Kirk Sheppard’s life hasn’t followed the usual script — instead his life has been full of unexpected twists, vibrant characters, and a lot of heart. From the bright lights of professional wrestling rings to the intimate stages of independent theatre, and now the quiet hum of his keyboard, Kirk’s journey is one defined by resilience, reinvention, and relentless creativity.
A Life of Stories
Born and raised in Richwood, Ohio, Kirk grew up captivated by stories—those on the page, on the screen, and in the real lives of the people around him. That early fascination would eventually lead him to a career in professional wrestling, where he not only performed but also learned the art of creating compelling narratives that draw people in.
In 1996, Kirk made Cincinnati his home, and it’s here that he truly flourished as a creative force. His curiosity and creativity refused to be confined to a single arena. He stepped away from wrestling, not to escape the world of storytelling but to broaden his ability to tell them. This decision set him on a path toward becoming a playwright, a theatre critic, and a writer who continues to explore the messy, beautiful complexity of human life.
Jesus, Questions, and the Courage to Heal
Kirk Sheppard’s writing invites readers into the messy, beautiful work of finding alignment in a complicated world. His memoir, Jesus & Me: Questioning God, Life, and Everything in Between (published January 14, 2025), offers an honest look at growing up in the church, grappling with identity, and learning to live with spiritual authenticity. His novel, The Search Party, explores grief, resilience, and the longing to be found when you're most lost. His newest project, Soul Audit: A Not-So-Perfect, Broadly Spiritual (Or Not) Guide to Aligning Your Life, is coming soon — blending humor, reflection, and practical steps for those ready to live closer to what’s real.
Capturing Life Through a Lens
In addition to his writing and therapy work, Kirk is an accomplished photographer specializing in portraits and live performances. His keen eye for detail and ability to capture authentic moments make his work a celebration of life’s richness. Whether behind the camera or crafting a story, Kirk approaches every project with the same goal: to illuminate the beauty and complexity of the human experience.
The Sappy Critic
Kirk’s deep appreciation for storytelling extends into his role as a theatre critic on The Sappy Critic, where he reflects on performances with his signature blend of honesty, insight, and empathy. The Sappy Critic celebrates the art of theatre and advocates for its transformative power, offering thoughtful commentary on productions both big and small.
Kirk’s love of theatre doesn’t stop at critique—he’s also an accomplished playwright, blending his knack for storytelling with a profound understanding of the human condition. His plays explore themes like creativity, loneliness, and the search for connection, often inspired by his own experiences and those he’s observed throughout his multifaceted career.
A Therapist With a Writer’s Heart
In addition to his writing, Kirk works as a private-practice therapist specializing in trauma recovery, particularly religious-based trauma. His approach focuses on helping clients align with their authentic selves, addressing struggles like depression, anxiety, grief, and other mental health challenges that affect what he calls “soul alignment.” Kirk’s ability to listen, empathize, and connect deeply informs his writing, giving his work a rare depth of compassion and insight.
A Pen Dipped in Humility and Humanity
In 2025, Kirk is devoting a full year to the theme of humility — exploring it across cultural, spiritual, and personal dimensions. Through his Substack series A Year of Humility, he reflects on how humility shapes justice, leadership, connection, and healing in an increasingly complicated world. His essays invite readers into a shared journey of curiosity, self-awareness, and imperfect growth. Through it all, Kirk remains, at heart, a collector of experiences.
The Man Behind the Stories
Beyond his professional life, Kirk is, at heart, a collector of experiences. He’s a passionate blogger, an avid thinker, and someone who isn’t afraid to confront life’s questions head-on. Though he has yet to make peace with vegetables, Kirk finds joy in themed destinations like Disney World, Kings Island, New York City, and Las Vegas—places where imagination and creativity come to life. Whether through exploring these beloved locales or capturing a perfect portrait, Kirk thrives in environments where art, connection, and fun collide.
Let’s Connect
Through his work, Kirk hopes to remind others of the power of stories to transform, heal, and connect. Whether you’re a fellow writer, a reader, or someone who loves to reflect on the world’s intricacies, Kirk invites you to join him in the ongoing conversation.