Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel

Growing up in Georgia, I felt like something was missing from my life, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. I was musically inclined as a girl but no one seemed to care so I forgot all about it. I was trapped inside an abusive home and escaped by winning scholarships to schools in other states.

 

I got a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Princeton. Years later, I was voted “Most Inspirational Professor” at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Still, I felt empty. Something deep inside kept whispering, "You are meant for more."

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After discovering I could sing and write songs, I ditched academics to follow my musical calling, despite being called “crazy” by colleagues. My tunes have topped overseas and U.S. college radio charts, and been on ABC, HBO, Encore, and Showtime. I've won 17 Billboard International songwriting awards. 

 

For 20 years, I have used psychology and music in my TOTAL ROCK STAR program to help thousands excel in work, school, and life by discovering their unique superpowers and purpose. Dubbed the “rock star psychologist” by my students, I now teach creativity classes and coach individuals across the U.S. 

 

I've also climbed the ladder from user researcher to VP of Customer Insights. I now run a consulting agency with clients like Google and Intel. You can find me on Psychology Today and the Board of Oregon Friends of Jung, one of the most respected nonprofits to host world-renowned Jungian analysts and scholars.

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My site, michellechappel.com, was chosen as “One of 15 Brilliant Websites That Will Inspire And Change Your Life” by Lifehack.org. My book, "The Power of Authenticity" will come out in 2026. 

 

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