Barbee Ford before venturing into dealership ownership in Beaumont, TX. Leo concluded his career at Lithia Motor Company as the Parts & Service Director of the Western Region overseeing operations in 30 dealerships. In addition to his professional achievements, Leo dedicated himself to martial arts, working towards his black belt with Chuck Norris in 1969 and achieving his goal at the age of 75 under the guidance of Master Luft at Parker Academy of Martial Arts in 2014. His story is one of resilience, success, and a lifelong commitment to personal and professional growth.
In this episode, Matt and Leo dive into the importance of mental toughness and leadership in sales, with Leo sharing invaluable advice from his journey. From customer service involvement to personal achievements, like earning a black belt at age 75, their conversation offers insights on leadership and success. They also explore discipline's role in personal and professional life, drawing from Leo's Marine Corp experiences and how it shaped his success in the car dealership industry.

They will touch on such topics as: 

  • The importance of all employees participating in customer service through Leo’s "10 foot rule". 
  • The importance of discipline and non-negotiables in both personal and professional life. 
  • The importance of having a passion for what you do, staying disciplined and consistent, and having integrity and decisiveness in your actions.
  • The benefits and costs of investing in employee training and development, and how it can lead to success in the business world. 

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