Paul was born and grew up in Bennington, Vermont. After studying sustainable agriculture, community development, and education at UVM and Evergreen State College, his real education took place in his own classroom when he was given the opportunity to teach alternative high school right out of college. Teaching is extremely important to Paul. He believes that his work in agriculture, education, and coaching has taught him exponentially more than he has taught his students. Paul recently moved his family back to Vermont after having lived, worked, and farmed in Western Washington State for the past twenty years.