Your audience craves real insight. I deliver the truth…no fluff, no jargon, just strategies that work.
You don’t need another speaker who just inspires.
You need someone who makes your audience think, nod, and take action.
That’s where I come in.
Smart. Strategic. A little sassy. And exactly what your audience needs to hear.
When hiring’s a mess, culture’s in chaos, or leadership is missing the mark, everyone feels it— but no one’s saying what’s really going wrong.
That’s where I come in.
I don’t do vague inspiration.
I deliver real stories, sharp insights, and actionable frameworks your audience can use the moment they walk out the door.
Because when leaders finally see the people friction slowing them down?
They’re ready to move fast—and that’s when real change happens.
"Michelle’s realistic take on workplace trends opened all our eyes to what employees need and what employers must do. Her relatable style and humor immediately won over our HR group, bringing insights we all needed to hear and practice. If you get the chance to book her, do it before someone else does!"
— Kimberly Wittenauer, Illinois Valley SHRM Chapter Chair
Why book me?
When your audience needs real-world solutions (not just inspiration) I deliver.
My talks connect the dots between leadership, hiring, team health, and culture—so things finally start to make sense.
Attendees walk away with practical strategies they can apply immediately, because good ideas aren’t enough if they don’t drive action.
Available for: Keynotes, panels, leadership retreats, and podcasts
Formats: Virtual and in-person engagements
Location: Based in Chicago, available nationwide
Talks are customized to your audience—let’s make sure it’s a perfect fit.
Need a speaker who delivers real insight, fast action, and zero fluff?
Let’s talk about how I can make your next event your most actionable (and surprisingly entertaining) one yet.
You know what you want and you’re ready to get moving.
You’re not quite sure and need a little more guidance to get started.
Signature Speaking Topics
Decision-Making Rx: Avoid the 3 Traps That Derail Leaders Under Pressure
Leaders can’t afford hesitation when the stakes are high; Michelle equips them with frameworks to make confident choices fast.
🔹 Balance data, risk, and instinct with confidence
🔹 Lead with clarity in uncertainty and change
🔹 Avoid hesitation traps that slow growth
Startup Success Rx: Avoid the 4 People Problems That Kill Traction
Startups rarely fail because of their product; they fail because of people problems. Michelle reveals the “silent killers” that derail growth.
🔹 Spot the leadership and hiring missteps that tank traction
🔹 Align early teams for speed and trust
🔹 Build culture as an asset, not an afterthought
M&A Talent Rx: Avoid the People Problems That Sink Deals
On paper, the deal looks great, but hidden workforce issues destroy value. Michelle uncovers the risks leaders miss in due diligence and integration.
🔹 The leadership, team, and culture misalignments buyers worry about
🔹 How to assess people risks before they become deal breakers
🔹 Strategies for faster, smoother post-merger integration
Culture Rx: Cultivate a Culture That Builds, Grows, and Sustains Your Business
Culture doesn’t collapse overnight - it drifts when leaders stop tending it. Michelle shows how to spot the warning signs and intentionally cultivate a culture that fuels growth.
🔹 Spot the early signs of culture drift before it becomes costly
🔹 “Weed out” toxic behaviors while nurturing what fuels performance
🔹 Build a culture that scales with growth, change, and new leadership
Bonus Keynote:
Game Changers – Leadership Lessons from Sports
Even if you don’t care about sports, the best teams know what leaders often forget. This high-energy keynote brings game-day lessons to business.
🔹 Why top performers always have coaches
🔹 Presence and focus: why nobody pulls out their phone mid-game
🔹 Building discipline and teamwork that wins
My talks blend sharp insights, humor, and real-world strategies. Attendees leave with practical takeaways they can use immediately.
Available for keynotes, panel discussions, virtual talks, and leadership roundtables.