Reevaluating where you are and where you want to go is essential to long-term success. But without intentional self-reflection and strategic action, you risk missing out on the growth and opportunities that can shape your career.

Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, CEO of Dress for Success Worldwide, has built an impressive career spanning employment law, human resources, and DEI leadership roles across industries. In addition to her executive leadership experience, Michele serves on the boards of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) and the Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation, further extending her leadership impact.

Through every career transition, one thing has remained constant: her commitment to listening, learning, and making bold yet strategic career moves. Her ability to assess where she can have the most impact has empowered her to embrace pivots and step into leadership roles that align with her values and expertise.

In this episode of Branding Room Only, Michele shares how self-reflection, mentorship, and integrity have played a pivotal role in her career evolution. She also discusses her leadership philosophy, the importance of networking with authenticity, and the broader impact of her work at Dress for Success.

1:13 – Michele’s definition of a personal brand, her three-word self-description, her favorite Maya Angelou quote, and the story behind her hype song
5:49 – How Michele’s upbringing shaped her people-first approach and deep commitment to community
8:05 – Michele’s unique career path, from private investigator to CEO
16:49 – Why Michele prioritizes a 100–120-day listening period when stepping into a new leadership role
21:00 – How Michele blends operational excellence with a mission-driven leadership approach
23:24 – The biggest surprise of leading a global nonprofit organization
28:08 – Why serving on the boards of the LPGA and Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation is so meaningful to Michele
33:28 – Leadership lessons on excellence, mindfulness, self-advocacy, and recognizing career growth opportunities
41:58 – The power of mentorship and why diversity in career guidance matters
44:41 – What Michele does for fun, her non-negotiable brand value, and the core elements of her leadership philosophy

Mentioned In Leadership and the Power of the Pivot with Michele Meyer-Shipp

Dress for Success Worldwide | LinkedIn 

Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA)

Fritz Pollard Alliance Foundation

Curated Resources from Paula: 

How to Assemble and Leverage Your Personal Board of Directors

2025 Intention and Goal Setting Webinar

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