John Obrien

Background

About John Obrien

Civility Isn’t Optional — It is Your Competitive Advantage. Hi, I’m Dr. John O’Brien—executive coach, speaker, and author—on a mission to help people manage stress, handle tough conversations, and bring a little more civility back into daily life. My latest book, Rudeness Rehab: Reclaiming Civility in the Workplace and Your Home Space (Indie Books, 2025), is all about improving how we treat each other—especially when things get tense. With a background in counseling psychology and trauma-informed care, I work with professionals and teams who feel like their jobs are a major source of stress. Through coaching, I help leaders and their employees build resilience, communicate better, and work through conflict in ways that actually improve how teams function and collaborate. I earned my Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Michigan State University and currently teach psychology and addictions courses at the University of Maine at Augusta since I’ve also had the honor of serving in leadership roles in organizations like the Maine Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association, most recently serving as a Co-Chair for Continuing Education for the Society of Consulting Psychologists. I’m certified as both an executive coach and a health & wellness coach, and I work with leaders across industries—financial services, healthcare, technology, and more. When I’m not working, you’ll probably find me on my motorcycle, skis, or bike—or working on my German, one phrase at a time. If you or your team could use a reset, a new way forward, or just some practical strategies for managing stress and conflict, let’s connect. I’d love to learn how I can help your business thrive. Please connect with me on LinkedIn and follow up with me at: john@activatesuccess.org. I look forward to hearing from you!