Michael O'Connor was born in Frederick. He graduated from Saint John's at Prospect Hall High School (now Saint John's Catholic Prep) in 1984, and Saint Bonaventure University, with a double major in history and mass communication, in 1988. Michael spent nearly 20 years in local media as a reporter, news director, talk show host, senior producer, and moderator with WJEJ, Hagerstown (1988-89), WFMD-WFRE, Frederick (1989-1997), and Comcast (Adelphia, GS Communications) Cable Channel 10, Frederick (1997-2006).

Since 2006, Michael has been the business manager at Saint Katharine Drexel Roman Catholic Congregation in Frederick. He also spent nine years as adjunct faculty at Frederick Community College (2000-2009). He has been a volunteer with various community organizations including Saint Katharine Drexel, the Frederick County Workforce Development Board, Friends of Catholic Education, Saint John's Catholic Prep, Frederick Jaycees, Knights of Columbus, and Aspire Frederick. Michael and his wife, Tammy, have two daughters, and two dogs.