My Entire Life Story
The Journey of Jeffrey “Unkle Kush” Hayden
Early Years: Growing Up in Toledo, Ohio
I was born Jeffrey Andrew Hayden on January 27, 1970, at St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, Ohio, to my hardworking mother, Patricia Hayden. Life from the start wasn’t easy. My family endured the chaos of my father’s abusive, substance-fueled behavior, but my mother’s strength prevailed—she divorced him just 48 days before I was born. Raising three kids on her own—my brother Melvin, sister Regina, and me—she worked long hours and still found time to be a Cub Scout den mother. Her resilience became my foundation.
Growing up in North Toledo, childhood was a mix of mischief, discovery, and challenges. I attended Cherry School Elementary for kindergarten in 1974-75, often walking hand-in-hand with my grandmother to school. I vividly remember wandering off one day to visit Big Red, a friendly Irish Setter along my route. Kindergarten held innocent milestones, like my first kiss with Monica Siler and holding hands with Jodi during a showing of Charlotte’s Web.
My school years were marked by strict discipline, sometimes harsh by today’s standards—rulers to the knuckles and endless chalkboard lines. In sixth grade, a misunderstanding led to an incident where I was falsely accused of yelling a racial slur. The fallout was terrifying—being chased, cornered by my peers, and ultimately expelled. That year left scars but also fueled my resolve.
Teenage Years: Rebellion and Lessons Learned
For seventh grade, I was sent to Leverett Junior High, away from my district, to escape the turmoil back home. There, I met Missy Hahn, my first real girlfriend since kindergarten. Puppy love turned into teenage defiance when we got caught fooling around in the girls’ bathroom. Facing suspension or paddling, I took the paddle—protecting Missy from the humiliation. Experiences like this, though rough, taught me loyalty and standing up for others.
Childhood wasn’t all struggle. Joe E. Brown Park was my escape. Countless afternoons were spent with neighborhood friends, playing ball, climbing trees, and sharing laughter in that safe haven of childhood freedom.
Adulthood: Finding Purpose and Serving My Country
Driven by a desire for stability and purpose, I joined the U.S. Navy. Military life taught me discipline, leadership, and resilience beyond what I’d known. My years of service took me around the world, exposing me to cultures and experiences that shaped my perspective.
After my service, I returned to Ohio, searching for a new direction. Through the Department of Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation and Education Placement Program, I enrolled in Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in 2015, studying Construction Management. It was there that I became known as Unkle Kush—a name born out of camaraderie, honesty, and mentorship. Younger students at BGSU found in me a confidant and guide. My nickname solidified during a night at Grumpy Dave’s, a local dive bar, and soon “Unkle Kush” became a beloved campus figure.
A Life of Connection and Storytelling
My journey is one of resilience, mentorship, and connection. From a turbulent childhood to the Navy and beyond, life has been an adventure with lessons at every turn. But nothing compares to my latest chapter: setting sail on America’s Great Loop aboard Osprey, with my First Mate, Boogers the Boat Cat.
This isn’t just a trip—it’s a celebration of life’s twists and turns, an homage to veterans fighting unseen battles, and a journey of self-discovery. Through @BoogersTheBoatCat on YouTube, I share every sunrise, every challenge, and every new face we meet along the way. This voyage is for everyone chasing their dreams, seeking connection, or needing a reminder that it’s never too late to start anew.
Why I Sail
Embarking on America’s Great Loop is more than an adventure—it’s a healing journey. I sail for my fellow veterans battling PTSD, for those lost to the 22 A Day crisis, and for anyone who’s ever felt life’s waves crashing too hard. Through my journey, I hope to raise awareness, build connections, and show that the horizon is always within reach.
Join Me on This Journey
Life has taken me from the streets of Toledo to oceans around the world and now, through the waterways of America. Each mile is a story, each port a new chapter. I invite you to come aboard—follow, support, and be part of this incredible voyage.
👉 Follow my journey on YouTube: @BoogersTheBoatCat
👉 Support veterans through the journey: Til Valhalla Project | 22 A Day Movement
👉 Join us on America’s Great Loop: Explore Our Route