Look and Listen

Biography

Grew up in Denver, Colorado. Graduated Brown University and Columbia Law School. Retired as Managing Partner from financial firm which did leveraged buyouts. Passionate Masters bicycle racer. Competed in US and France. Currently live in Malibu, CA - which has devastating fires. Became fascinated with the wildland firefighters, the Blackhawk fire helicopter crews, and the inmate camps where male and female prisoners learn to be firefighters. Spent two years with CalFire and LA County Fire Department visiting their stations, camps, and academies. Lived through the October 2007 Malibu Canyon fire, which destroyed my neighbor's home and the church nearby. The fire literally burned to my doorstep. Tactics I learned while writing my first book helped me save my house.

Inspiration

I have always wanted to be a writer, but was too busy with my career and bicycle racing - both of which require 110% commitment. When I retired to Malibu, I had the time to devote to writing. You can't live in Malibu without being aware of the fire danger and the presence of firefighters. I thought a book about what goes on behind the scene at a catastrophic wildfire be of great interest. My first book, One Foot in the Black (a wildland firefighter's phrase) was a great writing adventure. The book took control of me. The experience of seeing a story unfolding on my computer screen was incredible. I saw characters develop their own histories and lives and I saw their adventures and emotions - all of which must have come from my subconscious, but truly surprised me. What a trip and great fun! I have also had the opportunity to meet hundreds of firefighters from chiefs to the men who do the dirty work. Firefighters are an amazing group of selfless people.