Born into a "show-business" family, Mike Marino made his first TV appearance at age 5, singing and dancing on "The Ted Mack Amateur Hour." A naturally gifted performer, Mike soon picked up a variety of musical instruments and began performing with professional bands while still in junior high school! After college Mike began to tour the world with well-known musical stars, many of whom would soon see their stars fade away in a haze of substance abuse, overwhelming pressures and ongoing sadness. As a member of The McCoys, famous for their No. 1 hit record "Hang on Sloopy," Mike saw the devastating human toll mental health issues and substance abuse took on the lives of those he worked with.

Bizarre behavior and near brushes with death became almost routine. Sadly, many of Mike's close celebrity friends from the music business eventually succumbed to their life struggles. Ironically, Mike's life took a far different turn as he became a frequent speaker at recovery and wellness groups, author, counselor and healthcare executive - with a special heart for those who struggle with mental health issues or battle addictions.

He hosted a nationally-syndicated call-in radio program for five years and has run in-patient substance abuse treatment centers and psychiatric hospitals. He has produced broadcast programming, live events and written materials for such diverse people as Dr. Laura Schlessinger, PBS-TV's Daniel Amen, M.D. and the Reverend Billy Graham.

Always quick to share heart-tugging personal stories, Mike does not just center on the tragedy of addiction and mental health struggles, but rather the hope and healing found in effective treatment. Calling upon his entertainment industry, healthcare and treatment program experience, Mike frames his presentations with just the right touch of substance, humor and audience "connection."