When I reflect on my career paths, I realize they all involve a curiosity about people - how they think, how they feel, how they act and how they communicate with each other. Consequently, it's no surprise that I have spent much of my working life as a journalist, beginning as a reporter/photographer for the newspaper in my hometown of Kimberley, BC. My passion for writing led me to literature and creative writing studies at the University of Victoria, where I completed my Bachelor of Arts degree. My desire to communicate through the written word evolved into what I saw as a more powerful and immediate form of communication - broadcasting. In 1973, I became a radio journalist and worked in that field for 20 years, mostly in Victoria.

When I left broadcasting, I set up a successful communication consulting business, which led to a position as Manager of Communication Services at BC Ferries. Over time, my focus shifted toward improving personal and organizational effectiveness and ultimately led to the establishment of Learning by Heart, a company I operate with my wife Cathy. In 2003, I obtained my Master of Arts in Leadership and Training at Royal Roads University.

As an associate faculty member at Royal Roads, a faculty member of The Banff Centre and as an independent consultant, I work with a variety of clients in both the public and private sectors, mostly in Western Canada. My focus is on leadership, learning, team development, communication, coaching and large and small group facilitation.

Much of what I do focuses on values-based leadership and using the principles of dialogue to collaboratively engage the hearts and minds of others. My approach is reflected in the research project I carried out to complete my Master of Arts in Leadership and Training, entitled "Values in the Voices: A Dialogue." This research, carried out through learning circles and interviews, provided a number of recommendations for my project sponsor, Leadership Victoria.

Beginning with high school band where I played clarinet, saxophone and drums, I have always had a passion for music. During those years, I also taught myself how to play the guitar and honed that skill at countless sing-a-longs in university. In my early 20's I and a group of fellow musicians took our talents on the road, touring in dozens of nightclubs in Western Canada for a year. Now, I'm happy to bring out my guitar at house-parties and the beach. Fresh-air activities for me include walking, swimming and skiing - usually with my wife Cathy. I also love to read and for many years was an avid photographer. When I'm not working I like to hang out with friends and family. Fortunately our son and his wife and our daughter and boyfriend live in Victoria so we get to spent lots of time with them and for that I'm very grateful.

I'm often told that learners appreciate my calm, clear, friendly and enthusiastic presence. I pride myself in being able to draw out the richness that exists in every group. In that respect, I view myself as more of a facilitator than a traditional "teacher". What I particularly love about my work is that I get to meet interesting people all the time and engage in new learning experiences. As others learn in my presence I learn from them and that's a huge payoff for me!