I’ve spent most of my life around animals—but not in a casual, “I like pets” kind of way. For me, it’s always been deeper than that. It’s been a lifestyle, a career, and honestly, a calling.
My professional journey started in the zoo world, where I had the opportunity to work as a zookeeper and eventually move into leadership roles as a Director of Animal Commissary and Lead Carnivore Care Specialist. That meant long days, early mornings, and a level of responsibility most people don’t fully see from the outside. I worked with everything from large apex predators to smaller, more delicate species like foxes—each one requiring its own level of respect, understanding, and precision. Managing diets, overseeing care protocols, and ensuring the health and wellbeing of those animals taught me discipline and attention to detail that I carry with me every day.
From there, I expanded into the zoological supply side of the industry, working with companies that support zoos and professional facilities. That experience gave me a different perspective—understanding not just the care of animals, but the systems, logistics, and standards that keep institutions running. It helped me see the bigger picture of what it takes to maintain high-level animal care across the board.
Outside of my professional career, I’ve spent the last 16 years building my own experience working with exotic animals on a personal level. My interests have never been limited to one group—I’ve worked with reptiles, birds, arachnids, elasmobranchs, primates, amphibians, and more. I’ve always been drawn to the diversity of life and the challenge of learning what each species needs to truly thrive. Alongside that, I’ve developed a real passion for live plants and naturalistic setups—creating environments that don’t just house animals, but reflect the ecosystems they come from.
At home, I keep a large personal collection that includes venomous reptiles and crocodilians. That passion definitely traces back to watching Steve Irwin growing up. There’s something about that level of respect and fearlessness—paired with genuine care—that stuck with me early on and never really left.
But if there’s one thing that has shaped me more than anything else, it’s my family. I’m a husband and a dad first. Without my wife supporting my dreams, I wouldn’t have pushed myself to take a leap of faith. I enjoy building things, working with my hands, and taking on DIY projects whenever I can. Some of my best moments aren’t in a reptile room or behind the scenes at a facility—they’re at home, spending time with the people who matter most.
Not long ago, life threw me something I didn’t expect. I was diagnosed with cancer when my firstborn was just one month old. That kind of moment forces you to reevaluate everything. It changes how you see time, priorities, and what really matters. I’m fortunate to say I came out the other side of that fight—and it gave me a perspective I didn’t have before. I don’t take days for granted anymore. I don’t put things off the way I used to. I try to make every day count, both for myself and for my family.
This blog—and my work moving forward—is really an extension of all of that. The experience, the lessons, the passion, and the perspective. Whether it’s animal care, building projects, behind-the-scenes insights, or just real-life moments, my goal is to share things honestly and in a way that actually helps or connects with people.
If you’ve made it this far, I appreciate you being here. This is just the beginning.