Learned the value of work and, perhaps more importantly, how to work for and with others. Worked as a farm laborer, butcher, iron worker, social worker and musician.
Earned a Bachelors Degree in Administration of Justice because... honestly, because I was lost and had a soft spot for kids who got in trouble with the law.
Earned a Masters in Industrial Organizational Psychology because a prof told me that is where the money is.
Discovered I was really good at conducting employee attitude and workplace culture research. Learned I was even better at crafting stories to communicate the results! Achieved success and professional notoriety in Chicago.
Through a series of unfortunate events and poor choices, I lost my job and my career, became bankrupt, lost my house and my hope, and suffered from depression and addiction. I was literally saved by a chance encounter with a homeless stranger begging for spare change.
Built an innovative, client-centric guitar repair business in Chicago that grew to the highest volume repair service in the Midwest. I received an offer to franchise coast-to-coast.
Fulfilled my lifelong dream by becoming a full-time musician, touring and recording with Wilco. A conversation with Johnny Cash motivated me to do so!
Moved from Chicago to Oxford, the jewel of the south, for inspiration to create my first solo record and to launch my solo music career. Also toured and recorded with Billy Bragg.
Earned my first Juno Award for recording pedal steel guitar on Bobcaygeon, Tragically Hip’s Single of the Year.
Moved to Canada to join Blue Rodeo - performed over 1,000 shows, recorded 10 albums (4 Platinum, 3 Gold), received numerous Juno Awards, a Governor General’s Award and was inducted into 3 Halls/Walks of Fame.
Recorded on over 100 records as a session musician, released 4 solo albums, and was awarded the Canadian Country Music Association Industry Award.
Founded 100 Guitars for 100 Kids, a non-profit to provide musical instruments to underserved youth.
Retired from Blue Rodeo to become Manager Community Development for Kitchener Public Library - fundraised to construct 4 in-house recording studios and a 250-instrument lending library.
Became Film and Music Officer for the City of Kitchener focusing on attracting film production, providing professional development for musicians and filmmakers, and creating opportunities for youth in music and film.
Fulfilled a long-standing goal and my true calling to inspire others by launching my speaking career.
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