Chester Goad was born in Knoxville, TN and raised in the heart of Appalachia in Scott County, TN. He began acting as a child, in school and community theater. After attending community college, he went on to earn an undergraduate degree in English, speech communications and theater from Tennessee Technological University. Additionally, Chester studied acting and stage craft at the University of Tennessee Knoxville. As an adult, he has performed in community and professional theater and for television. He is a published leadership author, blogger, and podcast host. He is also known for disability advocacy and supports disability inclusion in film. He has been featured in or quoted in hundreds of media outlets for news, education, faith, and entertainment.