In a world where legislative processes often seem distant and inaccessible, Jessica Desiree Gould is working tirelessly to bridge the gap between policymakers and one of the country’s most underserved populations: people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). As the founder and operator of J Gould Consulting, she has crafted a niche for herself in legislative consulting, helping organizations understand and engage with the legislative process, so they can advocate for meaningful change.
Though she officially launched her consulting firm in 2019, Gould’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. Like many entrepreneurs, her path was shaped by a combination of insight, experience, and a deep commitment to a cause she believed was underrepresented in public policy—an understanding that legislative advocacy for the disability community needed a more intentional, collaborative approach. Her company’s mission is simple but impactful: to help organizations representing individuals with IDD engage with the legislative process effectively and advocate for systemic change.
“We’re not just consultants—we’re facilitators. We bring people together to amplify their impact,” says Jessica Desiree Gould, Founder and Operator of J Gould Consulting.
The Birth of J Gould Consulting
“Two years before we officially opened, I started laying the groundwork,” Gould recalls. “I knew that to really impact change, I needed to partner with key state and federal agencies. These partnerships have been invaluable.” Through collaborations with organizations like the State Council on Developmental Disabilities and the Lanterman Housing Alliance, Gould’s team has built a reputation for connecting key stakeholders within the disability advocacy space with lawmakers. It’s an ecosystem of cooperation that allows Gould Consulting to train groups in advocacy, equip them with knowledge, and empower them to push for policy reforms.
It was an organization’s request for training on legislative engagement that sparked the idea for her business. What started as a consultancy for one group quickly expanded into a full-fledged consulting agency with national reach. While Gould operates from Southern California, her impact has resonated across the United States, working with organizations from coast to coast.
“We pride ourselves on being the ultimate connector,” Gould says. “We bring together state, federal, and advocacy groups to address issues surrounding disabilities. By understanding where the needs are, we can help guide these organizations through the legislative process and make a real difference.”
Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
Despite the success Gould has experienced, the journey to establishing herself in a traditionally male-dominated space has not been without its challenges. While Gould acknowledges that the consulting industry has seen growing female participation, she recognizes that women—especially women of color—still face an uphill battle when it comes to being seen as equals in the industry. “The challenge, especially early on, was learning how to frame my work and approach. It’s not about gender, identity, or race; it’s about the expertise you bring to the table,” Gould says. “That understanding has been critical in how I navigate my role. We deal with issues that affect everyone—regardless of gender, race, or social status.”
Fortunately, Gould was able to build a network of supportive mentors, including Sabrina Kinckle, the co-owner of Kelbree Consulting, who became a guiding light in her early days. “Sabrina unknowingly became my mentor,” Gould shares. “I came to her looking for guidance on how to turn my vision into a business. Her mindfulness, logic, and clarity provided me with a blueprint for success. Even now, our relationship has grown into a partnership that continues to shape how we approach our work.”
Innovative Strategies and Successes
Gould’s approach to consulting is rooted in education, collaboration, and partnership. While many consultants rely solely on their expertise, Gould emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships with stakeholders in both the public and private sectors. “In consulting, it’s not enough to simply advise,” Gould says. “You need to understand the broader context in which you’re working and collaborate with others who have the same goal in mind. That’s where the real impact happens.”
This collaborative mindset has allowed J Gould Consulting to help clients navigate the complexities of public policy and advocacy. One of the firm’s most significant achievements was helping two different industries successfully pass bills through the legislative process, which were signed into law by the governor of California. While the victories were important, Gould notes that the real reward was the empowerment of her clients—giving them the tools to advocate for themselves and make change in their communities. “It’s not just about getting a bill signed. It’s about creating an environment where people can advocate for their needs, understand the legislative process, and have a voice in the decisions that affect them,” Gould says. “That’s the real impact of our work.”
"Consulting isn’t just about giving advice. It’s about leaving a positive impact and helping clients navigate challenges so they can thrive."
Balancing Act: Work, Life, and Well-Being
Like many entrepreneurs, Gould must juggle the demands of running a business while also maintaining her personal well-being. Given the fast-paced nature of consulting, it’s easy to burn out, but Gould has learned the importance of setting boundaries and making time for self-care. “We work long hours, sometimes up to 10 PM or beyond, but I’ve learned to be firm about my business hours. It’s critical to carve out time for myself, for my team, and for breaks,” she says. “You have to prioritize your mental and physical health in this industry. Otherwise, the work will consume you.” Gould also believes that taking time for reflection has allowed her to maintain focus and perspective. It’s a practice she encourages for both herself and her clients. “Consulting can be intense, but I believe that if you’re doing the work right, you should be satisfied with the guidance you’ve given,” she adds.
Expanding the Vision
Looking to the future, Gould is optimistic about the continued growth of her consulting firm. While J Gould Consulting has already established a strong foundation in California, she hopes to expand into at least 15 states over the next five to ten years. Her goal is to give the disability community a more powerful voice in public policy, not just in California but nationwide.
“I’m not just thinking about the next bill or the next client,” Gould says. “I’m thinking about the long-term impact. How do we help organizations across the country advocate for their communities? How do we leave behind a legacy that’s about making the world better, not just making a profit?” Clearly for Gould, success is measured not just in financial terms but in the lasting influence her consulting agency can have on the public policy landscape for people with disabilities. She hopes that her legacy will be one that transcends business success and focuses on providing valuable knowledge and empowering others.
A Legacy of Empowerment
“I want to be remembered for how we impacted lives, not just how much money we made,” Gould says. “Consulting isn’t just about giving advice. It’s about leaving a positive impact and helping clients navigate challenges so they can thrive.”
As Gould looks ahead, she remains committed to her mission: empowering organizations to navigate the complexities of legislative advocacy and supporting an underserved population that deserves a stronger voice in the decisions that shape their lives. With a clear vision and a dedication to making a difference, it’s clear that Gould’s influence in the consulting world is just beginning to grow.
