The ultimate focus is to lead with activated humanizing principles. In so doing, your team members will learn how to serve one another and their customers in more meaningful ways.
You and your team will be more effective with real productivity and growth.
Don't stagnate... thrive when you empower your employees to live more balanced and fulfilling lives for themselves, their families, and their communities.
After extensive personal research and experience in insurance, publishing, and executive marketing, Shannon and her team have developed THE FIRST OF IT'S KIND proprietary software to efficiently recommend affordable solutions that organizations can use starting on day one to build a better organization.
Competitive advantage attracting top talent
Make your organization more appealing to young professionals
Increase in employees' referrals
Enhanced employee loyalty means reduced turnover
Higher customer loyalty, more sales, and sky-rocketing profit
Improved employee morale and job satisfaction
A lower level of stress (cortisol) experienced by employees
New levels of employee productivity and innovation
Prevent the loss of valuable information when long-term employees leave
Mitigate the loss of established business relationships and revenue
Fewer unexcused employee absences, accidents, and other HR problems
SJM Consulting plays a pivotal role in uplifting organizational culture and protecting employee well-being by providing expert insights and tailored strategies that foster a positive work environment. Our external perspective and comprehensive approach assesses current cultural dynamics, identifies areas for improvement enabling leaders to implement effective change and allows for unbiased feedback and fresh ideas and new marketing strategies.
The goal of our consulting turns your company from a recruiting modality to an attraction organization. In other words… We create a thriving culture that aligns with people’s goals and enhances your organization’s overall performance and competitiveness allowing you to grow exponentially.
Our comprehensive approach starts by empowering and training your team members to embrace best-in-class strategies, programs, and processes that cultivate values such as collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.
We do this through the facilitation of workshops, coaching, and certification programs that enhance employee engagement and morale, ultimately driving productivity and retention.
Our Guiding Principle
Whenever we make a decision, we ask, is it practical, is it legal, and is it ethical.
Empathy is what will save the world and Shannon Joy Mekeel wrote the book on it. The profound work and research she has dedicated her life to is summarized in the inspiring organizational leadership manual, entitled, You Have Arrived, A Guidebook to Empathy Where Stories Light the Way.
After eight years in the United States Air Force developing systems that support logistics, efficiency, morale, and welfare, Shannon became a mom. While raising her three sons her education and career traversed publishing, insurance, and marketing roles where she continued to push the envelope on the status quo regarding human-centered leadership.
Shannon founded SJM Consulting Services in 2023 to empower US-based organizations to become more productive than ever before by honoring human-centric business principles and modern business best practices that bring quantifiable improvement. Empathy can be systemized. Let us show you how! She has proven that when employees are more joyful they will also be more productive. Shannon has formed an expert team with the mission of shining the bright pink light of empathy where it is needed most: in America's workplaces. She serves as system developer, facilitator, and a catalyst for organizational change and collaboration.
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A seasoned marketing and communications strategist, Martin thrives on turning ideas into impactful solutions. His forte lies in translating strategic vision into actionable projects. Notably, he orchestrated the communication strategy for the successful implementation of a new Point of Sale (POS) system for Ashley Furniture Retail, streamlining operations and enhancing the customer experience. Martin’s project management excellence was unmistakable when an independent ISO auditor awarded his largest annual Ford Motor Company project a flawless 100% Green rating. His IT marketing expertise propelled a SaaS software startup onto the GSA while earning analyst recognition. Furthermore, Martin’s mastery of online reputation management defied expectations, driving an unprecedented 11,000% surge in sales over three years for a commercial real estate organization.
LauraLynn Jansen, Ph.D., PCC, is an author and innovator in humanizing leadership. LauraLynn’s rich background as a Co-Active coach and leadership facilitator spans nearly twenty-five years. She is a maven who encompasses both introspective and highly interactive delivery styles. At the core of her work is a commitment to the value of dignity, a principle that guided her to her doctoral research exploring how humanization occurs. She received the prestigious Academy of Management’s 2023 Promising Dissertation Award. She is also a Fetzer scholar and a fellow of the International Humanistic Management Association. LauraLynn's beautiful memoir, Inspired to Live, The Story of an Unlikely Rebel is a testimony to conquering insurmountable challenges to dig deeper in Body, Heart, Mind, and Soul.
Darren Fischer
VP, Executive Leadership
Darren is the CEO Emeritus of the proprietary trading firm, Maverick Trading. He was the lead author of the book, Maverick Trading: Professional Techniques to Create Generational Wealth. Prior to his career in the finance industry, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 13 years, both enlisted and commissioned. Darren provides a fresh perspective in business operations, evaluating customer identification, marketing, lead generation, lead conversion, product and service fulfillment, customer support and service, and follow-on/referral sales. His approach, often employee-led, focuses on “What, Why, and How,” identifying key steps in a process, why they are necessary, and how those steps are accomplished. This helps to break the “We’ve always done it this way” culture that leads to poor esprit and high-turnover. His methodology identifies missing key steps, unnecessary activities, and communication gaps, leading to more efficient operations and greater employee satisfaction.
Debra Lee Murrow, a trailblazer born of adversity, found her true calling after an unexpected detour from her original path. She has passionately dedicated the last 20 years to teaching and creating her unique "COLORME" art style. An evangelist for personal growth, Debra firmly believes in awakening the innate artist and stimulating right-sided brain innovation and fun. Inspired by Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain concept. Blending words and phrases into collaborative art pieces, her innovative approach has resonated with diverse audiences spanning corporations, conferences, social gatherings, and spiritual communities. Debra's bold spirit and unwavering commitment to helping others live life to the fullest make her a truly inspiring figure.
Lindsey is a seasoned strategic brand designer and marketing consultant with over 10 years of experience in transforming brands across diverse industries such as hospitality, sports, professional services, retail, and e-commerce. She excels in crafting comprehensive brand strategies that align with a brand's core values and resonate deeply with its target audience. Lindsey's approach involves meticulously analyzing a brand's current state and ideal clientele to develop compelling visual identities and cohesive brand experiences.With a robust portfolio encompassing a wide range of print and digital collateral, Lindsey ensures that every touchpoint reflects the brand's essence while driving results. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Lindsey fosters cohesive teams and cultivates productive partnerships with clients and stakeholders alike. Her commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and embracing innovative technologies underscores her vision for delivering impactful creative solutions.
Carole Hodges, a transformational coach, author, and speaker, brings a wealth of expertise to her personal and group clients. Carole's philosophy is “Life is an adventure!” She helps the client develop clarity in their thoughts, feelings, and communication and to design a life they love by embracing their unique spirit-guided compass. She helps companies improve the bottom line by encouraging honest communication to positively impact the bottom line. In addition to coaching, her background includes expertise in multiple industries: Insurance, Telecommunications, Technology, and Alternative Energy. She was elected Executive VP of the International Multimedia Telecommunications Consortium (IMTC) and recognized by MCI for top videoconferencing sales. Her best-selling book, “The Menopause Millionaire—The Keys to Prosperity and Meaning in the Second Half of Your Life,” is a testament to her transformative approach. Carole joins the team at SJM to lead the Recruiter to Chief People Officer training and orientation which is the primary goal for each organization that we serve.
Rebecca Pazik is a seasoned HR professional with over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, workforce planning, and cultural exchange. As an Account Manager, she connects U.S. companies with international workers, fostering global partnerships and promoting workplace diversity. Previously, Rebecca led strategic HR initiatives for a hospitality management company, driving an inclusive culture focused on accountability and professional development. During a high-growth period, she and her team successfully hired over 900 employees and staffed six new hotel openings within six months. Recognized with accolades such as Leader of the Year and the Lighthouse Award, Rebecca is known for building high-performing teams and cultivating strong, supportive relationships. She holds dual master’s degrees in Business Administration and Leadership from Grand Canyon University, along with certifications in Talent Acquisition and Career Coaching.
Nancy H. Wall’s professional journey is a testament to her exceptional expertise in learning and development, as well as her commitment to driving impactful change within organizations. With an impressive tenure at IBM, Nancy led high-performing teams and spearheaded global learning initiatives that revolutionized how employees approached continuous development. As a Senior Global Learning Strategist, she played a pivotal role in aligning IBM’s cultural values with its operational strategies, resulting in improved organizational effectiveness and boosted employee engagement. Her ability to unite diverse teams, deliver cutting-edge training solutions, and optimize operational efficiency made her an invaluable asset in the company’s global mission.
Mark Cosby
DE&I Consultant
Mark is a dynamic speaker, facilitator, and trainer with a passion for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and beyond. Drawing from his 15-year career in the U.S. Navy, Mark brings a unique perspective to his work, blending military discipline with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life. As a veteran with a disability, Mark is a powerful advocate for creating inclusive environments that support and empower individuals from all backgrounds. His firsthand experience navigating the complexities of military service and civilian reintegration informs his approach to DEI initiatives, with a particular focus on veteran inclusion and disability awareness. Mark's engaging speaking style and practical training methods have made him a sought-after voice in the DEI space. He is committed to working with organizations to create cultures of belonging where every individual, regardless of their background or abilities, can thrive and contribute to their full potential.
Felicia Pecora
Safety, Crisis, & Resilience Expert
Felicia Pecora is a veteran twice over; in the military and as a cop. She is an expert in violence prevention and crisis management and has spent the last 30 years managing crises. As an Army combat veteran and a 23-year law enforcement officer, she champions a comprehensive perspective on genuine safety. Her experience in battle, on the street, and in the boardroom gives her a distinctly unique perspective. Her keen insights have proven instrumental in salvaging startups, rescuing careers, and even saving lives, making her an indispensable force in the pursuit of security and success. Felicia has also been recognized as an expert by the National Association of Community College Entrepreneurship. She is an award-winning speaker and infuses each event with a blend of energy and enthusiasm, making the journey through crises both enlightening and enjoyable. Learn more about our partnership with The Doer's Academy.
Linda Tilson
Accounting Strategy Expert
Linda Tilson is a seasoned finance professional and transformational leader with 28 years of experience driving operational excellence in state government. Her expertise encompasses fiscal oversight, compliance, strategic project execution, and organizational change management. Linda is known for cultivating high-performing, healthy teams and her commitment to operational efficiency and effective communication. As an integrator and innovator, she excels in navigating multidisciplinary teams to address complex challenges and mitigate risks. As a strong advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, Linda ensures these values are central to her leadership approach. Linda's career as a team leader and consultant reflects a deep dedication to empowering individuals and fostering inclusive environments where individuals succeed at all levels.
Paula Naeff
Mental Performance Coach
Paula is a Mental Performance Coach for high-performing and highly ambitious athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. She helps athletes and performers in all stages of their careers master their mindset, build resilience, and rise from being great to extraordinary on and off the field. Her personal life journey and background in classical ballet, pilates, and professional coaching, flow into a masterful mixture that allows her clients to unfold their mental and physical power, tap into their innate wisdom, and truly believe in themselves to reach their goals. Paula’s career ranges from selling ice axes to performing a solo clown project, being a credit manager, and inspiring teams and individuals to perform more sustainably in corporate settings. She is a mother of two, a survivor of depression, proud of her Finnish roots, yet a true citizen of the world. Paula loves dancing, making herself and others laugh, skiing, being silly, and listening.
Where is your joy derived? Michelle Spexarth is a certified life coach who helps her clients gain clarity, build confidence, and find genuine connections with themselves and others. She has home-schooled her five children for 17 years and helps her clients find sovereignty over themselves. Michelle published Small Shifts: Shifts to Create a More Satisfied Life in 2023. Her goal is always to enable her clients to take care of themselves no matter what the challenge! Her transformative Victim to Victor Workshop helps clients gain clarity, develop confidence, and build genuine connections for meaningful support. Michelle specializes in helping people get out of the brain fog and confusion created by trauma, narcissistic abuse, and extreme stress. As Employee Communication Liaison during the culture improvement process, Michelle also offers one-on-one coaching for employees who struggle with anxiety and trusting their supervisor and/or human resources.
Eryn Anitavi is an autistic and creative visionary with a passion for strategy. Her brilliant executive team services corporate America through intentional support and integrating new assistants and chiefs of staff. She coined the phrase, regarding direct hire matching, "Your anomaly is our normal."
As an integral partner of SJM Consulting Services, Eryn is our Executive Strategist providing targeted executive support as a managed service in a fractional/temporary modality or as a full-time direct hire. Her propriety data collection intake matrix creates a more proactive and less reactive organization, sparking growth through appropriate support and happier employees.
Kris Soderberg
Men's Executive Coach
Kris Soderberg is a "Dadpreneur Coach" on a mission to help visionary men cultivate confidence, build new success habits, and optimize and monetize their network to recharge energy and focus on what really matters.
With over 25 years of experience, Kris’ focused and empathetic one-on-one coaching empowers men to become better leaders, fathers, and partners. As part of the SJM Consulting Services team, Kris is here to support you on your journey to personal and professional growth. Kris’ expertise will help you achieve your dreams and create a more fulfilling life for you and your family.
As a trainer and coach, I support intercultural team leaders and members in dealing with individual and cultural differences. I am also a PhD researcher on international humanistic management, focusing specifically on the promotion of human dignity in intercultural teams. Working across cultural borders makes work fun, exciting and challenging, but sometimes difficult, energy-consuming, and frustrating. I help people to deal with these differences, to recognize them, acknowledge them, and positively use them. Topics of expertise: team dynamics, individual and cultural differences, communication, decision-making, cooperation, building trust, motivation, power and leadership, social perception, social identity, prejudice, biases, stereotyping, cross-cultural learning, organizational culture, creativity and innovation, international humanistic management.
FAIRNESS: We believe that everyone matters and deserves a voice at the table.
OPPORTUNITY: We employ qualified women and men who are passionate about rebooting the modern workplace.
INTEGRITY: We say what we will do, and we do what we say. We also do what’s right, even when no one is looking.
EFFICIENCY: We find the issues, offer solutions, and help organizations meet their goals… and we do it effectively and sustainably.
PROFITABLE: We are a results-driven company and we prove our worth through the changes we make that will improve the organization