Shawn is a whole systems designer, inspired to harness the power of business to create resilient local economies as patterns to be documented, open sourced, scaled globally and adapted regionally. Shawn left an early path in nuclear physics research to found the Woodshanti Cooperative (1997-2011), a custom woodworking shop in San Francisco that set the standard for ethical craftsmanship in the green building movement. This etrepreneurial experience combined with community organizing and systems theory to craft the vision for LIFT Economy to model an economy that works for all life. Other experience includes founding the Urban Alliance for Sustainability (2000-2009), Permaculture Designer (2003-present), Ananda Dhiira Eco Retreat Center (1999-2012). Born and raised in Rochester, NY, he spent 18 years in San Francisco and moved back to NY in 2014.