Big dreams need big teams.

Johnny Karls is an executive coach, global leader, and trusted advisor known for guiding high-capacity individuals and organizations through meaningful transformation—personally and professionally.

Raised in Montana as the youngest of eight, Johnny’s story began with adversity. After losing his father as an infant, he was shaped by resilience, resourcefulness, and responsibility early in life. With no connections and just $283, he moved to Los Angeles and broke into the highly competitive world of Hollywood filmmaking.

Over the next 15 years, Johnny built a career behind the scenes on major motion pictures including Con Air, Eraser, and Lethal Weapon 4, along with global campaigns for brands such as Nike, Gatorade, McDonald’s, and the NBA. His work placed him alongside some of the most recognizable figures in the world, giving him a rare vantage point into high-performance environments.

At the height of his career, Johnny experienced a profound personal shift that redirected his life. He stepped away from the film industry, earned a master’s degree in theology, and served in leadership roles including pastoring alongside Francis Chan and later leading as U.S. President of an international orphan care organization serving vulnerable children in Uganda.

For more than 15 years, Johnny has worked as a leadership and executive coach, partnering with clients across industries—from globally recognized leaders to individuals in underserved communities. His work is informed by extensive global experience, having traveled to all 50 states and 46 countries.

Known for his clarity, empathy, and strategic insight, Johnny challenges clients to confront reality, expand perspective, and lead with purpose. His coaching is grounded in the belief that lasting transformation happens through honest conversation, disciplined systems, and alignment between who you are and how you lead.

Married for over three decades to his wife Kathleen, Johnny is a father of four adult children—two by birth and two by adoption.

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