Michael, Owner and Head Coach at The Forge in Lenoir City, is not only dedicated to physical fitness but also to personal transformation. As a father of four—Layna, Raven, Talon, and Phoenix—he understands the importance of building strong foundations, both at home and in the community.

With over 20 years of experience coaching teams, athletes, and adults, Coach Mike’s approach goes beyond physical training. He’s a champion of “transformational coaching,” focusing on healing and empowerment. By helping clients rewrite the difficult stories from their past, he nurtures both their physical and mental strength, guiding them toward a healthier, more confident future.

Coach Mike's dedication to uplifting others aligns perfectly with the mission of Iva’s Place, where supporting survivors of domestic violence and offering a path to recovery is at the heart of everything we do.

Why is Mike walking?

I’m walking to stand in solidarity with the survivors of domestic violence and to help raise awareness for Iva’s Place, a program that provides critical support to those in need. Domestic violence impacts countless lives, often in silence, and this walk symbolizes our collective effort to break that silence and offer hope.

As someone who has spent 20 years coaching youth athletes, SuperMoms, and families, I’ve seen firsthand how vital strong, healthy family units are to building a great community. At The Forge, we are always looking for ways to serve, because we believe that sound and happy families are the foundation of any thriving community. Unfortunately, no family ever wishes for domestic violence, yet it can happen to anyone. I understand the many layers behind these incidents—from alcoholism to traumatic and dysfunctional family dynamics.

By walking, I’m not just supporting survivors, but also advocating for their right to safety, healing, and a future free from fear. Every step we take together is a step toward creating a more compassionate, resilient community—one where everyone has the chance to rebuild and thrive.

Why should you vote for Mike?

"You should vote for me as your 2024 Mr. Hunk in Heels because I’m not just here to strut my stuff in heels—I’m here to make a difference! As someone who works with female athletes, SuperMoms, and SuperGrammis on a daily basis, I hear so many stories of domestic violence and abuse, whether they are first-hand accounts or witnessed experiences.

Your vote isn’t just for the best "Hunk" in heels; it’s a vote for stronger families, safer communities, and a future where everyone has the chance to thrive. I’m excited to leverage my role as a transformational coach to serve “something greater than myself” and raise the most money possible for Iva’s Place. I’m always looking for ways to uplift others, and I believe that through my networking and coaching connections, we can truly make a significant impact.

Plus, let’s be honest—if I can coach athletes while sporting sneakers, I can definitely rock a pair of heels to help break the cycle of domestic violence! Together, let’s have some fun while supporting an incredible cause!"