Reviews

PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS 

"It is a privilege to work alongside Linda Carlson, whose leadership and vision have profoundly transformed our educational organization. Linda is a trailblazer in relational wellness education, creating spaces where students learn not only about boundaries and respect, but about the radical act of putting themselves first. Her work is rooted in deep pedagogical expertise, cultural responsiveness, and a fierce commitment to equity. I've witnessed her engage young people in conversations that are bold, honest, and deeply impactful—often shifting the trajectory of how they understand themselves and their relationships. As a colleague, she is incredibly collaborative, always centering the collective good. Her initiative, firstME, is not just a program—it’s a movement. Linda doesn’t simply teach; she transforms. Working with her has been one of the most inspiring experiences of my professional career."

-Betina Dunson-Johnson, BA in Dance Performance, MA in Organizational Leadership-Corporate Management, Illinois and Ohio Licensed Educator

Educator • Artist • Advocate  • Collaborative Equity Strategist

"I have known Linda Carlson as an educator for over a decade now. She combines those rare qualities of innovation, compassion, and high-level organization that make her an effective communicator and an exceptional leader. After changing the lives of thousands of students by teaching them to advocate for themselves, Linda is now expanding her vision to firstME, a program that empowers even more young people to thrive on their own and with each other. With firstME, I am certain she will continue to do what she has always done -- make the world far better and safer -- one young person at a time."

- Dr. Salamishah Tillet, Co-founder, A Long Walk Home | Activist and Educator 

“Linda Carlson has been instrumental in bringing awareness and education in our community about how to approach and understand consent. Her implementation of the self defense curriculum for all high school students provides solutions for aggressive and unwanted behaviors and how to take action. 

Her leadership and guidance for young women and men gives a framework for positive and healthy relationships and a safe space for anyone who is healing and learning new behaviors. 

You will see that having Linda speak to your students and leading workshops can be the most important first step in building a positive and safe environment for young people in your school, on your team or within your organization.”  

-Courtney Sakellaris, BA in Communication Studies, Minor in Physical Education

National Teaching Faculty, NIAA • Athletic Coach • Founder & Owner, RISE Field Hockey

PARTICIPANT REVIEWS

"I think that Linda connected with her audience really well. I could tell that she was very genuine and I think that made it very easy to connect with her." 

-Workshop Participant, College Sorority Member

"Your presentation stood out from any speaker Alpha Chi has had before...so relatable and real."

-Workshop Participant, College Sorority Member

"I learned that I need to be willing to fight for myself and look at myself just as I look at others.  This discussion was very eye-opening for me."

-Workshop Participant, College Sorority Member

"It got me thinking about my current relationships and what I need from them. I learned that it's up to me to prioritize my own healthy relationships and focus less energy on negative ones!" 

-Workshop Participant, College Sorority Member

"I now have a better understanding of what I am looking for in my relationships and also that I need to reciprocate those traits."

-High School Student, Illinois

"Ms. Carlson gives us real life advice and teaches us to be strong and independent. She teaches us to respect ourselves and have high standards so that we can be respected in our relationships." 

-High School Student, Illinois