Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to MIchelle Barnett Wichern. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
MIchelle, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
As a child, I always felt like it was my responsibility to keep everyone in the family happy. I grew up with an alcoholic father which made it chaotic at home. He was a functioning alcoholic which meant he still worked and provided for us so he was also resilient. I am strong and resilient because I had to be. While my father was an alcoholic, he was also my best friend and one of the kindest purest souls to strangers. I always knew I was meant for more and to go after what I want. My dad was my biggest cheerleader. I never let anything in my life keep me down. I truly enjoy helping people and I think that fosters resilience in me as well. If I were to just let life get me down then I couldn’t help my friends and family reach their full potential and happiness also.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I graduated from the University of Florida in 2016 and moved to Nashville, TN to pursue the music business! My path was not a straight line. I volunteered with MANY music business organizations and met a lot of people however got slightly burnt out being unable to make genuine connections. I ended up working at a few dental offices, managing one in the end. I learned so much about myself and truly grew as a person, learning how to work under pressure and deal with conflict. I like to lead by example. Anything that my employees had to do I would also do. I do not believe I am above anybody and truly treat everyone with respect. It was finally time to start applying to work in the music business again and I applied everywhere until I finally landed a job as an executive assistant at a boutique booking agency. After getting comfortable at the agency I also joined Women in Music Business Association where I have created some of the best friendships. My favorite part about the music business is the community that it has. In the future I would really love to work in Radio Promotions at a record label. I find it so intriguing to pitch singles to radio and connect music to the fans. Nothing connects people quite like music. I listen to music to clean, when I shower, driving, all the time. Attending live music events is one of my favorite things to do. I do not only love Women in Music Business association for the great connections I have made but because it has helped put me in a position where I can give back. I am very excited to see where I end up but I am so grateful for my experiences so far.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
I would say that the qualities and skills that have been the most impactful on my journey are my sincerity in everything I do and say, thinking outside of the box and persistence. Also my drive to get to know other people. I love meeting strangers and getting to know what makes them happy. My best advice is to be kind to everyone you meet. I met someone who said that people are opportunities and he has an opportunities spreadsheet where he keeps note of everyone he meets and puts a note about how they met and things they mention. I think genuine connection is so important. Really figure out what you want and do everything in your power to make it happen. Always think outside the box and find ways to stand out. Some things I do people may think is too much but it has gotten me where I am. Send the text or email, make the phone call! Tell people when you are thinking about them or if something reminds you of them.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
In the past 12 months I have made a point to put my words and goals into action! I was able to connect with someone who gave me a little kick that I needed. Forever I let things be dreams but now I am working harder to take action to make those dreams a reality. I think its really easy to get comfortable and feel like things should just happen for you. But it so important to really make it happen for yourself. I’ve started utilizing my phone calendar and I joined a gym that I love which has given me a great routine. I feel like I have done a complete 180. I try to live everyday with a grateful heart and take action to create the life I want to live.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @lifehikeswithmichelle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelleebarnettt/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-barnett-wichern-686542b6/
Image Credits
Jessica McIntosh (Music is my Business campaign)
