What happens when surviving cancer as a newborn, enduring a stroke in your 30s, and facing emergency open-heart surgery becomes the foundation for a life lived with purpose, perspective, and courage?
In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, I sit down with my friend Mikki Gates, a TEDx speaker, executive leader, advocate, and someone whose story will stay with you long after this conversation ends. Mikki shares how being born with cancer shaped her outlook from the very beginning, why a series of missed diagnoses nearly cost her life, and how a massive tumor inside her heart was finally discovered only after she suffered a stroke. What followed was emergency surgery, years of recovery, and a profound shift in how she viewed herself, her work, and what truly matters.
Together, we talk about the difference between being fearless and being resilient, why becoming unshakable has nothing to do with perfection, and how learning to advocate for yourself can change the course of your life. Mikki also opens up about the pressure many high achievers place on themselves, the challenge of letting go of perfectionism, and why wellness deserves a place alongside ambition rather than behind it.
This conversation is a reminder that strength is not about avoiding hardship. It is about continuing forward when life becomes uncertain. Whether you are facing a personal challenge, navigating change at work, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, Mikki offers a perspective that can help you pause, breathe, and see your circumstances through a different lens.
We also discuss finding joy during difficult seasons, permitting yourself to rest, and one powerful question that may completely change how you think about your worries and struggles. It is a conversation about perspective, humanity, and discovering what really matters when everything else falls away.
As you listen, ask yourself: If life forced you to stop and reassess everything tomorrow, what would you want to change today? And what might become possible if you permitted yourself to become a little more unshakable?
Mikki Gates is a dynamic force in leadership, development, and personal growth. As the Vice President of Administration at iDE, she expertly navigates the intersection of HR, compliance, and technology, driving initiatives that empower global teams and foster innovation. Mikki is also the Founder and Organizer of TEDxManitouSprings and the acting Past President of SHRM Southern Colorado, where she has made significant contributions to the community. Additionally, she serves as a Mentor & Guide at LifeGuides, helping others unlock their potential one meaningful conversation at a time.
Mikki’s commitment to enhancing health and well-being in the workplace is deeply personal, stemming from her own experiences with life-threatening illnesses, including being born with ovarian cancer and experiencing a stroke and emergency open-heart surgery in her 30s. This journey fuels her passion for authentic leadership and resilience.
Mikki’s engaging keynote speeches resonate with audiences, addressing vital topics like leadership, authenticity, and community impact. Her recent TEDxOshKosh talk, “When is the Last Time You Really Thought About Toilets?”, showcases her unique ability to humanize the stage and create meaningful connections.
Known for her infectious enthusiasm and genuine approach, Mikki inspires others to embrace their passions and lead with purpose. Join us as she shares her journey, insights, and actionable strategies for fostering inclusive leadership and creating thriving work environments.
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About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP
Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization.
Visit heatheryounger.com or https://www.cmispeakers.com/heather-r-younger for more details.
