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, 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!
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.
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
