James B.

My coaching journey began in graduate school as a writing tutor. I learned a fundamental principle that still guides my work today: sit next to the client and make sure they hold the pen.

This simple concept—that lasting change comes when people drive their own solutions—has shaped more than 20 years of leadership experience and now defines how I coach professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs.

I’m currently working with a tech entrepreneur scaling two businesses simultaneously. Opportunity knocked at the same time for both, so I’m helping him manage this “good problem.”

Another client is a nonprofit executive whose organization has grown from two to six staff members in the last few years. Although the scale is small, the change is significant for her, and she’s figuring out how to adjust her leadership without losing who she is.

What drives me is witnessing leaders discover they already have everything they need to create the change they envision. They just need help and support finding the answers. I specialize in working with leaders in knowledge-intensive organizations navigating complex transformations—those pivotal moments when what got you here won't get you there.

"Make sure the client holds the pen"—this principle from my graduate writing tutor training has become the cornerstone of my coaching methodology.

I learned to sit next to clients, not across from them, conveying that we're working together while ensuring they maintain authority over their own solutions. An engaged client is one who leads decision-making while I provide structure, perspective, and accountability.

What motivates me is facilitating leadership decisions, not usurping authority. My methodology integrates Appreciative Inquiry and nonjudgmental awareness, creating safe spaces where leaders can be vulnerable about challenges while exploring what's working and honestly examining growth areas.

My person-first philosophy, rooted in years of inclusive leadership work and supporting underrepresented individuals, shows up as deep listening that helps leaders discover their own wisdom. The goal is to hold space with someone to facilitate learning through conversation. I really want clients to succeed—and that happens when they drive the process.