I left nursing for education and leadership, and while earning four degrees as a single working mother, I learned that betting on yourself transforms your life.
Dr. Talisha Yvonne Brown · In Her Own Words
Her Story
About Dr. Talisha
Dr. Talisha Y. Brown is the founder of AcceleratEd, a coaching and professional development company dedicated to helping adult learners, academic coaches, and educational organizations improve student success through accountability, coaching, and practical strategies. Drawing from her own journey as an adult learner, Dr. Brown created AcceleratEd to equip students with the tools, confidence, and support they need to persist, reach mastery, and achieve their educational goals. After spending many years as a licensed practical nurse, inspired by a family of healthcare professionals, Dr. Brown transitioned into higher education after earning degrees in healthcare management and adult learning. She became the first graduate of Degree Forward's competency-based education program, proving that determination, structure, and the right support can transform lives.
Today, Dr. Brown combines her experience in healthcare, education, and leadership to train academic coaches, mentor adult learners, and develop resources that strengthen student persistence and completion. Through AcceleratEd, she offers coaching, workshops, leadership development, and evidence-based strategies that empower both students and the professionals who support them.
In addition to leading AcceleratEd, Dr. Brown serves as the Associate Director of Academic Success at Degree Forward, holds a Michigan Notary Public commission, and is completing an Organizational Leadership certification from South College. She also gives back through community service with Volunteers of America, Forgotten Harvest, and Degree Forward Cares, an initiative she leads to connect students and families with resources beyond the classroom.
Dr. Brown's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose. Her mission is simple: to help others discover that with the right support, accountability, and belief in themselves, they can accelerate their path to success.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Talisha
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and a willingness to keep going even when life gets hard. As a single mom, I've balanced work, raising my children, and earning multiple degrees while continuing to grow professionally. There were many moments when giving up would have been easier, but I stayed focused on my goals. I also believe in lifelong learning and never being afraid to start something new. Every challenge has helped shape me into the woman and leader I am today, and that's something I'm very proud of.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is, "Don't let fear make your decisions." There were times I questioned whether I was qualified enough or ready for the next opportunity, but I learned that growth happens when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone. That advice encouraged me to keep pursuing my education, take on leadership roles, and believe in my abilities even when I didn't have all the answers. It's something I still remind myself of today.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell her to not wait until she feels 100% ready to pursue the next opportunity. Growth happens when you're willing to step outside of your comfort zone. Find mentors who want to see you succeed, ask questions. Never be afraid to advocate for yourself. Keep learning. Remember that all of your experiences, even the difficult ones, can end up being one of your greatest strengths. Don't compare yourself to anyone. Your journey is yours.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I think one of the biggest challenges is that many people don't realize their own potential because they're overwhelmed by life or afraid to take the next step. The opportunity is helping people see what's possible. That's what I've been able to do throughout my career, whether it was caring for patients as a nurse or coaching adult learners to earn their degrees. Watching someone believe in themselves again is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me are integrity, compassion, perseverance, and service. I believe in treating people with respect, keeping my word, and always doing my best, even when no one is watching. Whether I'm at work or at home, I want people to know they can count on me. I also value lifelong learning because I believe there's always room to grow. Most importantly, I believe success means helping others succeed. If I can encourage someone to believe in themselves or reach a goal they didn't think was possible, then I've made a meaningful impact.
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