An Inspired Chat with Melissa Good of San Diego

Melissa Good shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Melissa, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
One of the most common misconceptions about ML Tutoring is that we’re just a homework help service, when in reality, our mission goes much deeper. We don’t simply want to help students get through assignments; we want to empower them to become confident, independent learners by building strong, multilayered foundations.

When I started ML Tutoring, I drew from my experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist to create something more holistic than traditional tutoring. Our team takes the time to understand each student’s learning style, developmental needs, and even their emotional state. From there, I carefully match them with tutors who are not only subject-matter experts but also mentors who can support their growth in a personalized, meaningful way.

Our sessions, whether in-person, virtual, or small-groups, are focused on more than just content. We help students develop executive functioning skills, build study habits, and approach challenges with resilience. I’ve seen students go from disengaged and frustrated to excited about learning, just by changing how the material is presented and how they’re supported.

Yes, we help with homework, but that’s only the beginning! What we really do is guide students to think critically, learn deeply, and gain the confidence to tackle new material on their own. I want every student we work with to walk away not just with better grades, but with a stronger sense of self and the tools they need to thrive far beyond the classroom.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Melissa Good, the founder of ML Tutoring. I’m a Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) with over a decade of hands‑on experience teaching in public, private, and international schools. My background in early childhood, special education, and ESL gives me deep insight into the emotional and developmental needs of students and that understanding shapes everything we do at ML Tutoring.

I launched ML Tutoring in 2020, motivated by what I saw during the pandemic: students struggling not only academically but emotionally, missing engagement and clarity in a virtual world. That’s when our “Multi‑Level” platform was born. We don’t just match tutors by subject, we tailor sessions to each child’s learning style, personality, and executive functioning skills. It’s about building a strong foundation so students can grow at every academic level. Our goal is to empower students to learn independently, feel confident, and approach new challenges with resilience.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that struggling with certain subjects meant I wasn’t smart enough. However, over time, I’ve realized that learning isn’t about innate ability, it’s about having the right support, patience, strategies, and determination. This shift in mindset is exactly what I want every student at ML Tutoring to experience; with encouragement and the right guidance, they can overcome challenges and build true confidence in their abilities.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: no matter how overwhelming or hectic life feels, never forget you have the power to make a difference, even if it’s just for one person.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the most common myths in the tutoring world is that it’s only for students who are struggling or falling behind. In reality, tutoring is a powerful tool for all learners, regardless of where they are academically. At ML Tutoring, we work with a wide range of students, from those needing extra support to those who are excelling and looking to go further. Personalized support allows high-achieving students to explore subjects more deeply, build advanced problem-solving skills, and develop greater academic independence.

Just like athletes benefit from coaches even at the top of their game, strong students benefit from tutors that challenges and inspires them. It’s not simply about bridging gaps, it’s about nurturing potential. Through our customized, relationship-based approach, we help students set goals, expand their thinking, and grow beyond grade-level expectations. Every child deserves a space where they’re truly seen and supported and that’s what personalized tutoring offers, no matter their starting point.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, I think families would miss the consistency and thoughtful guidance that ML Tutoring’s tutors bring to every session. We’re here to help kids feel confident, capable, and excited to learn. With my background as a Certified Child Life Specialist and prior teacher, I’ve built an approach that supports the whole child, not just the academics. Parents often tell me their kids go from feeling frustrated to really enjoying learning. We build real connections, positive learning environments, and lasting growth. I believe this type of all encompassing support is what families would truly miss if I ever stepped away.