The International Association of Women (IAW) proudly recognizes IAW Influencer Member Jessica Lyonford, Happiness Consultant and Founder of Project More Happy, as she celebrates a major career milestone—the launch of her debut book, The Happy Leader Playbook: A Science-Backed Guide to Supercharging Energy and Impact.
Jessica’s journey into the field of happiness wasn’t planned—it was personal. After building a successful career in advertising, she found herself disconnected and unfulfilled, despite checking every conventional box of success. Her pursuit of joy and purpose led her into the science of happiness, human flourishing, and eventually to the creation of Project More Happy—a consultancy and coaching practice dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive.
“What began as a personal journey back to joy evolved into a professional mission to change the way we lead,” said Jessica Lyonford. “Happiness isn’t just a personal pursuit. It’s a powerful catalyst for better leadership, stronger communities, and healthier workplaces.
”Through Project More Happy, Jessica leads keynotes, workshops, and coaching programs that apply research-backed strategies to leadership, culture, and daily life. Her new book, The Happy Leader Playbook, draws from years of research and experience to offer practical tools for leading with clarity, confidence, and compassion—without burning out in the process.
“Jessica Lyonford is redefining success for a new generation of leaders,” said Megan Bozzuto, President of IAW. “Her approach to leadership centers happiness as a foundational value, not a reward—and her work is reshaping how people show up at work, at home, and in the world.”
Jessica’s communication expertise, rooted in her background in marketing and branding, allows her to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-life application. Whether through consulting, writing, or her podcast, she makes the science of happiness accessible and actionable.
While the road hasn’t been without challenges—particularly in a culture that still undervalues happiness—Jessica is driven by the transformational results she sees in her clients. “The most rewarding part of this work is watching people realize they have the power to design a life they love. That realization is a game-changer.”
Looking ahead, Jessica is focused on growing the Happy Leadership movement, building partnerships, and continuing to inspire change through her book, speaking engagements, and coaching work.
The Happy Leader Playbook is now available at www.jessicalyonford.com. For leaders ready to unlock more energy and impact, this book is your roadmap to redefining success—on your own terms.
“What began as a personal journey back to joy evolved into a professional mission to change the way we lead,” said Jessica Lyonford. “Happiness isn’t just a personal pursuit. It’s a powerful catalyst for better leadership, stronger communities, and healthier workplaces.
”Through Project More Happy, Jessica leads keynotes, workshops, and coaching programs that apply research-backed strategies to leadership, culture, and daily life. Her new book, The Happy Leader Playbook, draws from years of research and experience to offer practical tools for leading with clarity, confidence, and compassion—without burning out in the process.
“Jessica Lyonford is redefining success for a new generation of leaders,” said Megan Bozzuto, President of IAW. “Her approach to leadership centers happiness as a foundational value, not a reward—and her work is reshaping how people show up at work, at home, and in the world.”
Jessica’s communication expertise, rooted in her background in marketing and branding, allows her to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-life application. Whether through consulting, writing, or her podcast, she makes the science of happiness accessible and actionable.
While the road hasn’t been without challenges—particularly in a culture that still undervalues happiness—Jessica is driven by the transformational results she sees in her clients. “The most rewarding part of this work is watching people realize they have the power to design a life they love. That realization is a game-changer.”
Looking ahead, Jessica is focused on growing the Happy Leadership movement, building partnerships, and continuing to inspire change through her book, speaking engagements, and coaching work.
The Happy Leader Playbook is now available at www.jessicalyonford.com. For leaders ready to unlock more energy and impact, this book is your roadmap to redefining success—on your own terms.
