Mike has a double bachelor (BSc in biology, BA in communications), and an MA in African Studies. Previously, he wrote for the National Geographic Society under the guidance of his now-retired editor, David Braun, often traveling to different countries throughout East and Southern sub-Saharan Africa to document various wildlife conservation issues and initiatives, which is how he originally met the UCP team.

It was Uganda that Mike kept returning to most often as his interest in natural history and observations/questions began a transition from wildlife journalism to scientific research.

Mike believes that successful carnivore conservation requires working with, understanding, and involving local people as much as researching lions or spending time in wildlife-rich habitats. He also believes in facing challenges and setbacks with patience and resolve, both in life and when it comes to the greater goal of ensuring a future for large carnivores.