I was born and raised in Chicago, IL. Career opportunities took me to Southern California, with my family landing initially in Pasadena roughly 16 years ago. When we decided to settle down for good in the area, we chose Monrovia because of its charm, opportunity, and quality of life. My wife is extremely active in the community, and my daughter is a junior at Monrovia High School.
I work as an executive coach and leadership consultant for an LA-based firm called Evolution. We primarily work with tech startups and other high-growth organizations. I’m passionate about my work because I help individuals, teams, and organizations tap into their potential for growth and development.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My wife and I were married in Chicago 20 years ago. Our daughter was born 16 years ago. We moved here when she was five months old.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I do coaching and consulting work for entrepreneurial organizations. I love helping others tap into their potential and demonstrate their value.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
The Diplomat, Bella Sera, and The Saltner
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Monrovia for 11 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Fil Lujan, MHS’s former assistant principal and Temple City High’s current principal. I’ve never met someone with such a diverse background and set of skills.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
India. It’s an incredibly diverse population and home to several spiritual traditions.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie: The Royal Tenenbaums. TV show: The White Lotus
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Everything in life is learning — both the positive and challenging experiences.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Ride the Trans-Siberian Railway
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Arcade Fire
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The Monrovian
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Joseph Campbell, author and lecturer. We would meet for lunch at Cafe X2O, smoke hookahs, and talk about the Hero’s Journey.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The winter holiday season. People come together and celebrate as one.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Living in Monrovia, growing my business, and supporting my community.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love screenwriting.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Barcelona, Spain
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
September. Thanksgiving. March 7th.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
A view of fresh morning snow in the San Gabriel Mountains
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My daughter
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
1. fresh baked bread, 2. single-malt scotch
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Belonging, safety, and restoration
