Hi, I’m Ryan.
As a keynote speaker, bestselling author, and authenticity strategist, I empower individuals and teams to connect with their authentic selves—because when we align with who we truly are, everything changes.
While I may be known for hiking the Appalachian Trail, my story goes far beyond the 2,000 miles I walked. It’s a story of rediscovering what truly matters, letting go of expectations, and learning to walk my own path—one intentional step at a time.
Before the trail, I spent over a decade as a brand strategist, helping companies align their values with their messaging. On the surface, it looked like I had everything figured out. But underneath? I knew products inside and out, yet barely even knew myself. When my life began to unravel, this disconnect set me on a journey to uncover the true meaning of authenticity.
That journey changed everything.
Today, as a bestselling author and certified mindfulness teacher, nature therapy guide, yoga instructor, and life coach, I guide others on their own paths to clarity, courage, and connection. Whether working with a corporate team, a group of students, or an individual, my mission is the same: to help people reconnect with their authentic selves and walk their own path with purpose. Or, as I like to say, HYOH—Hike Your Own Hike.
Why authenticity matters.
In a world where burnout, disconnection, and misalignment are all too common, reconnecting with our authentic selves isn’t just meaningful—it’s essential. When we live and work in alignment with who we truly are, everything changes.
Whether you’re seeking personal growth, fostering a more engaged team, or creating transformational experiences for others, my approach combines personal insight, professional expertise, and actionable strategies to inspire meaningful change.
The case:
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 and authenticity (APA)
60% of teachers
report feeling burned out due to increasing demands and lack of alignment with their core values (National Education Association)
Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword—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 meaningful change.
Specialist in Personal and Professional Growth
15+ years as a brand strategist, combined with certifications in mindfulness, yoga, nature therapy, and life coaching, providing a practical and actionable approach to aligning values with purpose and fostering resilience, clarity, and connection.
Extensively Trained in Mindfulness and Habit Change
Certified mindfulness teacher trained one-on-one by a former Buddhist monk, with additional certifications as a Nature Therapy Guide (Association of Nature & Forest Therapy), 200-hour yoga teacher (American Yoga Academy), and life coach specializing in helping individuals align with their values, create meaningful habits, and live authentically.
Living the Work I Teach
I don’t just talk about authenticity—I live it. From leaving behind a career misaligned with my values to walking the Appalachian Trail to rediscover my path, my personal journey informs every aspect of the work I do with clients.
Relatable and Down-to-Earth
Grounded in personal experience, I bring a secular and accessible perspective that connects with diverse audiences, inspiring transformation through authenticity and purpose.
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