I’m a pastor, author, and teacher. Professionally, my work has spanned work in a public-policy think-tank, pastoring a small-membership church, and overseeing a $53 million initiative to expand access to oral health care. I am currently the Senior Fellow for Faith, Leadership, and Community with the University of the Ozarks’ Town Square Collaborative. I am a United Methodist minister, and a member of the Western North Carolina Annual Conference.

I love finding ways to collaborate with new organizations. My work has allowed me to partner with numerous and diverse groups, ranging from the Governor’s Office of Faith Based and Community Partnerships, the UT Institute for Agriculture, and the Texas Methodist Foundation. My work with other organizations has ranged from leading workshops and cohorts to supporting new initiatives and research projects. I’ve written two books (so far). My first book, Reclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations, was recognized as a Top 10 Book of the Year by the Academy for Parish Clergy. My second book, The Gift of Small: Embracing Your Church’s Vocation was released in 2024. My writing has been featured in Faith and Leadership, Ministry Matters, The Daily Yonder, and others.

I hold degrees from Wake Forest University, Duke University, and Southern Methodist University. For most of my life, I’ve lived in different rural communities. I currently live in Memphis, TN, with my wife and two daughters.

Download my CV here