This book is the true story of hitting rock bottom—and climbing out one hard decision at a time. After losing his job during the recession, facing foreclosure, crushing debt, and the weight of providing for a family, Wayne takes a leap of faith into an industry he knows nothing about: locksmithing. What begins as a means of survival quickly becomes a path to purpose, freedom, and mastery of one of the most under-rated trades in the world.

Blending raw personal storytelling with practical, real-world lessons, this book goes beyond a traditional memoir. Readers are taken inside the daily life of a locksmith—from first rekeys and lockouts, to learning how to communicate with customers, develop fundamental skills, and maintain the mindset required to succeed in business. Along the way, the story explores resilience, risk, using ADHD as a strength, and what it really takes to reinvent yourself when there’s no safety net.

Whether you’re an aspiring locksmith, a tradesperson, a small business owner, or someone standing at your own crossroads, From Lost to Locksmith offers more than inspiration—it offers a roadmap. It’s about taking action before you feel ready, mastering the basics before chasing shortcuts, and building a career that works on your terms. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or called to something more, this story shows what’s possible when you refuse to quit.