John studied with Seth at Linfield College, where he focused on biology and chemistry but found himself drawn to the unique thinking involved in philosophy. The topics they discussed in and out of class stayed with him. Years later, when he learned Seth and Gad had moved back to the Astoria area where he grew up, they reconnected. After attending philosophy talks locally, John was invited to join Philosofarian's board.

For John, Philosofarian's mission matters because building a better community and society requires spaces where people can think deeply together. We need to connect and interact with people from all backgrounds, getting out of our echo chambers. The ability to think critically and deeply across differences will likely define our current and future generations. As John sees it, we have far more in common with one another than our differences—philosophy creates the space to discover that.

John brings a unique perspective to the board. Growing up and working in forestry and natural resources while also becoming an attorney has given him insight into a wide range of communities. To heal our society, he believes we must bring together people from all backgrounds and places. He hopes to help bridge these different worlds.

John works as an attorney for Warrenton Fiber Company/Nygaard Logging, the fourth generation in his family business, which he now helps manage and guide. He's involved in several local community groups, including Astoria Community Foundation, Clatsop Working Watersheds Cooperative, CFEDC, and Sons of Norway. He enjoys hunting, fishing, hiking, and foraging for chanterelles and lobster mushrooms locally with friends.