“Working with Richard through Vistage has been incredibly valuable—especially during some pivotal moments in my businesses, like leadership transitions, private equity conversations, and long-term strategic planning.”

— Brandy Mamizuka
Investor, Entrepreneur, Multi-Unit Owner at YogaSix

“Richard is a proven mentor and business leader. He is a natural as a Vistage chair!”

— Susan Buxton, JD -
Director, Idaho Department of Parks & Recreation

“Richard’s coaching uniquely blends practical strategy with exceptional emotional intelligence, empowering confident navigation through complex business transitions.”

“Richard’s thoughtful guidance and keen strategic insights enabled me to confidently navigate complex decisions during my transition to direct primary care. Initially as a Vistage peer and later as my executive coach, Richard offered not only practical advice but a rare level of psycho emotional understanding that addressed both the personal and professional dimensions of my business. His coaching was instrumental in preparing me for the sale of my medical practice and the ongoing success of my direct primary care network. Richard’s unique blend of intelligence, candor, and empathy truly sets him apart, making him an invaluable partner in any business journey.”

— Mark Grajcar, DO | Founder & CEO | Assured Direct Primary Care

“Richard’s approach to coaching and team building cultivates not just strategic growth for an organization but genuine human connections, transforming both people and processes within the organization.”

“Having participated in Vistage with Richard, I've witnessed his remarkable ability to clarify complex situations and foster thoughtful group issue processing through his use of guided questions. His insights consistently resonate promoting an empowered, collaborative culture not only in Vistage but in his work as a business owner. Richard’s approach to coaching and team building cultivates not just strategic growth for an organization but genuine human connections, transforming both people and processes within the organization. The commitment he demonstrates to the whole person allows Richard to develop a personal growth that drives transformative organizational performance. Working with Richard has fundamentally changed my approach to leadership.”

— Megan Multanen
Co-Chief Executive Officer, Bestbath

“I’ve worked with Richard for over 20 years, and his coaching has been a constant source of clarity and confidence throughout every stage of my business.”

“I struggle with imposter syndrome—unsure how to fully own my skills or communicate my value. Richard has helped me shift that mindset, encouraging me to trust my expertise and show up with more confidence. Most recently, as I pivoted to focus on a more specific client base, Richard guided me through the transition with smart strategy and grounded support—helping me grow without losing the relationships I’d worked so hard to build. If you’re looking for a support system that will challenge your thinking, support your growth, and help you lead with greater intention and confidence, Richard is the only choice. His coaching evolves with you—and that kind of long-term partnership is rare.”

— Macey Snelson
Category Manager, Scentsy

“Richard saved me from making several expensive mistakes simply because he took the time to really understand what I was dealing with before weighing in. While I was rushing toward what seemed like obvious solutions, he'd slow things down just enough to spot the problems I was about to create for myself.”

“As a business owner who has worked closely with Richard Johnson, I can tell you he's the real deal based on what he actually delivered when we worked together.

When Richard and I tackled problems together, he had this way of preventing us from going in circles. I'd come to him with what felt like impossible situations—you know, those business challenges where every option seems wrong—and he'd help me see angles I'd completely missed. He didn't just nod along with my thinking; he'd ask the uncomfortable questions that made me realize I was looking at the problem all wrong.

What struck me most was how Richard handled disagreements between us. Instead of trying to win the argument or just splitting the difference, he'd dig into why we were seeing things differently. More often than not, he'd find a way to combine our perspectives into something better than either of us had come up with alone. The guy has a gift for turning tension into breakthrough moments.

Richard saved me from making several expensive mistakes simply because he took the time to really understand what I was dealing with before weighing in. While I was rushing toward what seemed like obvious solutions, he'd slow things down just enough to spot the problems I was about to create for myself. His experience showed up in those moments—not as lectures about "how we used to do things," but as practical wisdom that kept me out of trouble.

The thing is, working with Richard made me better at my job. He had this way of pushing me to think bigger and take on challenges I wasn't sure I could handle. But he did it in a way that felt supportive rather than pressuring. When I succeeded, it felt like my win, not his coaching—which, looking back, was probably exactly his intention.

If you're looking for a Vistage chair who will actually move the needle for your business—not just facilitate nice conversations—Richard's your guy.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​”

— Pete Ness
Founder & Owner - Pingman Tools

“Richard is truly one of the best coaches I have seen over my 40 plus year career.”

“Richard is truly one of the best coaches I have seen over my 40 plus year career. He is a skilled listener – paying attention to what is both said and unsaid. He asks crucial questions to get to the root cause to provide truly relevant coaching. Along the way, Richard tests for alignment with synthesis of the issue, the paths forward, and commitment to action. The result – outcomes that have a lasting impact!

Knowing and working with Richard for close to ten years has been an enriching experience, both professionally and personally, and I am a more effective leader thanks to his commitment to those in his group.”

— Linda Swanstrom
Executive Director, Idaho State Dental Association (Retired)

“Working with Richard has made a huge difference in how I approach my career. He helps you set goals that actually make sense for where you are and where you want to go—and then he pushes you to go after them. It never feels generic. The advice, study materials, and resources he shares are always spot-on and relevant to whatever challenge I’m facing at the time.”

— Katie Carter
Division Manager, The Nichols Accounting Group, P.C.