About Dr. Edwin Brown, PhD

Advancing Human-Centered Insight Through Research, Listening, and Lived Experience

I am a qualitative research consultant and U.S. Navy veteran who specializes in helping mission-driven organizations understand the people they serve — beyond the numbers and beyond assumptions.

My work sits at the intersection of research, policy, and lived experience. I bring doctoral-level training, trauma-informed practice, and 14 years of military leadership to support organizations committed to meaningful change in human services, veteran care, behavioral health, and community support programs.

My approach is grounded in dignity, trust, and culturally responsive listening. I partner with organizations to uncover nuanced insights, strengthen programming, and ensure the voice of the client — especially those often unheard — informs decision-making.

Because real impact begins with understanding..

How I Support Organizations

I help agencies, nonprofits, and community-focused leaders:

  • Design and conduct qualitative research projects

  • Facilitate listening sessions and stakeholder interviews

  • Extract themes, meaning, and human-centered insight from lived experience

  • Translate findings into strategy and actionable recommendations

  • Build programs that reflect the realities of the communities they serve

Rooted in empathy and informed by data, my process ensures leaders can see the full story — not just the statistics.

Experience & Background

PhD in Human Services — qualitative research specialization

  • U.S. Navy — 14 years, Leading Petty Officer & Training Leader

  • Veteran advocacy and community engagement

  • Trauma-informed, culturally responsive facilitation

  • Experience working alongside diverse communities and service systems

I believe research should honor people, elevate truth, and strengthen the systems designed to support them.

My Values

Integrity & trust — insight earned through genuine listening

  1. Human-centered practice — dignity first, always

  2. Cultural humility — every voice matters

  3. Service & purpose — driven by a commitment to community and well-being

  4. Actionable impact — research that becomes change, not paperwork

Let's Work Together

If your organization is ready to deepen understanding, elevate stakeholder voice, and strengthen service impact, I’d welcome the opportunity to collaborate.

Request a consultation to explore your needs and determine the right research or listening approach for your goals.

Schedule a Consultation