I earned my Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee in 2007, specializing in the history of science. I started teaching at Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin, upon graduation, and over the years I've taught classes about world, medieval, and early modern history, as well as the history and philosophy of science. I've maintained an active research agenda, publishing numerous books, articles, book chapters, and even an encyclopedia on The World’s Greatest Religious Leaders. Growing up, I never cared much for history, until in college he learned that history is about understanding why the world is at it is, rather than just the memorization and regurgitation of information. This has led to a life-long passion to communicate that to both students and readers. In addition to my academic interests, I enjoy travel, sometimes with students, sometimes alone, but the best is when I can travel with my wife Kelly. Together we've visited more than a dozen countries in Europe, Central America, and Africa. I'm also a long-time martial artist, and in my younger and fitter days—way back in 1997—I was the Professional Kickboxing Circuit heavyweight champion of Alabama, the state where I was born. These days I live a quieter life, teaching at Carroll University where I'm an Associate Professor of History, in Waukesha, Wisconsin, where I live with my wife and a small menagerie of dogs and cats.