Sam grew up in rural Vermont and found meaning and solace in nature at a young age. After receiving his undergraduate degree at the University of New Hampshire in 2001, he eventually found his way west and worked in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks for many years. 

After spending so much time relishing in the power of the outdoors, Sam became inspired to pursue a higher degree and work towards a career in Wilderness Therapy. Sam returned to school and received a degree in Substance Abuse Disorder Counseling from The University of Utah. 

A former-trained chef, Sam remains passionate about food, cooking, books, poetry, and the visual arts. As a person in recovery, Sam finds meaning and purpose in mentoring others on their own hero’s journey toward a substance-free lifestyle.