Born and raised in San Diego, California, USA, I embarked on my fitness journey at the age of 14 by joining the wrestling and soccer teams while enjoying surfing at the beach. This combination of sports not only instilled discipline but also emphasized the importance of balancing strength, endurance, and practical application in fitness. Pursuing my undergraduate studies in Biomechanics and Kinesiology, I concurrently worked as a certified personal trainer throughout college. My introduction to the world of natural bodybuilding at the age of 20, under the guidance of a former IFBB pro, marked the beginning of my competitive journey.

Further expanding my expertise, I became a certified nutritionist, dedicating a decade to working as a trainer, nutritionist, and fitness counselor before venturing into graduate school. After obtaining degrees in law and business and holding a position as the COO of a corporate entity for a couple of years, a pivotal moment arose when my wife, a clinical psychologist specializing in weight management, was offered a position in Auckland. Despite thriving in the corporate world, I found myself yearning for the passion I once had in the fitness industry and helping others achieve their goals. With this realization, I have returned to my roots as a trainer after relocating nearly 7,000 miles from our home in Corvallis, Oregon, USA, to Auckland, NZ.