Ian’s story

Ian Mitchell’s life has never followed a straight line—and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Born in Germany and raised across five countries and thirteen U.S. states, Ian learned early how to adapt, listen, and connect with people from all walks of life. He studied Japanese for four years, competed as a Division I swimmer at Valparaiso University and the University of Washington, and—somewhat unexpectedly—paid much of his way through college as a professional model, working with brands like Nordstrom, Nike, Eddie Bauer, and others.

Early on, Ian thought he was headed for television. He interned at ABC News KOMO in Seattle, came close to being cast in the film 10 Things I Hate About You, and even made it deep into the process for a Volkswagen commercial. But right out of college, a detour changed everything. At an early internet company, Ian was asked to help address a new and growing problem: online fraud. That request turned into the creation of one of the early dot-com fraud departments—and ultimately, a career spanning more than two decades.

Over the years, Ian has led fraud and financial-crime teams in 14 countries, working at the intersection of technology, finance, and human behavior. His work has focused not just on stopping bad actors, but on protecting real people—especially the vulnerable—from exploitation.

Alongside his professional life, music and faith have always been constants. Ian has been recording and releasing music independently since 1998 and has served on staff at multiple churches as a worship leader. He is the author of two faith-based books and regularly speaks about purpose, resilience, and choosing a life that values people over systems.