The Strength Starts Here Project

Michael has been leading for over 35 years and is passionate about helping people and organizations lead and win.  He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel from the Marine Corps after 24 years of military service.  He deployed numerous times around the globe including combat in Iraq. In addition to his time in the military, he has directed a non-profit organization and founded his own consulting firm.  These experiences have given him a unique blend of leadership skills and widely sought-after perspectives. 

Married to his wife Jenna for 30 years, he is still very much in love; they have six children.  Michael is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and the Marine Corps Command and Staff College.  He holds a Master of Theology from Saint Leo University.

 Joe Farris has spent the last 25 years working in and around faith communities. He has served as a youth minister, teacher, missionary, and leader of (3) nationwide ministries.  Furthermore, he has traveled all over North America and spoken to hundreds of thousands of young and old with a consistent message of hope and encouragement. Finally, he has appeared in various video projects including a documentary about what true masculinity entails. Joe has been called an eclectic blend of storyteller, comedian, and motivator. His most important work is 29 years of marriage to his wife Ashley and his 6 incredible children.   Joe is a graduate of North Carolina State University and has done graduate work in Education and Theology. He holds various certifications in speaking and coaching.