I was born in Montreal, but have spent most of my life in Toronto, where I live now in the west end. My family founded a business called Higgins Event Rentals and ran it for 42 years. So the rhythms of this city have shaped me for as long as I can remember. Although my wife and I talk about venturing off somewhere else, Toronto has been a great place to live, work and raise four uniquely amazing kids.
I studied English Literature at McGill University, and got my first job as an advertising copywriter. Shifting gears, I got my Education degree and spent nearly three decades teaching. My last 17 years with the Toronto District School Board were at Swansea Public School, where I taught IT and English, hosted poetry slams, coached teams, and launched one of Toronto’s first school podcasts.
Since retiring from teaching in 2020, I’ve written two nonfiction books, my first novel, produced a slew of podcasts and videos, and had the privilege of working with Heritage York, Mapping Our Memories, and “They Walked These Streets, We Will Remember Them.”
On January 15, 2025 – together with thirty-four amazing people – I received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for work on local history through writing, media, teaching, and presentations. What a thrill it was to see my name alongside Pia Bauman, Madeleine McDowell, and Philip Cote III. My thanks to Canada’s Minister of Justice and MP for Parkdale-High Park, Arif Virani; Governor General Mary Simon; and King Charles III for this honour – and a special shoutout to my wife, Sue, who’s been there every step of the way.
Whether in the classroom, at the podium, online, or on the page, I’m always working to bring stories into the light.
Cheers,
