Build Your Journey

🟩 Welcome to Make It Plain

Human Resource Management

Empower your people by connecting your talent strategy with their skills and interests. Our HR Management services help you strengthen your PEOPLE systems, accelerate PROCESS implementation and support CULTURE transformation to exceed your organizational goals.

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🟩 Welcome to Make It Plain

Workforce Training

Learning drives performance, engagement, and morale. Our workforce training incorporates both modern and next generation learning and development solutions to transform workforce mindset, performance behavior, and the workplace environment.

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🟩 Welcome to Make It Plain

Executive Coaching

Everyone is a leader! Executive coaching is a personalized, insightful, and forward-thinking process that inspires you to explore your growth potential. Rather you’re a seasoned executive, a new manager, or someone who seeks personal and professional excellence, coaching is for you.

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🟩 Welcome to Make It Plain

Economic Inclusion

Our economic inclusion strategies connect construction and development companies with qualified and capable women-owned, minority and disadvantaged businesses. Creating opportunities for businesses, hiring diverse skilled labor, and investing in community partnerships makes our businesses, workforce and communities stronger.

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Service

HR Consulting

Outplacement Services
Inclusion Strategy
Employee Retention
Culture Assessments
Succession Planning
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Service

Workforce Training

Emotional Intelligence
Professional Development
Cultural Competence
Generational Inclusion
Workforce Development
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Service

Perfomance Coaching

Executive Coaching
Perfomance Coaching
Career Coaching
Life Coaching
Coaching Across Cultures
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Service

Economic Inclusion

Policy Development and Review
Monitoring
Contract Compliance
Stakeholder Outreach
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Our Story

Uncovering Inherent Strengths for Sustained Growth

Founded in 1996, Make It Plain Consulting is a Business Management Firm specializing in Human Resource Consulting, Workforce Training, Performance Coaching, and Economic Inclusion. We develop practical solutions to complex challenges faced by our clients and their employees. Through the lens of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Excellence (DEIBE), we listen to our clients, develop strategies, and implement solutions that deliver results.

Our Mission

Our mission is to Uncover Inherent Strengths for Sustained Growth by utilizing industry expertise and best practices. We connect passion to purpose and purpose to performance. We believe that leadership is the ability to see an opportunity before it presents itself, defining the best path toward success and investing in the people that will grow and follow you to the end. It’s the Make It Plain way.

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🟩 A Selection of Our Leaders

Branches of Leadership

Our team is passionate about making a positive impact in all that we do. We deliver enduring results that are true to each client’s specific situation. Our approach is NOT to make it difficult or to make it worse, but to MAKE IT PLAIN.

Real Stories from Real Customers

Tommie led a workshop for our Trustees that had a profound impact on their work. His style and content were spot on.

Bob

President of Baldwin Wallace University

Working with Make It Plain Consulting has been enlightening and rewarding. Make It Plain was able to help us identify our gaps in our diversity and inclusion initiatives. Because of Make It Plain, we can confidently say we are walking the talk!

Kristee

Director of Government Agency for Disabilities

Our Leadership Team is working with Tommie Lewis of Make It Plain Consulting to support our efforts to expand our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion commitment and make it an integral part of our Strategic Plan. Each member of our Leadership Team is beginning their DEI Journey at a different starting point and Tommie has encouraged a robust discussion amongst our team members.

Kurt

Chief Executive Office of Freestore Foodbank

Mr. Tommie Lewis is one of the most exciting and dynamic presenters that I know. Make It Plain Consulting is a quality organization that is driven by intellectual astuteness, passion, and a spirit toward understanding and managing inclusive excellence. The level of detail provided by Mr. Lewis in the areas of diversity, interculturalism, emotional intelligence, and community building is truly outstanding.

Paul

President of Lighthouse Strategy Consulting

I have had the opportunity to work with Tommie Lewis and Make It Plain Consulting for quite some time. I’ve worked with them as a school principal and as a district superintendent. I was even more impressed with Tommie once I had the opportunity to see him lead and interact with our staff members. I absolutely love his approach. He is very patient and goes about teaching in a way that makes everyone in the room feel safe about asking questions or sharing an opinion. I give Tommie Lewis and Make It Plain Consulting my highest recommendation.

Billy

Superintendent of Fairfield City School District

Tommie and his staff have provided Burke with excellent work. I enjoy the fact that Tommie has been there as a Consultant for the “work” before, during, and after the “work” was completed. He will spend time with you thinking through the issue, in order to provide the correct solution. That is what true partners do.

Damon

VP, Community and Culture of Burke, Inc.

Make It Plain has been extremely vital and important in the development of our staff. They have personalized their trainings to specifically meet the needs of our management and administrative staff.

Joe

Chief Executive Officer of Kelly Youth Services

After interviewing several consulting firms, our DEIA committee unanimously chose to work with Make It Plain. It was a perfect choice for the Friends of Music Hall. Tommie Lewis prepared and administered several surveys to our board to help define our DEIA path. His list of recommendations is exactly what we need to propel our journey.

Mindy

Executive Director of Friends of Music Hall

I consider Make It Plain Consulting a valued and appreciated partner. The MIPC team is able to understand an organization’s diverse challenges and culture, and is able to deliver exceptional services and resources resulting in a winning solution.

Mark

VP Human Resources of Spring Grove Cemetery and Funeral Homes

Make It Plain Consulting was easy to work with! We did a DEI&B assessment and then training for Staff, Board and Volunteers. I very much appreciated Tommie Lewis’ style, sharing of personal stories and experiences, and gentle way of making his point – without shaming or embarrassing anyone. He also provided helpful guidance on goals and measures as well as next steps/activities for our DEI&B work.

Amy

Chief Executive Officer of Crayons to Computers

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Our Clients

Corporate Clients

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Government Clients

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Educational Clients

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NONPROFIT & CIVIC CLIENTS

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Contact Us

Any question or remarks? Just reach out us.

Contact Information

Reach out to us!

513-421-2300

info@mipcllc.com

1212 Sycamore Street Suite 21 Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

    What are you interested in?

    Build Your Journey

    Tommie Lewis

    President and CEO

    Tommie is an accomplished human resource consultant, inclusion strategist, executive coach, and training facilitator offering 30 years of extensive experience conducting climate assessments, workforce training, and culture transformation strategies for government, corporate, academic, civic and nonprofit organizations. Tommie has guided organizations along their journey to equitable, diverse and inclusive cultures. As the co-host of the national podcast show, “Diversity Conversations”, Tommie discusses practical, research-based and results-driven solutions to complex individual, business and social issues.

    Tommie holds degrees and certifications in Africana Studies from Tennessee State University, Egyptology and Deep Thought from the University of Chicago, International & Cross-Cultural Management from the University of Houston, Emotional Intelligence and Diversity from the UCLA Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Institute, Coaching Across Cultures Executive Coaching from the Advanced International Executive Coaching Seminar in Rome, Italy, and the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI).

    Nicole Keith, M.S

    Executive Administrator & Project Manager

    Nicole is committed to achieving superior results for individuals working towards enhanced opportunities. Bringing over 25 years of expertise in professional office environments, Nicole possesses extensive experience in financial and project management. Nicole exhibits a track record of excellence in demanding, high-volume environments, showcasing her adept management of client relations and contract administration.

    Nicole is a certified trainer in Emotional Intelligence and Diversity from the University of California, Los Angeles. Nicole holds a BA in Social Science Studies and an MS in Justice Studies from Southern New Hampshire University.

    Chahnna Johnson (CJ), M.S.

    Human Resources, Leadership & Diversity

    CJ is an accomplished assessment and data analyst specializing in organizational development, strategic planning, and workforce training. With a BA in Business Administration in Marketing & Human Resources from The Ohio State University and an M.S. in Sociology from The University of Cincinnati, she serves as an Adjunct Professor of Sociology, focusing on Race and Socioeconomics.

    With over 10 years of corporate experience, Chahnna is a Director of Human Resources, adept in conflict resolution, program evaluation, continuous quality improvement, and strategic decision-making. Her expertise extends to climate assessments, survey analysis, and training staff on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Ms. Johnson is recognized for her qualitative and quantitative research skills, making her a valuable asset in observing and analyzing social behavior across different corporate levels.

    Jeff Schlaeger, M.Ed., E.D.

    Leadership, Coaching & Diversity

    Jeff is a practicing school psychologist, personal coach, and cultural diversity professional. This 30-year veteran behavioral scientist has direct experience in facilitating diversity conversations, mediations, interventions, leadership development and community meetings. Jeff is experienced in the evaluation process for special education, as well as solution-focused problem-solving and counseling. He is the crisis team leader for the largest high school in Ohio.

    Jeff holds a BA in Psychology, M.Ed. in Human Resource Development, M.Ed. in Guidance Counseling and E.Ds. in School Psychology.

    James Mary, M.S.

    Leadership, Coaching & Diversity

    James offers 35 years of experience facilitating community dialogues, diversity forums, and staff retreats for various industries. James provides expertise in employee development, cross-cultural communications, conflict resolution and emotional intelligence. He is a trainer with niches in Crucial Conversations and Leadership Development.

    James holds degrees in Psychology from the University of Georgia and a Master’s in HR Development from Xavier University. James is an energetic and engaging teacher/coach who guides leaders and teams through complex business issues, with straightforward practical solutions, while maintaining a focus on people. And woven through all these topics is the JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) work that he has been a part of for the past 15 years.

    Brittany Mention, Ed.D.

    Education Strategy, Training & Diversity

    Brittany is an experienced educator, consultant, and facilitator, with over 13 years of experience in education. Through experience, she understands that there are many disparities in education and society, giving her the desire to change the narrative and become a game changer. Dr. Mention’s work in diversity, equity, and inclusion sets the stage for building strong relationships and creating comfortable spaces for uncomfortable topics. Her broad range of experiences provides Dr. Mention with a tremendous balance of theory and practice. She was named Faculty of the Year in 2021.

    Dr. Mention holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Cincinnati, a Master of Education from Xavier University, and a Doctor of Education from the University of Findlay.

    Kathy Grant, M.Ed.

    Human Resources, Coaching & Leadership

    Kathy is a skilled interviewer, career services professional coach, and organizational strategies expert. More than three decades of experience in higher education, legal and public/retail industry sectors and association management. She is a strategic and innovative professional, effective in career and professional development coaching.

    Kathy has held positions in leadership, career service and recruiting including Program Manager Professional Development and Community Engagement at Mount St. Joseph University, Coop Coordinator and Adjunct Instructor at Cincinnati State, Strengths Finder Coach, and career coach.

    Ernie Hayes, SPHR

    Human Resources, Leadership & Culture

    Ernie is a strategic leader in the areas of employee relations, organizational development, leadership coaching, diversity, equity, and inclusion management, and talent management functions including experience with employee retention programs, benefits strategy, talent and performance management programs, and labor unions.

    He holds a Bachelors of Arts in Organizational Communications from Xavier University, a certification designation of SPHR from the Human Resources Certification Institute, and designated certification of SHRM-SCP from Society of Human Resources Management. Ernie is an innovative and generalist of human resources functions including succession planning, organizational development, payroll, benefits, worker compensation, and transitions.

    Penny Monday, M.S.

    Human Development, Mental Health & Counseling

    Penny, is a proven, dynamic professional with the compassionate skill of empowering everyone she serves. Penny has a project management background spanning diverse industries: healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and retail. Penny’s experience includes positions in Diversity and Inclusion, Community Relations, and Human Resources. Penny is exceptional in personal engagement, utilizing her innovative problem-solving and interpersonal relationship skills.

    She holds a Master’s in Business Management (MBM) from Indiana Wesleyan University, and a Master of Education (M.Ed.), majoring in Counseling and Human Development (CHD) with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, from Lindsey Wilson College. Penny holds an Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Certification from the Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Institute (UCLA) and a certificate in Social Services from Indiana Wesleyan University.

    Jeanne Brauns, MBA, SPHR

    Human Resources, Leadership & Culture

    Jeanne is human resource professional and culture specialist with more than 30 years of experience. She has served as a Human Resource Director as well as Director of Diversity & Inclusion with responsibility for Human Resources & Diversity Strategy, Supplier Diversity, Employee Resource Groups and Community Affairs.

    Jeanne holds a Master of Business Administration from the Indiana University- South Bend, Indiana and a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Marketing from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. She is a recipient of the Woman of Excellence - 2022 from The West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance. Jeanne serves on various community and foundation boards in the Northern Cincinnati area.

    Nichole Sims, B.B.A.

    Recruiting Strategist, Leadership & Culture

    Nichole is a 25-year workforce management and recruiting expert. With two industry Exceptional Achievement Awards, she excels in full-cycle recruitment, sourcing, and talent management. She has significant experience in competency modeling, talent forecasting, and relationship management. As a senior-level professional, Nichole employs a creative strategy for recruitment, which resulted in 51% female and 48% minority hires in a male-dominated field.

    Nichole's diverse expertise includes leadership development training, executive coaching, and 7 years as an Adjunct Professor teaching Career Success Strategies and Business Professionalism and Character.

    Maronica Williams, AIRS, DDI

    Human Resources, Recruiting Specialist & Diversity

    Maronica Williams offers more than 20 years of Human Resource experience with major corporations, specializing in Talent Acquisitions specializing in Diversity recruitment. Maronica has extensive experience working with large-scale employee relations, talent acquisition, strategic planning, project management, behavioral interviewing, employee selection, program management & development, process improvement, stakeholder negotiations, conflict resolution, university relationship management, event planning and diversity recruitment.

    Maronica is a graduate of Kentucky State University, where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a concentration in Marketing. A graduate of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program. Maronica holds certifications is AIRS Diversity Sourcing & Recruiting Certified and Certified DDI Targeted Selection Facilitator and is a Member of Society of Human Resources (SHRM) Association.

    Marsha Watts, M.S.

    Leadership, Coaching & Workforce Development

    Marsha is a veteran training professional with a solid record of achievement at the senior level with a commitment to preparing all for the expectations and rigors of the career search process. She is trained and qualified to administer Myers-Briggs Type Indicator and Strong Vocational Interest Inventory. Marsha has counseled and consulted with more than 300+ middle-level and senior-level executives; crafted the delivery of Career Transition Workshops including entrepreneurship and retirement options; and coached 60 Academic and Administrative Department Heads on the procedures of hiring and supervising.

    Marsha holds a Bachelor’s of Arts and Sciences in Psychology and Sociology from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Xavier University.

    Margie Anderson

    Certified Business Partner

    Margie is President of Anderson Business & Consulting Resources. LLC., a certified WBE, MBE, DBE, WOSB, and ACC business located in Cincinnati, Ohio. She is an experienced leader in public service administration, workforce management, and business development.

    Margie works collaboratively with partners to reach their organizational goal, gain a return on investment, and accomplish the mission. Expertise and services include administrative task support, assessment support, program support, leadership coaching, and youth program training and development for workforce viability and sustainability. Anderson Business & Consulting Resources, LLC. is committed to assisting organizations with initiatives, strategies, and programs to strengthen its most valued asset - the workforce.

    Anita Bothwell

    Strategic Accounts, Culture & Diversity

    Anita offers extensive experience with claim procedures, collection techniques and customer query resolution in several industries such as medical billing, estate/home foreclosure, foster care and social services. Anita's expertise includes the development and implementation of policy and training which focus on metrics which make a great impact on liquidity of the company. In addition to the work she does as an account specialist, she also has experience with cultural competency and diversity training, team building and conflict resolution.

    She is most passionate about promoting empowerment and encouraging sustainable ideas through critical thinking and innovation and highly prioritizes financial sustainability and producing favorable returns on investment and maximizing long-term organizational strength.

    Crystal Kendrick, M.S.

    Certified Business Partner

    Crystal is President and CEO of The Voice of Your Customer (MBE, DBE, SBE-certified firm). She offers over 25 years of marketing experience targeting diverse populations. She has conducted over 75 organizational and customer (employee and client) assessment surveys for federal, state and local government agencies.

    She holds a BBA in Marketing from Temple University and an MBA in Business Administration from Northern Kentucky University. Ms. Kendrick completed Minority Business Executive Training Programs at Dartmouth College, Babson College, and the University of Wisconsin. Crystal often serves as a subject matter expert. She presents marketing, research and social media strategies to students and business owners at local community colleges, chambers of commerce, small business support centers and training facilities.

    Eric Ellis, M.S.

    Certified Business Partner

    Eric Ellis is President and CEO of Integrity Development Corporation, an award-winning entrepreneur, thought leader, author, and keynote speaker with over thirty-five years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Named one of the Top 100 DEI Experts in the World by the Society for Human Resources Management and “Cincinnati’s Diversity Fixer” by The Cincinnati Enquirer, Eric is an innovative leader who helps transform organizational cultures into people-centered workplaces that inspire employee engagement and a sense of belonging. Eric is the author of Diversity Conversations and co-host of the “Diversity Conversations” podcast.

    Ihsan Walker, J.D.

    Diversity Education, Workforce Development & Culture

    Ihsan is an accomplished professional, blends managerial prowess in youth workforce development and local government with a diverse skill set in education, DEI, and law, encompassing legal research, writing, immigration, bankruptcy, and corporate litigation.

    A Xavier University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a major in Spanish Literature, Language, and Culture, Ihsan earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Dayton School of Law.

    Kelly Hayden, M.A., LPC

    Licensed Counselor, Health Wellness & Culture

    Kelly is an expert in strategizing, developing, and implementing DEI initiatives throughout organizations for lasting and sustainable change. She is focused on empowering others through self-awareness, knowledge, actionable items that lead to creating systemically equitable organizations. Kelly develops unique strategies that can be implemented into an organization’s existing culture and structure to make gradual and sustainable change.

    Kelly’s expertise includes social and emotional learning, human development and behavior, diversity and cultural competency training, anti-bias training, leadership development, employee engagement, team building, and empathic listening. Kelly is married with three children and enjoys running, reading, and traveling.

    Elliott Blodgett, B.S., CPCC

    Leadership, Culture & Coach

    Elliott is an expert leadership development consultant, coach, and facilitator. He holds Bachelor Degree in Liberal Arts from Xavier University, a Professional Certified Coaching Certificate from the International Coaching Federation as well as a CPCC from the Coactive Coaching Institute. He is a PROSCI Certified Change Practitioner and certified DiSC Instructor.

    He has worked across industries at the C-suite level and helped countless teams take time to reflect and shift their goals, priorities and opinions, which has led to their greater success.