Joining WINK News was like coming home for Mike Essian. He was born and raised in Port Charlotte before moving to Michigan with his family. Mike comes to WINK from the ABC affiliate in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. There he covered the 2008 presidential primary as the candidates campaigned in the "first-in-the-south" state, and later covered two national debates. He also reported on the Charleston furniture store fire that killed nine firefighters in June, 2007.

Before moving to Myrtle Beach, Mike lived in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. While there, he worked as a producer for ABC radio's number-one rated morning show with Frank Beckmann on WJR 760 AM.

Mike graduated with a degree in broadcast journalism, winning several national and state awards for his broadcasting skills. He anchored the morning news at the university's TV station and hosted his own weekly radio talk show.

Growing up on the Gulf Coast explains Mike's love for the water. He's raced for more than six years on a sailing race team. When he's not on the water, Mike also enjoys writing and producing music professionally. Mike is actively involved in the community through various organizations.

When he's not in Southwest Florida, Mike likes to venture up north to visit his family in Michigan. He's the second oldest of nine, which might explain why he enjoys being around people. Feel free to email him any time at: mike.essian@winknews.com