John Carbrey:
Entrepreneur, Speaker, Thought Leader

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HOW IT ALL STARTED

As the founder and Managing Director of FutureSight, John Carbrey is a highly accomplished entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in building and funding B2B software companies that are driving innovation and transforming industries. He is passionate about working with values-driven entrepreneurs and helping them succeed in their ventures.

John's impressive track record as a CEO and CTO includes founding and building four software companies, with one scaling to nearly $100M in annual recurring revenue. His previous ventures include Intrafinity, CivicLive, Talentova, and SharpSchool, where he honed his skills in growing vertically-focused B2B software companies.

Under John's leadership, SharpSchool became a leading provider of education software, serving nearly 10% of K-12 schools in the U.S. and handling over 1 billion web and mobile views annually. His expertise in building successful software companies has earned him numerous entrepreneurial awards, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, National Research Council’s National Innovation Leader Award, and BDC’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

Despite his busy professional life, John is a devoted husband and father to his two children, Micah and Jordan. In his free time, he enjoys exploring new ideas in philosophy and experimenting with new Indian dishes in the kitchen. John is also known for his love of entertaining, frequently hosting lively dinner parties for friends and strangers alike.

Career Highlights

Founded and scaled multiple successful tech companies

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Partner at FutureSight, an AI-focused venture studio

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Award-winning innovator in the AI space

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Mentor to emerging entrepreneurs and founders

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Experience

FutureSight

We co-create transformational ventures with exceptional entrepreneurs who courageously discover and fulfill their life's work.

Beyond Business

John's vision extends beyond business metrics to the deeper questions of meaning and purpose. His writing and speaking explore how leaders can move from unconscious striving to intentional wanting, creating ventures that deliver both financial returns and meaningful impact.

Through his "Wanting Well" framework, John guides entrepreneurs and leaders on the journey from success to significance, helping them anchor their ambitions in purpose and worldview.

Speaking Philosophy

On stage, John blends thoughtful exploration with actionable tools. His sessions are part conversation, part framework, part catalyst, prompting audiences to think differently about ambition, success, and the life they’re building.

Speaking Approach:

  • Authentic storytelling that resonates with entrepreneurs

  • Thoughtful exploration of success beyond metrics

  • Practical frameworks for aligning achievement with meaning

  • Interactive sessions that prompt deeper reflection

Current Work

At FutureSight, John works with founders to build ventures that are both financially successful and purposefully aligned.

When he's not mentoring founders, John can be found exploring new ideas through books and deep conversations. He believes success isn't just about building businesses—it's about elevating desires, fostering meaningful connections, and leaving a lasting impact.

Kind words

  • A close-up portrait of a smiling bald man with glasses, wearing a blue shirt.

    "I always enjoy listening to John or reading his work because he is a deep thinker, driven by curiosity that is shaped by personal experience and faith."

    Dennis Ensing
    Executive Partner at AiM Partners Inc.

  • Prathna Ramesh portrait, with long, wavy hair smiling at the camera.

    "John has this rare ability to really go deep. I am continually impressed by the rate and pace at which he learns and his commitment to continued growth."

    Prathna Ramesh
    Partner at FutureSight

  • A young man in a business suit standing outdoors with a modern building in the background.

    "John is a deep thinker with sharp insights. He is always seeking to learn more, expand his understanding, and share valuable perspectives."

    Jonson Sun
    Founder & President at GIC Merchant Bank Corp

CONNECT

Ready to bring John's message of purposeful ambition to your next event?

CONTACT JOHN