Bring a life-changing journey to your students.
An award-winning speaker inspiring students with trail-tested lessons, for life.
Nationally touring. Basecamped in New Jersey.
Seen by thousands of students across NJ and beyond. Now booking 2025–2026 assemblies.
This isn’t a talk about hiking…
It’s a journey inward—helping students navigate their path with courage, gratitude, and kindness.
Through powerful stories from my 2,000-mile hike on the Appalachian Trail, I deliver a high-energy, high-impact experience that leaves students feeling inspired, seen, and empowered to show up as their best selves—both in school and beyond.
They’ll walk away with:
The courage to be themselves—even when it’s hard (Hike Your Own Hike)
Gratitude in the face of challenges (You Can’t Turn Off the Rain)
Kindness that creates real impact, one choice at a time (Trail Angels Are Real)
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“Ryan’s story captivated our students from the moment they saw his hiking boots and tent. His 2,000-mile journey inspired them to reflect on mental health, explore their own paths to happiness, and embrace the empowering motto HYOH—Hike Your Own Hike.”
— Director, NJ4S Atlantic & Cape May County (Acenda Integrated Health)
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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
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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
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“I’ve been teaching for over 30 years and this was the best assembly I’ve ever seen.”
— Jefferson Township School District, NJ
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“Ryan was amazing. He engaged both our middle schoolers and staff, inspiring mindfulness in our pre-teen and teen students. Many were so moved by his story that they came up afterward to thank him personally—a testament to the impact he made.”
— Program Manager, SBYSP Wallace Middle School, Inspira Health Vineland School-Based Youth Services Program
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"Our students were very fortunate to hear about Ryan's inspiring story of walking the entire Appalachian Trail. He was a true pleasure to work with."
— Oratory Preparatory School
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“Ryan made our students think about getting off social media, being kind and enjoying the outdoors. His message is sorely needed in today’s world and it was delivered in a motivating and enjoyable manner.”
— Dennis Township Public Schools, NJ
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“Our students have a new-found appreciation for nature. Many seemed to appreciate the importance of moving away from the screen and getting outside.”
— Sussex Charter School, NJ
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“This presentation was incredible and I was inspired by your story. The students were interested and engaged and took away many great messages about mindfulness.”
— Stanwood-Camano School District, WA
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“After a masterfully done presentation, I was left inspired and incredibly motivated.”
— High School Student, Oratory Prep, NJ
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“I hope this message reaches every child everywhere!”
— Denville Township School District, NJ
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"We’re grateful for the opportunity to support such a meaningful and impactful program through NJ4S. The messages of courage, connection, and resilience you bring to students are more important than ever, and it’s inspiring to see the difference being made."
— Prevention Specialist, NJ4S Salem County (Acenda Integrated Health)
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“I loved this presentation! It was relevant, engaging, encouraging and entertaining! All schools should listen to the message and take this phenomenal journey with Ryan!”
— Old Bridge Township School District, NJ
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“Ryan’s passion and enthusiasm was evident throughout this amazing presentation. Any student of any age would be very fortunate to be in his audience.”
— Wildwood City School District, NJ
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“Ryan’s presentation captivated our 5th and 6th graders, inspiring students, staff, and parents alike. His message of mindfulness was especially powerful in today’s technology-driven world, leaving a lasting impact on everyone.”
— School Counselor, West Cape May Elementary, NJ
Assembly program includes:
30–60 min keynote presentation (depending on age group)
Tailored messaging for elementary, middle, or high school
Pre- and post-assembly resources such as “A Letter to Parents/Guardians” and “Teacher Follow-up Discussion Guides” for different age groups
Optional follow-up workshops, Q&A, or in-classroom drop-ins
Serving NJ, NY, PA (closest to base camp) – and open to travel!
Inquire for your school.
Let’s give students something they’ll remember.
This isn’t just a talk—it’s an experience that opens hearts and inspires growth.
Let’s bring this story to your school.