Subject Matter Experts
Peopling’s experts are educators, psychologists, coaches, and thought leaders who bring deep experience—and deeper humanity—to their work. Each contributes original content, insight, and guidance to shape the learning experiences we offer.
While their areas of expertise range from neurodiversity and parenting to language, leadership, and wellbeing, they share a common ethos: a belief in possibility over pathology, relationships over transactions, and learning that honors the whole person.
Together, they help Peopling stay grounded in research, alive to human complexity, and committed to making growth feel both personal and possible.
Mike Haykin, Haykin Consulting
For over 45 years, Mike Haykin has helped children, adolescents, and young adults uncover their talents and find their unique path in life. As he puts it, “You do something long enough, you learn something—and you get a couple things right.”
Mike has designed and led programs in schools and healthcare settings that strengthen learning, mental health, and family relationships. He began his career with Project HELDS, a national grant supporting college students with learning disabilities, and went on to teach special education, transforming a self-contained behavior program into a successful inclusion model. He later established counseling services in six public elementary schools and study skills programs in middle schools.
For 23 years, Mike served at Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences (SAAS), where he developed the Learning Support Program, led the Counseling Department, and served as Assistant Head of School. He has also provided assessment and consultation in hospitals, coauthored several books—including Leadership in Behavior Support and Meaningful Work—and advised numerous boards and organizations, from children’s hospitals to community nonprofits like Sharing the Stage.
Mike holds a Master’s in Counseling from the University of Washington, a degree in Special Education from Central Washington University, and administrative certification from Gonzaga University.
When he’s not helping families, you’ll find him outdoors—on the water, camera in hand, or exploring history and culture somewhere between Taiwan, Alaska, and Central America. His favorite new role? Grandpa.
Tabitha Ellison & Joanna Brodziak
Shifted Perspectives
ShiftEd Perspectives is dedicated to removing barriers and creating truly inclusive, strength-based environments for individuals, families, schools, and organizations. Our team—led by educators passionate about neurodiversity-affirming design—partners with others to re-imagine any setting so that belonging, joy, and success are at the center of everyday experience.
Meet the founders:
Tabitha began with traditional compliance-based educational methods, but experienced a transformative shift when she embraced neuroscience and neurodiversity. With an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and a seat on the executive board of Neural Education, she focuses on autonomy, self‐efficacy, and inclusive supports tailored to individual needs.
Joanna brings extensive experience in education and disability advocacy across schools, nonprofits, and home-based services. A seasoned Inclusive Education Specialist, she centers the perspectives of those most marginalized and collaborates with teams to create accessible, co-designed environments.
With curiosity, collaboration, and a shift in mindset, ShiftEd Perspectives helps schools, families, and systems transform so that every person—not just the system—can thrive.