John McEntire’s journey spans continents, cultures, and decades of experience working at the intersection of innovation, leadership, and human potential. Growing up in an environment that welcomed people from all walks of life, he developed a deep appreciation for diversity, collaboration, and the power of understanding others. Today, John draws on his global career — from theater stages to technology transfer and executive coaching — to help leaders synchronize their teams, navigate pressure with wisdom, and create workplaces where everyone’s contribution matters. His story reminds our Humans of Fuzia community that leadership, like life, is about connection, conscience, and honoring every piece of the puzzle.
Q: What first inspired you to become an entrepreneur and coach?
John: My life has been rich with different cultures and experiences. I grew up in a home where our dinner table felt like the United Nations — exchange students, foster children, and families from across the world joined us. Traveling to different countries at a young age helped me see that there isn’t just one “right way” to live or work.
Over the years, I worked many different jobs, spent a decade in theater, and eventually entered the world of innovation and technology transfer — helping research organizations bring ideas to life. After decades of working for others, I realized I had been a people pleaser, shaped by childhood trauma, and not always honoring my own voice. Starting my own practice allowed me to finally use the “toolbox” I had built — and help leaders do the same for themselves.
Q: What has been your proudest milestone so far?
John: My greatest milestone is my family. Watching my children grow into themselves — and discovering more of who I am alongside them — has been deeply meaningful. We’ve shaped each other, and that, to me, is success.
Q: How do you view women’s leadership and empowerment in today’s world?
John: Women bring an incredibly valuable perspective to work and leadership. My philosophy is inspire, empower, and thrive. When we allow people to truly be themselves — like puzzle pieces that fit together — teams flourish.
I teach leaders about “cultural margin”: creating space for people not only to do their jobs, but to grow beyond the checklist. I once mentored a talented attorney who wanted to expand beyond her assigned role. Giving her that margin prepared her for unexpected organizational shifts — and she rose brilliantly. When women are empowered with opportunity and trust, everyone benefits.
Q: What does success mean to you, personally and professionally?
John: Success feels like the “green room” before a theater performance — when everyone is relaxed, connected, and aligned. When teams stop forcing outcomes and instead breathe, read the flow, and synchronize, true alignment emerges. Leadership isn’t linear; it’s a roundabout between self, systems, and mission. When leaders slow down, honor their teams, and let alignment form naturally — that’s when the real magic happens.
“Leadership isn’t about forcing results — it’s about breathing, listening, and letting alignment emerge. When every person is valued as part of the puzzle, the whole world thrives.”
Connect with John McEntire:
John Taylor McEntire | LinkedIn
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