where did the name come from?
In November 2006, Larry Bobo—founder of The Outstanding Man—was navigating one of the most challenging seasons of his life. Recently divorced and adjusting to life as a single father with weekend visitation, Larry found himself struggling financially as his entrepreneurial endeavors were not yielding the income he needed. Determined to provide for his children during their visits, he took on a part-time seasonal job at a major retail store to earn extra cash.
This retail environment had a unique culture: employees were trained to greet every guest with positivity and respond to “How are you?” with one simple phrase—“I’m Outstanding.” The store even themed its promotions around this word, using titles like “An Outstanding Sale.”
Initially, it was just a job. But after a few weeks, something shifted. Larry began to feel deep gratitude—not just for the paycheck, but for the stability and purpose it brought during his visits with his children. That gratitude sparked a shift in perspective. He began to see life differently—more humbly, more thankfully.
He was reminded of a Biblical truth he held dear: “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” Recognizing the power of words, Larry adopted the retailer’s upbeat mantra for his own life. Everywhere he went—from the store to the street—if someone asked how he was doing, he’d say, “I’m Outstanding… how ‘bout you?” That habit stuck.
Then, in a phone call in 2008, a conversation began as usual. Larry responded, “I’m Outstanding… how ‘bout you?” The person on the other end laughed and said, “Man, I’m going to start calling you The Outstanding Man.”
And just like that, the name was born—The Outstanding Man became more than a phrase. It became a mindset. A movement. And eventually, a mission.
