Real Stories That Inform Real Life -

Building Resilience, Purpose, and Life Mastery With

Michael Wilkes

Michael has over a decade of youth work, mentoring and coaching experience. Both supporting young people, their families, and running workshops for school communities. The programs he developed in youth work have both changed and saved lives.

Now after years of people asking, he has heeded the call and created a resource for everyone — packed with tools, stories, and rhythms to help you get unstuck and grow forward.

This isn’t just advice — it’s a journey. Let’s walk it together.

Read "The Unschooled Life"

“Mike sets examples of great leadership. His book has rewired the way I approach helping people through hardships. It teaches a fundamental skill set that is important for people in all positions helping to make a difference with the people around them.”"

Caleb

Young Adult - Retail Security Guard

“I wish I had someone speaking into my life like you when I was younger”

This hit me where I live and the work you do is so inspiring
An inspirational look at a journey being led by a team in a small town who are making a real difference in the lives of youth wanting to reset their compass in life."

Penny

Retired - Keen Gardener

"It helped articulate a lot of the feelings we carry as individuals, especially as young adults.

It talks about legacy — but we don’t often stop to think what kind of legacy we’re actually creating. Mike’s book really brought that home. The Unschooled Life reminded me that it’s not just about what we leave behind when we’re gone — it’s about what we build while we’re here. It’s the relationships, the impact, the presence we bring to others in the now.

Ruby

Young Adult - Early Childcare Teacher

The Book

The Unschooled Life - Real Growth Beyond The System

This book is raw, honest, and packed with the kind of stories that don't make it into school curriculums — but shape who we are. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, lost, or just over the same old grind. Inside are tools that actually work, rhythms to keep you steady, and hard-earned lessons from a decade of walking with young people through the mess and beauty of life.

Get The BookAvailable as Ebook, Audio, Paperback, and Hardcover

The Course

The Unschooled Life 10-Day Reset

This is your reset button. A no-fluff, walk-alongside-you course built for real life — not just highlight reels. With short vids, honest reflections, and down-to-earth challenges, you’ll learn how to build grit, find rhythm, and move forward with purpose. Perfect if you’re in a rut or just ready for a bit more spark. Take it slow or smash it out — either way, you won’t be the same after.

Start the Reset

Follow the Journey

Real Talk. Daily Grit. Stories that Stick

Not quite ready to dive into the book or course? No stress. Come follow the journey — I post regular reflections, stories from the trenches, and lessons learned the hard way. It’s raw, honest, and full of life stuff that’ll make you think, laugh, or maybe cry a bit. If you’re curious about the kaupapa, this is the best place to start.