The word “Maverick” encapsulates a life story defined by shattering expectations and transforming every “no” into a resounding “yes.” For me, this journey took a dramatic turn at 15 when a diving accident in the Bahamas resulted in a C6 quadriplegia. While many perceived this as a life-altering limitation, I saw it as a catalyst for profound change. That day, during a near-fatal drowning where I was clinically dead for 2.5 minutes, paradoxically became one of the most pivotal and enriching moments of my life.
This experience ignited an unyielding determination to overcome obstacles. It fueled my ascent up the corporate ladder, propelled me to become the world’s first quadriplegic rescue scuba diver, and drove me to conquer 12 marathons in 12 months. My narrative isn’t solely about inspiration; it’s about proactive measures—identifying “loopholes” to achieve extraordinary success beyond self-imposed and societal limitations.
In 2021, a thrilling new chapter unfolded: Race Car driving. Living in close proximity to Lime Rock Park, a nationally renowned racetrack, coupled with a lifelong passion for speed and a track-day experience gifted by my wife, Maggie, steered me onto this exhilarating path. Racing transcended being merely a sport; it became synonymous with liberation. Once securely strapped into my hand-controlled Porsche GT4 Cayman Clubsport MR, the wheelchair becomes irrelevant, and I compete on equal footing with other drivers. Since then, I’ve participated in prestigious series including International GT, SCCA, and the World Racing League, achieving podium finishes and unlocking remarkable opportunities. These include appearances in Pennzoil commercials, becoming a brand ambassador for Volkswagen, and an upcoming exciting project launching in March.
Beyond the adrenaline of the racetrack, I’ve cultivated a vibrant career as a marketing strategist, currently serving as Chief Marketing Officer at Aloqia. My professional journey includes leadership roles at Deloitte Consulting, J Walter Thompson, BBDO, and R/GA, and co-founding the Just Hands Foundation. This foundation is dedicated to introducing adaptive athletes to the exhilarating worlds of performance driving and mountain biking. My endeavors, both on the track and in my professional life, are driven by a deep-seated desire to motivate others—not just with abstract concepts but with tangible strategies to overcome their personal “wheelchairs,” whether visible or invisible, and to transform challenges into superpowers.
Currently residing in Sharon, CT, with Maggie and our dog, Beau, I embrace life as an ongoing adventure. Through race car driving, public speaking, and sharing my personal story, my aim is to demonstrate that limitations are frequently self-constructed illusions. Whether confronting a physical disability, battling PTSD, navigating relationship complexities, striving for success in the corporate arena, or facing any other life challenge, the key lies in recognizing internal barriers, pushing beyond them, and embracing the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Say “yes” to the journey.
