Moving Upstream: Helping people and systems thrive
Innovative strategies for environmental, behavioral and systems change."We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them."
- Albert Einstein

Seeing Possibilties
Reframing problems so people can recognize new paths forward.

Balancing Needs
Looking at people, places, and policies together to understand what’s actually shaping outcomes.

Creating Movement
Helping individuals and teams turn insight into action.
Divergent ideas for convergent solutions
Many challenges don’t move forward because people are focused on problems they can’t control.Our work helps individuals and organizations shift perspective, identify leverage points, and take action where real change is possible.
How we work
Most work starts by listening and understanding the people, challenges, and environment involved. From there, the process often includes:1 Clarifying the real problem
2 Identifying strengths, resources, and people already making a difference
3 Finding where change is possible
4 Looking at the situation from a new perspective
5 Supporting actions that help create progress
Who this helps
This work is often most valuable for:
Organizational leaders navigating complex change
Teams experiencing burnout or stagnation
Community or cross-sector collaborations
Organizations seeking new approaches to workforce development
Organizations, agencies and governments seeking to lower costs, improve outcomes and increase return on investment
People who know something needs to shift but aren’t sure where to start
Services we offer
Always emphasizing convergence on divergent ideas.

Behavior coaching
Individual or group coaching designed to help people move from awareness to action.
Focus areas include:
Navigating leadership challenges
Shifting unproductive patterns
Aligning behavior with purpose
Providing clarity in complex situations

Workplace wellbeing
Helping create cultures where people can do meaningful work without burning out.
Focus areas include:
Emotional intelligence & empathy skills training
Embodied intelligence and stress awareness
Leadership development
Reconnecting people to purpose in their work

Systems change
Working at the intersection of people, policy, and environment to unlock new possibilities.
Examples include:
Strategic innovation within organizations
Workforce development challenges
Improving collaboration across teams and sectors
Aligning built environments with human needs
Our clients have only a few words to say...
"A Force"
"Brilliant"
"A Powerhouse"
"Strategic"
"A Connector"
Who we are
Divergent Ideas, led by Michelle Jenck, M. Ed., Health & Kinesiology, and a Master's Certificate in Behavioral Economics, Business Psychology, works at the intersection of leadership, well-being, and systems thinking.Our work centers on helping people see what’s possible when they step outside familiar patterns and focus on what they can actually influence.Divergent Ideas is designed for situations where systems feel stuck because those are often the places where small shifts in perspective can unlock meaningful change.


If you’re navigating a challenge that feels stuck, let’s talk. Sometimes the most valuable first step is simply a conversation that helps clarify what’s really happening — and where movement might begin.
Innovative strategies for environmental, behavioral and systems change."Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at change."
- Dr. Wayne Dyer
Let's talk about making changes
Privacy Policy
Effective Date: May 23, 2026This Privacy Policy describes how Divergent Ideas (“Divergent Ideas,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) collects, uses, stores, and protects information obtained through the website and related services.By using this website or engaging with our Services, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.1. Information We CollectWe may collect information you voluntarily provide, including:Name
Email address
Phone number
Organization or business information
Project details or inquiry information
Files, documents, or materials you submit
Communications you send to usWe may also automatically collect limited technical information, including:IP address
Browser type
Device information
Operating system
Referring pages
Usage and interaction data
Cookies and analytics information2. How We Use InformationWe use collected information to:Respond to inquiries and requests
Deliver consulting and creative services
Communicate regarding projects or services
Improve website functionality and user experience
Analyze website performance and engagement
Send updates, newsletters, or marketing communications when permitted
Maintain security and prevent misuse
Comply with legal obligationsWe do not sell personal information to third parties.3. Cookies and AnalyticsThis website may use cookies, analytics tools, and similar technologies to understand website traffic and improve user experience.These tools may collect:Pages visited
Time spent on the website
Navigation behavior
Device and browser informationUsers can typically control cookies through browser settings.Third-party analytics providers may include services such as:Google Analytics
Website hosting or performance monitoring providers
Embedded scheduling or form tools4. Email CommunicationsIf you contact us or subscribe to communications, we may send:Project-related communications
Administrative notices
Updates regarding services
Marketing or informational contentYou may unsubscribe from marketing communications at any time using unsubscribe links or by contacting us directly.5. Sharing of InformationWe may share information with trusted service providers who help operate the website or support services, including:Hosting providers
Email and communication platforms
Scheduling tools
Payment processors
Contractors or collaborators working directly on client projectsThese providers may only access information reasonably necessary to perform their services.We may also disclose information:When required by law
To protect rights or safety
To respond to legal requests or investigations
In connection with a business transfer, merger, or restructuring6. Data SecurityWe take reasonable administrative and technical measures to protect information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.However, no method of electronic storage or transmission is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.Users share information at their own risk.7. Data RetentionWe retain information only as long as reasonably necessary to:Provide Services
Maintain business records
Resolve disputes
Comply with legal obligations
Enforce agreementsClient project materials may be retained for operational, archival, legal, or portfolio purposes unless otherwise agreed in writing.8. Client ConfidentialityDivergent Ideas respects the confidentiality of client information and internal organizational discussions shared during consulting engagements.Unless otherwise agreed:Sensitive materials are treated with discretion
Information is not publicly disclosed without permission
Portfolio references or testimonials are only used with consent or when information is already publicFor highly sensitive projects, clients may request separate nondisclosure agreements (NDAs).9. Third-Party Websites and ServicesThis website may contain links to external websites or third-party services.We are not responsible for:Third-party privacy practices
External content
Policies of linked servicesUsers should review the privacy policies of any third-party websites they access.10. Your Rights and ChoicesDepending on your location and applicable laws, you may have rights to:Request access to personal information
Request correction of inaccurate information
Request deletion of information
Withdraw consent to communications
Request limitation of certain processing activitiesTo make a privacy-related request, contact us using the information below.11. Children's PrivacyThis website and Services are not intended for children under 13 years old.We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.If we become aware that information from a child has been collected, we will take reasonable steps to delete it.12. International UsersIf you access the website from outside the United States, you understand that your information may be transferred to and processed in the United States.By using the Services, you consent to this transfer.13. Changes to This Privacy PolicyWe may update this Privacy Policy periodically.Updated versions become effective upon posting to the website with a revised effective date.Continued use of the website after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.14. Contact InformationQuestions regarding this Privacy Policy may be directed to:Divergent Ideas
Tillamook, Oregon
Email: [email protected]
Website: divergentideas.org
Terms of Service
Effective Date: May 23, 2026Welcome to Divergent Ideas. These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of the Divergent Ideas website, services, content, communications, consulting engagements, and related offerings (collectively, the “Services”).By accessing or using the Services, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, do not use the Services.1. About Divergent IdeasDivergent Ideas is a consulting and creative strategy business focused on organizational transformation, behavior change, communication strategy, leadership alignment, workplace well-being, brand development, and related advisory services.The Services may include:Consulting engagements
Workshops and facilitation
Coaching services
Creative and strategic deliverables
Digital resources and content
Website communications and contact forms2. EligibilityYou must be at least 18 years old to use this website or engage Services unless expressly authorized by a parent, guardian, organization, or educational institution.By using the Services, you represent that:You have the legal authority to enter into these Terms
Any information you provide is accurate and truthful
You will not use the Services for unlawful purposes3. No Professional, Medical, or Legal AdviceDivergent Ideas provides consulting, coaching, educational, communication, and strategic services only.Nothing on this website or within any engagement constitutes:Medical advice
Mental health treatment
Psychological counseling
Legal advice
Financial advice
Licensed clinical servicesClients and users remain solely responsible for decisions, actions, implementation, and outcomes resulting from use of the Services.If you require medical, psychological, legal, or financial guidance, you should consult a qualified licensed professional.4. Client Engagements and Scope of WorkConsulting engagements may be governed by separate written agreements, proposals, statements of work, invoices, or project scopes. In the event of conflict between these Terms and a signed client agreement, the signed agreement controls.Project timelines, deliverables, pricing, and revision limits may vary by engagement.Unless otherwise stated in writing:Estimates are non-binding projections
Timelines may shift based on feedback delays, scope changes, or external dependencies
Additional work outside agreed scope may require additional fees
Divergent Ideas reserves the right to decline projects that conflict with its values, ethics, capacity, or expertise5. Intellectual PropertyAll website content, branding, copy, graphics, frameworks, methodologies, documents, presentations, designs, and materials created by Divergent Ideas are protected by intellectual property laws unless otherwise stated.You may not:Reproduce or redistribute materials without permission
Modify or commercially exploit content without authorization
Claim ownership of Divergent Ideas intellectual propertyUpon full payment for client work, clients generally receive usage rights for finalized approved deliverables specifically created for them, unless otherwise defined in writing.Divergent Ideas retains ownership of:Preliminary concepts
Strategic methodologies
Internal frameworks
Proprietary processes
Reusable systems, templates, and tools6. User SubmissionsIf you submit information, feedback, documents, testimonials, comments, or materials through the website or during engagements, you grant Divergent Ideas a non-exclusive right to use that content for operational, project, and communication purposes unless otherwise agreed in writing.You represent that:You own or have permission to share submitted materials
Submitted materials do not infringe third-party rights
Submitted materials are not unlawful, abusive, or deceptive7. ConfidentialityDivergent Ideas respects confidential business information shared during consulting engagements and will make reasonable efforts to protect sensitive information.However:Electronic communication is never fully secure
Confidentiality obligations may require separate written agreements
Publicly shared or previously known information is not considered confidentialClients are responsible for determining whether formal nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) are necessary.8. Payments and RefundsPayment terms may be outlined in proposals, invoices, or contracts.Unless otherwise stated:Payments are due according to invoice terms
Deposits may be non-refundable
Work may pause for overdue balances
Completed strategy, consulting, and creative work is generally non-refundableRefund requests are reviewed case-by-case at the sole discretion of Divergent Ideas.9. Website Use RestrictionsYou agree not to:Attempt unauthorized access to systems or data
Disrupt website functionality
Use the website for spam, fraud, or malicious activity
Scrape or harvest content without permission
Misrepresent your identity or affiliationDivergent Ideas reserves the right to restrict or terminate access for misuse.10. Third-Party Services and LinksThe website may reference or link to third-party services, platforms, or organizations. Divergent Ideas is not responsible for:Third-party content
External websites
Third-party policies or practices
Damages arising from third-party servicesUse of third-party services is at your own risk.11. Disclaimer of WarrantiesThe Services are provided “as is” and “as available” without warranties of any kind, express or implied.Divergent Ideas does not guarantee:Specific business outcomes
Revenue growth
Organizational transformation results
Behavioral outcomes
Uninterrupted website availability
Error-free contentOutcomes depend on many factors outside the control of Divergent Ideas, including implementation, leadership, culture, timing, and external conditions.12. Limitation of LiabilityTo the maximum extent permitted by law, Divergent Ideas shall not be liable for:Indirect damages
Consequential damages
Lost profits
Business interruption
Reputational harm
Data loss
Decisions made based on Services or contentTotal liability for any claim arising from the Services shall not exceed the amount paid by the client for the applicable Services during the preceding six months.13. IndemnificationYou agree to indemnify and hold harmless Divergent Ideas and its owners, contractors, affiliates, and representatives from claims, liabilities, damages, and expenses arising from:Your misuse of the Services
Your violation of these Terms
Your infringement of third-party rights
Your implementation or use of consulting recommendations14. PrivacyYour use of the website is also governed by the Divergent Ideas Privacy Policy.15. ModificationsDivergent Ideas may update these Terms at any time. Updated Terms become effective upon posting to the website.Continued use of the Services after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.16. Governing LawThese Terms shall be governed by and interpreted under the laws of the State of Oregon, without regard to conflict of law principles.Any disputes arising under these Terms shall be resolved in the appropriate courts located in Oregon.17. Contact InformationFor questions regarding these Terms, contact:Divergent Ideas
Tillamook, Oregon
Email: [email protected]
Website: divergentideas.org
Selected Projects & Experience
Divergent Ideas specializes in helping organizations, coalitions, and communities tackle complex challenges by creating shared understanding, aligning stakeholders, and designing practical solutions that lead to meaningful change. Our work spans healthcare, public health, housing, workforce development, early childhood, community engagement, built environment and systems transformation.Community Health
One of our most significant areas of experience is community health improvement. Through leadership and support of Tillamook County Wellness, a countywide health coalition, we have helped convene healthcare providers, public agencies, schools, businesses, and community organizations around shared priorities related to housing, childcare, access to care, and healthy behaviors. This work has included strategic planning, coalition facilitation, community health needs assessments, implementation planning, and cross-sector partnership development.Chronic Disease Prevention
We have also supported the design and implementation of Connect Well, a community-clinical referral and navigation initiative that connects individuals with prediabetes to evidence-based programs, health resources, and Community Health Worker support. This work has involved workflow design, referral systems, provider engagement, program evaluation, and exploration of sustainable reimbursement models that strengthen long-term program viability.Housing
In the housing sector, our experience includes service on the Tillamook County Housing Commission, where we contributed to policy development, public education, housing needs assessment activities, and strategies to address workforce housing shortages. This work required balancing diverse stakeholder perspectives while identifying practical approaches to improve housing availability and affordability.Built Environment & Economic Development
Divergent Ideas has also supported community infrastructure and economic development initiatives. Through original envisioning of the Salmonberry Trail and current stakeholder engagement efforts, we have helped advance planning around community walkability, trails, recreation, transportation, economic opportunity, tourism, environmental stewardship, and community benefit. This work involves policy analysis, public communication, strategic planning, advocacy and collaborative problem solving among partners with differing priorities.Workplace Well-Being
Additional experience includes workplace well-being initiatives, health and fitness education, behavioral economics applications, organizational culture development, leadership coaching, purpose, empathy and emotional intelligence training. We led a successful Blue Zones worksite transformation project which resulted in measurable improvements, including engagement of nearly 50% of the workforce, reduced turnover, and improved employee well-being satisfaction scores.The PQ Initiative: Early Childhood Development
The PQ Initiative represents our commitment to helping communities move further upstream. Rather than focusing exclusively on the treatment of problems after they emerge, PQ explores the developmental foundations that shape learning, behavior, health, resilience, and human potential from the earliest stages of life. By increasing awareness of how movement, relationships, and environment influence development, communities can make more informed decisions about policies, programs, and systems that support lifelong flourishing.There is no silver bullet, rather silver buckshot. Complex challenges require myriad interventions, simultaneously. Across all projects, our approach remains consistent: identify the underlying factors driving outcomes, build shared understanding among stakeholders, and develop practical solutions that create lasting impact. We help people move beyond symptoms and assumptions to uncover actionable opportunities, creating the conditions for meaningful progress and sustainable change.

