Michael Bower | SpeakerHub

Personal Details

Bio

Michael Bower is a 30+ year broadcast and podcast veteran whose career spans national radio, podcast networks, and audiobook narration. He’s hosted on Sirius Satellite Radio, delivered daily reports as a National Correspondent for NBC News Radio, and produced more than 1,000 podcast episodes across genres.

But what sets Michael apart isn’t just his resume — it’s his obsession with craft over clout. As a former VP of Programming for Ingstad Minnesota Radio Network, he led talent development, coached broadcasters at scale, and even pressure-tested early AI “on-air personalities.” His conclusion? Audiences don’t binge noise — they binge voices that respect their time and deliver real value.

On stage, Michael combines the precision of a broadcaster, the storytelling chops of a podcaster, and the humor of a stand-up comic. He speaks on topics like:

•Building podcasts audiences can’t turn off (through craft, not hacks).

•Process over perfection: lessons from coaching a Varsity softball team applied to creative work.

•Why authentic human voices will always outshine AI “hosts.”

With a mix of real-world case studies, humor, and actionable strategies, Michael helps creators and organizations reclaim quality in an algorithm-driven era — and connect with their audiences in ways that last.

Current position (4)

Founder & Creative Dir. | Speaker

Bower Family Productions | RealGuyMedia

Audiobook Narrator & Voiceover Artist

SAG-AFTRA (Freelance: Tantor Media, Podium, Brilliance)

Varsity Head Softball Coach

West Bloomfield High School

Host & Producer

RealGuyMedia Podcast Network

Achievements (4)

Vice President of Programming – Ingstad Minnesota Radio Netw

Led programming strategy for multiple stations, coached on-air talent, and tested emerging technologies including AI-based “on-air” personalities.

National Correspondent – NBC News Radio

Delivered live news reports daily to 20+ morning shows nationwide, building trusted on-air relationships with diverse audiences.

Host – Sirius Satellite Radio / ESPN Radio Affiliates

Hosted national talk formats and contributed to sports broadcasting across Sirius Satellite and ESPN-affiliated stations.

Produced & Hosted 1,000+ Podcast Episodes

Created original shows under RealGuyMedia, including Dad’s Home Podcast, Mt. Rockmore, Nextburb, and more—building loyal audiences across multiple genres.

Degrees (1)

Communications

San Jose City College

1990 to 1992

Presentations

Presentations (4)

Craft Over Clout: Reclaiming Quality in an Algorithmic Era

In a world where algorithms reward clicks over craft, podcasters face a crucial choice: chase clout, or build shows that last. This talk challenges creators to flip the script—prioritizing storytelling, structure, and audience respect over short-term trends. Drawing on 30+ years in broadcasting and podcasting, Michael shows why craft isn’t just a luxury—it’s the difference between being background noise and being binge-worthy.

Why Authentic Voices Still Win in an AI Audio World

AI is creeping into broadcasting and podcasting—but can a machine ever replace a real human voice? Michael shares his behind-the-scenes experience testing AI “on-air talent” as a VP of Programming, and why the results fell flat compared to even the most inexperienced human hosts. This eye-opening session explores the limits of automation, and why authenticity and relatability will always be a podcaster’s greatest asset.

Coaching Your Podcast: Process Over Perfection

Great podcasts don’t happen by accident—they happen by process. Drawing from his experience as both a broadcaster and a Varsity Head Coach, Michael reveals how podcasters can apply the discipline of team sports to their creative process. From scripting your first 30 seconds to cutting the fluff and respecting your listener’s time, this talk offers practical tools to elevate your show without burning out.

The Ethics of Voice & Storytelling: Who Gets Heard in the Age of AI

AI can now clone voices, generate scripts, and simulate personality at scale—but technology alone doesn’t decide who gets heard or trusted. Humans do.

In this talk, veteran broadcaster and audio storyteller Michael Bower examines how AI is reshaping voice, credibility, and access in media and storytelling. Drawing on decades of experience in radio, podcasting, and long-form audio, he explores the ethical questions hiding beneath convenience and automation.

Rather than focusing on fear or hype, this session centers on responsibility: who gets amplified, whose voices are marginalized, and how creators and organizations can use powerful tools without surrendering authenticity or trust.

Designed for media professionals, creators, and educators, this talk offers a human-centered framework for navigating AI while remaining accountable to audiences, values, and meaningful connection.