Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle Harris Jefferson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michelle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear from you about what you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry and why it matters.
Corporate America often misunderstands the education consulting industry, particularly regarding the crucial role of trauma and resilience social-emotional learning (SEL) in public schools. One of the most significant misconceptions is the underestimation of the funding required to implement effective trauma-informed and resilience-building programs. Corporate decision-makers frequently overlook the fact that these initiatives are not just supplementary but essential for creating supportive and effective learning environments, especially in underserved communities.
The cessation of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds further exacerbates this issue. These funds, which were a critical lifeline for many schools, allowed for the implementation of much-needed SEL programs. Without this financial support, schools are struggling to maintain these vital services. The lack of sustained funding means that many schools cannot afford to continue these programs, which directly impacts the demand for education consulting services that specialize in trauma and resilience SEL.
This funding gap has a profound ripple effect. Education consultants, who bring specialized expertise in trauma-informed practices and resilience-building, face diminished opportunities to partner with schools. This not only affects the consultants’ ability to sustain their businesses but also leaves schools without the expert guidance they need to navigate complex emotional and psychological challenges that students face.
In summary, Corporate America often fails to recognize the integral role of adequate funding for trauma and resilience SEL in public schools. The stopping of ESSER funds underscores the urgent need for consistent and substantial financial support to ensure these programs can thrive. Addressing this misconception is crucial for fostering a more accurate understanding of the education consulting industry’s needs and the significant impact it has on improving educational outcomes.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m delighted to share a bit about myself and my journey into the education consulting industry. My name is Michelle Harris Jefferson ( I go by HJ), and I am the Founder and CEO of WhyWeLEAP Consulting, LLC. My passion lies in fostering resilience and emotional well-being in students through trauma-informed educational practices. My journey into this field began with my background in education, where I saw firsthand the profound impact that unaddressed trauma and lack of social-emotional support can have on students’ learning and overall well-being.
At WhyWeLEAP Consulting, we specialize in providing comprehensive trauma-informed education services. Our offerings include webinars, workshops, trainings, and coaching sessions designed to create and sustain a trauma-informed environment, community, and lifestyle. Some of the key topics we cover are trauma-informed practices, self-care, collective care, equity, building resilience, restorative practices, mindfulness, self-regulation, and mental health management.
What sets us apart from others is our commitment to empowering educators and administrators with the knowledge and skills essential for trauma-informed teaching and resilience building. Our premium offerings, such as the two-part Trauma & Resilience Training, provide in-depth understanding and real-time strategies that can be applied immediately to support both students and staff. Additionally, we offer unique resources like mindfulness cards and custom workshops that cater to the specific needs of our clients.
I am most proud of the positive impact we have made in various educational settings, helping schools and communities become more resilient and trauma-informed. What I want potential clients to know about WhyWeLEAP is that we are dedicated to supporting their journey towards a more inclusive and supportive environment for all learners. Our work is driven by the belief that every individual deserves to thrive, and we provide the tools and guidance needed to make that possible!
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
Several factors have contributed to building my reputation in the education consulting market. First and foremost, authenticity has been a cornerstone of my approach. By staying true to my values and mission, I’ve been able to establish trust and credibility with my clients. People appreciate when someone genuinely cares about their well-being and is committed to making a positive impact. This authenticity resonates with the educators, administrators, and students I work with, fostering strong, lasting relationships.
Word of mouth has also played a significant role in building my reputation. Over the last 15 years as an educator, I’ve dedicated myself to helping families, schools, and communities navigate the complexities of trauma and resilience. The positive experiences and outcomes for those I’ve worked with have naturally led to recommendations and referrals. When people see real, positive changes in their environments and personal well-being, they are more likely to share their experiences with others, which has greatly expanded my reach and influence.
Additionally, my extensive experience in the field has been instrumental. By building relationships with families, schools, and communities over the years, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the unique challenges they face. This long-term commitment and engagement has allowed me to tailor my services to meet their specific needs effectively. It’s not just about providing a service; it’s about being a consistent, reliable partner in their journey towards resilience and well-being. This relationship-building approach has solidified my reputation as a trusted expert in trauma-informed education and resilience training.
In essence, the combination of authenticity, word of mouth, and relationship-building has been key to establishing and maintaining a strong reputation in the education consulting market. These elements, underpinned by over a decade of experience, ensure that my clients receive the support and guidance they need to thrive.
Does your business have multiple or supplementary revenue streams (like a ATM machine at a barbershop, etc)?
Yes, my business has multiple and supplementary revenue streams that contribute to its overall success. Beyond our core consulting services, we have diversified our income sources in several ways.
Firstly, we have brand deals via my YouTube channel, “The HJ Way,” where I share my life, experiences as well as insights and advice on trauma-informed practices in real-time, resilience building, and other educational topics. This platform not only helps in spreading valuable knowledge but also attracts partnerships and sponsorships from brands that align with our mission and vision.
Additionally, we offer a variety of products for sale on our website, www.WhyWeLEAP.com. These include Mindfulness card decks, posters, and printables designed to support educators, students, and families in creating trauma-informed environments. These products provide practical tools that can be used daily to foster emotional well-being and resilience.
Another significant revenue stream is my memoir, “What Doesn’t Kill You: A Memoir,” which is available both on our website and on Amazon. The memoir shares my personal journey and insights into overcoming adversity and building resilience, and it has been a powerful resource for many who are navigating similar challenges.
An additional significant revenue stream is my consulting e-book, “Consulting 101: From Educator to Consultant…The HJ Way, A How-To Guide” available on our website. This e-book serves as a comprehensive guide for educators aspiring to transition into the consulting field. It provides detailed strategies and insights on how to leverage their educational expertise to build a successful consulting business. By offering practical advice and actionable steps, “Consulting 101” empowers educators to navigate the consulting landscape and create impactful, sustainable careers beyond the classroom.
By leveraging these diverse revenue streams, we are able to sustain and expand our impact, providing comprehensive support to our clients and community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.WhyWeLEAP.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whyweleap_chellebelle252/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhyWeLEAP
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-harris-jefferson-whyweleap/
- Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheHJWay