Join leader and speaker Michael Bonner in empowering conversations that unleash our potential, foster growth, and drive collective success. Gain insights, inspiration, and practical strategies from thought leaders across education and entrepreneurship. Rise together with our unified community of learners and leaders!
In this episode, Michael Bonner shares a vulnerable classroom moment that led to powerful reflection. What do you do when a student says something that hits hard? From emotional regulation to instructional shifts, this episode explores how educators can lead with empathy, curiosity, and adaptability.
In this new current events format, Michael Bonner moves from personal grief to tariffs, then into cultural moments with Shannon Sharpe and Shedeur Sanders. Through it all, he reminds listeners that life is tough, but so are we. Real talk, real topics, and the reminder that you're seen.
After the passing of his grandfather over spring break, Michael Bonner was reminded of how precious time and effort really are. In this episode, he shares strategies for finishing the school year strong. Big results don't come from big changes — they come from small, consistent adjustments that lead to major academic growth.
As Michael Bonner approaches 35, he reflects on uncertainty, purpose, and the shifting economy. With changes in the White House impacting tariffs, businesses, and investments, he explores how this affects his mission, finances, and students in NC. Tune in for insights on navigating doubt, adjusting strategy, and trusting the process.
Ships don't sink from the water around them—they sink when they let it in. In this episode, Michael Bonner shares how his morning routine was letting “water” in and reveals four ways to stay afloat: working out, monitoring social media, seeking exposure, and refusing to play small.
The most important conversation you'll ever have is with yourself. In this episode, Michael Bonner unpacks how the words we speak shape our reality—from personal struggles to major life moments like The Ellen Show callback. Choose your words wisely, speak growth, and remember: feelings are deceptive, but faith is powerful.
In this episode, Michael Bonner shares classroom, business, and life updates—including his newest speech and reflections from therapy. He challenges the idea of always reaping what we sow, introducing the wisdom of Grace and Mercy. What kind of seeds are you planting in your life? Let's explore.
Sometimes, even leaders need accountability. In this episode, Michael Bonner shares how his mentors, Clark and Bearden, called him out for slipping on grades—holding him to a higher standard. He unpacks three key lessons on accountability, leadership, and handling constructive criticism. Do you want to be great or not?
In this episode, Michael Bonner addresses two key challenges in teaching—academic and behavioral growth. He shares three essential components: creating a positive environment, building relatable relationships, and encouraging students to embrace failure. Tune in for practical strategies to foster meaningful growth in the classroom.
Michael Bonner introduces a new podcast format with bi-weekly episodes and expanded content. He encourages listeners to pick a word and scripture for the year to set the tone. This year's mantra: “Don't you dare”—be faithless, messy, broke, or too hard on yourself. Let's grow intentionally together!
In this episode, Michael Bonner discusses one of the things he changed in his personal life that shifted his perspective on life. This podcast was recorded via cell phone because his equipment was unavailable. But more importantly, the message in this episode needed to be said. Have a great week! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
Why wait for January to start fresh? In this episode, Michael Bonner shares his yearly system—choosing a word, setting goals, and a scripture—but encourages listeners to use December as a practice ground. Progress over perfection is the goal. Start now, and let's grow together! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
Data drives improvement, and I need your help to create the best podcast experience! Please rate, follow, and review. Reflecting on Thanksgiving, I share a story about the power of words—how we can choose to uplift or tear down. Let's aim to make someone's day better. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
Happy Thanksgiving! I'm so grateful for each of you—our podcast has grown to 2400 - 3000 followers! Today, I share a personal journey from 2015, when gratitude became my daily practice and a powerful tool against depression. Tune in for insights on finding joy, even in life's toughest moments. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Hi Haters: Let's Have A Chat!" Michael Bonner tackles the realities of dealing with critics and doubters. Reflecting on personal experiences and the journey of Deion Sanders, he explores how haters project their dissatisfaction onto others. Michael shares the power of self-belief, perseverance, and proving naysayers wrong by staying true to your mission. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Turn Down the Ignorance: 3 Things I'm Applying," Michael Bonner reflects on lessons from the election and his Victra experiences. He explores work-life integration, unplugging to reduce ignorance, and Pastor Mike's wisdom on trees and personal growth. Discover how to find your "water"—what truly fuels and sustains you. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "The Aftermath - Election Day 2024!" Michael Bonner welcomes new listeners and reflects on post-election insights. He shares three key takeaways: self-regulation, understanding discourse vs. debate, and eliminating ignorance. With a hopeful story from a student, Michael emphasizes the power of community and pressing in to support one another. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "You Need to Break Up with Yourself: Self Compassion vs Self Kindness," Michael Bonner explores managing self-care amidst a heavy workload. Reflecting on a deep conversation with his therapist, he examines the difference between self-compassion and self-kindness and how our responses to ourselves, in pain or otherwise, shape how others treat us. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Leadership Gems: My First Observation of the Year," Michael Bonner shares his experience being observed by Dr. V as he pushes literacy in the classroom. He highlights the importance of trusting leaders with proven results and reflects on the powerful discussions with his students that transformed the lesson. Join Michael as he dives into valuable teaching insights and leadership lessons. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "First Call In! : First Year Teacher Questioning If This Is For Them," Michael Bonner takes a call from a first-year teacher in West Philly struggling with the challenges of education. Together, they explore whether these difficulties are normal and offer advice on how to grow and improve as an educator. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "All Over the Place," Michael Bonner reflects on the transition from summer to school, drawing inspiration from Kevin Hart, LeBron James, and Tyler Perry. He discusses navigating life's uncertainties, embracing grace, and the reality of people seeking the same blessings. Join Michael as he explores finding direction amidst chaos. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Are The Schools Failing Us on Purpose?" Michael Bonner questions the education system's approach to preparing students for real-world challenges. Reflecting on his task to teach Elections in a sensitive environment, he explores whether schools truly aim to equip students for success. From financial literacy to representation, Michael calls for a fresh perspective in education reform. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Almost Ready: The First Day of School Expectations," Michael Bonner sets the stage for a new year with 55 students, teaching Elections and social studies. He shares his approach, inspired by Tony Gaskins, on training others how to treat you. Michael details classroom rules, expectations, and his philosophy on setting standards from day one. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Don't Let the Stain Sit," Michael Bonner draws inspiration from Kanye West's unshakeable self-belief, reflecting on a personal story involving stained Yeezys. He shares how procrastination made the stain harder to remove, paralleling it with life's challenges that we delay addressing. Michael encourages listeners to confront their own unresolved issues before they become more difficult to manage. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "They Aren't Supposed to Believe You: Show Them," Michael Bonner reflects on the realities behind the glamorous side of being a keynote speaker. As he transitions from speaking to teaching, Michael emphasizes the importance of actions over words, especially in a society overwhelmed with negativity. Join him as he shares insights on persistence and leading by example. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Lead While You Bleed," Michael Bonner opens up about the challenges of maintaining leadership while enduring personal struggles. Reflecting on the difficulties of this year, including family issues, loss, and illness, he discusses the pressures of performing at a high level despite the pain. Michael emphasizes the importance of checking in on others, reminding us that even those who carry their burdens well still need support. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Leaving Teaching in NC - My Greatest Fear Happened," Michael Bonner recounts his emotional visit to ECU and an unexpected surprise from his former students. Addressing the challenges of leaving due to leadership changes, he emphasizes the importance of communication and understanding. Despite misunderstandings, Michael remains committed to providing educational equity. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "It's My 34th Birthday - I'm Not Doing This Again!" Michael Bonner reflects on celebrating reluctantly with friends and realizing the impact of the love he has sown. He vows to enjoy future birthdays intentionally. Tune in next week for a vulnerable and revealing episode about what happened on his special day. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Stop Lying To Yourself." Michael Bonner focuses on revitalizing goals for the second half of the year. Discussing fitness, nutrition, and personal accountability, he reveals how we often deceive ourselves. Join Michael for insights on staying true to your commitments and pushing forward with determination. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "It's All Meaningless," Michael Bonner reflects on the true foundations of life beyond accolades and success. Inspired by insights from the Cry Out Conference and figures like Deion Sanders and Chris Webber, he explores what keeps him grounded amidst life's highs and lows. Discover the importance of faith and staying true to oneself. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Close Your Mouth! : You Are Hurting Yourself," Michael Bonner emphasizes the importance of protecting your plans and strategies. He shares Marlo's PINC story and advises on quietly gathering plans, setting actionable steps, and executing them. Inspired by Sun Tzu, he encourages moving with stealth and impact. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "New Level = New Devils - Don't Be Surprised," Michael Bonner navigates the challenges of ascending to new heights. From tax woes to wealth aspirations, he shares insights from his mentor Trinity and the importance of expecting, embracing, and exceeding challenges on the path to success. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In this episode, Michael Bonner recaps his five years in Atlanta. He discusses the challenging concepts and lessons he has encountered on this journey. Buckle up and enjoy! You won't want to miss the valuable insights he shares. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "You Can Only Be Strong For So Long," Michael Bonner urges listeners to acknowledge their emotions as signals of deeper mental states. He hints at an upcoming groundbreaking episode and invites engagement through voice notes for questions, comments, or suggestions at mbonner54@gmail.com. Join the conversation and prepare for insight. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In 'Find the Level and Rise to the Level', Michael Bonner shares a personal journey of growth, emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges and seizing opportunities for advancement. Join him as he navigates the transition to a new city and embraces the path to personal and professional development. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
Amidst the relentless pace of technological advancement, Michael offers a candid exploration of the toll it takes on educators and business leaders alike. Through introspection and shared experiences, he highlights the imperative of resilience in navigating the challenges of our dynamic society --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In a world where digital interactions often overshadow genuine connection, Michael sheds light on the importance of being truly present and actively listening. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, he guides listeners toward building authentic relationships and becoming impactful influencers in their communities. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Review Time - Foe, Friend, or Family," Michael Bonner reflects on the importance of discerning relationships. Drawing from personal experiences, he explores the roles of foes, friends, and family in life's journey. Join Michael as he navigates the complexities of interdependence and identifies key pillars of support. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Fix Your Face," Michael Bonner delves into the balance of reflection and forward momentum. Warning against dwelling too long on past errors, he advocates for self-talk and redirection. Join Michael as he navigates the journey of growth, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes while moving forward with purpose. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In this episode, Michael Bonner is candid and straightforward about his journey to compound success. He delves into the significance of the Q4 education system and its impact on his students' performance. Highlighting the heightened importance for his students to excel, he outlines four key strategies he has implemented to provide them with the best possible opportunities for success. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In " The Baltimore Bridge and My ER Visit," Michael Bonner reflects on the importance of heeding warning signs in life. Drawing parallels with the Baltimore Bridge, he emphasizes the need to pay attention to signals instead of ignoring them due to focus or dedication. Join Michael for valuable insights on awareness and prevention. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
There is one universal law you must accept if 2024 will turn out the way you envisioned it at the end of 2023. In this episode, Michael Bonner gives a plethora of examples to illustrate how your goal is connected to a sacrifice you must make in order to be successful. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In this episode right before Spring Break, Michael Bonner decides to rant about 3 things that he has noticed in the first quarter of 2024. Tune in to see if you can relate or agree! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Deal With It - Don't Forget It," Michael Bonner explores the art of suppression in adulthood, reflecting on childhood aspirations. He advocates for prioritizing self-care, rest as essential for productivity, and to stop putting things on the back burner. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Sometimes, I Don't Like People," Michael Bonner delves into navigating imperfections in a flawed world. Drawing inspiration from Lebron James, Caitlin Tucker, and Tyler Perry, he underscores the importance of gratitude and modeling excellence. Join Michael as he shares insights on overcoming negativity and leading by example in challenging situations. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Who Are You Talking To?!" Michael Bonner shares poignant lessons on communication. From self-talk after a speech to student misunderstandings, he highlights the power of words to uplift or wound. Join Michael as he emphasizes the importance of intentional, life-giving speech for oneself and others. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/support
In "Better is Coming: Michael Bonner Unfiltered," Michael offers insights on Tyler Perry's resilience amidst negativity. Reflecting on his own struggles, Bonner admires Perry's poise. Despite challenges, he emphasizes the importance of strategic perseverance, highlighting the transformative power of enduring through tough times. Join for inspiration and unwavering determination. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message
Celebrate Valentine's Week with Michael Bonner as he shares highlights from his Legend Tour concept and being honored in Atlanta's 40 under 40. Reflecting on powerful quotes and insights from a self-made billionaire Tyler Perry, Michael emphasizes the importance of continual learning and mastering one's craft. Join him for inspiration and growth. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message
In "Bitter or Better," Michael Bonner expresses gratitude for support while navigating challenges in the speaking circuit. Reflecting on his grandfather's passing and his father's inspiring response, he emphasizes the choice between bitterness and improvement. Join Michael as he resolves to excel and inspire, offering a powerful message of resilience and choice. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message
Michael Bonner shares a riveting story behind an important speech. Facing adversity and a different audience, he reflects on his attitude and the two available options. With gratitude for his supportive community, he unveils the remarkable speech's impact, including a comment from the President. Tune in for a heartfelt conclusion and a wish for doubled blessings. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message
In "Is Your Attitude the Problem," Michael Bonner delves into the pivotal role of attitude in any situation. With insight and expertise, he offers valuable solutions: fostering a positive mental outlook and exploring the benefits of therapy. Tune in to unlock the secrets to harnessing your attitude for success and well-being --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bonnerville/message
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