Massimo Backus, MA
I’m on a mission to help 1M people believe they are worthy and enough.
Like many ambitious leaders, I faced early struggles with impostor syndrome and a relentless inner critic. Dyslexia was one of the main drivers for my insecurities and later, my perfectionism. The practice of self-compassion helped me see that what was considered a disability was actually cognitive diversity.
As a speaker, leadership coach, and facilitator I provide no-BS one-on-one coaching with open-minded and committed senior leaders, and I run transformative programs with organizations that are serious about change. My fifteen-plus years of experience in talent development and leadership coaching have given me a front-row seat to observe company cultures in the US, UK, and Canada, while working with 3,000+ emerging and seasoned leaders in mid-size and Fortune 500 companies including Cisco, Accenture, Slalom, Salesforce, Nintendo, Amazon, Sony Entertainment, and Fox Entertainment.
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a master's in Organizational Psychology from Claremont Graduate University with professional coaching education through The Co-Active Training Institute.
I often wear suits but I have tattoos and speak from my heart. I’m an award-winning documentary filmmaker, and I love to tell life’s great stories. These days I find creative inspiration in my roles as father and husband.
Certifications: DISC, MBTI, Hogan Assessment, Korn Ferry Architect, Co-Active Coaching Certification (in progress), ORSC Certification (in progress), Hoffman Process Graduate
"Freedom is awareness of the choices and opportunities available to us and knowing whether or not to pursue them."
-Massimo Backus
Modern Approach
My philosophy is that of leadership without judgment. To not judge oneself, others, or the process (the context of any situation.) It is from this judgment-free place that leaders truly seek to understand, lead with compassion, and learn and grow beyond the old beliefs, stories, and patterns of their current circumstances.
Purpose
To reveal the potential of what can be to executives who balance growing a business, leading a team, and being fully engaged and present with their families.