Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michelle Poitier. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michelle, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
I wanted to share a pivotal moment in my journey that led me to where I am today. After returning from a transformative trip climbing the Andes Mountains in Peru with 10 other military veterans, being the only female in the group, I had a profound realization. The people in the village of Queros lived without many of the luxuries we often take for granted—running water, electricity, and homes with proper floors. Despite these hardships, they were truly happy as a community.
This stark contrast to our lives of comfort and material abundance struck me deeply. I saw how, despite all the luxuries, many of us are still not satisfied. This experience shifted something within me. Material comforts and luxuries no longer mattered to me as they once did.
Upon returning home, I found myself changed. I sold my closets full of shoes, donated most of my clothes to Goodwill, and realized there was more to life than just paying bills. I wanted to create a lasting legacy and make an impact. I no longer wanted to chase the American dream; I desired something more meaningful.
This transformation led me to take a significant risk. After being cursed out by a customer over the phone, I had an epiphany that life was more than just working to pay bills as a means to an end. I walked out on faith from my position, with no backup plan, only a burning desire in my heart to create impact and legacy. The frustration of knowing I wasn’t where I needed to be fueled my determination.
Today, as I look back, I am grateful for that moment of clarity and the courage it gave me to follow my passion. My journey has been filled with challenges, but it has also been incredibly fulfilling. I am dedicated to helping others discover their own paths to greatness and to live a life of purpose and meaning.
Michelle, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
For folks who may not have read about me before, my name is Michelle Poitier, also known as Michelle Speakz. I am a transformational speaker, author, and life coach dedicated to guiding individuals on their journeys towards emotional healing, empowerment, and the restoration of their voices. As a United States Navy veteran with 13 years of honorable service, a mother, grandmother, and leader, my life’s mission is to inspire, educate, and motivate others to break free from their past and step into their true potential.
How I Got Into My Industry
My journey into this industry began with my own personal experiences of overcoming immense challenges, including sexual and domestic abuse, military sexual trauma, and mental illness secondary to trauma. These experiences fueled my passion for helping others and led me to become a transformational speaker and life coach. After returning from a transformative trip climbing the Andes Mountains in Peru with 10 other military veterans, I had a profound realization about the true meaning of happiness and purpose. This epiphany led me to leave my traditional job and pursue my calling full-time.
Services and Creative Works
I offer a range of services designed to support individuals in their healing and growth:
– **Michelle’s Mindful Movement**: Promoting mental and physical well-being through mindfulness practices.
– **Foundation 2 Freedom (Virtual/Online Program)**: A comprehensive program designed to help individuals rebuild their lives.
– **Redefine Your Life-Path (1:1 Coaching)**: Personalized coaching to guide women in discovering their true potential.
– **Speaking Services**: Inspiring and empowering others through keynote speeches and workshops.
As an author, my published works include:
– “The Journey To Abundance”
– “The Resilient Heart: 7 Ways to Reclaim Your Strength After Trauma”
– “Don’t Allow Your Past to Define You”
– “Random Thoughts from the Heart: A Collection”
– “Releasing the Pain”
– “When Courtship Goes Wrong ~ Behind the Scenes of Dating in Ministry”
I am also an elite cast member of “The Making of An Entrepreneur Docuseries,” where I guide women on their journey from trauma to triumph.
Problems I Solve
I help women, particularly those who have served in the military, transition into a life where they no longer need permission to pursue their passions. I assist in breaking and rewriting the code of limiting beliefs instilled by their upbringing and traumas encountered during their military careers. My programs provide a safe and supportive space for healing, growth, and empowerment.
What Sets Me Apart
What sets me apart is my personal journey of transformation and my deep understanding of the challenges faced by those who have experienced trauma. My life’s vision statement is “A Woman of Faith, living life audaciously IN SPITE OF…seeing the invisible, doing the impossible, and inspiring others to do the same.” This statement embodies my mission to help women unleash their healing, break free from the chains of their past, and live a life of purpose and fulfillment.
I’m often told my demeanor, presence, and voice are soothing and healing. I create a sense of safety and peace through my words, touch, and presence, making it easier for my clients to open up and heal.
What I Am Most Proud Of
I am most proud of the impact I have made in the lives of the women I have worked with. Seeing them reclaim their power, find their voices, and live fulfilling lives brings me immense joy and fulfillment. I am also proud of my books and the docuseries, which have allowed me to reach a wider audience and inspire more people on their journeys.
Key Messages for Potential Clients and Followers
I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is dedicated to creating lasting legacies of strength, resilience, and empowerment. I am here to support you in breaking free from limiting beliefs, healing from past traumas, and stepping into your true potential. Together, we can transform your life and create a future filled with purpose and fulfillment.
Michelle Poitier
Transformational Speaker | Author | Life Coach
www.michellespeakz.com
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
In the face of unprecedented challenges, Michelle Poitier, known as Michelle Speakz, demonstrated remarkable resilience, transforming adversity into an opportunity for growth and impact. This is the story of how she navigated the shutdown of the pandemic, endured multiple reconstructive surgeries, and pivoted her business to create a global community and impactful programs.
The Unexpected Turn
In early 2020, like many business owners, Michelle faced the sudden and unforeseen challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. The shutdown disrupted her in-person gatherings and events, threatening the very foundation of her work as a transformational speaker, life coach, and community leader. As if the pandemic wasn’t enough, Michelle was struck by a FedEx truck, resulting in severe injuries to her right knee. Over the span of three years, she underwent four reconstructive surgeries and one total knee replacement. Each surgery brought its own set of physical and emotional trials, testing Michelle’s resilience to its limits.
Pivoting the Business
Despite these overwhelming obstacles, Michelle’s determination and visionary spirit remained unshaken. She recognized that the world was shifting towards virtual interactions and saw this as an opportunity to expand her reach and impact. Michelle pivoted her business from in-person events to online gatherings, embracing the new digital landscape with courage and innovation.
Creating Empowered 2 Thrive
During this tumultuous period, Michelle created “Empowered 2 Thrive,” an online community designed to provide a safe, supportive space for women to connect, grow, and heal. What started as a small group quickly grew into a thriving global community of 60 women, all seeking the guidance and support Michelle offered. This community became a beacon of hope and resilience, providing a platform for women to share their stories, support one another, and find strength in their collective experiences.
Reaching Thousands
Michelle’s efforts didn’t stop with Empowered 2 Thrive. She leveraged the power of online platforms to reach a wider audience, impacting the lives of over 18,900 individuals globally. Through virtual workshops, webinars, and coaching sessions, Michelle continued to inspire, educate, and empower others, even from the confines of her own recovery.
Developing New Programs
In addition to her community-building efforts, Michelle developed several new programs under the Michelle Speakz brand. These programs were designed to address the unique challenges brought about by the pandemic and to provide tools for personal growth and healing. Michelle’s innovative approach and unwavering commitment to her mission ensured that her work remained relevant and impactful, even in the face of adversity.
Triumph Through Adversity
Michelle’s journey through the pandemic and her recovery from multiple surgeries is a testament to her resilience, strength, and vision. She turned what could have been a period of stagnation and defeat into a time of growth, innovation, and profound impact. Michelle’s ability to adapt and thrive in the face of such challenges serves as an inspiration to all who hear her story.
A Legacy of Strength
Today, Michelle Poitier stands as a symbol of resilience and determination. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest times, there is potential for growth and transformation. Michelle’s story is not just about surviving adversity, but about thriving despite it, creating a legacy of strength, empowerment, and lasting impact.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
As I reflect on my journey, I recognize that my credibility in the market industry has been built upon four main pillars: transparency, vulnerability, accountability, and authenticity. These core values have guided me in every step of my professional path and have been instrumental in establishing the foundation of Michelle Speakz.
Transparency
From the very beginning, I have been committed to being open and honest about my experiences, struggles, and successes. Transparency has allowed me to build genuine connections with my clients and community, fostering an environment of trust and mutual respect. By sharing my journey and the lessons I’ve learned, I have been able to create a space where others feel safe to open up and share their own stories.
Vulnerability
Embracing vulnerability has been a powerful tool in my work. By allowing myself to be vulnerable, I have demonstrated that it is okay to be imperfect and that true strength comes from acknowledging and addressing our weaknesses. This openness has resonated deeply with my clients, showing them that they are not alone in their struggles and that it is possible to overcome even the most challenging obstacles.
Accountability
Accountability has been a cornerstone of my approach. I hold myself to the highest standards, ensuring that I am always responsible for my actions and the outcomes of my work. This commitment to accountability has built a strong foundation of trust with my clients, who know that they can rely on me to deliver on my promises and support them in their journeys.
Authenticity
Finally, authenticity has been key to my credibility. I strive to be true to myself in all aspects of my work, staying genuine and sincere in my interactions. This authenticity has allowed me to connect with my clients on a deeper level, creating meaningful and lasting relationships. By being my true self, I have inspired others to do the same, fostering a community where everyone can thrive.
Creating a Safe Environment
One of the most important aspects of my work is creating a safe environment for my clients. I am dedicated to being a safe place where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment or rejection. This commitment to safety and support has been crucial in helping my clients feel comfortable and secure, allowing them to open up, heal, and grow. By providing a nurturing space, I enable my clients to explore their vulnerabilities, confront their challenges, and ultimately, transform their lives.
These four pillars—transparency, vulnerability, accountability, and authenticity—have not only shaped my professional journey but have also become the bedrock of Michelle Speakz. They have enabled me to build a credible and respected presence in the market industry, and they continue to guide me as I support others in their paths to healing, growth, and empowerment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.michellespeakz.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellespeakz
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellespeakz47
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepoitier/
- Twitter: https:www.twitter.com/michellespeakz
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/michellespeakz
- Other: https://linktr.ee/michellespeakz
