meet your host
ryan olexson
When trying to describe what this podcast is about, I found inspiration in an unexpected place: a meme. Yes, a meme—because if that doesn’t sum up the oddity of the world we live in, I don’t know what does.
It wasn’t a profound philosophical text or sacred scripture that sparked this idea, but a simple quote: Body of an athlete. Mind of a stoic. Spirit of a warrior. Heart of a poet. That’s the goal. This quote perfectly captures how I’ve been striving to live my life over the past few years, and it aligns with the topics we’ll explore on this podcast.
A big part of my own journey has been opening my mind to new ideas and perspectives. I’ve changed my mind on so many topics, and the more I learn, the more I realize how much I still don’t know. For me, this journey is about uncovering truth—or at least my truth. This podcast exists to help others find their own truth as well. It’s designed to encourage open-minded exploration of a wide range of topics—some might challenge you, some might be completely new, but all have intrigued me and broadened my worldview.
As the podcast grows, I hope listeners will contribute ideas, sparking even deeper conversations. The goal isn’t to convince you of anything or change your mind; it’s to make you think—critically and independently. I want to introduce perspectives that might expand your worldview and inspire you to dig deeper into the topics that ignite your curiosity.
To do that, I’ll be bringing on “experts” to help us learn—people who may not have a Ph.D. or official credentials but have lived these experiences, applied them in real life, and gained insight beyond what a book or classroom can offer. While science and theories are valuable, they’re also fluid—ideas get disproven, new truths emerge, and our understanding evolves. That’s why it’s essential to approach these conversations with an open mind, do your own research, and come to your own conclusions.
ryan's Story
I’m an adventurous, curious, and information-hungry thirty-something waking up to the world around me. For much of my life, I was on autopilot, doing everything I thought I was "supposed" to do. I built a career in branding and marketing, working at well-known companies and on the surface, my life looked successful. Yet deep down, something was missing. I didn’t crave more achievements or material success—I craved depth. I wanted answers to the big questions about life and the human experience, questions I wasn’t finding at suburban block parties or in corporate boardrooms.
Then came COVID, and everything shifted. By 2021, my world turned upside down. It was as if a veil had lifted, revealing things I had never noticed before. I found myself in a deep rut of depression, questioning everything—who I was, what I believed, and the life I had built. The more I examined the person I had become, the more I realized I didn’t like what I saw. So, being the explorer I’ve always been, I set out on a journey—not searching for anything specific but for everything all at once. What I discovered changed me.
Through eye-opening experiences, facing lifelong fears, engaging in unconventional conversations, and reshaping my world to reflect who I truly am, I began to evolve.
I’m also a wife to a kind, loving, and magnetic man who keeps my organized chaotic mind in check with his healthy skepticism and thought-provoking questions. I’m a mom to three incredible kids who have taught me more about life than anything else. We live on a farm surrounded by horses, chickens, goats, dogs, and cats.
In addition to hosting this podcast, I own a gym and attend school full-time, working toward my master’s degree in counseling. As a future therapist, I’m deeply passionate about exploring the depths of ourselves and others. But here’s the thing—my story isn’t unique or extraordinary. The people I interview reflect that as well. They’re not celebrities, overnight millionaires, or famous scientists. They’re ordinary people doing extraordinary things—people with stories that, like mine, remind us that life’s greatest lessons are often found in everyday moments. This podcast is my way of sharing those experiences, opening up the paths I’ve traveled, and inviting you into a larger community of fellow seekers. Together, we can uncover life’s mysteries, magic, and everything in between. Let’s evolve together.