乔hn trained as a Zen Buddhist priest in the monastic and temple setting of the San Francisco Zen Center for thirteen years. After leaving the zen community to practice as an ordinary citizen he received a degree in International Political Economy from Harvard University, developed the Investment Advisory and Securities Division of a regional financial planning firm in the Boston area, married the artist Jesa Damora, participated in a sailboat race around the world in 2000 - 01, and became a professional sailboat captain.

In 2004 John returned to community Dharma practice, was formally recognized as a Zen Buddhist Roshi by Zoketsu Norman Fischer, and established One Heart Zen, a Zen Buddhist based practice and educational organization in order to share the Zen attitude, spirit, and practice with the world.

Now a College Chaplain and Buddhist Community Coordinator John leads weekly meditations and various Buddhist religious holiday ceremonies throughout the year. He has developed a Mindfulness Meditation program introducing students to the basics of meditation and mindfulness practices and helping to integrate these practices into their daily lives.