I became a father at just 17 years old while still in high school. By 18, I was already paying child support and learning firsthand what it meant to be a young dad in the custody system. A year later, I met the woman who would become my wife, and at 19 we welcomed my first daughter. Over the next several years, we quickly added three more children. By the time I was 27, I was a married father of five — joking that I was building my own basketball team.

But life isn’t a straight line. The stresses of marriage, money, and responsibility at such a young age eventually led to divorce. At 30, I was navigating the family court system as a single father, only to repeat the cycle. I met a new partner, had two more children, and when that relationship ended, I found myself again facing the realities of custody battles. Later, another relationship brought two more children into my life. Today, at 44 years old, I am the proud father of nine.

Over three decades, I have been in and out of family court, paid millions in child support and legal fees, and even served time in jail for falling behind on a $5,000 per month child support order. I’ve seen every side of the system — the confusion, the costs, the heartbreak, and the way fathers are often mistreated. And I’ll be the first to admit, some of my battles weren’t only against the court system — but against my own choices. At times, I was an absentee father, and those regrets run deep.

But with age comes perspective. Today, I’m more grounded, mature, and serious about being the best father I can be. I’m now a single dad with custody of my amazing 5-year-old daughter, who soaks up every ounce of the love and dedication I once struggled to give my other children. She is the light that pushes me to help other fathers fight for their rightful place as role models and pillars in their children’s lives.

That’s why I created Father Custody Coach — to give dads the tools, strategies, and confidence to stand up for themselves. Through our DIY Custody eBook, Digital Course, one-on-one coaching, and state-specific resources, I help fathers fight smarter, save money, and protect their bond with their children.

If you want the unfiltered version of my journey — the hardships, the mistakes, the lessons, and the raw truth — read my full story in my eBook. I don’t hold back. You’ll get the inside look, the struggles, and yes, the tea.