Growing Champions with John Gallagher
In this episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, host Andrea interviews John Gallagher, founder and CEO of Growing Champions, a faith-based executive coaching and performance consulting company. John discusses his journey of integrating faith into his business, the importance of living out core values, and his personal health transformation. He also shares insights on managing change, the significance of self-development, and methodologies for fostering a productive yet balanced work environment. Key topics include the impact of AI on leadership, the role of mentors, and strategies for effective team management and personal growth.
Mentioned in this Episode:
https://coachjohngallagher.com/
Mentorship Guide – This VOI guide and journal for mentors and mentees includes 12 sessions covering key topics young professionals need to set themselves up for success at work.
Listener Feedback Form – Share how you see people shaping the future – and/or ask a question for Andrea and guests to address on the show!
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:27 Founding a Faith-Based Organization
02:43 Core Values and Personal Journey
05:32 Embracing Change and Personal Growth
09:37 Coaching Leaders Through Change
13:53 Balancing Ambition and Rest
17:27 Navigating AI and Future Challenges
23:28 The Importance of Measuring Success
23:42 Developing a Scorecard for Teams
24:45 The Four Sticks Framework
25:05 Balancing Leadership and Team Growth
25:59 Focusing on Critical Initiatives
26:37 Navigating Leadership Partnerships
28:54 Aligning Goals and Diagnosing Barriers
33:33 Standardizing Processes for Success
37:36 Mentorship and Personal Growth
42:31 Final Thoughts and Challenges
Summary:
What does it take to be an uncommon leader—someone who doesn’t just manage responsibilities but shapes lives and legacies?
In our latest episode of the Voice of Influence Podcast, I spoke with John Gallagher, founder and CEO of Growing Champions, a faith-based executive coaching and performance consulting company. John’s journey is one of intentionality, transformation, and the courage to lead with values in full view.
His insights challenge us to think deeply about our purpose, our habits, and the future we’re creating—not just for ourselves, but for everyone we influence.
🎧 Listen to the full conversation for a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with conviction and clarity.
Faith Isn’t Just a Value—It’s a Commitment
“When I decided to make faith central to my business, it wasn’t just branding. It was about being responsible for what I believe and how I live.”
John didn’t start his business as overtly faith-based. But as he grew, he realized true integrity meant aligning his external leadership with his internal convictions. That decision took courage—but it also unlocked connection. “A colleague once said, ‘I wish I had the courage to do what you just did,’” he recalled, referencing the moment he updated his LinkedIn profile to reflect his faith-based approach.
For leaders seeking to build trust, John’s story is a reminder: being authentic about your values can open doors, not close them. It’s about showing up honestly, even when it feels risky.
Change Happens When Discomfort Becomes the Catalyst
“I had to become more uncomfortable with the status quo than with the discomfort of change.”
John’s health transformation—losing over 80 pounds and preparing for a Spartan race in his 50s—is more than a personal victory. It’s a metaphor for leadership. Real change, he says, happens when we connect deeply with our so that—our purpose.
“I want to be able to have tea parties with my future granddaughter or shoot hoops with a grandson. So that means I’ve got to take care of my health now.”
For leaders struggling with resistance—either in themselves or their teams—John’s approach is clear: tie the goal to a meaningful why, and you’ll find the discipline to keep going, even when it’s hard.
You Can’t Shape the Future Alone
“You can do anything you want; you just can’t do everything you want.”
John works with leaders to uncover what’s most essential by focusing on four key “sticks” of sustainable leadership: develop yourself, develop your team, develop your structures, and deliver lasting impact. And that starts with narrowing your focus.
From helping brothers co-lead a family business to coaching overwhelmed executives, John emphasizes clarity, collaboration, and consistency. “If the team doesn’t see the leader living the values, it’s just wallpaper.”
His challenge to all leaders? Model the behavior you want to see. Use structure not to stifle creativity, but to protect what matters most. And don’t be afraid to say “no” to good ideas—so you can say yes to the best ones.
Leadership is a Calling—And a Daily Choice
Whether it’s embracing the disciplines of reading 10 pages a day, having a morning routine, or setting a compelling vision, John’s message is one of steady, purposeful growth.
“Good intention with bad discipline leads to excuses. Good intention with good discipline leads to excellence.”
Let that sink in.