Kelly is a husband, father, dog dad, and author living in the Midwest. He frequently teaches and gives public presentations on resilience, grief, and personal growth.

Kelly is an educator, former director of fire training, former faculty member and academic senator at the university, and retired fire department division chief. Kelly left the fire department in 2015 after a 25-year career, transitioning to work in higher education.

Kelly received undergraduate and graduate degrees in liberal studies and education, later completing graduate work in philosophy and theology.

Kelly has studied resilience through the University of Oklahoma, University of Minnesota, Dalhousie University, 02X Human Performance, and training abroad. 

Kelly enjoys being in the mountains, dogs, sun on his face, crisp, cold air, being outdoors, drinking local craft beer, reading books, and spending time with family and friends.