Jessica entered the speaking world through her groundbreaking work in generational diversity and inclusion. She has studied how to bridge gaps across generations for nearly 20 years- first as a passion and now as a professional speaker serving more than 200 clients in 35 states and delivering more than 500 keynotes and training events.
Jessica’s primary research findings have been spotlighted in trade publications serving business, education and human-resources professionals, including SHRM, Ragan/PR Daily and The Chronicle of Higher Education. In partnership with a client, her experiential training using an escape room in a box was honored as one of top 120 trainings in the world by Training Magazine.
She took her speaking business to another level in 2020, expanding her focus in response to societal needs to help connect people across any difference that threatens to erode team unity and productivity. Already her work has been recognized on a national scale.
Jessica developed and taught an Inclusive Leadership Program for BOMA Georgia that received The American Society of Association Executive’s highest honor- the Summit Award- for making invaluable contributions to America and the World.
Jessica is passionate about helping all people feel understood, included, and valued. She knows how differences can help, not hinder, your business. She helps you leverage the qualities that make each member of your team unique into an action plan to make your team more successful. And she does it all by creating a safe environment for learning, tackling the topic with heart, humor, creativity and fun!
Jessica’s understanding of the challenges and opportunities of leading across differences is born of experience. Her passion for bridging gaps was ignited by her leadership roles in talent development, human resources and corporate communications for Alpha Natural Resources — then a Fortune 500 company — where she developed the company’s first corporate university. Her skills as a communicator led to her serving as a nationally syndicated news reporter and producer for a Focus on the Family radio show heard by more than 2 million listeners each week.
Jessica graduated with degrees in English and Communication from King University, where she captained the volleyball team as an academic all-American – and was honored among professional and Olympic athletes. She is also a graduate of Leadership Tennessee Class V.
Most importantly, Jessica is a wife and mom. Her family — Justin, Lincoln, Shepard, June and their dog, Bella — is her chief passion and priority. The Holders live outside Nashville, Tenn., and are dedicated to a life of intention and adventure!