A Path Built on Learning, Self-Awareness, and Values-Driven Leadership

Michele Allen describes beginning her career in accounting and audit, a foundation that helped her move into private industry and eventually into hospitality. She explains how hotel franchising resonated because she could support small business owners and connect her skills with her passions. Michele discusses evaluating risk through data, gathering information to “reduce the uncertainties,” and avoiding paralysis by setting limits. She shares that stepping into new roles carries inherent risk and that preparation and clarity about expectations are essential. She highlights recognizing personal skill gaps, seeking out resources, reading extensively, and taking initiative to learn. She reflects on leadership evolving from staying challenged, being engaged, and wanting “to make an impact.” She emphasizes environments that align with core values and explains how relationship building, communication, and consensus-building became increasingly important. Michele discusses the cap people place on themselves, the power of self-talk, shutting down negative thoughts, and the importance of preparation. She describes advocating for oneself, keeping an “excel spreadsheet” of accomplishments, and being intentional in self-assessments. She reflects on self-care, non-negotiables, and adjusting responsibilities to meet family needs. She advises not to overlook soft skills, to recognize incremental opportunities, and to seek feedback deliberately.

Notable Quotes/Highlights

• “I am very data driven;  it's my love language.”
• “There's really no cap to your potential.”
• “Feedback is a gift.”
• “You can't truly excel in a place that doesn't resonate with your core values.”
• “Don't sleep on the soft skills.”

Closing Reflection

Michele’s reflections highlight the importance of staying challenged, learning continuously, and grounding decisions in self-awareness. She shows how data, preparation, and intentional growth can guide every step of a career. Her emphasis on values, communication, and advocating for oneself underscores the power of taking ownership of your path. She reminds listeners that small steps, deliberate choices, and consistent self-belief create lasting momentum. Her message encourages embracing risk, seeking feedback, and bringing your whole self to the workplace.