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Hi, I'm Spud 👋
Since 2010, I have trained over 10,000 emerging leaders in creative community building.
As a facilitator, I’ve worked with universities, rural school districts, silicon valley tech companies, national foundations, government agencies, and Fortune 100’s. In addition to my consulting efforts, I’ve raised more than $1 million in investment capital for community-driven social enterprises I’ve co-founded.
I am the author of ‘Designing Creative Communities’ and the creator of numerous facilitator tools and card decks that help deepen relationships and inspire action.
I firmly believe the world needs more opportunities for belonging and collaboration. The tools and techniques I use with the individuals and groups I serve have the power to change the way we connect. I know this to be true, because they changed my own relationships.
I can’t wait to support you on your own journey!
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What Others Have to Say
“His personality and methods are infectious. With Spud involved, everyone’s experience is better for it.”
Danielle Hagan – Government Innovation Specialist
“I would 100% work with Spud in the future; in fact… I don’t think I would work with anyone else!”
Lori Murphy – Social Worker and Innovation Fellow
“When it comes to making learning and classrooms fun, 70% of what I do has a Spud influence to it.”
Josh Nadzam – Nonprofit Leader and Professor
“This course gets you out of the box and forces you to consider all of the complexities of a community.”
Dr. Renee Just – University Department Chair
“It is magical to watch Spud bring college students to life. He is the relationship that keeps on giving.”
Arshiya Kherani – Social Entrepreneur
“A joy to work together! You helped us learn how communities are created, nurtured, and sustained!”
Ravishankar Gundlapalli – CEO, MentorCloud
“I ended up getting my mind blown by just how much I learned… and by the end of the course, I felt relief.”
Jessica Rodman – Past Online Course Participant
“Spud is the most creative person you’ll meet – especially for creating unique experiences for communities”
Michael Williams – Serial Entrepreneur and Coach
“We had ideas but nothing concrete. Spud does a great job to organize ideas and put thoughts into motion.”
Jamie Dunlap – Pennsylvania Council on the Arts
“Working with Spud was extremely valuable. I couldn’t have created my TED-style talk without Spud.”
Dr. Kimberlee Potter – Biofabrication Healthcare Innovator
“Spud’s course allowed me to dream big while discovering tangible steps for how to get there.”
Adam Lahlou – Past Student of Study Abroad Course
“Spud makes an impossible feat feel possible by walking alongside and giving you the tools you need.”
Erica Quinn – Nonprofit Arts and Innovation Leader
“As an introvert, Spud helped me connect with people and pushed me out of my comfort bubble.”
Sarah Holmes – Past Online Course Participant
“Spud really knows his trade and uses activities very purposefully; an extremely effective facilitator!”
Nancy Peter – Statewide STEM Coalition Director
“One year later, I still think back on this event! I left feeling truly inspired, connected, and empowered.”
Jo Davis – Artist and Creative Consultant
“An effortless collaboration! Spud turned our technical thinking into direct connections with real people.”
Congxing Cai – Investor-Funded AI Startup Founder
“You should 100% work with Spud. I’m always amazed with how much we accomplish together!”
Steph Schwab – STEM Program Director
Trusted by Groups Worldwide
We help partners design engaging and dynamic initiatives to strengthen their communities.
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Discover How to Design Creative Communities that Build Belonging
“This book is a brilliant take on how to design your own creative community! A must-read for any emerging leader.”
Co-Founder, AshokaU