I’ve been creating spaces in which people can explore the things that really matter for the past 20 years. My work has taken me all over the world and given me an opportunity to gain insights into how we’re different and at the same time, how we’re the same. I’m driven by a desire to listen to and draw out the stories that deepen our understanding of each other.

When it comes to working with conflict, I learned my trade in Northern Ireland. After graduating college in 1996 I started working with The Corrymeela Community, Ireland’s oldest peace and reconciliation center. Their focus on the importance of relationships, on listening and on intentionally creating a space in which new perspectives can emerge resonated deeply. 

I hold an MA in Conflict Resolution from world-renowned Peace Studies program at the University of Bradford, UK. After graduating in 2002 I was invited to join their faculty and for four years I was responsible for designing and delivering all requests for conflict resolution training they received. Working with everyone from local elementary schools, businesses through to the military in various countries instilled in me an approach that is practice-focused but with a deep respect for relevant and applicable theories. 

Accompanying and guiding a team as they journey from confusion, frustration and apathy through to engagement, clarity and enthusiasm about their next steps is such a privilege. I love to see the link between seemingly random and unrelated ideas, themes and perspectives and then connecting them with the challenges I’m exploring with a team. 

I live in the beautiful mountains of Julian, an hour east of San Diego with my wife Vanessa and young daughter Eloise. I love renovating our home, being a very hands-on dad, appreciating nature and learning about this fascinating world we live in.