NEW TO Orange County, CA.

I'm currently taking a break from teaching and trying to learn more about the world in a project combining travel and dialogue. I write, host a podcast, and visit tons of libraries and public spaces to figure out stories. Part of why I'm doing this is to deal with my tendency to isolate myself from society because I know I'm at my best when I am with others. I am about to hit the road for good, I hope, so if I send you a request to stay, please feel free to ask me any questions.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

There are two reasons. First, I need to meet people and I have found Couchsurfing to be the pinnacle of getting to know people you'd otherwise never meet; people who are generous, intelligent, and open. The other reason is practical. I resigned from a career and am undergoing changes. Until I'm back on my feet, I'll need to find accommodations that allow me to pursue my dream of educating in a different way.

Interests

I gained my interest through military service, university, reading, and teaching. If I had just stayed in my hometown, I'm not sure I would have had any interest in the rest of the world or its people. The army exposed me to different places and cultures. My formal and informal education since getting out has enlarged my moral circle.

• writing
• reading
• traveling
• basketball
• philosophy
• nature
• conversation
• dialogue

Music, Movies, and Books

I listen to a wide range of music, read mostly nonfiction, and enjoy dramas when I watch movies. My favorite musical artists right now are probably Johnny Cash and Sam Smith. Forrest Gump is my favorite movie of all time. My favorite author is Vonnegut, but my favorite books are Catch 22 and Don Quixote. I love laughing.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I am still searching for that one amazing thing, but when I've felt awesome, it's been in nature with someone I care about.

Teach, Learn, Share

I love teaching philosophy, learning about others and their history, and sharing conversations. Ask me about my project and I won't shut up. It's not that I can't shut up and listen, but I am passionate about this. It's why I left the confines of the classroom and am trying a different model of teaching, all online, all free, and all personal.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm respectful, clean, quiet, and professional. I don't smoke, use drugs, or drink alcohol. While that may sound boring, it's the way I choose to live because it works best for me. I can tag along, hang out, or, if you need space, give you space! What you won't get from me is trouble.

Countries I’ve Visited

England, Iraq, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, South Korea, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

Kuwait, South Korea