My journey started a little differently than most entrepreneurs. I began learning piano at the age of 5, and it didn’t take long before music became a huge part of my life. I studied under some of the best teachers in the world, including those from Juilliard and the Manhattan School of Music, where I learned classical, jazz, and more. By the time I was 10, I was already performing at major venues, with one of the most surreal moments being my halftime performance at Madison Square Garden for a Knicks game.
I had an incredible run in entertainment. Alongside my music career, I acted in over 40 commercials, TV shows, and movies, even starring in a nationwide Papa John’s commercial as young Indiana Jones. It was a whirlwind, and while I was building a fan base and enjoying the spotlight, there came a point around age 14 where I just wanted to be a normal kid. The constant travel, shows, and performances were amazing, but I found myself wanting to do things that most kids my age were doing—like playing football, hanging out with friends, and just being a regular teenager.
That desire to step back from the spotlight led me to the church. One day, a singer from my church who had seen me on the news as a child prodigy asked if I wanted to play the organ. I jumped at the chance, and that began an 8-year journey as the organist and musical director for several churches. I loved it. It was a time where I could continue to play music, give back to my faith, and contribute to the community in a meaningful way. Although I had to step away from that role a few years ago due to my business and where I now live, the church has always been a big part of my life, and I still play today. In fact, I’ll be playing at my son’s baptism soon.
Music taught me a lot—discipline, focus, and how to handle pressure. Those early experiences shaped me into who I am today. Even though I stepped away from music as a career, I’ve carried those lessons into the business world. My love for personal development and constant growth is what drives me, whether it’s Tony Robbins’ influence or my own desire to help others win. These values push me forward in everything I do today.
