Inspiring the next generation—and the educators who guide them.

Join me for an engaging assembly program that inspires students to be their best selves by sharing powerful life lessons learned on a 2,000-mile journey.

Through the lens of my transformative experience hiking the Appalachian Trail, I take students on a journey to explore three key ideas:

  • Courage: The bravery to face challenges and follow your unique path

  • Gratitude: Shifting focus to the positives, even in tough situations

  • Kindness: Finding strength in vulnerability and creating a ripple effect of good

This program is filled with interactive storytelling, personal anecdotes, and practical takeaways, leaving students inspired to grow and thrive in their own lives.

Learning objectives:

Students will leave the assembly with:

  • A deeper understanding of courage, gratitude, and kindness

  • Practical tools to manage stress and build resilience

  • Inspiration to reflect on their unique path and purpose

What client’s are saying…

  • “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)

  • “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

  • “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

  • “I’ve been teaching for over 30 years and this was the best assembly I’ve ever seen.”

    — Jefferson Township School District, NJ

  • “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

  • "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

  • “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

  • “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

  • “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

  • “After a masterfully done presentation, I was left inspired and incredibly motivated.”

    — High School Student, Oratory Prep, NJ

  • “I hope this message reaches every child everywhere!”

    — Denville Township School District, NJ

  • “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

  • “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

  • “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

  • Youth mental health is more prevalent today than ever before, but I believe every child is just one story away from finding hope and the courage to follow their heart. That’s the power of storytelling, and why I’m so deeply committed to sharing my journey to open young hearts and minds to the transformative power of mindfulness, nature, and charting a personal course.

    The personal development strategies I share aren't just ideas thought up by some random guy who decided to go on a months-long hike growing a rather unappealing beard; every principle and concept I teach are research-backed mental health strategies. Beyond my personal experiences, I hold certifications as a Mindfulness Teacher, Nature & Forest Therapy Guide (forest bathing), Yoga Instructor, and Life Coach.

    My speaking approach instantly engages students. It's not a traditional lecture but a practical and positive message delivered with sincerity and humor.

  • Grade K-12 Students, College Students (tailored for various age groups leveraging my diverse certifications and personal experiences to make a meaningful impact)

  • Middle and High School Students (Grades 6-12)

    Format: In-depth storytelling and real-life examples that resonate with older students.

    Focus:

    • Courage: Letting go of comparisons and embracing individuality (Hike Your Own Hike)

    • Gratitude: Transforming negative thinking into opportunities for growth

    • Kindness: The power of connection and service in overcoming challenges

    Engagement: Emphasizes relatable struggles (self-doubt, failure, peer pressure) and actionable mindfulness techniques, tied to their stage of life.

    ——————————

    Elementary Students (Grades K-5)

    Format: Shorter, highly visual, and interactive.

    Focus:

    • Courage: Exploring the idea of trying new things through fun stories and relatable examples

    • Gratitude: Noticing the beauty around us (with animal-themed guessing games and trail visuals)

    • Kindness: Sharing simple acts that make a big impact, with opportunities for role-play

    • Engagement: Includes show-and-tell with gear from the trail, hands-on participation (e.g., trying on a hiking backpack), and age-appropriate activities.

  • Schools, Youth Camps, Youth Conferences and Summits, Youth Retreats, Youth Leadership Programs, Youth Groups, Libraries, Mentorship Programs, Sports Teams or Clubs

  • While New Jersey is my base camp, I’ve spoken for youth audiences across the entire US—from NJ all the way to Washington State. Additional travel fees and expenses are incurred outside of NJ and Eastern PA.

Join the many schools and organizations who have taken the journey with me…

Let’s empower your students and staff.

Share a few details about your school’s needs, and we’ll explore the best program for your audience.