Steve McMillion was raised on a family farm in rural Dorset, Ohio, where chores, church, and big family adventures filled his days. Those early years gave him the stories at the center of his memoir, along with the values that carried through everything after: hard work, family, faith, and showing up for others.

His path led into the military, where he spent thirteen years, including time as an Army chaplain. Later, he answered a call to ministry and spent thirty-four years pastoring twenty-one United Methodist churches. He continues to serve part-time as a pastor.

Alongside his wife, Jeanette, he raised children and welcomed foster children, and the family has since grown to include grandchildren.