Who We Are

Gayla is a 24-year military veteran, dedicated spouse, and committed community member passionate about service, education, and leadership. With 12 years of experience as an educator and a strong background in analysis, she brings a strategic and analytical approach to problem-solving, decision-making, and mentorship.

In past roles as an Instructor and Director of Instruction at the Command and General Staff College, Gayla was instrumental in delivering the Intermediate Level Education (ILE) curriculum, shaping military leaders with critical thinking, strategic planning, and leadership skills. She has served as a High School homeschool instructor and holds an Adjunct Faculty position for Developmental Writing. Gayla currently serves as a Production Director for a select team of niche artists, leading creative projects, fostering team cohesion, building trust, and ensuring high-quality execution.

Gayla holds a Bachelor of Arts in Literature, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and a Master of Arts in Leadership in Teaching, combining expertise in human behavior, critical analysis, and educational leadership. She is RBLP-T certified, demonstrating a commitment to resilience-building leadership and the development of high-performing teams.

  Dr. Jake Ferry, PsyD, is a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran with a wealth of leadership experience in both the private and public sector. His civilian experience includes an extensive background in consulting, program management, operations management, and process improvement having served government, commercial, and non-profit clients. His educational background includes a Doctoral degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology, a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management. He is also an Authorized Training Partner for RBLP Leadership Certifications.

A lifelong learner with a passion for self-improvement, Jake is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their full potential and thrive in their lives and careers. With a strong interest in psychology and personal development, he believes that success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter, building the right mindset, and developing the skills needed to grow professionally and personally.

  James is a six-year U.S. Army veteran, retired 20-year law enforcement supervisor, public speaker, instructor, suicide prevention and wellness advocate, and mentor & coach for transitioning veterans, first responders, and their family members. James holds a Master of Science degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. He is alumni of California State University and Moorpark Community College. 

Throughout his career, James worked patrol, investigations as a gang detective and a violent crimes/homicide detective, and major fraud unit supervisor. He was a SWAT Crisis Negotiator, arrest & control, firearms, and active shooter response instructor. Additionally, he is a part-time adjunct instructor in the Criminal Justice Program at Ventura Community College. 

With a diverse and well-rounded background, James is dedicated to empowering others to achieve success through mentoring, public speaking, and nonprofit leadership. He is also committed to philanthropic efforts and giving back to the community. James serves in several key nonprofit board positions and continues to make a lasting impact through his leadership, advocacy, and commitment to helping others. He is deeply passionate about supporting the groups he serves and helping them thrive in their personal and professional lives.

But wait, there's more! 

In retirement, James now is the CEO of American Freedom Consulting LLC. At AFC LLC he holds several professional certifications: a Private Investigator Qualified Managers license in California, he is licensed to sell life insurance in California and Florida, Resilience Building Leadership Professional Trainer & Authorized Training Partner, Certified Project Director through the Center for Project Innovation, and certified Trauma Resilience Coach through Tactical Resiliency USA. 

He also finalizing publication of The Veteran Mentor Project Veteran Education and Training for Success (V.E.T.S.) Mentoring Program workbook, going into publication soon in memory of his late brother, a retired Army Officer, who died by suicide in 2018. For fun, James sells honey and is creating an Apiary for his "No Humans Involved" (NHI) hobby business "Ricochet Hunnay".