Jim Carlough

Jim Carlough is a nationally recognized leadership strategist, speaker and bestselling author, widely known as the Leadership Identity Architect. With more than 30 years of experience transforming cultures, careers and companies—from startups to healthcare giants—Carlough has helped thousands shift from simply managing to powerfully leading. Drawing on a philosophy honed under the mentorship of Ross Perot, Carlough believes that leaders aren’t born—they’re built. Carlough’s work reveals that the real barrier to effective leadership isn’t a lack of skills but a lack of identity. This insight forms the cornerstone of his groundbreaking book, "The Six Pillars of Effective Leadership: A Roadmap to Success," which delivers a character-first leadership framework built on six irreplaceable human traits: integrity, focus, empathy, compassion, stability and humor.

Carlough’s keynotes and workshops are known for their energy, authenticity and deep relatability. Whether addressing a room of executives, educators or entrepreneurs, Carlough creates an unforgettable experience by blending humor, vulnerability and proven tools that participants can implement immediately. Carlough's expertise has been featured across more than 235 media outlets, including AP News, NBC, CBS and ABC affiliates. Through national coverage, Carlough has been praised for delivering a "compassionate roadmap" to leadership that is both transformational and timeless. Carlough's signature speaking topics tackle modern leadership challenges with a bold but accessible voice.

In addition to his bestselling book, Carlough has launched transformational programs like The Leadership Confidence Kit, a rapid-reset experience for professionals, and The Six Pillars Accelerator, a 12-week or three-day immersion designed to instill unshakable confidence in emerging and established leaders alike. Carlough's philosophy that "leadership begins the moment we choose to lift someone else up" has made him a sought-after voice at conferences, corporate trainings and on podcasts and broadcast interviews nationwide. Backed by real-world business success and anchored in human character, Carlough doesn’t just teach leadership—he manufactures leaders, one identity at a time.