Every entrepreneur’s journey is filled with twists, failures, resilience, and reinvention.

Few embody that better than Robert LeBlanc, founder of LeBlanc + Smith, whose 25-year career in hospitality began with a failed record label and evolved into a collection of acclaimed hotels, restaurants, and bars across New Orleans, Nashville, and beyond.

In this episode, Jude Boudreaux and Caleb Arringdale sit down with Robert to explore the lessons learned along the way about presence, parenting, building a values-based company, and raising the next generation to define success for themselves.

Here’s what you can expect:

• How a “failed” start sparked an entrepreneurial career in hospitality
• The power of presence and gratitude in both business and family life
• Teaching children discipline, resilience, and values without losing their freedom to explore
• Honest conversations about failure, grit, and redefining success beyond money
• And more!

Connect with Jude Boudreaux CFP®

• The Planning Center
• LinkedIn: Jude Boudreaux
• jude@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (504) 717-4862

Connect with Caleb Arringdale:

• LinkedIn: Caleb Arringdale
• caleb@theplanningcenter.com
• Phone: (309) 797-4030

Connect with Robert LeBlanc

• Website: LeBlanc + Smith
• LinkedIn: Robert LeBlanc
• Email: info@leblancandsmith.com
• Phone: (504) 267-0241

About our Guest:

Robert LeBlanc is the founder and principal of LeBlanc + Smith, a New Orleans-based hospitality group known for creating boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars rooted in authenticity and community. Over the past 25 years, he has grown the company from a small music venture into a multi-city portfolio by combining creativity, resilience, and a values-driven approach. Passionate about presence, gratitude, and mentorship, Robert leads both his family and his business with a belief that true success is measured not in dollars but in relationships, experiences, and impact.