Education: Masters Degree in Education, Leadership and Change from Antioch University, Bachelor’s Degree in Social Services Administration from Antioch University, Certified Young Adult Life Coach, and a dual Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and Bilingual/Bicultural Education. Trauma informed care certificate, UC Berkely.

I also hold a seat on the Board of Directors Transition House in Santa Barbara.

Bilingual English/Spanish

Hi, I’m Jessica Yacoub

she/her

I’m glad you’re here.

I created The Decision Bar to build spaces where people can slow down, think clearly, and reconnect with themselves and each other. My work focuses on retreat leadership, strategic facilitation, and leadership education for nonprofits, communities, and young adults navigating important life transitions.

I believe strong communities are built through honest conversations, shared reflection, and the courage to make thoughtful decisions together.

My commitment to this work is personal. I was raised in a large Mexican-American family and am the oldest of twelve siblings. When I lost my mother at fourteen, our family was carried forward by mentors, neighbors, and community members who stepped in with care and guidance. That experience shaped how I see the world and the role community can play in helping people move through difficult seasons.

My career began more than 30 years ago as a preschool teacher and later expanded into family case management, supporting children and families navigating complex challenges. Working closely with families taught me that connection, encouragement, and strong support systems can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.

During the pandemic I saw an increasing need for spaces where people could reconnect, reflect, and find direction. I returned to school and earned a Master of Arts in Education, Leadership and Change, along with certifications in trauma-informed care and life coaching.

Today, through The Decision Bar, I design and lead retreats, facilitate conversations for nonprofits and organizations, and create leadership learning spaces for young adults and the adults who support them. My work focuses on building environments where people feel seen, heard, and capable of moving forward with clarity.

I currently serve as a board member for Transition House in Santa Barbara and as an advisor for Camp Kesem at Cal Poly, organizations dedicated to supporting families and young people.

I’m also a wife of 25 years and the proud mother of two daughters who keep me curious, humble, and occasionally on my toes.

The work I care about most is simple: helping people find connection, courage, and direction so they can build communities where everyone has a place to belong.

Hola! Me llamo Jessica.

Me apasiona crear espacios donde las personas puedan conectarse, reflexionar y crecer juntas. A través de The Decision Bar, facilito retiros, conversaciones comunitarias y programas educativos para organizaciones, jóvenes adultos y familias que buscan mayor claridad, conexión y propósito.

Crecí en una familia mexicano-americana grande, y desde joven aprendí el valor de la comunidad y el apoyo mutuo. Hoy ese aprendizaje guía todo mi trabajo.

Ofrezco sesiones, talleres y programas tanto en inglés como en español para asegurar que las personas se sientan cómodas, incluidas y escuchadas.

Espero poder conocerte y colaborar contigo.¡Espero conocerte pronto y poder colaborar contigo!

About the Decision Bar 

The Decision Bar was created to support people and communities as they navigate important moments of growth, transition, and change.

Through retreat leadership, strategic facilitation, and leadership education, The Decision Bar partners with nonprofits, community organizations, and young adults to create spaces where people can slow down, reflect, and move forward with clarity.

In a time when many people feel isolated and overwhelmed, thoughtful structure and real conversation matter. The Decision Bar designs environments that encourage honest dialogue, shared learning, and meaningful decision-making.

Whether working with nonprofit teams, community groups, parents, or young adults in transition, the goal is the same: to build spaces where people feel supported, connected, and capable of taking their next steps with confidence.