Founder and CEO

April Simpkins brings over 30 years of leadership and expertise as a trusted HR professional, guiding small and mid-sized businesses toward success. With a career that spans consulting for over 1,000 businesses across 15 industries, April has become a sought-after voice in her field. Her ability to connect with audiences has taken her to Ivy League universities and prominent business conferences around the globe. April shares her knowledge on her podcast "As I Was Saying With April Simpkins". Recognized for her contributions, 

 

Beyond her HR work, April is deeply committed to mental health advocacy. She serves as an Ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), a board member for NAMI Piedmont Tri-County, and a proud partner of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Certified in Mental Health First Aid, Emotional CPR, and QPR Suicide Prevention, April works tirelessly to break the stigma surrounding mental health. Her advocacy was honored in 2024 with Johns Hopkins Medicine’s Distinguished Service Award for her impactful contributions.

 

April’s heart and purpose shine through in her New York Times bestselling book, By The Time You Read This – The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile And Mental Illness, which she co-authored with her beloved daughter Cheslie Kryst.

 

When she’s not working, April nurtures her creative and active spirit as an award-winning classically trained pianist, athlete, wife, mother, and entrepreneur. Her life’s work is a testament to her passion for helping others thrive in their careers, in their mental wellness, and in their personal lives.