Meet Melissa Mueller-Douglas

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Mueller-Douglas.

Hi Melissa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
In my college days as a middle hitter on the volleyball team, I discovered the essence of teamwork and leadership. The principles of communication, trust, and collaboration, instilled by my coach, became the foundation of my success on the court. I applied the skills honed in college sports to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment within the workplace. With a focus on supporting Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) with team-building workshops, the journey from the volleyball court to the corporate arena allowed me to bridge the gap between sportsmanship and the cohesive spirit vital for success in modern workplaces. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey of team building through chocolate instead of trust falls has surprisingly been a smooth and delightful road. In transitioning from volleyball to entrepreneurship, I’ve found that the universal love for chocolate serves as a unique and effective bonding tool. However, this journey isn’t without its amusing moments. One memorable instance involved a prospect HR leader joking that she would hang up during my sales pitch because falling into a vat of chocolate isn’t included on the workshop agenda. The lighthearted exchange highlights the unconventional nature of my approach. Yet, the success of this chocolate-themed team-building venture lies in its adaptability to the high-stress corporate environment. In a world where stress levels are elevated, creating a space for employees to unwind, connect, and share a laugh over chocolate has proven to be an effective way to foster calmness, enhance collaboration, and build stronger relationships with colleagues and clients alike. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The return on investment (ROI) of incorporating chocolate into team-building initiatives has proven to be both substantial and delicious. Beyond the immediate enjoyment of indulging in quality chocolate, the use of mindfulness as a bonding tool has translated into enhanced team cohesion and improved communication. The relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere created by Chocolate Mindfulness™ provides a unique platform for team members to connect on a personal level, fostering a sense of camaraderie. This increased synergy, in turn, has a positive impact on workplace collaboration and productivity. The chocolate meditation becomes a shared experience, breaking down barriers and fostering open communication. As a result, the overall ROI extends beyond the initial investment, contributing to a more positive work environment, improved employee morale, and strengthened team dynamics. Access to our MYRetreat App with daily 3-minute meditation paired with chocolate enables employees to sustain the mindfulness practices they learn during our workshop, yielding lasting benefits that go far beyond the Chocolate Mindfulness™ Wellness Workshop. 

What’s next?
In the world of corporate wellness, HR leaders often play a pivotal role in fostering a healthy workplace culture. However, amidst their dedication to the well-being of other departments, it’s not uncommon for HR professionals to neglect their own mental and physical health. Frequently promoting internal wellness resources, they inadvertently bypass these resources themselves. Recognizing this gap, I am thrilled to spearhead the first Chocolate Mindfulness™ Wellness Workshop exclusively designed for HR teams. It’s an exciting opportunity to shift the focus, ensuring that HR leaders feel engaged, prioritized, and appreciated. MYRetreat aims to create a space where HR professionals can not only advocate for well-being but actively participate in their own self-care journey. This initiative seeks to reinforce the value of prioritizing one’s wellness, even in roles dedicated to enhancing the well-being of others. 

Pricing:

• In-Person Chocolate Mindfulness™ Wellness Workshop: $3000
• Virtual Chocolate Mindfulness™ Wellness Workshop: $1000
• MYRetreat App: Free to Download
• MYRetreat (In-App) Chocolate Subscription: $30/Quarter

Contact Info:

• Website: https://bio.site/myretreat

Image Credits
Pedro Lebron Photography
Bona Fide Collective