20 ~ An inspiring story of resilience and reflection after a hard upbringing, gun violence & drug abuse, poverty and creating a new life with Michael Fortune

In this inspiring and motivating episode, we hear the extraordinary life story of Michael Fortune who faced a challenging upbringing in a dangerous American neighbourhood, witnessing gun violence, drug abuse, and poverty. As a child, Michael spent 10 months of homelessness with his beautiful mother in their car. He has also lost 40 friends to drug abuse and gun violence, even witnessing his best friend's tragic murder in his arms. Despite these difficult circumstances, Michael made the brave decision to start a new life overseas, where he inspires many children and adults in his day-to-day life with his story and passion. Today, through his non-for-profit organization "CALM," he inspires and empowers youth in schools, using his own experiences to form connections, hope, and mentorship. Since moving to Australia, Michael has found his purpose in sharing his story to inspire others, showing that there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. This episode is a testament to the incredible strength of resilience and the possibility of transformation, reminding us that no matter how tough life is now, it doesn't have to stay that way forever. Join us for an impactful conversation that will leave you inspired and motivated to conquer life's challenges with gratitude. Find Michael Fortune at : CALM Youth Michael's Instagram 💗 Thank you so much for being here on this new little adventure with me! 💗 - Hayley xo ✨ Find us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@beforeyoubloom⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠✨ The Before You Bloom Podcast is recorded on the lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. I would like to recognise their continuing connection to land, water, and culture and pay my respects to their elders past, present, and emerging, and any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people listening today.