Here Goes Nothin: Matt Landau on Leading with Connection

In our latest episode, we welcome back Matt Landau, founder of VRMB and Here Goes Nothin, for one of his most personal and transformative conversations yet.

After years of leading conversations in the vacation rental industry, Matt experienced a realization that shifted the course of his work. Despite achieving growth and recognition, he found himself operating within familiar routines that no longer inspired him. The deeper sense of creativity, connection, and authenticity that once fueled his success had started to fade.

Rather than continuing down the same path, Matt chose to reexamine what leadership and growth could look like. His journey eventually led to the creation of Here Goes Nothing, a retreat experience designed to help business leaders spark personal breakthroughs and reconnect with their original sense of purpose.

Recognizing the Limits of Growth Without Connection

Matt shared that while operational excellence and consistency had always been important, they did not tell the whole story. Over time, a focus on scaling and perfecting systems left less room for creativity and meaningful connection.

He realized that without staying rooted in authenticity, growth could feel empty. Success measured only by numbers and efficiency did not capture the human side of hospitality that made the work fulfilling in the first place.

This recognition marked a turning point. It opened a conversation about the importance of finding alignment between professional goals and personal values.

Redefining Leadership by Letting Go of Control

One of the most powerful insights Matt discussed is the importance of letting go of control to create space for real leadership.

He reflected on his own experience of holding onto systems and expectations too tightly, which ultimately restricted his growth. Over time, he saw that leading with intention requires the willingness to stand in your own voice and make decisions that reflect who you truly are.

Matt emphasized that authentic leadership does not mean trying to please everyone. It’s making choices with clarity and conviction, even if those choices do not meet every external expectation.

Creativity as a Foundation for Growth

Matt also highlighted the critical role of creativity in building a business that can evolve and thrive.

In his view, creativity is not separate from operational success. It is a key element that helps teams solve challenges, design better guest experiences, and differentiate their brands in a competitive market.

Encouraging creativity at every level of an organization can open new possibilities. It helps businesses move beyond routine thinking and fosters innovation that supports both growth and authenticity.

Personal Breakthroughs That Lead to Business Transformation

Throughout the episode, Matt spoke about the connection between personal discovery and professional success.

Many of the most meaningful business shifts he has witnessed among his retreat participants began with personal reflection. Leaders who took the time to explore their own motivations and goals often found greater clarity in the way they built their companies.

The idea that personal growth strengthens business growth has become a central theme of Matt’s new work. By stepping into uncomfortable spaces and exploring new possibilities, leaders create the conditions for deeper transformation in their organizations.

Why Matt's Message Matters

In an environment where operational efficiency and rapid growth often dominate industry conversations, Matt Landau’s story offers a refreshing perspective.

Leadership is not just a matter of building bigger companies or implementing better systems. It is about creating organizations that stay true to a deeper sense of purpose. It is about leading with authenticity, encouraging creativity, and maintaining meaningful connections with the people we serve.

This episode invites leaders across the vacation rental industry and beyond to reconsider what success looks like and to reconnect with the values that first inspired them to lead.

Watch the full episode here: