From Public Service to Strategic Consulting: John and Michelle’s WSI Journey

John and Michelle Simmons know what it means to serve with purpose. After decades of working across national security and policy research — roles defined by precision, strategy, and public impact — they’ve chosen to channel that experience into something new: a consulting business built on leadership, insight, and impact.

For John, this next chapter isn’t about stepping away from leadership — it’s about expanding it. After 35 years in federal leadership roles, he recognized that the same discipline, analytical mindset, and results-driven approach that shaped his career could now be used to build something lasting for his family and community.

That search led him and Michelle to WSI — the world’s largest network of digital and AI strategy consultants — built on three decades of digital marketing leadership and powered by proprietary frameworks for business strategy and AI adoption, all backed by a proven franchise model. This model doesn’t resemble a typical franchise — it’s the consulting infrastructure that connects accomplished professionals through shared systems, global credibility, and collaborative growth.

A Career of Federal Service Inspiring a New Path Forward

Decades spent in national security and policy leadership have shaped how John and Michelle think, lead, and create impact. Their experience across federal agencies refined their ability to analyze complex challenges, communicate with clarity, and lead with discipline — strengths that now anchor the consulting business they’re building together.

 “I wanted to take the skills I’ve developed over the years and apply them in a way that allowed us to create something lasting—for our family and our community,” John shares.

For the Simmons family, joining WSI felt like a natural continuation of the work they’ve always done — serving with purpose, solving problems, and guiding others through transformation. With WSI’s structure, mentorship, and global consulting frameworks, they now have the platform to help businesses embrace digital and AI transformation with clarity and confidence.

Why WSI: A Network That Reflects Their Values

When John and Michelle began exploring business ownership, they were looking for more than a proven model — they wanted alignment. They wanted a company that valued strategy, collaboration, and impact as much as they did.

Through every step of the discovery process, they found those values reflected in WSI’s culture. Conversations with the corporate team and existing Consultants revealed a network built on shared knowledge, mutual support, and collective success — qualities that resonated deeply with their own professional philosophy.

“WSI rewards strategic thinking and collaboration,” John explains. “Throughout the process, we saw how Consultants actively support one another and how the Home Office invests in their success. That balance of structure and autonomy was exactly what we were looking for.”

 For John and Michelle, the decision to join WSI wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about joining a community. A community where every Consultant contributes to a shared mission — helping businesses evolve through strategy, technology, and human connection.

With WSI’s frameworks for business strategy, digital transformation, and AI adoption — including tools like the AI Adoption Roadmap and WSI Genius Tools™ — they’re stepping into a future-ready ecosystem built for strategic growth, measurable impact, and long-term value.

Ready to Build What’s Next?

John and Michelle’s story reflects what happens when experience meets opportunity — when decades of leadership and strategic insight evolve into a business built for impact.

If you’re exploring a similar path, WSI offers a model designed for high-caliber professionals who want to leverage their expertise, independence, and drive to create meaningful change for clients and communities alike.

• A Proven Framework for Growth – Built on over 30 years of digital marketing success and now powered by AI innovation, WSI equips you with consulting systems for business strategy, digital transformation, and AI adoption.
• A Global Network of Experts – Collaborate with accomplished consultants who share your mindset and help accelerate your success.
• A Business That Fits Your Vision – Operate with the flexibility to shape your consulting practice around your goals and strengths.
• A Platform for Real Impact – Guide organizations through transformation while building long-term value and relevance for yourself.

If you’re exploring ways to start a digital marketing business of your own, we’d love to talk. Discover how WSI’s three decades of digital marketing expertise and AI-driven innovation can help you build a consulting business designed for long-term relevance and impact.