Hi, I’m Ryan.
Speaker. Bestselling Author. Authenticity Strategist.
I help individuals and teams reconnect with who they truly are—because when we align with our authentic selves, everything changes.
Sure, I’m known for hiking the Appalachian Trail, but my story isn’t just about the 2,000 miles I walked—it’s about what I discovered along the way. It’s a story of letting go of expectations, embracing uncertainty, and learning to walk my own path—one intentional step at a time.
From Brand Strategist to Trail Walker to Authenticity Guide.
Before the trail, I spent over a decade as a brand strategist, helping companies align their values with their messaging. On the surface, I looked like I had it all figured out. But underneath? I knew products inside and out—yet barely knew myself.
When my life started to unravel, I realized I had been living by ‘shoulds’ instead of authenticity. That disconnect sent me on a journey—one that led me to the Appalachian Trail, where I found my footing in more ways than one.
That journey changed everything.
Today, I guide others on their own path to clarity, courage, and connection. Whether I’m working with a corporate team, a group of students, or an individual, my mission is the same: to help people reconnect with themselves and walk their own path with purpose.
Or, as I like to say: HYOH—Hike Your Own Hike.
Watch my story:
Why authenticity matters.
Burnout, disconnection, misalignment—these aren’t just buzzwords. They’re real challenges that impact our well-being, our work, and our ability to lead meaningful lives.
When we stop trying to fit into someone else’s mold and start aligning with who we truly are, everything shifts.
76% of employees report experiencing burnout due to misalignment between personal and professional values (Gallup)
1 in 4 adults feel disconnected from their authentic selves, leading to increased stress and anxiety (American Psychological Association)
90% of teenagers feel pressure to conform socially, diminishing their sense of self-worth (APA)
60% of teachers report feeling burned out due to increasing demands and a lack of alignment with their core values (National Education Association)
Authenticity isn’t just nice to have—it’s the foundation for personal fulfillment, professional success, and meaningful connection.
Why work with me.
Bestselling, Award-Winning Author
Author of Wander: A Memoir of Letting go and Walking 2,000 Miles to a Meaningful Life—a story of transformation that inspires others to create meaningful change in their own lives.
Specialist in Personal & Professional Growth
15+ years as a brand strategist, paired with certifications in mindfulness, yoga, nature therapy, and life coaching, means I bring a practical, actionable approach to aligning values with purpose.
Extensively Trained in Awareness & Habit Change
Certified mindfulness teacher, trained one-on-one by a former Buddhist monk
Certified Nature Therapy Guide (Association of Nature & Forest Therapy)
200-hour yoga teacher (American Yoga Academy)
Certified life coach, specializing in helping individuals align with their values and create meaningful habits
Living the Work I Teach
I don’t just talk about authenticity—I live it. I’ve walked away from a life that didn’t align, hiked thousands of miles to find clarity, and now guide others to do the same (without the blisters).
Relatable, Down-to-Earth Approach
I believe authenticity should feel accessible and real, not like some abstract concept. My approach is secular, relatable, and backed by lived experience—because transformation happens when we can actually see ourselves in the work.
What you can expect.
Whether I’m speaking to a corporate team, guiding a group retreat, or working one-on-one, my programs are tailored to meet you where you are and inspire meaningful, actionable growth.
Clarity: Gain deeper self-awareness to make intentional decisions
Connection: Build meaningful relationships with yourself and others
Resilience: Cultivate tools to navigate life’s challenges with purpose and confidence