Thank you for taking the time to learn about my story.
Three key developments in my life have shaped the creation of Engage Coaching and Consulting.
1. A Foundation of Faith
When I was eight years old, I understood my need for a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As much as a child can, I opened my heart and received Him. That decision became the foundation for my life’s work.
While the work of Building Your Legacy is not limited to people of faith, my own faith shapes my motives, guides my conduct, and influences how I serve others.
At fifteen, I committed myself to serve the Lord in whatever capacity He called me. I began preaching at fifteen and pastoring at nineteen. Over the years, I have learned that leadership is leadership—yet spiritual formation and leadership development are deeply connected pursuits. Even when the resources I offer are not spiritual in nature, my faith remains the foundation of all I do.
Whether or not we share the same beliefs, we almost certainly share a passion for leadership. I have come to believe that a good leader is a good leader, regardless of role or belief system. Still, it is important for me to acknowledge that my relationship with God has shaped me profoundly. I am grateful for His grace in saving me and allowing me to invest in the lives of others.
2. A Growing Understanding of Spiritual Gifts
The second major development in my journey was discovering the power of spiritual gifts. I became deeply engaged in understanding how people are uniquely gifted and how those gifts influence their actions, reactions, and motivations.
I found great joy in helping others discover their gifts and calling. Each time I led a study on spiritual gifts, my commitment to helping people grow deepened.
Over the years, I have led both small and large groups. I have pastored churches of twelve people and churches of two hundred, in both urban and rural settings. In every context, my aim has been to help people understand their gifts, motivations, and potential.
3. A Passion for Leadership Development
The third key development came during the introductory course of my doctoral program. We were introduced to multiple leadership assessments, and I began to understand how personality traits and leadership styles shape who we are. That experience ignited a spark in me—a spark that grew into a passion for leadership development.
Since that first seminar, I have been driven to learn everything I can about leadership. I read, study, categorize, and continually refine what I learn. The tools I use and the resources I’ve developed are the result of decades of study, pastoral experience, and hands-on leadership.
I have had the privilege of leading teams with multiple paid staff members as well as small churches led entirely by volunteers. I have served in leadership roles within local associations and state conventions. In every setting, my goal has been to be faithful to God and to those I serve.
A Broader Leadership Journey
During my pastoral career, I also became bi-vocational. I served as a bank manager for two different banks, taking on roles in training, leadership development, strategic planning, and mentoring. Being recognized as a leader only increased my desire to grow as one.
Beyond the church and workplace, I have served my community as a chaplain, president of ministerial alliances, and in various other leadership roles.
I share this history not to boast, but to show that my understanding of leadership and development comes from a rich and varied background. I have learned from great leaders, served alongside dedicated teams, and grown through every role I’ve held.
Since that first seminar, I have been driven to learn everything I can about leadership. I read, study, categorize, and continually refine what I learn. The tools I use and the resources I’ve developed are the result of decades of study, pastoral experience, and hands-on leadership.
I have had the privilege of leading teams with multiple paid staff members as well as small churches led entirely by volunteers. I have served in leadership roles within local associations and state conventions. In every setting, my goal has been to be faithful to God and to those I serve.
A Broader Leadership Journey
During my pastoral career, I also became bi-vocational. I served as a bank manager for two different banks, taking on roles in training, leadership development, strategic planning, and mentoring. Being recognized as a leader only increased my desire to grow as one.
Beyond the church and workplace, I have served my community as a chaplain, president of ministerial alliances, and in various other leadership roles.
I share this history not to boast, but to show that my understanding of leadership and development comes from a rich and varied background. I have learned from great leaders, served alongside dedicated teams, and grown through every role I’ve held.
