Speaking

ORdinary People;

Extraordinary Things

Bio

Cliff is a native-born Michigander, born and raised in the Thumb Area.

After graduating high school, Cliff pursued his dream of working in the aerospace industry.  With his degree in engineering, Cliff moved to California to work for a Fortune 500 company.

It was Anthony Bourdain that inspired Cliff to travel the world.  To venture off the well-worn path, to learn more about a culture not from their monuments and museums but from the people.

In 2019, on a return trip to Michigan, Cliff saw that his parents needed help.  His dad diagnosed with dementia; his mother nearly blind.  After 25 years, he decided to return to home to help them.

After hearing some amazing stories of Michiganders doing some pretty extraordinary things, Cliff launched his Michigan-based podcast to capture these inspiring stories. 

Over 120+ fascinating stories later, Cliff rebranded the podcast to “Total Michigan”  

Total Michigan is also on two radio stations. Eagle95.1 out of Sault St Marie as well as Michigan’s largest independent radio station 1320AM WILS out of Lansing.  Covering over 10 counties. 

Abstract

Woven within this impactful and inspirational talk, he shares the key lessons learned from the top interviews from the show.  These Michiganders overcame impossible odds, including socioeconomic boundaries, physical and mental disabilities, and racial lines to achieve their vision of success.

Presentation Includes:

“Am I Making a Difference” Stories of Michiganders who answer this question every single day.

Impactful and Inspiring Stories: Stories of courage, persistence, and resilience.


“Cliff did a great job! We thoroughly enjoyed his presentation!”

— Michelle Duclos, Director
Frankenmuth James E Wickson Library


“Cliff is an exceptional storyteller! He wove the story of his podcast journey and the stories of some of those he’s interviewed together seamlessly! He also wove together comedy and thought-provoking moments.

— Nancy E.

What’s In This For You

Woven within this impactful and inspirational talk, he shares:

  • Presentation geared towards your audience
  • Included and Encouraged Q&A Session

These Michiganders overcame impossible odds, including socioeconomic boundaries, physical and mental disabilities, and racial lines to achieve their vision of success.

Who This Is For

This event can be catered to fit your audience’s needs:

  • Students
  • Professionals
  • Entrepreneurs/Business Owners (Profit or Non-Profit)
  • Anyone interested in chasing their dream
  • Any proud Michigander who wants to hear the stories behind these great Michigan businesses and tourist destinations

Upcoming Events

DateLocation
9/12/23 at 6:00 PMBayliss Public Library
541 Library Drive
Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Open to the Public
11/03/23 at 1:00 PMPere Marquette District Library
185 E Fourth St
Clare, MI 48617
11/03/23 at 3:30 PMHarrison District Library
125 W Beech St,
Harrison, MI 48625
11/09/23 at 6:00 PMMillington Public Library
8530 Depot Street
Millington, MI 48746
Open to the Public
12/25/23 at 12:00 PMFrankenmuth Rotary Club
Frankenmuth, MI
Rotary Members Only

Interested In Learning More?