John C. Maxwell

John C. Maxwell is a teaching pastor, speaker, and author focusing on the development of leadership. He is the founder of several organizations designed to develop entrepreneurial and leadership qualities. As an author, he has seen three of his books sell over 1 million copies each. His books have been translated into as many as 40 languages.  His pastoring has seen him lead churches in three different states and be guest pastor at the famous “Crystal Cathedral” in southern California.

John Calvin Maxwell was born in Garden City, Michigan in 1947. Like his father before him, Maxwell followed the path of becoming a minister. He is a Doctor of Ministry, having completed his studies at Fuller Theological Seminary.

An Evangelical Christian, Maxwell led churches in several states and became senior pastor at the Skyline Church in La Mesa, California. Skyline is a “megachurch” affiliated with the Wesleyan Church denomination. There, Maxwell ministered to audiences of more than 1,000 at each service.

After serving in this role for 14 years, he left to commit himself to writing and public speaking full-time. His core principle, “everything rises and falls on leadership,” caught the attention of many. Businesses, government leaders, and individuals from all walks of life have been inspired and informed by Maxwell’s books and talks. In 2014, Inc. Magazine named him the No. 1 leadership and management expert in the world.

As his popularity increased and his calendar grew filled with speaking engagements, the call to ministry has always remained. Returning to the pulpit, he was invited to speak at the massive Crystal Cathedral, founded by Maxwell’s mentor, Robert H. Schuller.

John C. Maxwell continues to speak groups as diverse as the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, companies in the Fortune 500, and the National Football League. Awards for his public speaking include the “Golden Gavel” from Toastmasters International. His organization, EQUIP, addresses leaders of 80 nations in the development of Christian leadership. Maxwell remains an example of his own maxim — “We cannot become what we need by remaining what we are.”