The Baker Retailing Center welcomed Melissa Gonzalez, Principal at MG2 Design and author of The Purpose Pivot, for a fireside chat with Shea Jensen, President of Urban Outfitters North America. The discussion explored leadership, well-being, and how purpose can redefine success in today’s fast-paced world.
Gonzalez shared the personal experiences that inspired her book—moments of vulnerability that reshaped her view of achievement and leadership. “So many people started to share back with me—stories of strokes, cancer, adrenal failure—things they hadn’t shared before because they didn’t want to seem weak. We have to change that narrative,” she said.
Reflecting on the pressures faced by high achievers, Gonzalez noted, “There’s no such thing as work-life balance anymore—it’s work-life integration. Our bodies are always talking to us; we just have to pause and listen.” Her message encouraged students and professionals alike to lead with empathy, self-awareness, and intention.
Following the discussion, attendees—from Urban Outfitters executives to Wharton students—connected over a networking reception. With support from Simon G. Fine Jewelry, each guest received a signed copy of The Purpose Pivot, a reminder to find meaning beyond metrics and success through connection.
INSIGHTS FROM MELISSA
“Especially for driven achievers, there’s constant motion, constant messages, constant pressure. The key is learning to listen inward—to recognize what’s habit and what’s pure.”