Author Apologizes for Failing to Recognize Key Support at Book Launch

In a personal post shared on LinkedIn, author Uma Subramanian issued a public apology to her house manager, Michelle, after failing to acknowledge her during a recent book launch event in Portland.

Subramanian, who recently published The Sought-After Leader, described the book launch as a “huge success” but noted that the celebration felt incomplete due to a significant oversight on stage.

Writing to her professional community, Subramanian explained that while she thanked many people during the event, she forgot to recognize the individual she described as her “Chief Life Officer.”

The author noted that Michelle joined the family only a few months ago following their move to Portland, yet has since become an integral part of their household operations.

Subramanian used the occasion to highlight the specific ways Michelle supports her professional and personal life. According to the LinkedIn post, Michelle handles a variety of tasks ranging from assembling boxes for book backers to managing the family’s home and care for children, Milo and Mia.

The author expressed regret that Michelle did not receive the applause she deserved during the live presentation. “It breaks my heart that I missed that moment,” Subramanian wrote.

Subramanian linked the incident to the central themes of her new book, The Sought-After Leader, which examines the importance of making “invisible contributions visible.”

“Michelle is the person who keeps our world running. From helping assemble the very first boxes for my book backers to handling a million little things behind the scenes… She takes care of things before I even realize they need taking care of.”

The post serves as a public request for the LinkedIn community to provide Michelle with the “standing ovation” that was missed during the Portland event.

Subramanian concluded her message by stating that the oversight served as a personal reminder that “recognition begins at home.”

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