In this episode of How Leaders Lead, Mizzou alum Hayes Barnard shares the life lessons and leadership principles that have guided his journey from humble beginnings to founder and CEO of GoodLeap—one of the fastest-growing sustainable tech finance companies in the world.
Barnard reflects on defining moments that instilled perseverance, resilience, and taught him a deep appreciation for human connection. His mission-driven mindset and relentless optimism are evident as he discusses building a profitable business that also addresses some of the world’s biggest problems like climate change and economic inequality.
Barnard emphasizes that embracing your past—failures and all—can become a wellspring of purpose, clarity, and connection with others. His belief in leading with heart, focusing on service, and cultivating belief in others shines through as he offers insights into building high-performance teams, innovating with purpose, and creating a positive culture.
Barnard’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is about more than metrics—it’s about mission, meaning, and multiplying impact.