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Transitioning from an employee mindset to owning and thriving in your own business is no small feat. Michele Cochran, founder of Six Twenty Six, exemplifies resilience and determination as she shares her story of turning challenges into opportunities. Her company, which specializes in promotional products with “soul and substance,” has become a beacon for values-driven business practices.
The Heart Behind the Name
Six Twenty Six isn’t just a business name; it’s a deeply personal milestone for Michele. She met her husband on June 26, 2001, married him on the same date in 2004, and officially began her entrepreneurial journey in June 2005. This timeline captures the essence of love, resilience, and the start of a new chapter.
Breaking Free: The Shift from Employee to Business Owner
Michele’s journey to independence wasn’t immediate. Starting as an employee within a promotional products distributor, Michele faced the challenge of being “acquired as an asset” and operating under systems that limited her potential. It wasn’t until 2017, after grappling with personal hurdles and professional misalignments, that she boldly stepped into her role as a true business owner.
Her “aha moment” came in 2016, realizing that her sales and vision could thrive better under her own terms. “It was the right way for her to move forward, underscoring the importance of aligning business practices with personal values.
Overcoming Life’s Challenges
From navigating personal health issues, supporting her husband through cancer, and balancing the demands of raising a child, she persevered. These life events delayed her business evolution but also fortified her resolve.
Her decision to become fully independent was both practical and deeply personal. “I just couldn’t deal with having a new baby, cancer, my health issues, and making a big change,” she explained.
Building a Values-Driven Business
Six Twenty Six is more than a promotional products company; it’s a reflection of Michele’s commitment to relationships and sustainability.
Eco-Conscious Practices: During COVID, Michele introduced a “Plant a Tree” initiative, planting nearly 300 trees to offset their carbon footprint. Clients not only receive quality products but also contribute to the environment—a powerful way to commemorate projects.
Transparent Supply Chains: Michele ensures her supply chain is vetted, dependable, and ethical. From addressing misprinted orders promptly to adhering to strict manufacturing transparency laws, her dedication to quality shines through.
Customer Engagement: By fostering strong partnerships and maintaining open communication throughout projects, Michele embodies her company values: engage, recognize, and commemorate.
Finding Community in WBEC-West
Michele attributes much of her growth to WBEC-West and the WBENC Platinum Supplier Program. These organizations provided her with the tools to succeed, from crafting a capability statement to perfecting her corporate pitch. Notably, WBEC-West connected her with peers, even competitors, fostering collaboration over competition.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Michele’s journey offers a wealth of lessons:
Bet on Yourself: Transitioning from employee to business owner requires confidence and resilience.
Seek Resources: From Small Business Development Centers to accreditation programs, Michele emphasizes the importance of leveraging available tools.
Align with Values: Partner with people and organizations that share your vision and integrity.
Conclusion
Michele’s story is one of perseverance, love, and the power of betting on yourself. Six Twenty Six stands as a testament to what’s possible when values, passion, and hard work converge. As her son prepares to join the family business, Michele’s legacy is poised to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Six Twenty Six proves that business success isn’t just about transactions—it’s about heart, relationships, and making a difference. To learn more about Six Twenty Six, visit https://sixtwentysix.net/ and listen to the most recent episode of Women in Motion to hear Michele’s full journey: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/six-twenty-six/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.
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