I was born several generations deep in the Kansas City area. While my family mostly had jobs in the urban core, I was drawn to the outdoors by my experiences on family vacations to Pomme de Terre Lake, National Parks throughout the west, and trips to my Aunt & Uncle’s farm. I was engulfed by the Bob Marshall Wilderness on a trip with my uncle Jack, and I have continued to seek the experience of being enmeshed with the natural world.

My participation on the intercollegiate debate team shaped my life personally and professionally. It gave me the tools and the confidence to seek out and delve into challenging viewpoints. It challenged what I knew about myself and the world.

I am currently the Director of Debate at the University of Missouri – Kansas City. This allows me to continue to educate myself and, hopefully, to provide similar personal growth for my students. I have two wonderful daughters and a wife who support and share in my experiences with the natural world.

Working with Troy, Jeff, and the audiences at each of the shows has been a profound experience for me. I appreciate and respect the input of the audience and enjoy the collaborative atmosphere that I hope we have developed.