About Shelby and Belinda

Shelby Smith-Wilson and Belinda Jackson Farrier bring decades of experience operating in complex, high-stakes environments where sound judgment and rapid decision-making are essential. Between them, they have served in senior diplomatic and crisis response roles across the U.S. government, including the White House Situation Room, the State Department Operations Center, and overseas diplomatic missions navigating global emergencies and rapidly evolving security environments. Through Grounded and Global, they translate these real-world lessons into practical training and advisory support for organizations seeking to strengthen their international crisis preparedness, helping leadership teams develop clear decision frameworks, strengthen communication during emergencies, and better prepare faculty, staff, and globally mobile communities to operate effectively in uncertain environments. Their work focuses on helping organizations reduce risk, respond with confidence, and build resilient global programs in an increasingly unpredictable world.