As part of the Morning Lazziness series about empowering women who encourage and do incredible things with their ideas in society, I had the pleasure of interviewing Michelle Svartsjo.
With over 20 years of expertise in contract negotiation and a certified Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE), Michelle Svartsjo excels in guiding organizations through the complexities of commercial real estate investment and leasing. Her unique blend of experience in the public and private sectors positions her as a trusted advisor in navigating bureaucratic challenges and meeting governmental requirements.
Backed by a Bachelor of Arts, a Diploma in Alternative Dispute Resolution, and a Master’s Certificate in Contract Management, Michelle seamlessly integrates her academic background with practical knowledge. Her solution-driven approach and ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels—from ground operations to the C-suite—allow her to craft tailored strategies that align with organizational goals.
Whether managing fiduciary and legal risks, optimizing leasing strategies, or identifying growth opportunities, Michelle empowers clients to achieve sustainable success in the dynamic commercial real estate market.
Here’s what we found out about Michelle’s daily routine, followed by an exclusive Q+A.
What inspired you to become an entrepreneur, and what sparked the idea for your business?
After 22 years in the corporate world I could not find a fit that suited my needs as a professional, I became inspired to become an entrepreneur because I wanted to create something that truly aligned with my passion for empowering women. The spark for my business came from my own experiences navigating life’s transitions—personally and professionally—and recognizing the lack of support and resources available to women going through similar journeys. I knew I could build businesses that not only addresses these gaps but also creates meaningful impact.
As a woman navigating the business world, what challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I’ve faced is being underestimated. To overcome this, I’ve leaned into authenticity and expertise. By staying true to my values, building a strong track record, and surrounding myself with an empowering network like the Clarity Collective, I’ve been able to disrupt the norm regarding women in perimenopause.
How do you balance the demands of running a business with maintaining a healthy personal life?
Balance is a daily practice for me. I prioritize a schedule that includes time for my family, my personal growth, and self-care. I remind myself that I can’t pour from an empty cup, so I set boundaries, delegate where I can, and take breaks to recharge. My non-negotiables include my morning workout, my meditation practice and spending quality time with the ones I love.
Which networking strategies have most effectively built meaningful connections within your industry?
For me, networking is all about building authentic relationships. I focus on showing up as myself—whether that’s at industry events, speaking engagements, or through social media. Collaboration has also been key; I’ve worked with incredible women like nutrition experts, life coaches and career coaches to create collective solutions, which naturally builds meaningful connections.
How do you approach mentorship, and how has it shaped your entrepreneurial path?
Mentorship is a two-way street. I’ve had the privilege of being mentored by women who’ve pushed me to think bigger, and I strive to do the same for others. Whether I’m guiding a client through perimenopause, mentorship keeps me grounded and inspired by the ripple effect of helping others succeed. “A rising tide lifts all boats”, that is how I feel about mentoring women.
What strategies have worked best for selling your products and reaching your ideal customers?
The best strategy has been leading with value. Whether it’s offering a free workshop, sharing relatable stories, or creating educational content, I focus on building trust with my audience first. When women see that I genuinely understand their struggles and can offer real solutions, they naturally want to work with me.
Which marketing techniques have been most successful for your business, and how do you track their performance?
Social media has been a game-changer, especially platforms like Instagram where I share quick sound bites and tips. I track performance through engagement metrics like comments, shares, and direct messages—these show me where I’m resonating with my audience. Word-of-mouth referrals have also been invaluable.
Can you share a significant setback in your business journey and the steps you took to overcome it?
One significant setback was the challenge of pivoting my mindset coaching business to focus on perimenopause—a topic that’s still somewhat taboo. It was difficult to break through the stigma, but I leaned into my own story and the stories of my clients to make it relatable. I also created a transformative framework (The ARC Method), which helps me communicate the value of what I offer.
What’s the most important advice you’d give to women just starting their entrepreneurial journey?
Start before you feel ready. Too often, women wait for the perfect moment or for all the stars to align. The truth is, you learn and grow as you go. Build a circle of influence around you that you can trust and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember, progress is better than perfection.
Is there a mantra or quote that guides your actions and decision-making as an entrepreneur?
“Growth happens outside of your comfort zone.” This reminds me to embrace challenges, take risks, and keep pushing forward—even when it’s uncomfortable. Transformation is never easy, but it’s always worth it.
