Mastering the art of storytelling to drive change.
Michael Golden is a national award-winning journalist with a passion for discovering hidden truths and breakthrough ideas.
The author of Write or Die and Unlock Congress, Michael’s opinion columns dig into the lessons he’s continually learning about mental health, politics, social change and personal empowerment.
An education entrepreneur, Michael is the cofounder of One Million Degrees, Spark Chicago, Newsbound and Complete the Degree.
Michael’s content is featured in print and broadcast media throughout the country:
FROM 
LATEST PODCAST
Paige Ponder, CEO, One Million Degrees
04 / 14 / 2020
What clients and colleagues are saying...
“Michael is driven by his sincere passion to make a difference. But it’s his talent for connecting with people that sets him apart. I've seen first-hand the amazing growth of One Million Degrees and its contribution to Chicago. The leadership roles Michael has played in his public service enterprises have helped to change thousands of lives.”
“For two decades, I’ve watched Michael build and grow successful organizations from scratch. He has a gift for messaging that sticks, but then he takes it to the next level by orchestrating media in order to connect with the target audience. In projects I’ve led both in both the public and private sectors, I’ve always been able to rely on Michael’s strategic counsel and savvy communication skills.”
“After reading Michael’s book, Unlock Congress, I reached out and asked for his help on the Political Reform Agenda we were creating at the Stevenson Center on Democracy. His knowledge base and eloquence as a writer and speaker motivated us to make him a Senior Fellow at the Center. It’s been an excellent partnership and, happily, one that continues to grow.”
“Michael successfully managed one of my toughest campaigns for the U.S. Congress, and I could not have done it without him. When you’re in the foxhole fighting it out every day for what you know is right, there’s nobody better to have at your side. And whether it was funders, voters, staff members or the media, Michael has the unique ability to connect with people in any kind of situation. That’s his magic.”
“Long before Michael joined our board, I could feel his deep connection to our mission at the Shriver Center. Without question, his speech coaching has made me a stronger and more effective public voice, and he’s always there for our team when we’re in need of savvy communications counsel.”
CHRISTIE HEFNER
Former CEO & Chairman
Playboy Enterprises
GERY CHICO
Principal, Chico & Nunes
Former President,
Chicago Public Schools
ADLAI STEVENSON III
Former US Senator and
Illinois Treasurer
MELISSA BEAN
Former US Representative
JOHN BOUMAN
President, Shriver Center on Poverty Law
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