In Episode 10 they interview

Rachel Michaud: 

Background:

Rachel Michaud is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience at Gillespie Group where she drives the strategic growth and elevation of the organization’s leadership practices. Her forward-thinking approach ensures that Gillespie Group maintains its stellar reputation of “we do what we say.”

Rachel expertly oversees the executive team, with a sharp focus on public-private partnerships and fostering strong client and community stakeholder relationships. In addition to her strategic acumen, Rachel excels in conflict resolution, team assemblage, and process optimization, ensuring that each initiative is executed with precision and aligns with the company’s goals. Her leadership is instrumental in both business development and operational management, where her ability to navigate complex challenges and build cohesive teams has been key to Gillespie Group’s success.

Recognized as a Notable Woman in Construction, Design, and Architecture by CRAIN’S Detroit Business in 2022, Rachel’s impact extends through her strategic planning and project execution initiatives. Her leadership continues to drive Gillespie Group’s sustained success, making her a cornerstone of the company’s achievements.

With hosts Becky Burtka & Lorri Rishar Jandron, their Questions:

● Rachel would love to include one additional topic: Choosing the Right ‘Yes.’

● When you think about the phrase “women who build,” what does it personally mean to you both as a leader and as someone shaping the landscape of Lansing?

● In your 25+ years at Gillespie Group, you’ve helped build more than properties; you’ve built teams, relationships and a culture. What are you most proud of building?

● What strengths do you believe women bring to the world of building, whether that’s building places, organizations, or opportunities?

● What advice would you give young women entering fields where they are still underrepresented?

● If you could pass one “building block” of wisdom to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?

● Who or what consistently inspires you outside the workplace?

Lorri and Becky sit down with Rachel Michaud, President and Chief Operating Officer of Gillespie Group, for an inspiring conversation centered on this episode’s theme: Women Who Build. Rachel embodies what it means to build—careers, communities, relationships, and opportunities—and she brings that spirit into every part of her leadership journey.

Rachel reflects on the people and experiences that have shaped her into the leader she is today, offering listeners a thoughtful look at how mentorship, curiosity and connection have guided her path. She shares why the relationships we cultivate matter, how asking questions opens doors and why staying grounded in who you are is essential to growing as a leader. Throughout the episode, Rachel’s insights highlight the power of women who build with intention—women who invest in others, strengthen their communities and create spaces where people can thrive.

This episode is a celebration of mentorship, authenticity and the builders among us who help shape the future of leadership.