Dr. Shan Jackson

Motivational Speaker | Author | Health Coach

Certified Holistic and Wellness Specialist | Health Educator

“Stop being a Patient, and Start being a Person”

Flint, Michigan – Dr. Shan Jackson is a Certified Nutrition Specialist with extensive experience, based in Flint, Michigan. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University, where her research focused on the impact of nutrition on criminal behavior, particularly among youth and adults within the Criminal Justice System.

She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Ferris State University, complemented by multiple certifications in mental health and nutrition. Dr. Jackson previously served as a Community Nutrition Educator at Michigan State University and has led several health and wellness initiatives. Her notable work includes collaborating with institutions such as the Michigan Department of Corrections, Berston Field House, SBEV, EPA, and the Genesee County Jail, where she introduced a health and wellness program for inmates as part of the I.G.N.I.T.E. program.

Additionally, she serves on the Michigan Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health. Dr. Jackson’s professional contributions have earned her numerous recognitions, including the prestigious Lincoln Award, the Golden Apple Award, and the CRIM Winner of the Active and Healthy Leader award in 2020. Further amplifying her global influence, Dr. Jackson now has a week celebrated in the Caribbean, called “Healthy Just Feels Right” observed every May as part of National Child Month.

She is also the author of Rainbow Power, her debut children’s book released in April 2023, followed by eight more books focusing on health, wellness, and longevity. Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Jackson devotes her time to refining her culinary skills, specializing in healthy diets, and engaging in motivational speaking through her business, Healthy Just Feels Right.

Now fully dedicated to her own business and expanding her global speaking engagements, Dr. Jackson continues to inspire and empower individuals to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

We recently had the opportunity to connect with the Doctor Shan Jackson, here’s a quick 1 on 1 check-in about her journey.

SM- Hi Dr. Jackson, what advice can you give people on the importance of change and growth?

Change is not only okay—it’s essential for growth. Embracing change allows us to evolve into the best versions of ourselves. Surround yourself with positive people who see your potential and help you stay motivated. Keep those close who know how to reignite your passion when you need it most. And most importantly, never lose sight of your dreams. Stay focused, keep pushing forward, and trust that every step you take brings you closer to the life you’re meant to live.

SM- Tell us about more about your company beliefs and vision?
At Healthy Just Feels Right, we’re dedicated to the belief that true wealth comes from good health. My focus is on helping individuals understand the direct connection between what they eat and how they feel—mentally, emotionally, and physically. I’m a globally certified holistic health coach with a passion for addressing not just surface-level symptoms but also the underlying causes of health challenges, particularly those tied to nutrition and mental well-being. Currently, I’m promoting a variety of services designed to empower clients to take control of their health. From personalized meal plans and detox programs to youth and adult classes that focus on sustainable wellness habits, my goal is to offer practical tools that lead to long-term success. Additionally, I’ve authored nine books aimed at promoting longevity and wellness, and I frequently engage in public speaking to spread awareness about the importance of nourishing both body and mind. Health isn’t about one aspect of life—it’s about creating a balance that leads to overall fulfillment, and that’s the message I’m sharing through everything I do.

SM- What are some key things you learned along the way when you were building your company?
When I first started building Healthy Just Feels Right, I quickly learned that being coachable was essential. Even as a health coach, it’s important to stay open to learning from others, whether it’s from my peers, my clients, or even life’s unexpected lessons. It reminds me of the early days when I had to step back, listen carefully, and adjust my approach. Being a great listener allows me to truly understand the unique needs of each person I work with, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all solution. Delegation is another value that took some time for me to embrace. As much as I love being hands-on with every aspect of my business, I realized that to grow and maintain balance, I needed to trust my team and allow them to take ownership of certain tasks. It’s like planting a garden—you can’t nurture every single plant by yourself; you need help to make the whole garden flourish. And lastly, I’ve learned that everyone’s opinion matters, even if it doesn’t always align with my vision. There will always be people who don’t see things the way you do, and that’s okay. What matters is staying true to your mission, while remaining open to feedback. These values have not only shaped my business but have also allowed it to grow in ways I never imagined.

SM- Who was a part of this project that contributed to its success?
Absolutely. The success of Healthy Just Feels Right wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of my Jamaican team. Their dedication, hard work, and belief in my vision helped bring so many elements of this project to life. Whether it was behind-the-scenes operations, creative input, or simply being there every step of the way, they played an integral role in helping my business flourish. My family and close friends have also been a huge source of strength and motivation. Their unwavering belief in me pushed me through some of the most challenging moments. Their encouragement and support reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place—to inspire others to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Together, my team, my family, and close friends have been the backbone of this journey, and I’m beyond grateful for their contributions to making this dream a reality.

SM- What is the key motivational factor for what you do?
My motivation stems from my community in Flint, where I see so much resilience, perseverance, and a deep desire for positive change. The people here inspire me every day with their willingness to embrace new, healthier lifestyles. My family also plays a huge role in keeping me driven—they remind me of the importance of returning to our roots, growing our own food, and making mindful, nourishing choices. What truly motivates me is witnessing people heal, whether it’s from chronic illness or emotional struggles, and seeing them open their hearts and minds to new, nutrient-rich foods. Every small victory, whether it’s someone trying a new vegetable or feeling the benefits of a balanced lifestyle, keeps me passionate about continuing this work. The ripple effect of health and wellness is powerful, and I’m excited to be part of that transformation.

SM- What are some other things people can expect from you in the near future?
I’m excited to expand my reach and make an impact in other countries, spreading the message of holistic health and wellness to diverse communities. Im also writing more books, particularly focused on our youth, to help inspire healthier habits from a young age. Another major goal is to continue my work in jail and prison facilities, providing education and support to individuals who often lack access to health resources. In the long term, I hope to open my own “Healthy Just Feels Right” building, creating a dedicated space for people to come together, learn, and transform their lives through health and wellness. This is just the beginning, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the journey unfolds.

SM- What were some hurdles you overcame and what did it teach you?
The biggest hurdles I’ve had to face were overcoming self-doubt and the fear of failure. There were moments when I questioned whether I was truly capable of making the impact I envisioned. Losing my mentor, Mr. Bryant BB Nolden, who was a constant source of guidance and support, was another significant challenge. His absence left a deep void, and navigating that loss was incredibly difficult. Additionally, after surviving COVID-19, I battled with survival guilt, which added another layer of emotional weight to my journey. But these challenges strengthened my resolve. They taught me resilience and reinforced my commitment to helping others heal—physically and mentally. Through it all, I’ve learned that fear can either paralyze us or fuel us, and I chose to let it fuel my mission.