Company: West Bend Insurance

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m an experiential learner and educator at my core. Personally, this shapes how I raise my two teenage daughters and how I show up as a partner to my wife, Aimee. Professionally, I design and deliver transformational experiences through my work as a leadership consultant & coach and, most recently, by leading the claims training team at West Bend Insurance.

What attracted you to the field of Talent Development?

My early career was focused on youth development, using wilderness and adventure-based learning to build leadership skills and resilience among underserved young people in New Jersey, Colorado, and Wisconsin. After my first daughter was born, I transitioned to the talent development field — a space that allows me to combine my passions for experiential learning, organizational and team culture, and leadership development, while building a sustainable, fulfilling career.

What prompted you to join SEWI-ATD?

When I transitioned into a Talent Development/Organizational Development role at Children’s Wisconsin in 2015, I was eager to learn how other practitioners and organizations approached similar challenges in their unique ways. SEWI-ATD provided exactly that — a welcoming community where I could learn, share, and connect with so many remarkable professionals in our field.

In what ways have you been involved with the chapter?

I’ve been a member since 2015 — an active participant, willing event volunteer, and eager board member (serving as VP of Membership from 2021 to 2023). I also co-lead the Talent Development/Leaders of Learning Professional Development Network.

What is about the chapter that you enjoy most?

From the beginning, I’ve felt welcomed by this thriving community of passionate professionals. SEWI-ATD has always provided a space where I feel comfortable sharing my experiences while continuously learning from others. The relationships I’ve developed over the years have been invaluable — both personally and professionally.

What piece of advice would you offer to people coming into talent development?

Each of us arrives in the talent development field through a unique pathway. For me, it’s been the perfect way to combine my love of working with people, my skill in facilitating meaningful experiences, and my passion for taking things from good to great. My advice? Be curious. Build your network. And stay passionate about what you do.

Favorite Blog or Podcast?

Not directly talent development related, but I’ve become a huge fan of Hardcore History by Dan Carlin. His deep-dive explorations of historical events — often told over several hours — bring the past to life through storytelling, compelling research, and infectious enthusiasm. It’s especially great for long solo road trips.  My family isn't as enthusiastic about it as I am.

What do you do for fun?

I love music — listening to it, seeing it live, and playing guitar. I squeeze in as much playing time as possible without shirking my family obligations. I also love outdoor exploration — by river, by trail, or by bike. While I live in urban Milwaukee (Riverwest), I escape to nature whenever I can.