DiscoverStrawberry LetterFamily First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.
Family First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.

Family First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.

Update: 2025-09-11
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Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Michael Woodward.

A natural-born entrepreneur and community leader. 

🎙️ Guest Background: Michael Woodward

  • Grew up in Liberty City, Miami, in a low-income housing project known as the "Poke and Bean" projects.
  • Learned early business skills from his grandmother, who was the local "candy lady."
  • Served briefly in the military as a way out of poverty.
  • Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University (FAMU).
  • Known for his hospitality and work ethic during college—cooked for friends and maintained a welcoming home.

🏠 Entrepreneurial Journey

  • Bought his first duplex at age 20, renovated it, and rented it out.
  • Built a real estate portfolio while working as an educator.
  • Founded Woodward Property Group, a full-service home improvement and property management company.
  • Became one of Lowe’s top contractors through a combination of skill, networking, and mentorship.

📚 Educational Impact

  • Worked as an assistant principal and educator for 20 years.
  • Founded Alpha Educational Consultants, Inc.
  • Took students on college tours, especially to HBCUs, to expose them to higher education opportunities.
  • Ran STEM programs and mentoring initiatives with a 99.9% college placement rate.

💡 Life Lessons & Advice

  • Emphasizes financial literacy: avoid unnecessary spending (e.g., new cars every year).
  • Advocates for education as a path to wealth.
  • Believes in the village mentality—community support and shared success.
  • Encourages young people to choose between college, military, or trade school.

#SHMS #STRAW #BEST

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Family First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.

Family First: Became a teen father and took his son with him to college at Florida A&M University.

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