m^2 - 144 > 0 implies (m-12)(m+12) > 0.
Now, we have two numbers that must multiply to give a positive number, ie, both numbers must be positive or both numbers must be negative.
Both numbers are positive when m > 12. Similarly, both numbers are negative when m < -12.
Another way to do it would be to just solve m^2 - 144 = 0. The two solutions will divide your number line into three segments. Test a number in each segment and see what you get. This is essentially the same as graphing the curve, just without the annoyance of having to graph something.