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THE STORY
The Seasons of Leadership
Learning Responsibility Early
I was raised with the expectation that character mattered more than comfort. I learned early not to follow the crowd — not because it was easy, but because standards matter. That foundation shaped how I approached sports, relationships, and eventually business. Leadership didn’t start for me with a whistle or a title. It started with accountability.
Pressure Teaches You Who You Are
In high school, I had the opportunity to serve as captain in both basketball and lacrosse while also being part of a state championship football team. What mattered most wasn’t the wins — it was learning how to show up daily, handle pressure, and carry responsibility for others. That mindset carried into college, where I was part of a national championship lacrosse program. Competing at that level showed me something simple and honest: talent opens doors, but discipline keeps them open.
Ownership Changes Everything
After athletics, leadership didn’t stop — it just changed form. I built my own fly fishing charter business, Patterson Guide Service, learning from experienced captains and earning trust one client at a time. Later, in healthcare sales, I stepped into leadership roles managing and coaching teams. Different industries. Same reality: people don’t follow titles. They follow consistency.
Where Leadership Becomes Personal
Becoming a husband and a father to two boys changed everything. Leadership stopped being theoretical. It became personal. Coaching youth sports — flag football, basketball, lacrosse — reinforced what I already knew: kids don’t listen to what you say. They watch what you do. That responsibility is one of the main reasons The Current Captain exists.
Leading as Co-Captains
Leadership in our home is not a solo role. Communication, teamwork, and a true co-captain approach are necessary — not optional. My wife is just as important of a leader in our family as I am. She challenges me, supports me, keeps me grounded, and serves as a sounding board when decisions affect our children. Some of the most important leadership moments don’t happen in public. They happen in conversations at home — checking motives, adjusting approach, and making sure the choices we’re making align with the story we want our kids to learn from. We don’t build separate stories. We build one together.That partnership is a constant reminder that leadership isn’t about control — it’s about collaboration, accountability, and shared responsibility.
Staying a Student
Today, I continue learning through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — where ego gets exposed quickly and progress comes through repetition and humility. As a blue belt, I learn daily from those ahead of me and from those just starting. Teaching while still learning has sharpened how I communicate, listen, and lead.It’s a constant reminder that growth never stops.
