Learn More of My Background

John M. Blake

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More of my background

WHERE

I was born in Salem, Oregon, lived in Wilsonville, Oregon until I was 8, and then my family moved to Germany. I lived in Munich for four years, returned to Marion, Indiana for one year, and then headed with my parents to Russia for my high school years. We lived in Yaroslavl, Nizny Novgorad, and Vladimir. For my college years, I returned to Marion, Indiana, and in 2000 I moved to the suburbs of Atlanta where I lived until March of 2012. Then I moved to the Seattle area, where I met my wife, Jayme. We were married in September of 2013, and love the beautiful Pacific northwest.

INFLUENCES

No doubt that my family has been my greatest influence. Being raised in a strong Christian home, I learned strong morals and values giving me a solid Biblical foundation. My wife, Jayme, is my best friend, and an amazing support and wise counselor.
Along the way, close friends have played a powerful role: Cary Coleman, founder and president of the Fellowship of Christian Cheerleaders (FCC) where I was employed for twelve years; Dr. Paul Ford, mentor and close brother who instilled in me the value of relationships; Dr. Steve Hoke, a powerful trainer and friend who’s ability to connect the dots astounds me; and Matt Blake, my brother and closest friend who shares life with me as no other can. Also, the heart of the visionSynergy team for collaboration has left a strong impression on my focus for unity. Inside Providence, I have learned about compassionate care and embedding a mission into the work in a unique way.

KEY LEARNING EVENTS

  • Living cross-culturally as an education as to the vastness of the world, and similarity of humanity.
  • Entire high school education by independent study correspondence courses as a demand to self-motivation and self-starting.
  • Directing camps with FCC as a lesson in leadership and communication.
  • Starting Spirit of the South, and it failing as a “first Masters” in entrepreneurial management.
  • Starting Teambuilding, Coaching, & Consulting as a step towards my passion, and learning that a team approach is simply stronger.
  • Working in Uganda for over four years with Org. Development as a means to experience joy from giving of yourself.
  • Serving as Executive Director of the NCATA as opportunity to collaborate and drive towards a clear, shared goal.
  • Consulting with global networks through visionSynergy, learning the role of a trusted advisor who is true to God’s unique design on him.
  • Living in a large healthcare organization, learning the value of specialization, and the interconnectedness of pieces in a system.
  • Leading the Grip-Birkman community, learning the value of relying on others, balanced with digging in deeply with your own passion.

Certifications