On September 19, 1970, when he was barely eight weeks old, his family was hit by a drunk driver in Spring Valley, NY. Michael’s survival was hailed as a miracle since nearly all his bones were broken and his skull completely fractured. Unfortunately, his mother who was only 28, died due to her injuries. Michael turned this tragedy into his purpose in trying to eliminate impaired driving so others do not experience the same type of loss.
He attended Ashland University in Ohio on a swimming scholarship where he earned a degree in Communications. He also earned his Masters degree in Higher Education Administration from The University of Akron. Along with being a speaker, comedian, author and photographer, he is a Senior Advisor II at Kent State University where he has been for nearly 25 years.
With nearly 30 years’ experience on stage as a comedian and speaker, Michael has presented his programs at schools, colleges, military bases, and two TedxTalk programs. Michael has been presenting his The Magic of Life Program for 12 years at the Stow Municipal Court for first time drunk driver offenders. While it is an audience he never thought he would speak in front of, it is has been one of the most rewarding experiences in his speaking career. He has been a guest on several national podcasts talking about grief, trauma, and depression from the male’s perspective. His unique ability to use humor in these areas separates him from others. As Michael says, “If you can use humor to help make a difference in someone’s life, then you are doing something special.”
Despite the tragic loss of his mother, he and his brother were raised by an incredible Jamaican woman who took over the motherhood role along with his father. His memoir “The Magic of Life: A Son’s Story of Hope after Tragedy, Grief, and a Speedo” has not only inspired others to seek assistance with their mental health struggles but also feels like you’re having a “backyard conversation with Michael.” If you’re looking for a speaker that can make your audience laugh and inspire them with a powerful and emotional message, then Michael is your guy!
Watch his first TedxTalk presented at Kent State University in 2018.
Watch his second TedxTalk presented at Ashland University in 2024.
Being a comedian was the only thing Michael wanted to do as a kid other than becoming Spider-man. He has been performing comedy for almost 30 years. His comedy is centered around observational things in his daily life including being “Jewish -Jamaican,” along with topical issues that we can definitely laugh about. Michael has performed at clubs such as The Funny Stop, Pick Wick and Frolic, The Improv and Off The Hook Comedy Club.