About

I have always been driven by a wide-ranging curiosity, a trait that has led me through several distinct "chapters" of life—from the structured world of corporate telecommunications and software technology to "slipping the surly bonds of Earth" as a private pilot. Now I indulge my passions as a news junkie and writer.

Early Years & Education

Growing up in the Midwest, my journey began with a liberal arts foundation. I earned my degree in Economics from Wabash College, where I was a member of Phi Beta Kappa (junior year) and graduated summa cum laude. As a Rotary Graduate Fellow I studied at the University of Neuchâtel in Switzerland. These formative years instilled a love of ideas, learning, and a global perspective that have guided me ever since.

Communications

My professional life started in the telecommunications industry in Indianapolis, where I gained experience in business services, corporate planning, and regulatory affairs. As I discovered an interest in informative writing, my trajectory changed toward a career in marketing communications and advertising. As time passed I specialized in public and media relations, eventually operating as an independent consultant. This led to becoming the executive assistant to the CEO of an iconic outdoor gear retailer.

Tech

As the digital landscape shifted, so did my curiosity. I was an early adopter of Apple and Microsoft computers. A hobby became an obsession. I moved into the IT world, working first as a programmer and analyst, and ultimately as a technical writer creating software documentation. This chapter took me to Seattle, where I collaborated on projects at Amazon and Microsoft. When I tired of the weather, I busted a move to the California desert and worked remotely.

Aviation

As a child I dreamed of flying airplanes. Timing and opportunity finally aligned. I earned my private pilot’s certificate in California and was pursuing advanced flight training. However, for health reasons I had to stop. I was devastated. But disappointment transformed into a desire to share my aviation experience. I wrote an ebook on becoming a pilot from a student's perspective that briefly reached the top of its category on Amazon. Now I'm writing a book on what learning to fly teaches you about life.

Real Estate

By the time I stopped flying I had drifted away from tech writing. So I looked for a new challenge. I was always intrigued by real estate: "Under all is the land." I got my real estate license, first in California then in Indiana. To be clear, I was never much of a salesman. Instead I made a point of working for various brokerages, taking every board class available, and going on endless home tours—all to learn as much as possible. To be honest, the real estate industry is seriously broken, and if I live long enough I may write about ideas I have to fix it.

Volunteering

I'm no saint, but I've always had a desire to help other people. The question has been how to do that most effectively. My church in high school had Saturday help days when the youth group would assist someone in need. Early in the hospice movement I volunteered at a local hospital Friday nights. The program was unique in its depth of training and involvement. I assisted people at the end of life and witnessed extraordinary things. I did what I could during the AIDS crisis, having lost many close friends. Later I joined others addressing a rural community's struggles with broken families, underemployment, and substance abuse. Now I think the most effective thing is to validate others as much as grace will allow, despite my own failings.

The Rest of the Journey

I recently turned 70. Given various health issues there aren't too many years left. But like a pilot, I've maintained situational awareness and adapted to constantly changing circumstances. My energy and spirits are good, and there's more to explore and accomplish. I have fought the good fight. I will do my best to finish this journey with faith, hope, and charity.

Peace be with you.