Q: What will you be speaking about at DisruptHR?
The title of my talk is “How Do We Turn Ripples Into Waves?” As business leaders, HR professionals, and community members, we all strive to make an impact. But true greatness unfolds when we discover our greater purpose and witness the ripples, we create transform into waves that shape the next generation.
Q: Tell us about yourself.
A: My name is Michael Bloom. I was born and raised in Modesto, CA. I lived there until I was 19, and then moved to the FM Area. My passion for people led me to serve my community through law enforcement. During my tenure as a police officer, I discovered how wonderful the city of Fargo is, as I collaborated with multiple partners and businesses to bring resources to youth and adults in need.
In 2022, I left the Fargo PD to start my own nonprofit called Hip Hop & Hope. Our mission is to meet incarcerated individuals in the midst of their incarceration and remind them that if they are not dead then they are not done and that God has a tremendous plan for their life. Over the past two years, we have engaged with over three hundred incarcerated individuals in the state.
I have been married to the love of my life, Casey Bloom, for 11 years, and we have four beautiful children. We love the Fargo area and are grateful to call it our home.
Q: Why are you passionate about your topic?
A: Legacy matters. It is the essence of what we leave behind. Long after we are gone from this earth, people are left with the impact of the decisions we made. I once heard a quote that states, “When you are born, you look like your parents, but when you die, you look like your decisions.” Our decisions shape our world—in HR, in businesses, and in the greater community.
Q: What general business advice do you have for readers out there?
A: Love people because they need to know they matter, and you will always have an audience that supports you. Whether you’re growing a business or a nonprofit, you need people in your corner who can support you through it all. Greatness without relationships is a very lonely life. So, continue to build meaningful relationships and love people.
Q: Can you share a specific experience that has significantly shaped your career?
A: Starting a nonprofit from scratch meant leaving a well-paying job with benefits to pursue a journey with zero guarantees. My faith was tested in new ways, as was my belief in myself. No one will ever care for your dream like you will, and it requires immense work and sacrifice. But so far, it has been completely worth it.
Q: How do you stay motivated and inspired in your professional journey?
A: I firmly believe that God has called me into the workspace I’m in, and that is what keeps me motivated. People who go to prison and treatment often feel forgotten—they need hope. This is especially true for our youth who are locked up and don’t have visitors. My heart is to bring them hope, and that is my motivation. Giving to people who have nothing to give back is incredibly rewarding. It’s God’s love, and nothing else, that truly propels our mission forward every day.
Q: What do you think are the key traits of successful leaders today?
A: Kindness, honesty, consistency, and willingness to have hard conversations for the betterment of the team.
Q: What advice would you give to young professionals looking to make an impact in their field?
A: There isn’t much glamour in becoming successful. Winning is often a lonely process that involves countless hours working on your dream. Don’t seek praise or affirmation from others— that won’t sustain you. Just consistently show up every day, work hard, and remember what truly matters in the end: your faith and your family, not your business.
Q: How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?
A: I do things that make me happy. I spend time with my wife and kids as often as I can. I try to work out a lot and maintain a good balance of fitness. This really helps me.
Q: How do you approach personal and professional growth?
A: I strive to invest my time in being present with great leaders. I love not being the smartest person in the room because there’s always something or someone doing it better than me. I always seek out those opportunities whenever I can.
Q: What qualities do you believe are essential for fostering a positive workplace culture?
A: Your people are more important than your product. Always show people that they matter, and your culture will always remain strong.
Follow Hip Hop & Hope
hiphopandhopetours.org
Facebook | /hiphopandhopetours
Instagram | @hiphopandhope_
