Career Congregation is your weekly gathering for all things career—a space to explore the highs, the lows, and the incredible stories of people who’ve navigated career challenges—from rock bottoms to remarkable comebacks.

This week’s episode features Michael Grova, a US-based Real Estate Developer and Designer whose career path defies convention. His story is one of career change, creative courage, and trusting intuition — from corporate finance to interior design and real estate and hotel development.

Michael shares how growing up with an Italian immigrant artist father shaped his creative lens early on. After starting his career in finance, he made the bold decision to leave the traditional path behind in search of a more adventurous life — a journey that led him to spend seven years living in Africa and shaping his early career.

We talk about life transitions, identity, and the mindset shifts that come with walking away from the expected path. Michael stresses that everyone has their own journey and there is no set formula to follow. From renovating his San Francisco home to becoming a lead interior designer for Airbnb, Michael’s story explores what’s possible when you lean into creativity and trust your inner voice.

Now designing his first boutique hotel, Michael is a Real Estate Developer and Designer bringing bold vision to life — he is living proof that following your instincts can lead to truly remarkable outcomes.

You can connect with Michael via his instagram:

@michaelgrova

@silvarrablueridge

@missionloft

© Meghan Fitzpatrick 2025