Michelle Robinson, MSL
Michelle Robinson, MSL, is a dynamic leader and strategic problem solver with extensive experience in operations, finance, and organizational development. She currently serves as the Director of Finance and Operations at Village Canopy in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, where she manages day-to-day operations to enable the CEO, COO, clinicians, and mentors to focus on supporting at-risk youth. In addition to her operational leadership, Michelle owns and runs Coaching 391, providing mentorship and coaching in performance, leadership, change management, and lifestyle strategies, helping clients navigate both personal and professional transitions effectively.
Michelle’s career spans diverse sectors, including legal administration, insurance, publishing, and coaching. She previously served as a judicial assistant in Idaho’s District Court, where she managed complex administrative and legal processes, and as a claims administrator at Liberty Mutual, where she improved workflow efficiency and trained offshore teams. Her background also includes editorial and project management roles in magazine publishing, where her creative problem-solving and organizational skills earned recognition for excellence and innovation.
A lifelong learner, Michelle holds a Master of Legal Studies from Pepperdine Law and a Bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership Development and Business Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She is certified by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP Global) and as a Full Focus Pro, reflecting her expertise in change management, leadership development, and strategic coaching. Beyond her professional work, Michelle actively volunteers with organizations supporting women and youth, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement and empowerment.
• ACMP Member Badge
• Full Focus Certified Pro
• Paralegal
• Personal Trainer & Nutrition
• Pepperdine Law- Master's
• University of Massachusetts Amherst- Bachelor's
• National University - School of Law
• Santa Rosa Junior College- Associate's
• Alpha Sigma Lambda
• National Association of Legal Assistants
• National Association of Professional Women
• International Coaching Federation
• Christian Legal Society
• 4H/Future Farmers of America
• Global Diversity & Inclusion Foundation
• Spokan Women's Shelter
• Newlife Church - Bainbridge Island
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining a “can do” positive attitude, fostering open communication, and empowering others by collaborating alongside them, even in departments where I’m not in charge.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to cross-train everyone in the organization, so the team doesn’t rely on just one person, which is essential for achieving work-life balance.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to approach it with flexibility and humility, stay coachable, and make time each day to find the joy in the work, even though it can be emotionally challenging.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in my field right now is navigating funding pressures from the Department of Health and Welfare on state and federal contracts, while balancing the reliance on community donations, and my biggest personal obstacle has been maintaining work-life balance.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are integrity, honesty, and open communication. I take pride in empowering others—whether through my role at The Village, my executive coaching business, or helping leaders overcome burnout—while also staying active, pursuing personal growth, and enjoying my passions for skiing, fitness, and all things water.