Michael grew up in South Georgia. After high school, he received a BA in Theology from Florida Baptist Theological College/Baptist University of Florida (1999). He then received a MDiv in Expository Preaching from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary (2004). Michael then completed a PhD in Practical Theology from Mid America Baptist Theological Seminary (2013). 

Michael met his wife, Allison, while attending Florida Baptist Theological College. Michael and Allison have three girls: Mackenzie, Blakely, and Hadley. Michael enjoys hanging out with his family, going on dates with his wife, and doing pretty much anything outside.