Fairygodboss of the Week: Michelle Keefe
Michelle Keefe saw a business need and decided to fill it with MomUp, a business that connects organizations with high-level female talent. This type of initiative from Keefe is not a surprise. Before MomUp, she successfully ran and sold a business by 30, received a graduate degree from Harvard and travelled the world with her husband and kids, who she homeschooled for the trip of a lifetime.
How has she managed such success and how is she sustaining a booming business now? She revealed this and more in her interview below.
Fairygodboss of the Week: Michele Keefe
CEO and Founder, MomUp
Tell us a little about your career. How did you get where you are now?
I started MomUp when I discovered how many of my friends wanted to continue their career path with businesses who value work-life balance. I found myself surrounded by highly educated, skilled, energetic multi-tasking mega stars that were unemployed and looking for new and exciting challenges. By forging partnerships with progressive companies and connecting them with skilled talent, I realized MomUp could make a huge impact.
I successfully ran and sold my first business, Misha K, before the age of 30. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and graduate degree from Harvard University. I now enjoy hanging out with my husband, three kids and dogs.
What's an accomplishment that you are proud of?
Starting two companies and planning a world traveling adventure with my family while homeschooling our three kids.
What's a challenge that you've faced and overcome?
Having a imposter syndrome and getting the confidence to put myself out there without worrying about public perception or failure.
What's the No. 1 career tip that you'd like to share with other women?
Fake it until you make. A lack of confidence can be deter us from achieving our goals and we deserve our successes!
Why do you love where you work?
It's exciting and challenging every day. The hard days may be hard but the wins feel amazing.
Who is your Fairygodboss? Why?
My husband. LOL. He's actually an amazing cheerleader and guide through this process.
What do you do when you're not working?
I play outside a lot. I teach yoga and also practice SUP (stand up paddle board) yoga.
If you could have dinner with one famous person — dead or alive — who would it be?
Brene Brown.
What's your karaoke song?
"Wagon Wheel" by Darius Rucker.
What's your favorite movie?
"Love Actually."
What book would you bring with you on a deserted island?
"Pride and Prejudice."
What's your go-to self care activity?
Face masks and yoga.
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