| Michael R. Mennenga | |
|---|---|
| Born | USA |
| Residence | Arizona |
| Occupation | Podcaster, writer |
| Spouse | Lorrie |
| Website | |
| http://www.michaelrmennenga.com/ | |
Michael R. Mennenga (men-en-gay) founded FarPoint Media in early 2006 and currently serves as its President, COO, and primary audio engineer. In addition, Michael is a co-host of the “Slice of SciFi” and “The Dragon Page Cover to Cover” podcasts, and contributor to many other Farpoint Programs.
Michael’s beginnings lay in the corn-filled fields of Nebraska, where farming was much of his life. During those years, he was working with friends and relatives within the farming industry and explored many other interests. He provided labor for many and learned a vast amount, particularly expanding his electronic, electrical and wiring skills.
Michael has over 17 years of experience in the Broadcast Industry, but specializes in audio production. He is a certified electronic technician, receiving his technical certifications from Wichita State University, Central Community College, and California Institute of Technology.
Eventually, Michael redirected his life to focus and foster creativity through reading and writing. Thanks to writers like Anne McCaffrey, he developed a fond affinity for dragons. Michael found his own creative voice and began writing several books, three of which were published—Zac and the Valley of the Dragons published by Xlibris Press in 1999, Mistress of the Dragon through Publish America in 2001, and Dragon Moon Press released The Valley of the Dragons: Dragon’s Fire & Wizard’s Flame in mid 2002.
Michael combined his two passions of creative expression and electronics in a new endeavor—Internet Audio. In February 2002, he created “The Dragon Page” which aired on the internet radio station Book Crazy Radio and in syndication on AM/FM radio stations throughout the US. “The Dragon Page” was one of a handful of shows that began podcasting since the word was spoken. Together with Evo Terra, “The Dragon Page” bought the best in sci-fi and fantasy content with two weekly talk shows and in-depth coverage of the best in today’s literature and media. At well over 7 years and nearing 500 episodes, “The Dragon Page” is now one of the oldest running programs online.
In 2006, Michael teamed up with Mur Lafferty and Tracy Hickman (under the banner of FarPoint Media) to create the Parsec Awards. Presented each year at Dragon*Con, the Parsec Awards celebrate speculative fiction podcasting and are dedicated to recognizing excellence within the field.
Michael has been a member of The Arizona Authors Association, Toastmasters Int., and a Book Crazy Author.