We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Michelle Hays a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

Although I started my career as a graphic designer and multimedia producer, the arrival of my differently-abled daughter launched me into the world of special education. Working with children like my own fueled my life with an intense sense of purpose and destiny.

When the 2020 COVID lockdown forced creative remote learning solutions, it became my opportunity to merge my passions in education and multimedia seamlessly. Despite the screen barrier, I connected with students. Their daily engagement with my digital resources and videos fueled my excitement. I continue to share my passion for early learning through my YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/@heymrshays), using visual design to promote language, social-emotional, and school readiness skills.

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.

For a decade, I thrived in multimedia, working as a writer, producer, director, and editor for local television and radio programs. However, my daughter Katy’s arrival brought a new focus to my life. Born with an undetected disorder, she became severely disabled. Determined to give her the best possible outcome, I embarked on a new journey – special education.

Katy became my first student as I poured myself into early childhood education. I delved into language, physical, and social-emotional interventions through books, training seminars, and collaboration with specialists.

The 2020 lockdown forced remote learning, presenting a unique opportunity to merge my passions. I created a YouTube channel for my students, and it became a hit! Families tuned in, educators shared my lessons, and I received recognition from the school district.

Even with the return to in-person learning, my passion for early childhood education continues on YouTube (Youtube.com/@heymrshays. There, I create engaging lessons for toddlers and preschoolers, incorporating targeted language development activities, social-emotional learning strategies, and fun physical movement breaks to keep young minds and bodies active.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I grew up in Mexico in the 80s, Life took a challenging turn at 14 when I had to leave school and work to help support my family. While formal education was put on hold, I gained invaluable resilience, work ethic, and social-emotional maturity. Eventually, my family moved to the United States, where I was met with opportunity.

At 18, with only a 7th-grade education, I discovered a wealth of resources. Earning my GED rekindled my childhood dreams – I could finally pursue higher learning! Fueled by my creative spirit, I chose a degree in Television & Radio with a minor in Art Design. My dedication caught the eye of my professors, who hired me as University Theater’s lead publicist (UTRGV). There, I spearheaded the transition to digital media platforms while honing my skills in writing press releases, advertising, and graphic design.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Fear of judgment often keeps us isolated, hindering both personal and professional growth. As I’ve embraced vulnerability by sharing my journey and work, I’ve discovered a beautiful truth: most people are kind and supportive. They seek connection, offer help, and share similar aspirations. We are far more alike than different.

This shift in perspective has empowered me to network with like-minded individuals and seek guidance from mentors. Collaboration isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about fostering a supportive community where everyone can thrive. There is room in the playground for all of us to play!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.heymrshays.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hey_mrs_hays/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553685773563
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haysmichelle/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@heymrshays
• Other: The Journey: A podcast for special Needs Parents
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-journey-from-special-needs-to-extraordinary-outcomes/id1525101114Family and Marriage Advice with Isaac and Michelle Hays
  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-little-family/id1637786092