From high school dropout to VP of Operations at MiTek, John Khoury's journey proves that authentic leadership can emerge from the most unexpected places. This self-made leader discovered his superpower isn't traditional storytelling—it's planting powerful ideas that stick, whether he's renaming a "Delivery Control Centre" to the more inspiring "Solution Hub" or assembling his "deadly viper squad" of analytics experts.

His lunar film selection reflects the emotional range he seeks as a leader: Reservoir Dogs for its raw authenticity and edge that centred him as a young adult learning to navigate the world; The Intouchables for its celebration of genuine connection across differences and the profound joy of mentoring others to fly; and Inception for Christopher Nolan's masterful exploration of how the right idea, planted at the right moment, can transform everything.

John's insights on leading at scale—from connecting with difficult clients that stumped IBM to learning that not every relationship has to work—reveal a leader who's mastered the delicate balance between authenticity and effectiveness. His vision of building a drive-in cinema on the moon, complete with lunar landers as cars, perfectly captures his ability to blend the practical with the inspirational. Armed with endless Twisties and the controversial masterpiece Shantaram, he's ready for his cosmic adventure.

Since recording this episode, John has become the Vice President of Operations at MiTek.