Coaching & Consulting for

Franchisees
Business Owners
Family-Owned Businesses

Providing Practical Guidance for Stronger Leadership, Smarter Decisions, and Resilient Business Ownership!

Hi, I’m Michele Rice-Kirkwood,
founder of Resilient By Design.

With over 30 years of hands-on business ownership as a multi-unit McDonald’s franchisee — I know how much responsibility business owners carry. You’re not just running a business — you’re leading people, solving problems, making high-stakes decisions, and figuring out what’s next, often all at once.

I also know your business isn’t your whole identity. You built it to create opportunities — for yourself, your family, and your future. The key to long-term success isn’t just operational know-how — it’s the ability to adapt, lead with confidence, and design a business that supports the life you want to
live.

That’s where I come in. Whether you’re a franchisee navigating corporate relationships, an independent business owner trying to get unstuck, or a
family business balancing growth with family dynamics, I help you make clear, confident decisions and move forward — with purpose and
resilience.

01 Resilient Business Coaching

Practical guidance, real-world strategies, and a collaborative space to think
through your challenges, big decisions, and next steps — all grounded in
what works for you and your business.

02 Franchise Coaching

As a former franchisee, I help you handle the unique challenges of franchise ownership, from corporate policies to operational struggles to planning your next move.

03 Family Business Coaching

Family businesses are rewarding and sometimes tricky. I help family-
owned businesses set clear expectations, improve communication, and
plan for leadership transitions — without losing what matters most.

How I can help

What can you expect?

Straightforward
Conversation

NO FLUFF! No cookie cutter advice.

Practical
Strategies

Rooted in experience and tailored to your business and goals.

Support

You will recieve the support you need as a business owner and as a person. Because your business is mereley an extension of YOU!

Focus

I will work to ensure you are building a business that works for you, and gives you the opportunity to a have a life you can enjoy.

Lamont Johnson | CEO Montina Design

Testimonials

In the early stages of my business, it was difficult to determine my direction, who my target audience was, and how to develop a strategy to grow my business by reaching new clients. Michele has been an integral part of streamlining my focus. Of all the amazing gems she has given me, I'd say her coaching on being adaptable has had the most profound impact on my brands success.