John Farley, MA, PsyD

John Farley, MA, PsyD, is a motivational hypnotist, optimal performance specialist, author, and speaker whose career integrates psychology, sports science, and entertainment. Farley is the founder and president of The Optimal Performance Institute and is recognized for his work in subconscious programming, sports psychology, and mind-body performance. His academic background includes degrees in physical education, applied sports psychology, exercise science, and sports psychology from institutions such as Cortland University and Teachers College, Columbia University, as well as a MindBody certificate from Harvard University Medical School. He has also completed Ph.D. training in interdisciplinary studies at The Union Institute and University.

Farley began his journey in hypnosis under the mentorship of John Halpin, known for working with professional boxers including Mike Tyson. He further developed his expertise in behavioral sciences through training in Neuro-Linguistic Programming with Dr. Richard Bandler, Anthony Robbins, and sports counselor Dr. Marlin Mackenzie. Farley has demonstrated and taught hypnosis for applications in sports performance, stage entertainment, personal therapy, and medical and dental settings. Early in his career, he founded a company providing personal fitness training to corporate executives, athletes, and celebrities, including David and Peggy Rockefeller, Laura Bundy, and Olympic swimmer Dara Torres.

Farley’s work has reached mainstream media audiences. He executive produced and co-hosted "Body Revolution with John Farley," which served as a pre-pilot for NBC's "The Biggest Loser." His television appearances include ABC's "Good Morning America," "View From The Bay," Japanese television, PBS-KCSM, the infomercial "6 Second Abs," and NBC television. He has also hosted and appeared on numerous radio shows.

As an athlete, Farley is a regional and national black belt karate champion, using hypnosis to enhance his own athletic performance. He has authored books such as "Keep Your Clients" and "The Secrets to Training The Wealthy," which provide guidance for fitness professionals. Farley has presented, coached, and counseled audiences and individuals internationally, focusing on optimal performance, sports psychology, and subconscious weight loss techniques.

On stage, Farley combines education and entertainment, offering live shows that engage audiences through comedy hypnosis and mind-body demonstrations. His presentations are designed for corporations, colleges, and high schools, drawing on his expertise in human performance, athletic achievement, and stagecraft.