John Edwin - The Power of Leadership, Family, and Building a Life by Design

For John Edwin, life has always been about pushing the limits—whether that’s in the boxing ring, the business world, or at home with his family. "I grew up in the inner city," John shares, "but sports were always my escape. Track and field took me to college, and when that chapter closed, I pivoted to helping others achieve their potential." John spent 20 years as a top strength and conditioning coach in Philadelphia, running successful training and MMA facilities. But while training champions and coaching athletes, John had a bigger vision—one where business success wasn’t only about trading time for money.

Like many entrepreneurs, John found that balancing a thriving career with his personal life became a challenge. “I started buying properties alongside my work as a coach,” he says. “I wanted something more stable—something that would allow me to support my family and not depend on clocking in.” That decision, it turns out, would change everything when the world shifted during the pandemic. “COVID hit, and we had to shut the doors. Thankfully, I had invested in real estate, and that safety net saved us.”

Today, John has made the leap from personal trainer to successful real estate investor, working hand-in-hand with his high school sweetheart and business partner, his wife. "My wife and I do everything together. We’ve grown together in every way, and that's been the key."

Leading with Value

When asked what makes him a leader in his industry, John doesn’t hesitate. “It’s all about leading with value,” he says. "When I was starting out as a trainer, I thought, how do I stand out in a gym full of people? I showed up every day—put in sweat equity and offered free training sessions. That’s been my mindset ever since. You give value first."

This approach has followed John into every aspect of his career, from real estate to coaching other entrepreneurs. He also stresses the importance of mentorship: "One of the smartest things I did was asking the top trainer in Philly at the time if I could shadow him. I learned so much by just watching how he interacted with people. That experience was invaluable."

Family First, Business Second

One of the most striking things about John Edwin is his unwavering commitment to his family. "I'm a husband first, father second, and businessman third," he says with confidence. "I believe if I’m successful at home, I can be successful anywhere. It all comes down to showing up authentically for my wife and kids. That same authenticity carries over into my work."

John believes that real leadership starts at home. “If you want to lead well in your business, lead well in your family first.”

Gobundance and the Power of Community

John’s connection to Gobundance started with an unlikely hat. “I was at a Front Row Dads event, and I saw Mike McCarthy wearing this goofy Gobundance hat. I thought it was related to a Philadelphia charity called Philabundance,” John laughs. “When Mike explained Gobundance—a group of healthy, wealthy, generous men choosing to live epic lives—that line stuck with me.” That moment was the beginning of a journey that has shaped John’s personal and professional life in profound ways.

“Joining Gobundance has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” John says. “It’s not just about building wealth—it’s about building meaningful relationships with other high-performing men. The vulnerability and authenticity in this group are like nothing I’ve ever experienced. Being part of Gobundance has given me the tools to grow in ways I never imagined—professionally, personally, and spiritually.”

John now serves as a Regional Leader, helping other men tap into the power of connection. "It’s incredible to see how the relationships and accountability in Gobundance can transform a man’s life—and not just his life, but his family’s life too."

Looking Ahead

When asked about the future of Gobundance, John sees limitless potential. “A year ago, we were asked to write a vivid vision for our next five years. In mine, I envisioned myself as an elder in the tribe. Being a regional leader is a huge first step in that direction, but the real vision is continuing to impact the lives of men and their families.”

For John, the journey is ongoing. His advice for entrepreneurs looking to elevate their personal and professional lives? "Your network is your net worth. Surround yourself with a community that supports and challenges you. It’s the systems and relationships you put in place that will help you succeed—not just in business, but in every area of your life."

For more information on Gobundance or to learn how to become a member, visit www.gobundance.com/tap or email regions@gobundance.com.