James Barringer is a purpose-driven executive coach and founder of Green Leaf Coaching, passionate about helping leaders and teams unlock their full potential through powerful communication. With a unique blend of Connector warmth, Creative insight, and Pioneer drive, he builds trust quickly, sees possibilities where others may see problems, and communicates vision with clarity and heart. As a Third Culture Kid, he brings a deep empathy for diverse perspectives and creates space where others feel truly seen. Rooted in faith and seasoned by years in leadership and education, he empowers others to lead from their sweet spot—with joy, courage, and grace.
Could you elaborate on the nature of your business, highlighting its purpose and the ways it benefits people?
Green Leaf Coaching exists to help executive leaders and their teams communicate with purpose, lead with clarity, and thrive with integrity. At the heart of the business is a deep belief: when people understand their leadership voice and live from their sweet spot—the intersection of passion, wiring, and impact—they lead not just effectively, but sustainably. Through one-to-one executive coaching and transformative team workshops using GiANT’s 5 Voices framework, we unlock hidden strengths, repair relational dynamics, and foster cultures of trust. The result? Healthier teams, confident leaders, and meaningful change that lasts.
What inspired you to start your journey as a coach and entrepreneur? Were there any specific events, challenges, or people that motivated you to take this path?
I was coached in my sweet spot … what was my purpose? What was my wiring? Where was my impact?
Looking back at the beginning of your career, what were the major challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a leader/coach? How did you overcome those obstacles?
Leading from my strengths and not trying to solve problems that others who were better aligned could solve for me.
Journaling and developing a greater self-awareness.
Would you like to share any remarkable achievement?
Taking a nonprofit charity that I founded through transition effectively and healthily.
Women are a growing force in the workplaces worldwide, standing shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. What are your thoughts about women leadership today?
I founded my nonprofit alongside my wife – I firmly believe that women make fantastic leaders, often having greater self-awareness than men.
What message/advice would you have for future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
Learn how to lead yourself before you lead others.
