Michele Baran

Michele Baran is a career development professional and life coach whose work focuses on higher education, workforce development, and intentional living. With two decades of experience in college and career services, Baran coaches, mentors, and trains individuals to design lives with purpose and intention. Her background includes extensive work in higher education, career counseling, and small business advising, supporting students and clients in achieving personal, academic, professional, and business goals.

Baran is a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and serves as a workforce development activator and facilitator, using a data-informed, strengths-based approach in her coaching practice. She provides practical tools, frameworks, and strategies to help individuals align their lives with their values and goals. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes that creating a meaningful life requires intentional action and sustained momentum.

Baran has contributed to the small business community as a graduate of SUNY Cortland and as a senior business advisor at the North Central NY Small Business Development Center. In this role, she supports entrepreneurs and small business owners in navigating growth and opportunity. Her work has been recognized within her state network for its impact on the local community.

Baran’s presentation style incorporates learning theory to enhance engagement and retention. As a career advisor, reflective listener, accountability partner, and career exploration facilitator, she bridges the gap between career development and professional values. Baran’s approach combines academic expertise, practical experience, and a commitment to supporting students, professionals, and entrepreneurs in their career journeys.