Leonard T Robinson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Leonard T , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I recently had an amazing new granddaughter who changed my day and my life. This little one has the personality already at the age of 5 months that makes me wonder if she has my mother’s own soul. She is so attentive and responds with the most facial expressions I have ever seen. My day is not complete without my daughter (Cristen Gladney) and her mini-me (Chloe Harper Gladney) via FaceTime every single day. I look forward to our talks and her adorable responses to my voice and sight. Just seeing them daily makes my world complete, and all is well in my world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Leonard T. Robinson is a visionary leader, author, and entrepreneur who founded Robinson International and champions the philosophy of “Be Legendary.” His work blends leadership, personal growth, and business excellence into a mission that inspires people to reach their highest potential. Leonard grew up in a home where faith was not talked about but was lived. His family’s foundation is established on God and love, and that spiritual grounding shaped every aspect of his childhood. Faith at the center: From an early age, Leonard was taught that God’s presence was the guiding light for decisions, challenges, and celebrations. Prayer was not reserved for Sundays—it was woven into daily life. Love as the language: His parents emphasized kindness, respect, and compassion, instilling in him the belief that true strength comes from serving others. Community and service: Church was more than a place of worship; it was a hub of fellowship and responsibility. Leonard learned that leadership meant lifting others up, whether through volunteering, mentoring, or simply offering encouragement. Resilience through values: Growing up, whenever obstacles appeared, his family reminded him that faith and perseverance could turn trials into triumphs. This mindset became the bedrock of his later philosophy: “Change the attitude, change your life.” The Legacy of That Upbringing Leonard’s religious, well-rooted family foundation gave him: Confidence in his calling: He understood that his life’s purpose was bigger than himself. A servant-leader mindset: Leadership, for him, is about humility and impact, not titles. The courage to “Be Legendary”: His company’s mission reflects the values instilled in him—faith, love, resilience, and legacy.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My father (Tommie Louis Robinson) was a hardworking and loving man. Committed to his family and very disciplined with his children. Going up was not always fun and games in the Robinson household. Due to my dad having known several trades, we, the sons, my brothers, and I had to earn those same trades. My father mastered auto mechanics, electrical, plumbing, CDL driver, and even law enforcement at the end of his career. My father was driven to be the best at what he did. We all saw him as the engine that always pulled the load, especially raising ten (10) children, and me being the youngest. I never saw him complain or miss a day of work. He never stopped working for the family. In addition to working all day, we had to tend to our farm, which we had animals to feed and store for both the family and my grandmother (Vivian Robinson), especially after my grandfather (Tom Robinson) passed away. See, this only made me stronger, as if my father did it, then I can do it too. It is times when I feel defeated and lost, I think of him and hear him say, (You’re a Robinson) and I get that second wind and that fire in my heart hearing his voice!
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
I was only 21 when I lost my mother. At that age, the world is supposed to feel wide open, full of possibility—but instead, mine felt shattered. The pain was sharp, almost unbearable, and I carried a heaviness that words could never fully capture. Losing her so young left me feeling unanchored, as though the person who had given me life and love was suddenly gone, leaving me to navigate adulthood without her guidance. Then came the loss of my father and siblings. Each passing felt like another piece of my foundation crumbling away. I remember feeling hollow, as if the world had taken too much from me too soon. There were moments of anger, moments of silence, and moments where grief seemed endless. Yet even in the darkest times, I held onto the lessons my family had instilled in me—faith, love, and resilience. I realized that while their physical presence was gone, their spirit lived on in me. My mother’s nurturing heart, my father’s strength, my siblings’ laughter—all became part of the legacy I carry forward. Grief taught me that life is fragile, but it also taught me that love endures. Their absence became my motivation to live with purpose, to honor them by striving to “Be Legendary.” Every challenge I face, every mountain I climb, is a way of keeping their memory alive and proving that even in loss, there can be strength.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Faith in God: Believing that God is the ultimate source of strength, guidance, and purpose. Love as the foundation: Holding that love—both given and received—is the greatest commandment and the key to lasting relationships. Integrity and honesty: Living truthfully and with moral courage, even when it is difficult. Service to others: Seeing leadership and success as opportunities to uplift and serve, not just to achieve. Resilience through faith: Trusting that challenges are part of God’s plan to build character and perseverance.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I do not live for the applause of people, nor do I seek recognition from the world. The only approval I desire is from God because it is His grace that sustains me and His will that guides my steps. Praise from others fades, but the favor of God is eternal. My commitment is to walk in obedience, to serve with humility, and to let my actions reflect His love. Every achievement, every challenge overcome, is not for my glory but for His. I measure success not by titles or accolades, but by whether I am living faithfully according to His purpose. Family values and faith are inseparable in my life. They remind me that true legacy is not built on human praise, but on the impact of living a life aligned with God’s will—loving others, serving faithfully, and leaving behind a testimony of faith and resilience. I have built my legacy with my children, Cristen, Devin, and Lake!! They are my best work ever!!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https:..www.instagram.com/Robinson_international
- Linkedin: https://www.LinkedIn.com/Leonard-t-robinson9b0877
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/el4u2nv/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@robinsoninternationallifeb1562
