Michael graduated from Appalachian State University, where he designed his academic major in leadership development. Within a few years of graduation, he began addressing any group composed of two or more. Soon, Michael was speaking full-time and has become one of the most sought-after speakers in his profession.

During the last 20+ years, the nearly three thousand audiences Michael has addressed have included events such as The Million Dollar Round Table, a Congressional Dinner, and in Spearfish, South Dakota--a Barbecue and Goat-Dipping. He has shared the podium with noted politicians, journalists, athletes, and CEO’s and takes pride in the fact that he has been upstaged only by an orangutan!

Michael and his family are active in their faith, are involved with numerous youth organizations and have created a special summer camp for teens from residential children’s homes and foster homes.

Michael has serious concerns about the erosion of traditional values. An avid reader, his library bulges with volumes about people who have dedicated their lives to great causes. He chose a career in professional speaking because he has a sincere passion to inspire people to maximize their potential, serve others, enhance their sense of gratitude, and achieve a life balance. Michael believes that "success is when we have some of the things that money can buy and a lot of the things that money can’t buy."

Programs
• Killing Stress Before It Kills You: Everything's Coming Up Neurosis
  Michael says stress is still more often the result of what we value than the result of difficult situations. Today's mandate to accomplish more in less time and do it with fewer people leaves in its wake many who are searching for ways to cope. In a nation that nearly consumes its weight in antacid pills, this will help your audience overcome burnout.

• A Humorous Look at Personal, Professional and Family Success: How to Be a Liver of Life and Not a Gall Bladder
  Achieving balance in living is the ultimate barometer of success. In a hectic age when we are pulled in so many directions, Michael shows the keys to focusing our talents for the benefit of others and ourselves. Motivation, people management, family life, self esteem and goal setting techniques are delivered in a hilarious, yet informative style.

• You'll See It When You Believe It: Become the Person You Dream To Be!
  This stimulating presentation encourages the audience to make the most of their lives by setting specific objectives, overcoming procrastination, learning from adversity and maintaining a vision. In this competitive era, Michael's performance strategies will give your people an edge as they listen, laugh and learn about the principles of achievement.

• Be a People Power Person! (Leadership, Service and Teamwork)
  Michael talks about interacting with employees, customers and family ... the people business. He teaches principles of teamwork and the art of working and living with others. Persuading and listening, critiquing and praising, managing, serving and leading are the areas of emphasis. This program is emotionally powerful, intellectually stimulating and spiced with spontaneous good humor that is Michael's trademark.