S5 E5: Former Political Hostage, José Pereira

José Pereira is an international speaker, leadership coach, resilience expert and advocate with over 35 years in the oil and gas industry. His life took a dramatic turn when he was taken hostage in a foreign country, enduring nearly five years of captivity. During this dark period, his faith in God became his anchor, shaping his resilience and purpose.José shares his journey in his book, From Hero to Villain - My True Story of the CITGO6, where he explores lessons of faith, resilience and transformation. He has been featured on podcasts worldwide and hosts his own podcast, Building Resilience, inspiring audiences with insights on overcoming adversity and leading with empathy.As an advocate for the hostage community, José works to raise awareness and support families affected by hostage diplomacy. He remains deeply connected to his faith, actively participating in church service and using his experiences to inspire and uplift others. Today, through his coaching, speaking, and advocacy, José empowers leaders to balance success with purpose and resilience in their lives.