Michael J. Peterson, born and raised in Southern California, is a dynamic operations and leadership professional with a diverse background in business and the arts. A first-generation American, Michael was born into the realities of gang violence and endured a deeply abusive childhood. Very early on, he made a defining decision: that he would not allow the soil in which he was planted to dictate the height to which he could grow.

The arts became Michael’s vehicle of expression through the fires of his youth—teaching him he had a voice. That discovery led him through a progression of instruments including trumpet, clarinet, violin, and finally, voice. Michael became part of the renowned Westlake High School Choir, where he fell in love with performance art. He took the stage in school musicals and became the dance captain of the choir, all while balancing life as a varsity football player. With a heart full of inspiration and drive, he later moved to Los Angeles after being awarded a full scholarship to the prestigious Debbie Allen Dance Academy. This opportunity catapulted him into the entertainment industry, where he appeared on television shows like ABC’s The Middle, Glee, and Mobbed, as well as in films, video games, and a commercial with the creator of Zumba.

While managing his professional career, Michael has remained deeply rooted in both the arts and faith communities. He has always believed that he is here to be of service—and he strives to live a life that reflects that belief.

Michael has led large-scale fundraising campaigns across Los Angeles, mobilizing over 100 volunteers for Mercy Worldwide. He also served as Director of Business Development for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, driving national fundraising and engagement efforts. Beyond these organizational roles, his most meaningful work has often come through mentorship. In South Los Angeles, Michael has worked closely with young men from underserved, gang-impacted neighborhoods—most from fatherless homes—through faith-based programs. There, he’s taught and trained youth in financial literacy, interview skills, resume building, and more, helping to equip the next generation with tools for independence and success.

After purchasing his first rental property, igniting a passion for real estate which evolved into deep expertise in property management, leading him to oversee a portfolio of over 250 residential units, multiple million-dollar commercial assets, and various construction projects. His skillset led him to the luxury short-term rental industry, where he managed assets ranging from $3 million to $60 million, interfacing with industry-leading executives and foreign dignitaries. He is now on the path to becoming a licensed Washington State real estate broker.

Michael’s professional expertise is rooted in financial management, process optimization, and strategic oversight. He specializes in designing and implementing and improving protocols and procedures, guiding organizational change, and auditing systems for efficiency and compliance. His leadership style is both inspirational and relational, fostering high morale and cohesive, purpose-driven teams. With a proven track record in P&L management, team building, and operational excellence, Michael blends artistic discipline, entrepreneurial grit, and strategic vision to deliver measurable results across industries.

Over the past decade, he has consulted for a wide range of clients. Through this work, he witnessed firsthand how many small businesses and community-rooted organizations lacked access to essential business knowledge, affordable support, and long-term infrastructure. In response, he founded Seven Ventures—a consulting firm built to bridge that gap and empower purpose-driven enterprises to thrive.

Through every chapter of his journey—from surviving childhood adversity to achieving success across multiple industries—Michael remains grounded in his purpose: to lead with integrity, uplift others, and create systems that generate lasting impact. Whether he’s mentoring the next generation, building scalable businesses, or consulting mission-driven brands, Michael brings heart, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to service. His story is one of resilience, transformation, and the belief that no matter where you come from, you can rise, build, and leave the world better than you found it.