Dave grew up in Annapolis, Maryland, the son of a Naval historian and a bookstore owner. From a young age, he was drawn to structure, precision, and the sea. Inspired by generations of military service in his family, he attended the U.S. Naval Academy and served 12 years as a submarine officer. After transitioning into civilian life, he earned his MBA and entered the field of strategic consulting, helping large organizations navigate complexity and change. He relocated to Seattle with his wife Julia to pursue a slower, more meaningful life closer to nature.