What if the life you built isn’t the life that’s meant for you?

I didn’t hike the Appalachian Trail to “find myself.” I hiked it because I’d lost myself — somewhere in the noise, pressure, and pace of modern life. Wander is the story of walking 2,000+ miles back to presence, purpose, and a life that felt true again. It’s for anyone who’s craving less distraction, more meaning, and the courage to walk their own path.

Editorial Reviews

  • “AN INSPIRATIONAL TALE OF TRANSFORMATION. The life lessons and  self-transformation described in this book do a wonderful job of encouraging the reader to take time to reflect. If you’re a fan of adventure memoirs like Wild or Eat, Pray, Love, this is the book for you.”

    — Independent Book Review

  • “WANDER OFFERS A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE on how stepping away from societal norms can momentarily collapse mental structures, creating space for transformation.”

    — Writer’s Digest

  • “AN ENGAGING STORY OF OVERTAKING SELF-IMPOSED LIMITATIONS. Ryan’s first encounter with a bear gives us chills and makes us smile at the same time. His sense of humor is contagious, and the wisdom he shares is priceless.”

    — Readers’ Favorite

  • "A thought-provoking memoir of a man taking a break from the world and finding himself. A RED RIBBON WINNER and highly recommended!"

    — The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

Get the Book

Quick note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. So if you snag the book through this Amazon link, you’re basically buying me a cup of trail coffee, and that’s what we call Trail Magic. Thanks for fueling the journey!

Independent BookStores, other book retailers, and libraries—Wander is available on IngramSpark!

Title: Wander

Subtitle: A Memoir of Letting go and Walking 2,000 Miles to a Meaningful Life

Paperback ISBN: 979-8-9889976-1-0

Hardcover ISBN: 979-8-9889976-2-7

Behind the Story

Wander became the spark for my life’s work, my speaking, workshops, nationally touring school assembly program, and my TEDx talk, The Quiet Rebellion of Being Yourself.

It’s more than a memoir. It’s a movement.

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