Leading with Empathy & Decisiveness with Larry White

Written By James Thompson

Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle with James Thompson & Ronii Bartles, Episode 4

In this episode of the Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle, James Thompson and Ronii Bartles speak with Larry White, retired vice president of Smithers-Oasis Company and Temprecision International. Smithers-Oasis is a diverse global manufacturer and marketer of floral foam and design media, floral accessories, postharvest products, cellular growing media, temperature control packaging, medical impression foam, and custom foams for specialized applications. Temprecision International provides science-driven solutions for temperature-controlled shipping applications.

Tune in to the episode to hear about:

  • Larry’s journey from frontline supervision to upper management

  • The importance of empathy, authenticity, and decisive leadership

  • Real-life crisis management situation that Larry had to handle in India

  • Larry’s current efforts in mentoring young people

  • How to balance vision with actionable tasks

  • The impact of company culture on overall success

Learn more about Larry White:

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About this podcast:

Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle is a podcast for leaders navigating the messy, high-stakes space between top-down strategy and front-line execution. James Thompson & Ronii Bartles interview change agents, operators, and advisors who have learned to drive results without relying on formal authority. From process optimization to strategic communication — and yes, even competitive compliance — we break down what it takes to lead well when you're in the middle of it all.

Watch or listen to more episodes of Mayhem to Mastery: Leading Transformation from the Middle:

Connect and learn more from your hosts, James Thompson & Ronii Bartles:

James Thompson
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