Business, at its best, should be a force for good.
I learned that lesson the hard way — by living it.
Long before I stepped onto big stages or mentored hundreds of entrepreneurs, I was in the trenches myself: building businesses from the ground up, navigating growing pains, and eventually, learning how to let go and exit with purpose. I spent over 20 years doing that work.
Three businesses, countless lessons, and a deep respect for what it really takes to build something that endures. That’s where my love for entrepreneurship was born.
But more importantly, that’s where my calling to help others build theirs began.
From the Trenches to the Classroom
Today, I serve as the President & CEO of Goodwill of Western New York where I get to merge my entrepreneurial spirit with social impact — leading a mission-driven organization committed to workforce development, community reinvention, and second chances.
We don’t just talk about change. We build it, through people.
Before this chapter, I spent twelve years as Assistant Dean and Professor at the University at Buffalo School of Management. Teaching, mentoring, and shaping the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders wasn’t just a job but a privilege.
I continue that work today as the Executive in Residence for Entrepreneurship, helping students and founders alike tap into their courage, clarity, and capacity to lead.
A Calling to Coach
I’ve learned that leadership can be lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Through coaching, content, and candid conversations, I help leaders gain clarity, confidence, and momentum.
Over the past two decades, I’ve had the honor of coaching more than 1,000 business owners; guiding them through pivotal growth, challenging transitions, and everything in between.
Whether it’s in the classroom, the boardroom, or through my coaching work, I show up with one goal: To help leaders stop settling and start soaring.
Because the truth is, too many leaders merely survive when they’re meant to soar. That idea sparked the name of my newsletter, Soar, Don’t Settle, and it continues to fuel the content I share on platforms like Forbes.com and LinkedIn.
I aim to share real, practical, human stories about business, leadership, and what it means to lead well in a world that never slows down.
A Bit More About Me!
Recognized as a Top 100 Small Business Influencer and named Small Business Advocate of the Year, I’m proud of the accolades, but even more proud of the impact. Because at the end of the day, titles don’t matter as much as transformation.
I live in Buffalo, NY, with my wife, Lynn, who is my biggest supporter, and who keeps me grounded. I earned my MBA from UB’s School of Management and hold creative problem- solving, strategy, and leadership certifications.
I help you gain clarity, confidence, and unstoppable momentum through coaching, content, and candid conversation.
If you’re here because you want to grow, lead with intention, or build something meaningful, you’re in the right place.
Let’s get to work.