About Me

I help professionals and organizations expand their impact through human-centred communication and leadership.

As an award-winning writer, educator, and researcher with a background in the arts and the health sciences — and a PhD from the University of Toronto — I’ve spent more than two decades helping people reframe complex ideas, shift narratives, and connect more meaningfully with others.

I’m deeply interested in how ideas shape our lives, and how we can communicate them in ways that feel grounded, ethical, and human.

My Approach

Whether I’m coaching a leader through a major project, facilitating a team conversation, or consulting on communication strategy, my aim is always the same:

To help people articulate their value and vision in ways that are authentic, accessible, and impactful.
I believe:

I draw on research-based frameworks I’ve developed to bring structure to complexity while keeping humanity at the centre.

This is the heart of my work.

How I Think About Leadership & Communication

I know that the reason we do our work is to make a difference. We’re building a world where everyone can thrive. 

Sharing your work isn’t just about visibility, it’s about moving creative and positive change forward. For us, leadership is about sharing vision, building trust, and connecting with others through authentic, thoughtful communication based on sound information.

My Experience

Over the years, I’ve worked across healthcare, education, arts & culture, and government — often bridging worlds that don’t typically speak to each other.

My work has included:

  • Supporting purpose-driven professionals and organizations to communicate clearly and confidently, leading to new funding, project breakthroughs, and stronger partnerships 
  • Guiding research and policy work addressing issues such as dementia stigma, equity in education, and social health
  • Producing events, films, and plays that shift public conversations on health and social issues
  • Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to transform complex or technical research into stories that resonate with the people who need it

I’m most at home in the space where ideas meet people — and where communication can open possibilities.

Trusted By

What It’s Like to Work With Me

My clients often tell me:

You helped me understand what I was really trying to say.

This process has been an absolute pleasure.  I was feeling uncertain but you made it really fun.

I couldn’t have done it without you and it feels so great to have you in my corner.

When we work together, you can expect:

  • A collaborative partner
  • Someone who asks thoughtful questions
  • A space that feels calm, curious, and grounded
  • A commitment to accuracy, clarity, and care
  • An approach rooted in sound ethics and genuine communication

You know your work inside out. My work is helping the right people understand it.

What This Means for You

If you work with complex ideas, research, or specialised knowledge, you don’t need to be an expert in explaining it — that’s where I come in.

I help you:

  • Clarify your message
  • Translate technical information so it resonates with the right audiences
  • Build trust with the people who need your work
  • Develop confidence in sharing your ideas
  • Move from “I don’t know how to say this” to “This finally feels right”

If you want your work to land with clarity and impact — I’d love to help.

Fun Facts

I live in Toronto with my partner and our two hilarious and creative teenagers.

When I’m not writing or teaching, you’ll probably find me reading, in a hammock listening to a podcast, or wandering in nature. Also, milk chocolate over dark, continental knitting over English, and stick-shift over automatic (although an EV might turn me). 

If you think we might be a good fit, visit my Services page → to see how I can help.

Let’s Stay Connected

Fair Play is my newsletter on creative, ethical, and humanity-centred communication.

You’ll also get The Writing Roadmap, a simple guide to help you clarify your process.

Ready to Begin?

I’d love to learn more about your work and explore how I can help.

Let’s Connect

If you’re interested in working together — or simply want to explore what might be possible — I’d love to hear from you.

Please complete the form below, and I’ll respond within 2–3 business days.

Alternatively, you can email me directly at:
julia@thejuliagray.ca