Growing up in the state of Hawaii, Jeff was brought up on ideals and values inspired by his Hawaiian heritage. As a keki (child), Jeff spent most of his time in the outdoors, hiking, scrambling, exploring, swimming, surfing, and snorkeling on almost all of the Hawaiian Islands. One of Jeff's mentors growing up was the chief of lifeguard operations for the city and county of Honolulu. When Jeff was only 14, he received his first of many certifications as a lifeguard. Jeff had the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the world, and was even given the opportunity to study Jet Ski rescue techniques, something which was cutting edge when he was younger. This type of influence continued until Jeff went to high school on the east coast in New Hampshire.

Once on the east coast, Jeff was introduced to the wonders of climbing, backpacking, and sailing. Jeff spent a great deal of time at places like Tuckerman's ravine, Cathedral ledge, and Lake Winnipesauke. Fortunately, his school encouraged such