Thank you to the 1646 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 questions! I hope reading 7 Questions with
Â
Barry Mezey
helps you in your leadership.
Â
Cheers,
Jonno
Barry Mezey
Name: Barry Mezey
Title: CEO/ Founder
Organisation: Barry Mezey Foundation For Autism, Inc
Barry Mezey is a iconic industry recognized sports marketing agent who has worked with stars such as Tim Hardaway, Curt Schilling, Pat Cash, Conchita Martinez, Rosie Casals, Leander Paes, Real Betis FC, Liga de Quito FC, Paris Metropole Futsal FC, Federation Andalucia de Tenis, Federation Espana de Polo, and stars in MLB, NHL, NFL, UFC Champions, and much more. Barry Mezey is the only autistic celebrity agent in the world and currently is the founder of (KWAN2) utility token and Barry Mezey Foundation For Autism charity to better the lives of those living with special needs.
1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?
Overcoming fears of not being able to succeed due to social cue issues and social anxiety disorder due to being autistic as well as other mental health issues i suffer from.
2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?
I was told my entire life my best hope was working in a soup kitchen or homeless shelter. Today i am a go getter who was inspired by the films Forrest Gump and Jerry Maguire that i can achieve anything i want in my life. Akso happiness is not defined by wealth nor is success. Its defind by your contributions to the world that leave a legacy behind of greatness.
3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?
Im a late riser and go to bed late but work 12 to 15 hours daily. But its not how hard you work as its all about how smart and efficient you work. I get more done in a 5 hour work day than most people get done in an 8 to 12 hour work day because im efficient with my time and time is money. The rest of the hours i work I'm on call for business.
4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?
Don't be arrogant or be mean it won't get you far in life. Its better to kill your competitors with kindness in business around the industry metaphorically speaking.
5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?
I don't read books
6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?
Get a day job and work your passion at night or off the clock. Also its not about how many hours you put in but rather how efficiently you work. Also always be kind and use a little humor. People love this.
7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?
I had to learn from a big mistake i made due to my autism symptoms not being socially aware of what i was doing was causing issues. I paid the price. That's all I'm going to say.