Michael Waldram: From Uncertainty to Achievement

POCATELLO, Idaho––When you meet Michael Waldram, you wouldn't immediately guess the eventful story behind this accomplished family man and successful entrepreneur. His path hasn't always been straightforward. Starting with little certainty about his future, he gradually built a career based on hard work, self-questioning, and an open mind. Now at the helm of 45 McDonald's restaurants, Waldram is the perfect illustration that an unusual path can lead you far.

 

Michael was born and raised in Pocatello, Idaho. He spent his entire childhood there, between the classrooms of Jefferson Elementary and the halls of Pocatello High School. The youngest of four children, he grew up in a family that instilled strong values in him: honesty, hard work, and ambition. "My parents taught me to aim high, to be honest and persevere, whether in sports, academics, or community life," he says.

 

Like many young people, he considered pursuing an athletic career for a while. Passionate about basketball, he even considered attending a small university to play. But ultimately, his heart had its reasons: he chose Idaho State University (ISU), his hometown university, a choice guided by reason: to stay close to his family, limit expenses, and above all, to open opportunities.

 

His first year of university didn't go as planned. Lacking commitment, he took a break to complete a two-year mission within his church. Back at ISU, he returned with renewed enthusiasm, but uncertainties remained. Initially drawn to dentistry, he quickly realized that this field wasn't for him. He then considered law, but there again, doubts set in. It was through a summer sales program that he discovered the joy of surpassing himself. Yet, he remained undecided about his academic future. 

 

On the advice of a loved one, he reluctantly agreed to consult a guidance counselor. This meeting would change the course of his life. The counselor suggested an argumentation and debate course with the late Professor Emeritus Bruce Loebs, PhD., also known by the ISU Alumni Association as the Most Influential Professor. It was an offer that terrified him at first: he had bad memories of his public speaking class as a freshman. But something inside him told him to try, so he went for it.

 

Professor Loebs uncovered a hidden talent in Waldram. He encouraged him, pushed him, and gave him confidence. Michael got an A+ in the course, a revelation. The professor went further: he offered him a place in the communications department.

 

"I didn't see myself in this field at all, but he believed in me,” Waldram says, “So, I followed his intuition." He joined the Organizational Communication and Rhetoric program, where he took classes with renowned professors such as Nancy Legge, PhD., and James (Jim) DiSanza, PhD. He flourished, finally finding his way. "I was learning about myself. It was exciting."

 

After graduation, a new offer awaited him: his father-in-law, who had worked at McDonald's for 35 years, suggested he join the family business. Michael initially declined. But an Achilles tendon injury during a basketball game gave him second thoughts. Finally, he and his wife decided to give it a try.

 

They moved to Florida in 2010. Michael started from scratch, despite his diploma. He mopped floors, cleaned windows, and learned every detail of restaurant operations. "I had high school kids giving me orders. But I learned everything from the ground up."

 

Four years later, an exceptional opportunity presented itself: the owner of 21 restaurants in Nashville was retiring. The family of 18 people sold their six Florida restaurants and moved. Today, with his two brothers-in-law and his father-in-law, Michael co-manages 45 restaurants. He is officially a licensed owner-operator.

 

Michael says what he learned at ISU serves him every day. Interpersonal communication, argumentation, and understanding social dynamics: all tools that help him lead teams, manage conflict, and inspire trust.

 

He highlights the role of ISU's committed professors, "They take the time to get to know you. They will see you. They believe in you."

 

Michael never lost touch with his university. He established a scholarship in the name of Professor Bruce Loebs, who has passed away, a profound gesture of gratitude: "I remember sitting in class, stressing about paying for next semester's tuition. I promised myself that one day, I would help a student, the way I wished someone had helped me." 

 

When asked what he would say to a student, his answer is simple: Dare to think differently. “We often think we must follow a certain path. But it was by thinking outside the box that I found my place. ISU gave me that chance. It's an accessible, compassionate university, where everyone can find their path if they keep an open mind."

 

Today, Michael Waldron is a fulfilled man: husband, father of three, and accomplished business leader. But even more, he is proof that uncertain paths can lead to the most beautiful destinations.

 

About our contributor: Edmond Sigui, born and raised in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, is passionate about using administrative management and public policy to create lasting, equitable change. After working on agricultural technology and field management projects in Côte d'Ivoire, he came to Idaho State University to deepen his knowledge and broaden his perspective. As a research assistant for the MissionSquare Research Institute, he explored what motivates young people to pursue public service, reinforcing his belief in youth-driven transformation. Now a husband and father of four, Edmond is dedicated to advancing effective and fair public policies that improve lives across Africa and beyond. Bridging two continents and blending administration with humanity, he continues to build a meaningful path—faithful to his roots and focused on the future.

 

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Idaho State University was founded in 1901 and has grown to be one of the most comprehensive institutions in the country. The University is one of only six institutions in the US offering programs from technical certificates through graduate and professional degrees. As the state's designated lead institution in health professions, Idaho State is home to more than 75 percent of Idaho’s health degree programs. Idaho State attracts students from around the world to its campus locations in Pocatello, Meridian, Idaho Falls, and Twin Falls. More information about Idaho State University is available at isu.edu/about.