Top image: Ashley Davis, author and Michelle Jaconi, journalist and entrepreneur
Ashley Davis and Michelle Jaconi on intentional pivots, embracing change, and growing through discomfort. Every attendee at Engage’s 2026 State of the Majority Summit left with a copy of The Power Pivot, but before opening the first page, they heard the story behind it.
In a fireside conversation with journalist and entrepreneur Michelle Jaconi, Engage board member Ashley Davis reflected on the career decisions that shaped her journey from the White House to entrepreneurship, corporate board service, and national television. Together, Davis and Jaconi explored why the most meaningful pivots aren’t accidental. They are intentional, built through small steps, strengthened by community, and fueled by a willingness to embrace discomfort. At a time when artificial intelligence and rapid technological change are reshaping nearly every profession, both women challenged the audience to view change not as something to fear, but as an opportunity to grow.
“I’ve done a lot, but I’ve done it through really big intention and planning.” — Ashley Davis
“The Power Pivot doesn’t feel like an advice book—it feels like a friend is talking to you.” — Michelle Jaconi
“If you do have a goal of where you want to go... putting that goal in place and taking tiny pivots to get there may take years, but that’s how lasting change happens.” — Ashley Davis
“The agile pivoting you talk about is the thing every job is going to need, because we know change is coming - we just don’t know exactly where.” — Michelle Jaconi
“The older I get, the more comfortable I feel with failure.” — Ashley Davis
“We have to build up that muscle to not be afraid of failure.” — Michelle Jaconi
“If you’re able to actually tell people your end goal, it holds you responsible.” — Ashley Davis
“As soon as you do it, you notice how many people that resonates with.” — Michelle Jaconi
“Kids are resilient. Watching their parents grow, work hard, and continue to change is a good thing.” — Ashley Davis
“If you model the behavior of rebounding... you’re going to be fine.” — Michelle Jaconi
“We live in the best place in the world with the most opportunities... everyone in this room can continue to create something meaningful.” — Ashley Davis
“As women, this is when we can tell stories of optimism. That’s leadership—looking around the corner and saying, ‘Follow me.’” — Michelle Jaconi
