Why I do what I do (in a nut shell)

I was running the race – competing with everyone, trying to be the best at everything. I was never satisfied and a certifiable workaholic. I practiced the glorification of busy.

My focus was on everyone else and always the next step, the next client, the next project. I was never fully present where I was. I “did” a lot and missed a lot. I avoided pain and never really felt joy. I did not know who I was or what I had.

Then – I maxed out. I was married with two kids and trying to run three businesses by myself – performing 300+ shows annually while working 40+ hours a week in the office. I was spinning all the plates, giving everything I had but it was not enough. There was no time left and plates were beginning to fall. I was at the end of my rope and desperate for an answer.

It was then that I discovered the power and freedom of intrinsic value. I began a new journey – one of self discovery and balance.

As I dug deep into my core, my life began to change – the result was a more connected marriage, enriched friendships, a renewed passion for life, focus & clarity in my work, a hunger for knowledge, a genuine desire to “pay it forward” and a purpose for my life beyond how I made my living.

I am not perfect – but at this point in my journey, I can honestly tell you – I am making less mistakes, my life is richer, I am experiencing a level of peace and joy that I’ve never felt before, I am more present in my relationships, and it is awesome!

I AM:

A creative, reliable, loyal, controlled, encouraging, wise & empathetic man.

VISION & MISSION:

I am here to help people live bold, authentic lives, generously serving each other. I do this through speaking, coaching, writing, and teaching anyone who wants to learn.

VALUES:

Loyalty, creativity, excellence, vulnerability, fun, and persistence.

Entertainment Background

I am an award winning, international entertainer. I have spent more than 20 years working professionally in the entertainment industry. I’ve produced national touring acts, performed over 4,000 live shows across the country, produced award winning theatre and film, operated a booking agency and owned a complete event management company catering to high end corporations and nonprofits.

I studied acting in New York City with the late Gene Frankel and in Los Angeles with Steve Eastin, but my biggest teacher has been experience.

As an entertainer, I have been able to cross many social boundaries – economic, racial, political, spiritual, life style, and so on. My goal as a performer is to create a space where you, the audience, feel comfortable enough to take the mask(s) you wear every day to survive, so you can have a genuine laugh next to a total stranger. I do this with comedy, improvisation, audience interaction and physical stunts.

Speak and Coach

Crossing social groups with millions of people all across the country led to an unexpected discovery – a raging disease that knows no discrimination – “a lack of self worth”. The results of this disease are devastating and going largely unnoticed and misdiagnosed. It impacts relationships, professional pursuits and personal health. This realization moved me to become a certified coach and begin speaking on value and authenticity. When we see value in ourselves, we become better leaders, we can function better in a team and we are more likely to pursue our passions with success. As a speaker, I offer people tools they can use on their own to live authentically without a mask. As a coach, I am able to provide more tools and walk with my clients, helping them to implement the new skills and strategies on a daily basis. I am currently a professional member of the National Speakers Association, member of the John Maxwell TEAM and certified Life coach with The Values Conversation.

 Random facts

• As an actor, I’ve appeared on Cold Case a few feature films and various tv commercials.
• My fine art photography is on display in various businesses across the St. Louis region.
• I have juggled while riding: on the back of a water buffalo, a Ferris wheel, a zip line and a few other carnival rides.
• I Joggled a 1/2 marathon in just over 2 hours.
• I’m married with 2 children.
• I like Jello cheese cake, toasted ravioli and frozen custard.
• Let’s go Blues!