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Ep 110 - Creating a Culture of Innovation and Inclusion in the Workplace with Michele Risa

Darlene Hawley

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Welcome back to the Attract & Stand Out podcast!

In this episode, I’m chatting with the incredible Michele Risa, CEO of Collaborative Solutions. Michele takes us on a journey—from her early days in the corporate world to launching her own business back in 1991 (before entrepreneurship was even a buzzword!). She opens up about what it really means to follow your heart, trust yourself, and build a business that reflects who you are at your core.

We dive into so many powerful topics—why collaboration always wins over competition, the real work behind diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how trust is the true foundation of great leadership. Michele also shares stories from working internationally and offers such grounded wisdom on staying resilient and growing with intention over the long haul.

If you're a leader who wants to make an impact by showing up as your full, authentic self—you’re going to love this conversation.

Here’s what we cover:

00:30 – Michele’s leap from corporate to entrepreneurship
02:56 – Why collaboration is the future
04:50 – How DEI creates stronger businesses
08:20 – What it takes to lead with authenticity
11:47 – Michele’s biggest lessons from decades in business
18:45 – Navigating challenges with resilience
26:58 – Rapid fire Qs + final takeaways

Let’s dive in!

Michele Risa, CEO Collaborative Solutions, Inc since 1991, is an Executive Consultant specializing in trust, engagement, and talent optimization. Michele’s most recent project is creating employment for 1 million low-income women in the MENA region- Middle East/North Africa. 

She is: a renowned speaker at Mastercard, Microsoft, TEDx, and more. Co-author of the award-winning book "Conscious Entrepreneurs: A Radical New Approach to Purpose, Passion & Profit.” Former President of the Manhattan Holistic Chamber of Commerce. Certifications: PTSD, Breathwork, Reiki, Vipassana, and M.A. Columbia University.

www.collaborativesolutionsco.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelerisa/

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10 Effective Communication Tips
Darlene Hawley, Personal Branding & Business Coach for service based entrepreneurs

Hey There!

I'm Darlene



As a mother, wife, connector, and dream builder, I’m Darlene Hawley, the founder of DarleneHawley.com and an Executive Leadership & Businesss Coach dedicated to empowering leaders like you.


My passion lies in helping ambitious professionals cultivate their unique leadership style while crafting an authentic and impactful personal brand. Through my coaching, we’ll work together to build a solid foundation that not only inspires your team but also drives results and growth within your organization.


Since 2007, I have been committed to guiding leaders and entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their businesses with confidence and clarity.


Today, I focus on supporting women in reaching their leadership goals and living their dream lives—all while balancing the joys of raising my family and creating meaningful memories each day.


Together, we’ll transform your challenges into opportunities, allowing you to lead with authenticity and inspire those around you.

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