About Me
I'm sorta tough to pin down, even for myself! One thing that is (painfully... at least to my more introverted family members) clear, is that I'm a connector. Regardless of the setting, the situation, or the people involved, I'm constantly seeking "threads" that connect us to one another. On a phone call, in the classroom, in line at the grocery store, or on social media, I'm aware of what divides us... but I want to be more aware of what connects us.
I'm a deep thinker (a former Philosophy major) who also loves goofy humor (The Simpsons, The Far Side). I'm an aging athlete who would still much rather play than watch most sports (especially soccer). My curiosity to learn about new things is closely matched by my love of teaching - especially when I can raise questions that linger for folks long after the moment. Although my first choice is generally spending time with friends, I'm far more comfortable than I used to be spending time on my own or with my lovely wife, Jean.
I'm a deep thinker (a former Philosophy major) who also loves goofy humor (The Simpsons, The Far Side). I'm an aging athlete who would still much rather play than watch most sports (especially soccer). My curiosity to learn about new things is closely matched by my love of teaching - especially when I can raise questions that linger for folks long after the moment. Although my first choice is generally spending time with friends, I'm far more comfortable than I used to be spending time on my own or with my lovely wife, Jean.
While I spent 25 years in different Christian ministry settings, I was always intent on being accessible to and learning from those who never set foot in church, whose beliefs or faith are very different from my own. I would describe my spirituality as a kind of "wide-angle lens," through which I perceive love, beauty, kindness, hope, and humor. I find resources to feed it in the reflections of people like Walter Brueggemann and Barbara Brown Taylor, in the music of many singer/songwriters, and especially these days in the poetry of Mary Oliver and Wendell Berry.
I do a lot of different things that I enjoy but am not particularly good at - cooking, playing guitar, and playing disc golf (in at least 30 different states and 3 different countries thus far). I am passionate about craft beer and love visiting microbreweries; I've also had some of the most powerful and intriguing conversations of my life in pubs.
I'm a dad to two young adult sons. Jean recently retired from her counseling practice and is discerning her next steps. After 30 years in the Huntington, WV (and after completing a 2 year transitional ministry position) we recently resettled in the Asheville, NC area and are enjoying exploring the beautiful NC mountains!
I do a lot of different things that I enjoy but am not particularly good at - cooking, playing guitar, and playing disc golf (in at least 30 different states and 3 different countries thus far). I am passionate about craft beer and love visiting microbreweries; I've also had some of the most powerful and intriguing conversations of my life in pubs.
I'm a dad to two young adult sons. Jean recently retired from her counseling practice and is discerning her next steps. After 30 years in the Huntington, WV (and after completing a 2 year transitional ministry position) we recently resettled in the Asheville, NC area and are enjoying exploring the beautiful NC mountains!
What Clients Say About Me:
As a pastor, I have found great value in working with a coach. There are times in our lives when we can only see dimly. The mirror seems dingy and our options may appear limited. Through working with Dana as a coach, I am always able to unlock other perspectives. Through deep listening and thoughtful conversation Dana is able to pick up on where I am in the midst of my situation of the day and offer a question that opens up new awarenesses for me. He is able to guide the conversation ever so gently toward a direction that leads to new ways of thinking and proceeding. Rev. Kathy, G. - NJ During a VERY difficult professional and personal time in my life, I was introduced to Dana. He worked directly with me on a weekly and then bi-monthly basis for approximately 4 months. During this time, my outlook on life and business made a 180 degree turn around. Dana was able to help me identify where my negative perspectives were developing, but more importantly identifying these energies. Dana turned my focus onto what is truly important in life, and showing me that i truly am blessed in many, many ways. Dana's style is very calming and grounding with a focus entirely on his clients. As a result of my work with Dana, I have pursued and accepted a whole new career path. I plan to continue to utilize Dana's services to keep myself grounded. I highly recommend Dana as a coach! Paul O. - IL |
It has been a pleasure to work with Dana and I could not have asked for a better life coach to connect with. He has helped me navigate through a very challenging season in my life. It is obvious that he genuinely cares about his clients and is passionate about coaching. He creates both a comfortable and safe atmosphere in our sessions where it is easy to open up and have honest discussions. Our sessions always end with me feeling empowered and better equipped to tackle my goals. I also value the accountability that is set in place through working with a coach. Above all, it is Dana's kind nature, generous spirit, and positive attitude that makes him stand out as a life coach to me. Emily S. - CA Throughout my career in ministry, I have worked with 4-5 difference coaches, and Dana has by far been the most valuable and meaningful coach I’ve ever experienced. Dana has a gift for pulling things out of me and problem solving situations. He has helped me through life and job transitions, work trouble shooting, and discerning a path for my future. He has a natural ability of connecting with people and a diverse background of experience that helps him relate to people of many walks of life. I highly recommend Dana as a coach for people of all careers and vocations, but especially for those in ministry as Pastors, Interim Pastors, College Ministers, New Church Pastors, Nonprofit Leaders. If you are seeking someone to walk alongside you and provide coaching through this journey that we call life, give Dana a call! |
