OUR STORY
Believe & Be Brave began with a personal journey of empowerment and self-discovery. As a mom, Stacey Montgomery saw her son struggle in school with bullying, lack of social connections, and generally feeling unwelcome. As a result, his self-esteem plummeted. The support his schools offered, while well-intentioned, was ineffective.
Determined to support him and help parents and educators support their students, under her original brand, Stacey M Design, Stacey created her first guided journal in 2017. She inspired kids to believe in their strengths and take brave steps toward their goals. Over time, her vision expanded into workshops and a collection of guided journals, helping students embrace their uniqueness and grow through reflection.
In 2025, Stacey separated her self-esteem work into this new brand, Believe & Be Brave. Today, Believe & Be Brave provides tools and encouragement to help students build self-esteem, develop life skills, and achieve their dreams.
STACEY MONTGOMERY
FOUNDER, AUTHOR, WORKSHOP TEACHER
Stacey Montgomery is an author, special education assistant, and social emotional learning innovator from Aurora, Illinois. A graduate of Columbia University, Stacey authored a series of guided journals that help students believe in themselves so that they will take brave steps toward their goals and make a positive impact on the community. Some of the titles include What’s Your Super Power?, What Makes You A Leader?, How’s Your Summer Gonna Rock?, and Why Is Different Awesome?. Stacey also teaches self-esteem workshops at schools and for youth groups.
Principals, teachers, and parents have praised her guided journals and programs for their unique approach and positive impact on the self-esteem of students. The joy on the faces of students when they come to the realization that they are awesome just the way they are is what motivates her.
When not writing or teaching, you can find Stacey spending time with her son (Isaiah) and husband (Harold), walking, reading, or cooking.
ISAIAH MONTGOMERY
INSPIRATION, BLOG CONTRIBUTOR
Isaiah Montgomery is a college student at Millikin University with a passion for personal growth, advocacy, and creativity. As a neurodivergent individual, Isaiah has embraced the challenges of navigating academic and social environments, developing strategies to build confidence and achieve his goals. His journey of self-discovery and empowerment has inspired him to share his experiences through the Believe and Be Brave blog. Isaiah's thoughtful reflections on topics like self-advocacy, bravery, and personal wins provide readers with relatable and actionable insights.
In his free time, Isaiah enjoys art, exploring new ideas, and contributing to meaningful conversations about resilience and growth.
