Sharlene “Shar” Shineldecker
Chief Operating Officer, Cherette Group and Board Chair, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce
After 37 years with Transnation Title, where she helped grow the company into a multistate business, Shar Shineldecker made the difficult decision to leave a successful career and discover what else she was capable of.
Today, as Chief Operating Officer of Cherette Group and Board Chair of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, Shar has found renewed inspiration in developing future leaders and strengthening West Michigan communities.
Shar joins Amy Atkinson to share her experiences overcoming self-doubt, finding her voice as a woman in leadership and discovering the courage to begin a new chapter.
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⏱️ Timecodes:
00:00 – Introduction of Sharlene Shineldecker
01:13 – Small-Town Roots, Growing Up Shy, and Early Career Aspirations
09:41 – Stepping into Business Leadership: Buying Out TransNation in 2008
11:21 – Being the Only Woman (and Youngest) in the Boardroom
16:03 – Overcoming Doubt, Finding Inspiration, and Shifting Careers in Her 50s
18:27 – Leading as COO of Scharette Group and Working in Strategic Partnership
19:54 – Shaping the Future of the Mall and Community Real Estate
21:18 – Bridging Generational Gaps in Business and Mentoring Young Leaders
22:21 – The “Art of Business”: Attracting Talent, Retaining Leaders, and Chamber Leadership
24:32 – Looking Back: Advice to Her Younger Self on “Not Being Afraid”
Get in touch: info@inspirewestmichigan.com
Learn more: inspirewestmichigan.com
Growing up in the small farming community of Walkerville, Michigan, Shar Shineldecker was a shy young girl with limited exposure to career opportunities. But a strong work ethic, a love of learning and encouragement from her father to pursue an education helped set her on an unexpected path.
After beginning her career in mortgage lending, Shar discovered the title insurance industry and spent 37 years with Transnation Title. In 2008, she became the only woman among eight leaders who purchased the company’s West Michigan operations during a difficult economic period. Together, they grew the business from nine offices to 34 across multiple states.
In 2024, Shar made the difficult decision to leave that successful career and pursue a new opportunity as Chief Operating Officer of Cherette Group, where she helps grow the business, develop future leaders and support meaningful real estate development projects.
Today, Shar also serves as Board Chair of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. A two-time ATHENA Award finalist, she is passionate about mentorship, education and helping others recognize their potential.
