Everything Why with Michael Martin

Everything Why with Michael Martin
Podcast Description
Welcome to Everything Why, I’m your host Mike Martin. This is a podcast about the journey of an inventor and disruptor. I invent to because it gives me purpose and I disrupt because it’s important to question the status quo—not to create chaos.
During this podcast series, we’ll unravel the 'whys' behind our actions—why we laugh, cry, work, do good, or sometimes stumble into darker paths. We’ll talk with fellow inventors and experts, along with people who have been a part of my life, both personal and professional.
Join me as we uncover the essence behind every aspect of life, because in everything, there's a 'why' waiting to be explored. personal Substack michael343.substack.com
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into themes such as the motives behind human behaviors, the complexity of personal journeys, and the power of storytelling. Episodes include discussions on inventiveness in life, the art of listening, and the exploration of personal narratives, like Steve Berry's rejection journey and Dr. Graham Bodie's insights on communication.

Welcome to Everything Why, I’m your host Mike Martin. This is a podcast about the journey of an inventor and disruptor. I invent to because it gives me purpose and I disrupt because it’s important to question the status quo—not to create chaos.
During this podcast series, we’ll unravel the ‘whys’ behind our actions—why we laugh, cry, work, do good, or sometimes stumble into darker paths. We’ll talk with fellow inventors and experts, along with people who have been a part of my life, both personal and professional.
Join me as we uncover the essence behind every aspect of life, because in everything, there’s a ‘why’ waiting to be explored. personal Substack
In this eye-opening conversation with acclaimed author Sharon G. Flake, we discover that behind the misleading media stereotypes of urban neighborhoods lie universal family stories that resonate across all communities.
Sharon shares insights from her latest book “The Family I’m In,” where characters John John and Caleb navigate the everyday challenges of growing up, seeking parental approval, and finding their identities. Our discussion reveals the surprising similarities between her Philadelphia upbringing and my own neighborhood experiences – the same family dynamics, the same struggles with fathers trying their best, the same teenage awkwardness.
“I grew up on a very small block in North Philadelphia,” Sharon explains, revealing how her community was once named “the cleanest block in Philadelphia,” challenging perceptions of urban neighborhoods. Her stories have resonated globally precisely because they capture the universal human experience: “Every character in that first book is Black, but I can’t tell you how many Italian, Irish, Puerto Rican, South American kids say this is my story.”
Join us as we explore how good literature creates space for authentic conversation about family life across all backgrounds, and why media portrayals so often miss the rich, complex reality of our shared experiences.
About Sharon G. Flake: For over 25 years, Sharon’s books including “The Skin I’m In” have touched millions of readers worldwide with their honest portrayal of young people finding their way. Her ability to capture universal human experiences through specific, authentic characters has made her work a staple in classrooms and homes across the globe.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit michael343.substack.com

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