Meet Eric – Founder of Recess

How old are your kids and how long have you lived in Westport? Our boys are Jett (almost 6), Jag (almost 4), and Jones (2). We officially moved to Westport this year, but Melissa and I both grew up nearby in Norwalk, so it already feels like home.

What has been the hardest thing about raising kids and working full time with long hours? The balance—without a doubt. I pour a lot into work, but I’ve learned how important it is to be fully present wherever I am. When I’m with the boys, they get all of me. That can be tough when your business feels like a fourth child, but I try to build in intentional moments—like picking one up from school or having all three come play at the gym. Those little pockets of time mean everything.

How did you end up where you are now in terms of your job, or whatever passion project it is you might be doing? My work has taken me all over the country and even around the world—but coming back home to start Recess felt like a full-circle moment. Before opening RECESS, I spent over a decade coaching clients from all walks of life—from Oscar winners and A-List celebrities to entrepreneurs and performers. I had the chance to work with people like Scarlett Johansson, Andrew Garfield, Jonathan Groff and Charlie Puth, helping them stay strong and healthy through demanding projects.

I was lucky to be part of some major films, coordinating training and nutrition on set for movies like Avengers: End Game, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Tick, Tick… Boom!, and The Matrix: Resurrections. That chapter taught me a lot about performance, consistency, and what it really takes to show up at your best—lessons I’ve carried with me into RECESS.

During a music tour a couple of summers ago, I had a moment of clarity: that lifestyle just didn’t fulfill me anymore. I didn’t want to miss another milestone or memory with my kids. RECESS became our way of blending passion, purpose, and family.

What is your favorite family activity to do in Westport or the surrounding towns? Friday beach nights. I grew up on these beaches, so watching my boys run around in the same sand I did as a kid hits deep. Simple, local, and special.

What was your most memorable family vacation and why? Honestly—the one I am on right now. We’re in St. Thomas, and it’s been sun, sand, and chaos in the best way. No schedules, just slow mornings with coffee, ocean views, and uninterrupted time with my crew. It’s everything I need.

What is your proudest moment as a father? Our oldest, Jett, was born at just 30 weeks. He spent 39 days in the NICU and has been a fighter since day one. Bringing him home was my first proud moment. But watching him confidently graduate his 5’s program this year—after some anxiety last year—was something else. Seeing his growth has been one of the most meaningful moments of my life.

What’s your favorite restaurant in town for a family dinner? For a night out with friends? Pizza Lyfe is our go-to with the boys—easy win for pizza, plus solid salads for us. For date night, The Cottage is our spot. Brian is absolutely crushing it right now.

What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you? I was an overweight kid. I had to lose weight just to make weight for Pop Warner football in third grade. Fitness wasn’t easy—it was something I had to earn. That journey shaped who I am and why I care so deeply about what we do at Recess.

If you had 24 hours to do whatever you wanted, what would you do? Honestly, not much would change. I’ve built a life I love. I get to work alongside my wife, be involved with my kids every day, have our extended family close, and be surrounded by an amazing community at Recess. That’s the dream for me.

What’s one thing your spouse does that you’re eternally grateful for? Melissa is my other Gemini half—my anchor and my fuel. None of this life happens without her. She brings magic to the chaos and keeps us all grounded.

What’s one piece of advice you’d pass along to other dads—or something you wish you could tell your younger self? In the beginning, you tell yourself, “If we can just get through this phase, it’ll get easier.” But the truth is, the challenges just evolve. The best thing you can do is embrace the journey and keep showing up—growing as a dad, a partner, and a person. I’m learning and trying every day.