Stephen James

Founder of Council Leadership, Stephen helps leaders navigate personal and organizational transformation with wisdom.

With 25+ years of experience in entrepreneurship, leadership, and counseling, he has mentored and advised leaders across corporate America, the U.S. military, impact-driven nonprofits, professional athletics, and the music and film industry.

He has authored or coauthored more than a dozen books, including his most recent, "The Wisdom Within: The Ancient Alchemy of Leadership." Stephen weaves together insights from neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and theology with both ancient and practical wisdom, guiding leaders to live and lead with integrity, purpose, and meaning.

A traveler, poet, and enduro motorcycle rider, he draws inspiration from adventure, family, nature, and all that is beautiful, true, and good. A native Nashvillian, Stephen has been married to Heather for 30 years, and together they have four adult children.