Life-coaching business takes off

by Shelby Munoz

Mikale Burcher, '11, also known as Mikki, has taken all she’s experienced and poured it into her new life-coaching business, which she simply calls Mikale Burcher.

During her time in mass media, Burcher held multiple internships, was the editor-in-chief for three different publications, and was the news editor for Student Media. Burcher graduated with a double major in mass media and English. She later went back to Washburn University to get a master’s degree in liberal arts. Now, she’s a business owner dedicated to giving life-coaching advice to women.

Burcher has gone through many hardships during her life. At times, she said she felt sad, angry, and hopeless. However, through it all, Burcher found a passion in sharing her story with other women who were also going through difficult situations.

Burcher soon realized that with her educational and professional background, she had the skills to share her story and advice from a professional platform. When she felt ready, she began her life coaching business, Mikale Burcher. Her Spark Change program gives guidance to women who deal with tough obstacles in life and need steps to overcome them.

Burcher’s serious about being the best life coach possible and part of the work she puts into her business includes constantly learning. She currently listens to podcasts talking about the industry she’s in.

“People are going to need to get different things out of a life-coaching podcast, but I listen to 'Maintenance Phase,'” said Burcher.

This podcast by Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbs debunks wellness and health scams. Burcher doesn’t fear listening to opinions other than her own as she also recommends “If Books Could Kill” by Michael Hobbs and Peter Shamshiri.

“This podcast goes a bit against my business, but it talks about books that over promise and under deliver,” said Burcher.

Sophia Brazington, a client of Burcher's, left a positive review of the business.

Mikki Burcher, '11, is currently self-employed as a life-coaching business owner. She is the creator of Spark Change, a small system for massive change.

“If you’re ready to put in the heart and have someone match your energies, do it,” Brazington said. “You deserve the greatest cheerleader, and Mikale is one of the best.”

Maria Stover, professor and chair of mass media, remembers having Burcher in class.

“Mikki has always been an outstanding communicator and a hard worker,” Stover said. “Her genuine compassion for others and deep interest in human rights stood out when she was in my class and I am certain they are instrumental in her career now.”

Burcher has high hopes for her life coaching journey.

“I hope in five years to have an empire,” Burcher said. “I want to hire people and have helped at least a thousand women by then.”

Burcher wants to motivate women who were just like her during her lowest point in life. She wants to inspire them to change their lives for the better.