Episode 5: Michael Bennett |
Seahawks legend, social activist, and aspiring architecture graduate Michael Bennett (@mosesbread72) graciously takes time out of his busy finals week for this episode. Overflowing with a passionate pursuit of living a life of purpose, he shares about his family heritage of storytelling, asking questions, and challenging society. “It’s about being designers and architects of our own history,” he says, recalling inspiration from W. E. B. Du Bois, Booker T. Washington, and the reconstruction of America. Many more topics were covered, including his experience as a Black man in America, foundations he supports, his cleanup work with @pmdphawaii, and the need for more holistically supportive care for the families of retired NFL players with brain injuries.
More about Michael…
Michael Bennett is a Super Bowl Champion and three-time Pro Bowl defensive end for the @seahawks, but his body of work is about so much more than football. Michael is an activist, author, and devoted husband and father. He uses his platform to raise awareness about important social issues, weaving in his passion for social justice and education at every turn. Michael runs The Bennett Foundation with his wife, Pele, and their three daughters focusing on food equity and nutrition in minority communities.
Michael is also a New York Times best-selling author of “Things That Make White People Uncomfortable,” which is being adapted into a scripted series. He added executive producer and host of podcast Mouthpeace with his wife Pele Bennett, as well as an upcoming series with Conde Nast. Michael compliments any broadcasting team he joins, including Showtime, Amazon, and most recently his former team, the Seahawks. He also teaches American Studies classes at University of Hawaii and has returned to Texas A&M University to receive his degree in Architecture.
Michael is a member of Athletes for Impact, a staunch feminist and supporter of women’s rights, a humanitarian, and supports and invests in multiple organizations and companies rooted in Africa, including Alaffia, Yolele, and #iamtheCODE where he sponsors over 100 African girls in Senegal.
