Alex MacPhail Podcast

#103 John "Gucci" Foley - Blue Angels Pilot

March 23, 2022 Alex MacPhail
Alex MacPhail Podcast
#103 John "Gucci" Foley - Blue Angels Pilot
Show Notes

John is the former lead solo pilot of the Blue Angels, Bestselling author of Fearless Success, an expert in the How of High Performance teams and "The Guru of Gratitude." As a Blue Angel, John consistently performed in an extreme, high-stakes environment, flying at speeds of more than 500 miles per hour in formations as close as 18 inches apart. 

To survive in those circumstances he relied on a culture of high trust, leadership and teamwork. John employs the intense realities of his aviation career as a metaphor to inspire - breathe life into - teams to reach for their highest potential and sustain excellence under dynamic change. 

John’s presentations are highlighted by: 

  • An energising delivery that inspires High Performance with a grateful mindset.
  • Awe inspiring storytelling and electrifying video of the legendary Blue Angels in action.
  • A contagious attitude of gratitude that he calls “Glad To Be Here.” 
  • A unique approach that equips others to take the same journey toward excellence, teamwork and transformation.


In 2011 John founded the Glad To Be Here Foundation. John donates 10% of his speaking fees to charities through the foundation. The program has donated over $2 million to 380+ charities and impacted thousands of lives globally including sponsoring 47 children in 47 countries.

It's part of his mission to connect a shared ‘purpose larger than self’ with every organization.

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