Dr. Ethel James

Dr. Ethel James, widely known as Dr. J, is a globally recognized keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and transformational coach dedicated to empowering leaders to communicate fearlessly, build trust, and achieve lasting results. As a Certified Global Transformation Coach, DISC Trainer, and Emotional Intelligence Practitioner, she blends behavioral science, practical strategy, and faith-based principles to help executives, educators, and teams elevate their leadership impact. Through her proprietary frameworks, including the Fearless Feedback Fix™ and Legacy Leadership™, Dr. J equips leaders to turn challenging conversations into opportunities for growth and accountability.

With over 35,000 leaders trained across corporate, government, education, and healthcare sectors, Dr. J has established herself as a trusted authority in leadership development. Her approach emphasizes emotional intelligence, trust activation, and communication mastery, helping organizations cultivate cultures where accountability feels empowering, not punitive. Beyond her professional work, she serves as an author, motivational speaker, and senior pastor, guiding individuals to integrate spiritual alignment with professional excellence. Her leadership philosophy reflects the belief that true influence stems from integrity, intentional development of others, and the courage to lead authentically.

Dr. J’s impact extends through her live events, conferences, and community engagement initiatives, including her signature “Don’t Call It a Comeback!™ – Legacy Rising™ Weekend,” designed to help women reclaim their voice, confidence, and purpose. Recognized among the Top 10 Most Influential Women by Kish Magazine, she continues to expand her influence through writing, mentoring, and strategic leadership partnerships. Her work leaves a legacy of transformation, inspiring leaders to rise with confidence, wisdom, and resilience, while creating sustainable results across industries, communities, and generations.

• Certified Global Transformation Coach

• North Carolina Central University - BASc

• North Carolina Black Chamber of Commerce