LOE Episode 21: Michelle Dearholt – Tenacity, Transformation, and Leadership with Heart

In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Dearholt, the newly appointed President and CEO of Nusenda Credit Union — New Mexico’s largest locally owned financial institution. Michelle’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance, having risen through the ranks over two decades from teller to the top executive role.

But her story goes beyond the professional path. In the midst of her career trajectory, Michelle faced a life-altering stage three cancer diagnosis that forced her to pause and reassess everything — from her goals to her values.

Now back and stronger than ever, Michelle shares how that experience reshaped her approach to leadership, life, and the importance of staying grounded. She opens up abou ...