THE QUIET REBELLION OF BEING YOURSELF.
In a world of performance, attention, and comparison, authenticity is no longer just a vibe—it’s an act of courage.
From the TEDx stage to schools and conferences nationwide, Ryan Benz inspires audiences to live and lead with greater authenticity and purpose.
Ryan Benz is a bestselling and award-winning author, TEDx speaker, and storyteller known for his deeply human approach to authenticity and personal growth.
Before becoming a speaker and writer, Ryan spent nearly two decades as a brand strategist—helping organizations uncover what makes them truly unique. That same expertise now guides his work with people and purpose driven organizations: helping them build their most authentic brand—from the inside out.
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he did something few people have the courage to do: he paused. He walked away from the corporate world, laced up his boots, and hiked over 2,000 miles on the Appalachian Trail. That journey transformed how he sees the world and his work. What began as a search for clarity became a calling to help others do the same.
Today, Ryan shares that message with audiences across generations—students, educators, leaders, and organizations—inviting them to slow down, get honest, and reconnect with who they are beneath the noise and comparison of modern life.
His bestselling memoir, Wander: A Memoir of Letting go and Walking 2,000 Miles to a Meaningful Life, and his TEDx Talk, The Quiet Rebellion of Being Yourself, have inspired thousands to redefine success, reclaim their peace, and live with greater authenticity—reminding us that in a world of performance and comparison, choosing to be yourself is the quiet rebellion that changes everything.
The Work:
Building Authentic Lives and Leaders
Ryan’s message is simple, powerful, and universal:
“You don’t need to become someone new.
You just need to remember who you already are.”
Through keynotes, workshops, and conversations that blend storytelling with science and soul, Ryan helps audiences explore:
The Quiet Rebellion of Being Yourself (Signature Keynote)
In a world of performance and comparison, authenticity is an act of courage.
Purpose Beyond Success
Redefining success from achievement to alignment.
Resilience from the Inside Out (Workshop or Keynote)
Learning to slow down, find your pace, and keep going when life gets hard.
The Courage to Be Real (Breakout)
The practical side of authenticity—vulnerability, honesty, and showing up real when it’s uncomfortable.
Trusted by:
Conferences • Universities • Fortune 500 Companies • Nonprofits • School Districts • Youth Organizations
What client’s say…
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“Ryan is an engaging, heartfelt presenter. His enthusiasm was contagious. He has practical, lifelong lessons for students which are presented in a clear, concise manner. His pictures and videos were remarkable, as his unique perspective on life!”
— Frankford Township School District, NJ (School Assembly Program)
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"Ryan’s approach to authenticity felt like a breath of fresh air. His insights resonated with our team, and the exercises gave us practical ways to connect with our personal values in the workplace."
— KPMG, A Fortune 500 Company (Corporate Employee Workshop)
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“Ryan is changing lives. In our hurried, technology laden world, he gave us a reason to pause and think, presenting in a fun, engaging, and informative way.”
— Wildwood City School District, NJ (School Assembly Program)
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“Ryan’s message of mindfulness and self-care came at the perfect time. In today’s climate, this workshop was exactly what everyone needed.”
— Family Promise Employee, a 501c3 Nonprofit Organization (Corporate Employee Workshop)
See Ryan in action.
“Ryan doesn’t deliver talks—he creates moments that move people.“
Watch highlights from Ryan’s TEDx Talk and Speaker Demo Reel below.
COMING SOON…
“The hike may have ended, but the message hasn’t. I’ve learned that walking your own path isn’t selfish—it’s how we create change. Because when you live true to yourself, you make it easier for others to do the same.”
