Ken Langone shares pivotal moments from his career, emphasizing honesty and courage—exemplified by his bold pitch to Ross Perot that led to a successful IPO without reviewing financials. He underscores the importance of trust and keeping one’s word, illustrated by his defense of Dick Grasso’s compensation based on merit, later upheld in court. At Home Depot, Langone championed an upside-down hierarchy, empowering frontline employees and fostering a culture where service and loyalty created millionaires from entry-level workers. The return of CEO Frank Blake restored these core values after a period of erosion. His long-term investment philosophy—holding assets like Lilly stock for decades—mirrors his belief in patience and faith in strong leadership. Langone credits capitalism and teamwork over individual genius, highlighting resilience and integrity as cornerstones of achievement. Personal stories, including a stranger’s gratitude for lifesaving hospital care he helped fund, reinforce his belief in kindness and the transformative power of opportunity.