Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Collins.
Michelle, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
When my oldest daughter was about four years old, I would sit her down in her room and tell her that one day she will go to the White House and she will need to learn how to walk, sit and speak properly. So we would practice in her pink and white room and I would have her repeat “I won’t settle for anything less than the best”, over and over. One day, I had an epiphany that if I could do this with and for her, then surely, I could share it with other girls as well.
I’ve always had an affinity for girls, from their big eyes full of promise and wonder to their personalities that develop with each stage. When I was blessed with my own two daughters who are now 13 and 17 {plus my handsome son who is 9 years old}, I was over the moon with gratitude. I also had begun working with youth in a leadership position at 13 years old and was known for my annual events that would bring together both the young and the seasoned.
In 2007, The Persona Program was created as an organization for girls 7-18 years old, where we build Confidence, develop Character and promote proper Conduct through our programs and events. Throughout the years, we have served hundreds of young girls in the greater Los Angeles area. In the beginning, we focused on etiquette and self-esteem. However, as the rise of the internet began to seep in as an integral part of this generation’s lifestyle, we have since evolved to share on entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, fostering the creativity in each girl.
However, the next personal revelation occurred when I realized that the focus needs to be the building up of the girl mentally, socially and emotionally, no matter if she makes it to the White House or not. I wanted to instill the mindset in each girl that “one girl can change the world” and the transformation could begin in their home, school, community and of course the world at large. In 2014, we zeroed in on our vision even more by having #BeautyBrainsBling sessions for girls 7-11, which have covered a variety of topics including the culinary arts and S.T.E.M.
A year later, we established #GirlLifeConfidential which was created as a mentorship platform for girls 12-18 to glean from successful women entrepreneurs, creatives and influencers, as a way of bridging the generational gap, so that we can best understand what each girl faces as she progresses to adult life. I wanted teens to know that the women they admire now, first had a story that is similar to what teens are currently facing. The generation might change, but some of the same problems still remain. This was a safe, intimate setting to share and empower each teen.
One of my favorite part of this journey has been connecting with the moms of The Persona Program. It is clear to me that they are a vital part of why The Persona Program exists. And so, I began tapping into the needs of the moms, being mindful of what they told me they needed from me. One way I did that was by designing the workbook “30 Ways in 30 Days to Be That Mom”, a journal style stimulus for moms raising a teen daughter. It is filled with sound parenting advice that is nourishment for both mother and daughter. We’re also excited that The Persona Program is now a non-profit organization!
After suffering a life-altering health episode in the fall of 2016 in the form of a heart attack, my personal brand began to grow wings of its own. As I continued serving my family, community and audience, concurrently, I was moving in the direction of my own inner healing, so that I would never experience that kind of episode again. During a time of seeking much clarity, making space for peace, being still and connecting with God, in 90 days, I wrote the book “Spirit Check: Practical Solutions for Emotional Mastery”. In Spirit Check, I expose from personal experience and observation and using biblical references and examples of how five common, toxic emotions (jealousy, intimidation, fear, pride and anger) can derail personal, professional and spiritual growth.
I now use each platform to share spiritual insights for practical living and I’m passionate about inner transformation and healing from the inside out for those who wish to make peace with their past, present and future.
One thing I know for sure, we may not be responsible for our pain, but we are certainly responsible for our healing. I want people to become intentional about healing and developing a mindset to be excellent no matter what or how they are feeling. And I know I have some transformative principles that if they are applied, we will be able to obtain the wholeness we all need and seek.
I have since added to Spirit Check by creating two workshops “What’s In Your Spirit?” and “Clean Inside”. These, with more to come, are my offerings, as I continue to share my story, my journey and the power of healing from the inside out.
Has it been a smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. Some of the struggles have been ensuring that I’m intentional about my own inner healing as I share with others the importance of their own. You can’t write a book about “Spirit Check” and not have to check your own spirit from time to time. I see how much inner work still needs to be done within me and I know the effort it takes to be aware to move in a healthier direction every day. This allows me to show empathy toward others.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I equip entrepreneurs of faith, believers and leaders to stay connected spiritually as they are building their business, brand and life. I specialize in helping other find practical ways to master their emotions, by cleaning out their emotional closet, getting rid of emotional baggage and starving toxic feelings.
I am proud that through my book, so many have received insight into daily living and solutions for relationships gown awry, but most importantly, the mindset that personal peace is a priority. My book has traveled to 7 states and 4 countries and we are just getting started!
What sets me apart is that I have a personal, riveting story that changed the trajectory of my life and instead of keeping it to myself, I’m helping others see the worth of living more excellently.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I love LA! I have traveled to numerous states and even out of the country and there is nowhere like sunny California!
Of course, I also love that it’s the City of Angels, filled with people who are intentional about building their dreams. I love that you can travel to the beach or to the mountains in one day. I love the weather and that the world is in awe of us.
What I hate about LA? The homelessness epidemic and the high cost of living
Pricing:
- “Spirit Check” Book $15 www.bit.ly/spiritcheckbook www.michelleharriscollins.com/books
- “Self Check T-shirt” $25 www.michelleharriscollins.com/shop
Contact Info:
- Website: www.michelleharriscollins.com www.thepersonaprogram.org
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: Michelle Harris Collins
- Instagram: @michelleharriscollins | @personaprogram
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
