Meet Dr. Michelle R. Hannah

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Michelle R. Hannah. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Dr. Michelle R. below.

Dr. Michelle R. , thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?

You could answer this by weaving together your personal journey, professional expertise, and recent diagnosis to highlight the depth of your resilience. Here’s a response that reflects your story:

My resilience comes from a combination of lived experiences, unwavering faith, and the deep understanding that healing is both a journey and a commitment. Throughout my life, I have faced personal and professional challenges that tested my strength, from navigating complex relationships to helping others find their own paths to healing through The Self Vows and Access Denied, Access Granted.

However, resilience took on a new meaning for me with my recent diagnosis. It forced me to re-evaluate how I set boundaries—not just with others, but also with myself. Pain and uncertainty have a way of reshaping what we think we know about strength. For me, resilience is no longer about pushing through at all costs; it’s about honoring my body, listening to what it needs, and granting myself access to rest and renewal when necessary.

As a Relationship Coach, author, and speaker, I’ve always guided others toward self-love, accountability, and purpose. But this new chapter in my life is teaching me that resilience isn’t just about overcoming—it’s about adapting, protecting, and, most importantly, allowing grace for myself in the process.”

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

This evolution is reflected in my upcoming book, Access Denied, Access Granted, which explores the power of determining who and what has access to different areas of our lives. This book is deeply personal, and I believe it will resonate with anyone navigating transitions, healing from past wounds, or learning to set healthier boundaries.

I am also honored to be a keynote speaker at the LEO 3rd Global Women Power Summit on Leadership 2025 in Paris, France, where I will discuss leadership, resilience, and the importance of intentional access. This opportunity is particularly special because it aligns perfectly with the message of my new book—empowering individuals to stand in their truth, set boundaries with confidence, and embrace the life they are meant to live.
Professionally, my work spans coaching, speaking, and writing, all centered around helping individuals and businesses cultivate meaningful relationships—with themselves and others. My company, Mikel Life Coaching, offers transformational programs like The Self Vows and Business Intimacy, helping clients build confidence, purpose, and deeper connections.

Beyond coaching, I am expanding my impact through books and speaking engagements. Access Denied, Access Granted is more than a book—it’s an interactive guide with exercises that challenge readers to take control of their emotional, spiritual, and physical boundaries. I am also excited about developing new programs based on this book, which will help individuals and organizations apply these principles in real time.

A major focus of my work right now is helping nonprofits certify their volunteers and board members in life coaching so they can better serve their audiences. Many organizations are doing incredible work, but their teams often lack the coaching tools needed to guide and support those they serve effectively. By equipping nonprofit leaders with life coaching certifications, I’m ensuring that they not only provide resources but also offer transformational support that fosters real change in communities.

This year is all about expansion. Between the Paris keynote, the launch of Access Denied, Access Granted, my work with nonprofits, and upcoming retreats, I’m committed to helping more people embrace their power, protect their peace, and live intentionally. My goal is to ensure that whether through my books, coaching, speaking engagements, or nonprofit initiatives, people walk away with tools to make empowered choices that align with their purpose.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Self-Awareness: The Foundation of Growth

Understanding who I am—my strengths, triggers, and purpose—has been a cornerstone of my journey. Self-awareness allows you to make decisions that align with your values rather than being led by external expectations. It also fosters emotional intelligence, helping you navigate relationships and challenges with clarity.

Advice:
For those early in their journey, start with self-reflection. Journaling, therapy, or coaching can help uncover limiting beliefs and patterns. My Self Vows series is designed to guide individuals through this process, helping them define their personal vows and values.

Adaptability: Embracing Change with Resilience

Life doesn’t follow a script, and the ability to pivot has been crucial in my personal and professional growth. From navigating my health challenges to shifting the direction of my coaching business, adaptability has allowed me to transform obstacles into opportunities.

Advice:
Be open to learning and evolving. Read, seek mentorship, and embrace discomfort as a sign of growth. Challenges will come, but they can be stepping stones if you’re willing to shift perspective. My upcoming book, Access Denied, Access Granted, speaks directly to this—understanding when to allow change and when to hold firm in your boundaries.

Setting Intentional Boundaries: Protecting Your Energy and Purpose

For a long time, I struggled with saying no, fearing it would disappoint others. Over time, I learned that without boundaries, you leave yourself emotionally and physically depleted. My recent diagnosis reinforced this truth: boundaries aren’t about pushing people away; they’re about preserving your well-being..

Advice:
Start small—set limits on your time, energy, and emotional space. Communicate them clearly and don’t apologize for protecting your peace. If you’re unsure where to start, Access Denied, Access Granted offers exercises on boundary.

Your journey will be uniquely yours, but these three skills—self-awareness, adaptability, and boundary-setting—will serve as guideposts. Invest in your personal growth, surround yourself with supportive communities, and never stop evolving.

How would you describe your ideal client?

My ideal client is someone who is ready for transformation—not just interested in change, but committed to doing the deep, introspective work required to heal, grow, and set intentional boundaries. They are often at a pivotal moment in their life—whether it’s a personal crisis, a career shift, a relationship challenge, or a need for deeper self-discovery.

Characteristics of My Ideal Client:

1. Willing to Do the Inner Work – They understand that true transformation starts from within. They are open to self-reflection, honesty, and accountability.

2. Committed to Healing and Growth – Whether healing from past wounds, navigating personal challenges, or redefining relationships, they are committed to a journey of self-improvement.

3. Open to New Perspectives – They are willing to explore new ways of thinking, challenge old beliefs, and step outside their comfort zone.

4. Seeking Alignment and Purpose – They are not just looking for quick fixes; they want a life that aligns with their values, purpose, and true desires.

5. Ready to Set and Enforce Boundaries – Whether in relationships, work, or personal growth, they are prepared to define who and what has access to their life.

Who I Serve:

Individuals in Transition – Whether navigating a breakup, career shift, or major life change, they need guidance in redefining their path.

Leaders & Entrepreneurs – Business owners, executives, and professionals who want to develop deeper self-awareness and strengthen their personal and business relationships.

Couples & Individuals Seeking Relationship Clarity – Those who want to strengthen their relationships or heal from past experiences.

Nonprofits & Organizations – I help nonprofit teams and boards get certified in life coaching so they can better support the communities they serve.

Schools & Hospitals – Through The Self Vows Littles and The Self Vows For Teens, I collaborate with educational institutions and healthcare facilities to introduce self-awareness, accountability, and emotional intelligence at an early age. This initiative ensures that young people have the tools to develop resilience, set healthy boundaries, and build strong self-esteem, no matter their circumstances.

My coaching style is compassionate, transparent, and deeply transformative. Whether I’m working with individuals, couples, professionals, or institutions, my mission is to guide people toward self-empowerment, intentional living, and meaningful relationships.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Ashley Eberbach

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