Michelle’s Story
Growing into Leadership
My leadership journey is a story of reinvention and grit. I've always had a lot of competence and confidence, often jumping to the front. Yet, time and again, I found myself redefining me to fulfill someone else's needs, questioning my value, and feeling unseen and unheard. My response was to fall into the shadows, stepping in and out of leadership, accommodating others, and following their paths instead of my own.
In the beginning, I struggled with a lack of clarity about my purpose and the change I wanted to make in the world. I knew I wanted to make a difference but didn't know how. Over time, I realized my mission: to help people who help the world. This led me to become a funder, supporting organizations and nonprofits that make a daily difference in individuals’ lives. I helped recreate processes, systems, and communities, working collaboratively on impactful projects.
Despite doing meaningful work, whenever someone else stepped into the limelight, my natural response was to step back and support them rather than stay in the foreground. This pattern repeated throughout my career. I often felt the weight of imposter syndrome, doubting my worth and abilities. Coupled with sheer exhaustion—mental, physical, and emotional—it became difficult to keep up with the demands of separating the me at home from the me at work.
Even as I remained clear on my purpose, I faced burnout. Caught in the cycle of perfectionism and high expectations in my many roles, the unsustainable levels of emotional labor, an overwhelming sense of being undervalued, and always prioritizing others’ needs over my own, neglecting self-care. This led to chronic stress. It’s hard to keep going, to lead, when your system is shutting down and there is little to no support on how to stop it. When you've made yourself invisible to lift others. That’s a struggle I know well.
I share this story because I want you to know I’ve walked in your shoes. I understand the unique challenges women leaders face—balancing high achievement with personal well-being, overcoming self-doubt, and breaking through traditional barriers. That’s why I created Lead OnPointe – to help you find clarity, build and sustain energy, and equip you with the tools to stand firmly in the limelight while helping others find their own sense of belonging.
It's your future. I want to help you design it your way.
Michelle’s Journey
FOUNDATIONS
OF LEADERSHIP
1984 - 1988: B.A. in Economics, Political Science, and East Asian Studies, Denison University
1987 - 1988: Chinese Language & Culture Studies, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
2001 - 2003: Masters of Public Health, The Ohio State University
1996 - 2003: Program Officer, Strategic Initiatives, Columbus Medical Association Foundation
ACADEMIC AND
EARLY CAREER IMPACT
2003 - 2010: Senior Impact Director, Health, United Way of Central Ohio
2010 -2012: Vice President , Planning & Accountability, United Way of Central Ohio
ADVANCING PUBLIC HEALTH
AND STRATEGY
2020 - 2022: Director of Strategy,
Peg's Foundation
STRATEGIC
LEADERSHIP
2012 -Present: Founder & CEO, OnPointe Strategic Insights
ENTREPRENEURIAL
LEADERSHIP
2024: Lead OnPointe officially launches.
For the Defiant: Empowering leaders who are unapologetically pushing boundaries.
For the Visionaries: Guiding those determined to redefine and achieve new heights in personal and professional spheres.
For the Courageous: Supporting every leader who acts with bravery, shaping futures designed their way.
REDEFINING
LEADERSHIP
What I stand for
There are three core values that shape how I do my work and live my life.
Caring - I create an environment built on trust and safety, being fully present and listening deeply to support your growth and re-awaken your potential.
Culture - Respect, inclusivity, and equity are non-negotiable for me. I foster a welcoming culture that celebrates everyone's unique contributions and guide you in building this within your team.
Curiosity - Innovation and learning are at the heart of my approach. I continually seek new ideas and encourage you to stay curious and engaged, enhancing your leadership skills and ensuring you remain creative and forward-thinking.
I am fully committed to your leadership success. If at any time you feel that your chosen pathway isn't meeting your goals, let me know immediately. I will take prompt action to realign our efforts with your aspirations.