We feel the best way to attract students to a program relies on promotion that is clear about tangible value and clearly answers the "so what?" regarding topic. Sharing "behind-the-scenes" snippets, short-form video, pull quotes establish interest and a sense of authenticity. Since students are often "time-poor," emphasize the timing and format— 60-minute talk followed by a high-energy, interactive Q&A. Finally, tap into the "fear of missing out", how skipping or missing out on the message effect by shared student experience.

Photos for any marketing or promotion can be found below. Include Michelle in your posts @mgspeaksup and @with.the.hart.collective.

The speaker is comfortable working with all types of setups. Please aim to accommodate these requests as closely as possible.

• Every speaking area will need to be well lit.

• Auditoriums: curtain down, full or center-focused light wash; house lights down during the program 

• Ballrooms and Other Flat Rooms: A raised speaking area is preferred (at least 8’x8), lights focused on speaking area

For all keynotes and programs of 100 or more.

For the Speaker:

• One handheld wireless microphone.

• LCD projector with an HDMI cord, screen, and a support cart with an electrical outlet for the speaker's laptop (Speaker provides their own computer).

• Flat-top stool or a small table on the stage for water.

• One small bottle of water per presentation.

For the Pre-Program & Introduction:

• Music playing as participants enter is encouraged but not required.

• A separate podium with a microphone set off to the side for the person giving the introduction.

PDF Copy (Print)

Tone: High Energy / Anticipatory / Engaging

Long Introduction:

Michelle Guobadia might be a little more real and in-your-face than you expect from a speaker—and she’s totally fine with that. Known for telling it like it is, Michelle’s mission is to shake things up, especially when it comes to hazing, toxic traditions, and outdated leadership models. If you don’t leave her session a little uncomfortable (in a good way), she’ll assume the mic was off.

A nationally recognized hazing prevention advocate and higher ed pro, Michelle blends truth, humor, and tough love to challenge students to TRY HARDER and DO BETTER. She believes the only way to get to good answers is by asking the hard questions—and that real change starts when students are given permission to tackle scary topics, take risks, and even make a few people uncomfortable in the name of progress.

When she’s not traveling the country lighting fires under audiences, she serves as the Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life at UNC Charlotte, where she oversees 43 fraternities and sororities. Michelle is a proud Fall 2000 initiate of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. from the University of Delaware.

Short Introduction:

Michelle Guobadia is a dynamic, no-nonsense speaker who isn’t afraid to say what others won’t. Known for her real talk and sharp humor, she challenges fraternity and sorority communities to confront the issues holding them back—from hazing and toxic behaviors to recruitment practices and accountability gaps. Michelle believes greatness is possible, but only if students are willing to ask hard questions, take risks, and do better.

A nationally recognized higher education leader, she serves as Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life at UNC Charlotte, overseeing 43 chapters and inspiring change on campuses nationwide.

To ensure the speaker's message doesn't evaporate the moment students leave the room, you need to bridge the gap between inspiration and daily habit.

• Deploy "Nudge" Content: Send out a series of micro-lessons, "challenges" or impact statements/slides from the presentation. Breaking the keynote down into bite-sized, actionable prompts prevents cognitive overload and keeps the themes top-of-mind.

• Establish Peer Accountability: Create a dedicated space on your meeting agendas, where check-in with yourself and others on how they are applying the speaker's advice. Peer validation is a powerful motivator; seeing a classmate succeed using the speaker’s framework creates a "social proof" loop that sustains momentum.

• Gather Feedback: If you are surveying those in attendance, ask that they make a commitment to be a part of the challenge or change that was identified and discussed. Position or not, all members of a community contribute. If you gather feedback about the speaker or the message, we invite you to share it back with us so we can improve the program and promote its impact to other audiences. 

Prior to your program, you will receive an invoice. You have 15 days following your program to remit payment before additional fees will be applied.