Teach it Forward: Developing People and Purpose with Michelle Orbovich-Williams

This week on Pathfinders, Pete Schramm sat down with Michelle Orbovich-Williams, a talent and organizational development leader whose story is a masterclass in resilience, clarity, and career agility. From early dreams of becoming a marine biologist (or an NSYNC backup dancer!) to juggling nursing school while working full-time in retail, Michelle’s journey is marked by courageous pivots and purposeful growth. Her turning point came when she realized she was more energized by developing people than clinical care. This prompted her to switch paths and step fully into the world of HR.

Michelle’s early experiences at Bath & Body Works, and a well-timed StrengthsFinder assessment, opened the door to leadership and talent development. Encouraged by a store manager who became a career champion, and later, mentor Randy Egolf, Michelle moved into learning and development roles at Victoria’s Secret and Alliance Data. She credits her evolution to a trusted personal board of advisors, including Dr. Brenda Jones, Mike from Cardinal Health, and Susan, who each offered guidance at key career inflection points. Their questions, encouragement, and accountability helped her navigate relocation, grief, and career transitions with intention.

Today, Michelle serves as Manager of Talent Development and Leadership at ZOLL Cardiac Management Solutions, leading strategies that support over 3,000 mission-driven employees. She champions the 70/20/10 learning model—and adds a personal twist: learning isn’t complete until you teach it forward. Her approach to L&D emphasizes human connection, microlearning, and aligning personal growth to business impact. Whether you’re early in your career or navigating change midstream, Michelle’s story is a reminder that career development is rarely linear, and that’s okay.

Michelle left listeners with two essential takeaways: build resilience and agility as your career superpowers, and invest in a community that lifts you personally and professionally. Empowering your people with a career map and a personal board of advisors isn’t just good for individuals—it’s transformative for organizations. When employees feel seen, supported, and clear about their growth? That’s when your culture truly comes alive.