We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Poitier and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, what do you want people to remember about you?
My legacy is rooted in the belief that our deepest pain can be transformed into our greatest purpose. I want to be remembered as a woman who lived audaciously and unapologetically, someone who faced life’s challenges with courage and faith, and who used her voice to inspire others to do the same. My journey from trauma to triumph has fueled my passion for helping others break free from the shackles of their past, reclaim their voices, and live lives full of purpose and abundance.

I want people to remember me as a trailblazer who refused to be silenced by fear or adversity—a woman who empowered others, especially women veterans and survivors of abuse, to embrace their true selves and pursue their passions without hesitation. Through my work as a transformational speaker, life recovery coach, and advocate, I hope to leave behind a legacy of healing, empowerment, and unwavering faith in the face of life’s most daunting challenges.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is all about helping women, especially women veterans and survivors of trauma, break free from the barriers that hold them back. What sets me apart is my deep commitment to guiding others on their journey from trauma to triumph, using my own experiences as a powerful example of what’s possible. I’m unapologetic about challenging self-limiting beliefs and never silent when it comes to advocating for others. My mission is to help people reclaim their voices, rewrite their stories, and live audaciously in spite of their pasts.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. My journey has been marked by significant challenges, including overcoming domestic violence, military sexual trauma, and the mental illness that followed. Each of these experiences could have silenced me, but instead, they became the foundation of my work. I leaned into my faith and the belief that I was meant for more than just surviving—I was meant to thrive.

Overcoming these challenges required a relentless commitment to my own healing, an unwavering belief in the power of community, and the courage to share my story openly and honestly. Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of being authentic and vulnerable, and the incredible strength that comes from turning pain into purpose. I’ve also learned that healing is not a one-time event but a continuous journey, one that requires compassion for oneself and the willingness to keep pushing forward.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am dedicated to being a voice for the voiceless and a guide for those who feel lost or bound by their circumstances. My brand, Michelle Speakz, is built on the principle that we are all capable of breaking free from our pasts and living lives full of purpose and abundance. I’m here to empower others to see the invisible, do the impossible, and break the barriers that have been holding them back. My story is not just my own—it’s a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering belief that we are all destined for greatness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to craft an experience that truly reflects the things I love most—connecting authentically, exploring nature, and embracing the free spirit within us.

Day 1: Embrace the Ocean’s Embrace
We’d kick off the week with a sunrise walk on the beach. There’s something about the early morning light and the sound of the waves that sets the tone for a day of deep connection and reflection. Afterward, we’d grab breakfast at a cozy beachfront café, enjoying fresh fruit, smoothies, and maybe some avocado toast while soaking in the ocean views.

Day 2: Mountain Climbing Adventure
Next up, we’d head out for a day of mountain climbing. There’s nothing like the thrill of scaling a mountain, feeling the burn in your muscles, and reaching the summit to take in the breathtaking views. It’s a powerful reminder of how strong and resilient we are, both physically and mentally. We’d pack a picnic to enjoy at the top—simple, nourishing food to fuel our spirits as we connect with the beauty around us.

Day 3: Exploring Local Nature Trails
One day would be dedicated to exploring some of the best local nature trails. Whether it’s a dense forest trail or a winding path along a river, the goal would be to immerse ourselves in the tranquility of nature. Along the way, we’d stop to meditate, reflect, and just be present in the moment, letting the natural world inspire and rejuvenate us.

Day 4: Free Spirit Day
We’d dedicate a day to embracing our inner free spirits. This would be a day with no set plans—just going wherever the wind takes us. Maybe we’d find a hidden gem of a café for lunch, wander through a local art gallery, or discover a charming bookstore. The key would be to let go of any expectations and just enjoy the spontaneity of the day.

Day 5: Beach Bonfire and Stargazing
As the week winds down, we’d return to the beach, this time for a bonfire at sunset. We’d roast marshmallows, share stories, and reflect on the week’s adventures. As night falls, we’d lie back on the sand and stargaze, feeling the connection between ourselves and the vast universe above.

Day 6: Culinary Exploration
We’d spend a day exploring the local food scene, starting with a leisurely brunch at a farm-to-table restaurant. We’d try a variety of cuisines throughout the day, from fresh seafood to authentic international dishes. In the evening, we’d find a spot with live music and enjoy a night of good food, great music, and even better company.

Day 7: Reflection and Relaxation
To wrap up the week, we’d take it slow. Perhaps we’d return to one of our favorite spots from the week for a quiet morning of journaling and reflection, followed by a spa day or a mindful movement and stretching session on the beach. The focus would be on unwinding, recharging, and soaking in the final moments of this meaningful week.

Throughout the week, we’d focus on connecting authentically—not just with each other, but with the world around us. Whether we’re scaling a mountain, walking along the beach, or simply enjoying a meal together, the goal would be to live fully in the moment, embracing the beauty of life and the power of true connection.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude to the incredible individuals and organizations that have shaped my journey. A special thank you to Pollyanna Neely, whose unwavering support behind the scenes over the years has been a constant source of strength, and to Michael Harris, VFC Visionary, for teaching me the importance of guarding my heart and the power of starting anew as often as necessary.


There are many others whose influence, guidance, and support have been vital to my growth and success. Without each of you, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I carry your lessons and encouragement with me on every step of this journey.First and foremost, I want to acknowledge my faith and the unwavering strength that God has provided me throughout my life. My foundation is rooted in faith, and it’s been the cornerstone of my resilience and purpose. Psalm 40:2, which speaks of being lifted out of the mud and mire and placed on solid ground, has guided me through my darkest moments, reminding me that I am bound no more.

I also want to recognize the powerful women in my life, both seen and unseen, who have paved the way for me to step into my purpose. My daughter, Alexis and grandchildren (Aloria, Aiden, Adrianna, Aliyah-Mae and Aneva), who have been sources of strength, inspiration, and unconditional love, deserve a special mention. Their presence has reminded me why it’s so important to break generational cycles and leave a legacy of empowerment and healing.

Additionally, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has been instrumental in my journey as an advocate and mentor. Their commitment to mental health awareness and support has inspired me to speak out and use my voice for those who are still finding theirs.

Finally, I dedicate this shoutout to the countless women veterans, survivors of trauma, and those battling with mental illness who have allowed me to walk alongside them in their journeys to healing. Your courage and resilience have inspired me to continue this work, and I am honored to be a part of your stories. Together, we are redefining what it means to live audaciously and with purpose.

Website: https://www.michellespeakz.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellespeakz

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellepoitier/

Twitter: https:www.twitter.com/michellespeakz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michellespeakz47

Yelp: https://www.youtube.com/michellespeakz

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/michellespeakz

Other: https://www.linqapp.com/michelle_poitier

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