Write the Next Version of You: Austin Baker on Leadership, Mentorship & Faith

“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success.” — Albert Schweitzer

In this episode of The Journey, host Larry Robinson sits down with Austin Baker, Memphis-born entrepreneur, connector, and president of HRO Partners. From launching his first business while still at the University of Memphis to leading one of the region’s top HR firms, Austin’s story is one of faith, mentorship, and doing well by doing good.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Austin shares:

• How growing up on a Cordova farm taught him the value of hard work and humility

• Why mentorship became his life’s purpose and how the MILE Program is shaping future leaders

• His 20-year practice of writing letters to his future self is “the best form of time travel”

• What it means to “farm for talent” and build people, not just businesses

• His philosophy on using AI and innovation to multiply, not replace, human potential

• Why his mantra “Do well by doing good” drives every decision he makes

Austin’s story reminds us that true leadership isn’t about titles or awards, it’s about impact. His wisdom challenges us all to pause, reflect, and write the next version of ourselves into existence.