072 - Ryan Benz: Walking 2000 Miles On The Appalachian Trail & Finding Purpose

Ryan is an Award-winning and bestselling Author of the book "Wander", Motivational Speaker and Mindfulness Mentor.

In this episode, Ryan discusses his decision to leave a successful career in pharmaceutical advertising and walk the 2,189 mile Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine.

He reflects on his life before the trail which included struggles with unfulfillment, mental health challenges, and the impact of societal expectations.

Ryan then talks talks about his second life after the trail which is a journey towards mindfulness, the importance of living in alignment with one's values, and impacting others lives. 

 

Ryan's Links
Website
Book

 

Timestamps

00:00 The Journey Begins: Walking the Appalachian Trail

07:19 Discovering Mindfulness and Values

14:24 Trail Lessons: Courage, Gratitude, and Kindness

30:39 Hike Your Own Hike: Embracing Authenticity

35:37 Struggling in Silence

37:01 The Power of Vulnerability

42:43 Trail Angels and Kindness

46:50 Youth Mental Health Crisis

54:32 Mindfulness and Meditation

01:07:51 The Journey of Writing a Memoir