The Ryan Leak Podcast
The Ryan Leak Podcast features Ryan Leak, a dynamic speaker, executive coach, and best-selling author. He shares insights on leadership, personal growth, and professional development, drawing from his work with Fortune 100 companies and professional sports teams. Each episode offers inspiration and practical advice to help listeners improve their lives.
Episodes
The Willpower Muscle
What if the hard thing you've been avoiding is actually the thing that's making you stronger? In this episode, Ryan explores the science behind willpower and why discipline isn't something you're born with. It's something you build. From difficult conversations to daily habits, every decision to do what matters instead of what feels good is an opportunity to grow. You'll di
The Perfect Plan Myth
What if the thing holding you back isn’t a lack of planning, but too much of it?We tell ourselves we’ll start when the plan is perfect, when we have more clarity, when we’ve done enough research, or when we know exactly how everything will work out. But the perfect plan isn’t coming.In this episode, Ryan challenges the myth that you need certainty before you take action. Some information is only a
Even If You Don't Feel Like It
What if you stopped waiting to feel like it?The truth is, you get the same results from doing hard things when you don’t feel like it as you do when you do. The mile still counts. The rep still counts. The page still counts. The conversation still counts.In this episode, Ryan challenges the idea that motivation has to come before action. Sometimes you don’t feel your way into action. You act your
It's All Hard
It’s all hard. Building a career is hard. Leading people is hard. Marriage is hard. Parenting is hard. Starting over is hard. Staying the course is hard.But some hard things get even harder the longer you avoid them.In this episode, Ryan talks about why avoiding a difficult decision doesn’t eliminate the consequences. It simply hands them to your future self, usually with interest. The conversatio
Keep It Moving
Getting started takes bravery. Keeping going takes resilience.Life won’t always cooperate with your plans. Ideas flop. People disappoint you. Opportunities disappear. Doors close. And sometimes the hardest part isn’t what happened. It’s figuring out how to move forward after it happened.In this episode, Ryan talks about the difference between processing disappointment and parking in it, why you do
Stop Fighting the Wrong Competitor
We spend a lot of energy trying to keep up with competitors who aren't even thinking about us. We scroll through someone's highlight reel and measure it against our behind-the-scenes. We compare our chapter 3 to their chapter 20. And every time we do it, we lose. Not because we're behind, but because we're running in the wrong race entirely.In this episode, Ryan shares the question
Feedback is Data, Not a Verdict
Someone says “your presentation could’ve been stronger” and your brain hears “you’re a failure.” Someone says “I think you could listen more” and your brain hears “you’re a bad spouse.” We don’t process feedback as information. We process it as judgment. And because it feels like a verdict, we defend ourselves against the very thing that could make us better. Ryan unpacks why defensiveness, not fe
The Other Side of Me
There’s a gap between who we think we are and how people actually experience us. And that gap is where most of our relational problems live. Ryan asks the question he uses in every coaching session and keynote: what’s it like to be on the other side of you? Not what your résumé says. Not what your bio reads. But the actual lived experience of working for you, living with you, being led by you.In t
Thank God It’s Monday
We’ve built an entire culture around surviving the week just to get to the weekend. TGIF. We countdown the days. We post the memes. But if you dread five out of seven days of your life, that’s not just a bad job. That’s a bad life. You’re spending 71% of your week wishing it was over. That’s not a schedule. That’s a sentence. Ryan challenges everything we’ve normalized about hating Mondays.In this
The Cost of Always Being Right
Would you rather be right or would you rather be connected? Ryan has met a lot of people who are always right. And he’s noticed something about them. They’re often alone. Not because they’re wrong, but because it’s exhausting to interact with someone who never considers the possibility that they might be. Ryan gets personal about seasons where he won every argument and lost every connection.In thi
What If They Aren’t Against You?
Your boss gives you tough feedback and you spend the whole weekend convinced they’re trying to push you out. Then Monday comes and they tell you they’re recommending you for a promotion. A friend doesn’t text back for days and you build a whole narrative. They’re pulling away. They don’t care. Then they call and say their mom’s been in the hospital. Ryan unpacks why the story we tell ourselves is
Stop Waiting To Feel Ready
“I’ll start when I’m ready” might be the biggest lie we tell ourselves. I’ll start the business when I’m ready. I’ll have the conversation when I’m ready. I’ll write the book when I’m ready. And then the thing you were preparing for passes you by while you were still getting prepared. Ryan breaks down the difference between preparing and hiding, and why “I’m not ready” is often just a dressed-up v
The Tax of Distraction
Nobody’s going to send you an invoice for being distracted. But research says it takes 23 minutes to fully refocus after a single interruption. Multiply that by a dozen times a day and you’re losing hours. Not minutes. Hours. We’re more connected than we’ve ever been and less focused than we’ve ever been. Ryan unpacks the hidden cost of the thing we’ve all normalized.In this episode, Ryan challeng
Helped, Heard, or Hugged
Someone you love comes to you with something heavy. And because you care, you immediately start solving it. You’ve got a plan, next steps, practically a spreadsheet. And you watch their face close. Because they didn’t come to you for a solution. They came to you to be felt. Ryan unpacks the mismatch that ruins more conversations than conflict ever will.In this episode, Ryan breaks down the three t
I Don’t Know
There’s a word most people have never heard that describes something most people do every day. It’s called ultracrepidarianism, giving opinions on things you have no real knowledge about. Ryan unpacks why we feel pressure to have a “take” on everything, why ChatGPT access doesn’t equal a PhD, and why the smartest people he’s ever been around are the ones most comfortable saying, “I don’t know.”Her
Trust Me
Only 34% of Americans believe most people can be trusted. The average person has about five people they’d truly lean on for anything. And yet Ryan has never met a single person who thought they themselves were untrustworthy. Nobody’s ever said, “Hey, whatever you’re about to tell me, I will absolutely use it against you in three months.” We all think we’re the vault. But almost nobody trusts the v
Keep Going
In 1989, a 23-year-old social worker started teaching classes and researching a topic nobody wanted to touch. For 21 years, almost nobody outside her department read her work. Then she gave a 20-minute talk, and it changed the conversation in boardrooms, classrooms, and living rooms across the world. Ryan unpacks her story and the timeline most people never see behind the breakthrough everyone cel
Brother Lawrence
Most people think God shows up in the big moments. The big stage, the big breakthrough, the big answered prayer. But one of the most influential voices in 400 years of Christian history never preached a sermon, never wrote a book, and never stood on a stage. He washed dishes in a monastery kitchen for decades. His name was Brother Lawrence, and he figured out something most of us are still missing
Are You Okay?
The most underrated form of care in any workplace or family is the courage to ask one more time, are you okay? And actually mean it.One in five adults in this country lives with a mental health condition in any given year. Which means, statistically, somebody you love is carrying something you can't see. And there's a real chance that somebody is you.In this episode, Ryan opens up about so
Invited to the Table or the Trial?
Most of us walk into hard conversations with the wrong goal. We're chasing agreement when we should be building connection. We're choosing accuracy when we should be choosing tone. And then we wonder why the conversation went sideways.In this episode, Ryan talks about the hard conversations almost everybody is sitting on right now. The one with your spouse. With your kid. With your boss. W
It’s Hard For Me to Say This
We’ve confused boundaries with rejection. With selfishness. With being difficult.But what if boundaries aren’t walls meant to keep people out… what if they’re doors with locks on them?In this episode, Ryan talks about why so many of us struggle to say no, how people are trained by what we tolerate, and why the most compassionate people are often the clearest people. From late night work texts to o
Just Kidding
Ever been in a professional meeting, a grown-up, serious, adult conversation, and somebody says one thing that hits you the wrong way, and suddenly you’re not a leader anymore? You’re seven. The playground version of you just hijacked the boardroom version of you, and now you’re saying things that the real you is going to regret by lunch. That’s age regression, and it happens to all of us.In this
Career Dysmorphia
You can be world-class at one thing and completely obsessed with another. I’ve got a friend who is the best speaker I know — the kind of communicator who stops rooms — but what he really wants to do is sing. He’s an okay singer. And that gap between what he sees in the mirror and what the world actually sees? That’s career dysmorphia. It’s the professional version of looking at your reflection and
Challengers and Champions
We all love having people who believe in us. Champions encourage us, remind us who we are, and push us toward the rooms we’re afraid to enter.But if encouragement is the only voice in your life, you can stop growing.In this episode, Ryan unpacks the surprising history behind the phrase “devil’s advocate” and why every person needs both a Champion and a Challenger. One builds you up. The other stre
The Willpower Muscle
What if willpower isn't something you're born with, but something you build? In this episode, Ryan breaks down the brain science behind self-discipline (meet your anterior cingulate cortex, aka your "willpower muscle") and shares the simple daily practice that helped him climb out of a season of coasting. You'll learn why most of us don't struggle because we don't kno
Right On Time
Most of us think we need more time. More margin. More space in the calendar.But what if the issue isn’t how much time you have… it’s what you’re missing inside the time you already have?In this episode, Ryan unpacks the powerful concept of kairos—a Greek word that means the right, decisive, or opportune moment. While we live in a world driven by chronos (schedules, deadlines, and clock-based time)
Procastination Proof
We all say it. “I’ll start next week.”But next week has a funny way of turning into next month… or next year.In this episode, Ryan tackles one of the most universal struggles we all face: procrastination. Not as a time management issue, but as a starting problem. If you’ve ever delayed a conversation, avoided a decision, or kept putting off something you know matters, this one’s for you.Ryan unpac
Break The Ice
Most people think “break the ice” is about small talk. It’s not. It’s about leadership.In this episode, Ryan unpacks the surprising origin of the phrase and what it teaches us about navigating difficult conversations. Every room has tension, silence, or something left unsaid. The difference-maker is the person willing to go first.If you’ve been avoiding a hard conversation at work, at home, or wit
The Story Behind Difficult People
We all know someone we’d label as difficult. But what if what you’re experiencing is just one scene in a story you don’t know?In this episode, Ryan unpacks the idea that every difficult person has a backstory—and most people are carrying far more than they let on. Drawing from real conversations and anonymous confessions from PostSecret, this episode will challenge how you see people, lead people,
A Better Way of Saying No
A lot of us struggle to say no not because we’re weak, but because we care. In this episode, Ryan breaks down the real tension behind saying no—competing priorities—and why every yes often comes with more yeses attached. From podcast requests to meetings that multiply, he shares practical and kind ways to protect your time without burning bridges. If you’ve been overcommitted, stretched thin, or g
From Success to Significance
Success is about what you accomplish. Significance is about who becomes better because of you.In this episode, Ryan reflects on the difference between chasing personal success and helping others succeed. For high achievers, that shift can be challenging. It’s easy to want people to win until their success starts to rival your own.Ryan shares why moving from success to significance might be the mos
Make a Difference or Make an Impression
Early in my career, I was obsessed with making an impression. The right outfit. The right look. The right perception. But after a couple of hilarious wardrobe mistakes during my first opportunity working with an NBA team, I learned a much more important lesson. In this episode, we talk about the difference between making an impression and making a difference, and why the value you bring to a room
A Healthy Relationship With Social Media
In this episode, Ryan unpacks what it really means to have a healthy relationship with social media. From the latest data on screen time to the emotional whiplash of a single scroll, he shares practical shifts that helped him move from reactive to intentional. Whether you’re a creator, a consumer, or somewhere in between, this conversation will help you evaluate your time, curate your feed, and ta
Removing Irritants
What if growth is less about adding more… and more about removing what frustrates people?In this episode, Ryan shares a powerful leadership principle from Dr. Nido Qubein, president of High Point University. While many private colleges have struggled or even closed in recent years, High Point has grown enrollment and built a waiting list of thousands. One of the hallmarks behind that success? A si
Consistency is Boring But Impossible to Keep Up With
Everyone wants to win.Few people want the repetition it requires.In this episode, Ryan unpacks why consistency is the most underrated competitive advantage in the world. From writing a book a year, to NBA workouts behind the scenes, to parenting, leadership, fitness, and social media growth, the common thread is simple: the boring stuff compounds.Going viral is fun.Winning is flashy.But showing up
Mother Nature vs. Mother Nurture
Are we born with what it takes, or do we become who we are?In this episode, we explore the debate of Mother Nature vs Mother Nurture and what research says about personality, resilience, leadership, and success. While genetics play a role in who we are, studies show that many of the qualities we admire most are developed over time.This episode is an encouragement for anyone who feels behind, overl
Who Do You Think You Are?
Who do you think you are? That question shows up every time you try to grow, pivot, or step outside the box people have put you in. In this episode, Ryan unpacks why it’s not fake it till you make it it’s believing it before everyone else does. He shares personal stories from early in his speaking career, moments of doubt and misalignment, and why waiting for permission or agreement is one of the
A Better You: A Forgiving You
Someone is going to say something this year.They’ll forget. Misread. Interrupt. Post. Assume. And when it happens, you’ll feel it—tight chest, sharp tone, replaying the moment long after it passed. In this episode, Ryan challenges you to decide now how you’ll respond later when offense shows up... because it will. From being a bitter you, a guarded you, or a revengeful you, to choosing a forgiving
A Better You: An Honest You
We’re not exactly liars… but let’s be honest, we’re not always fully authentic either. In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, Ryan explores what it really means to live with honesty—not the unfiltered, say everything you’re thinking kind of honesty, but the kind that builds trust, deepens relationships, and invites real growth. Through a powerful story about a CEO who led with vulnerability, Ry
A Better You: A Courageous You
You don’t have to be legit to get started. You just have to be brave.In this episode of A Better You, Ryan unpacks why courage matters more than confidence, credentials, or clarity. Whether you want to start working out, write a book, launch a podcast, apply for a role you feel underqualified for, or finally take a step you’ve been overthinking, this episode is a reminder that legitimacy is not a
A Better You: A Focused You
We don’t lack motivation. We lack focus.In the first episode of the A Better You series, Ryan Leak kicks off the new year by exploring why distraction, not desire, is often the biggest barrier to growth. From the staggering number of distractions we face every day to a personal story about narrowing his focus in 2023, Ryan challenges listeners to imagine what could be possible with one year of int
Looking Back to Move Forward
As the year comes to a close, Ryan reflects on the power of looking back before moving forward. After scrolling through photos from the past year, he shares a simple but meaningful way to review your year with honesty and gratitude. In this end of year episode, you’ll learn how to identify the moments worth celebrating, the patterns worth releasing, and why growth is just as much about what you st
There's Something About Mary
Egg nog, ugly sweaters, decorations, jingles, and watching The Grinch—Christmas has a way of slowing the world down and inviting us into something meaningful, whether we consider ourselves religious or not. In this episode, There’s Something About Mary, we step back from the noise and look at the origin of Christmas through the life of a teenage girl named Mary.You don’t have to be a Christian to
What To Get Someone Who Has Everything
What do you get someone who already has everything?In this episode, Ryan Leak makes the case that the rarest gift isn’t expensive. It’s specific encouragement. You’ll learn how to write a simple note that people keep for years, why your words carry more value than anything money can buy, and how to give a gift that can’t be returned but will always be remembered. If you’ve ever struggled to find t
Small Talk For Holiday Introverts
If the phrase “holiday party” makes your soul want to put on sweatpants and hide behind a plant, this episode is for you. Today, Ryan breaks down how introverts—ambiverts—and anyone whose social battery comes with a strict warranty can actually enjoy small talk instead of fearing it.You’ll learn why you don’t have to be loud to be memorable, how to walk into any gathering with a simple plan, and t
Thanksliving
Imagine if gratitude wasn’t just a yearly feeling, but a daily practice! In this episode, Ryan dives into the concept of Thanksliving, contrasting it with Thanksgiving, and delves into how gratitude can actually reshape your brain. He also tackles the sneaky entitlement that sometimes sneaks into our lives. With heartfelt stories, like a transformative moment in Chicago that changed his view of hi
Navigating Holiday Drama Before It Starts
We’ve all got that family member we’re already bracing ourselves for this holiday season. For some people, the holidays feel less like a celebration and more like a cold plunge — get in, get out, and try not to scream. But you don’t have to match anyone else’s energy this year. In this episode, Ryan shows you how to prepare for people’s patterns, protect your peace, and lead the moment you’re in.
When Phenomenal Skill Meets Phenomenal Will
Phenomenal skill gets you noticed—but phenomenal will makes you unstoppable. In this episode, Ryan explores the powerful difference between what you can measure and what you can’t. From the 10,000-hour rule to Angela Duckworth’s research on grit, and the inspiring story of Jamie Kern Lima—who turned rejection after rejection into a $1.2 billion success—this episode reminds us that talent might ope
The Spiritual Gift of Discouragement
Ever met someone who seems to have the spiritual gift of discouragement? You know... the person who finds the flaw in every plan, the hole in every idea, and the typo in every email. In this episode, Ryan shares why those people are actually gifts to your life and leadership. The very person who tells you what’s not working might be the reason you don’t settle for mediocrity. Learn how to reframe
Mental Fitness
We’ve got cold plunges, calorie counters, greens, gyms, diets, and Ozempic for our physical fitness, but what about our mental fitness? In this episode, Ryan Leak breaks down a simple, practical routine for training your mind the same way you train your body. From your morning mental warm-up to emotional resistance training, gratitude cool-downs, and rest days for your brain, this one will help yo
Dog With Discipline
Everyone loves to talk about having that “dog” in them... the hunger, the grit, the relentless drive that separates high performers from the rest. But what happens when that same fire goes unchecked? In this episode, Ryan unpacks the fine line between passion and chaos and why real greatness requires more than just drive... it requires discipline. You’ll learn why strength without control can lead
Faith At Work
In this episode, Ryan Leak breaks down ten practical ways to share your faith at work—without preaching a sermon. From showing up on time to going the extra mile, Faith At Work reminds us that the loudest message you’ll ever preach doesn’t come from your mouth—it comes from your work ethic, your attitude, and how you treat people when no one’s watching.
The Science of Forgiveness
Forgiveness isn’t just a church thing. It’s not just a faith thing. It’s a science thing. In this episode, Ryan Leak unpacks the astounding research from both Eastern and Western medicine on how unforgiveness, bitterness, and resentment impact your physical, emotional, and mental health. From impaired liver function in Chinese medicine to reduced risk of heart disease in Western studies, the evide
A Healthier Approach to Criticism
Most of us don’t know what to do with criticism. We either ignore it, pretend we don’t care, or rush to discredit whoever said it. But the truth is, words hurt... and if you don’t learn how to process them, they’ll either spiral you or shut you down. In this episode, I get personal about how I deal with criticism every day, from social media unfollows to tough feedback in real life.I’ll share why
Navigating Collective Triggers
In a week filled with tragedy and nonstop scrolling, many of us felt the weight of collective triggering. Do I post? What do I post? Do I delete it? How do I keep relationships intact when emotions are running high?In this episode, Ryan Leak explores the art of disagreeing without disrespect, why friendships shouldn’t dissolve in 20 seconds over one post, and how respect and humility can change th
The Vapor of Success
In the final episode of the Success Series, Ryan Leak unpacks the most sobering truth of all: success doesn’t last. From viral moments to bestselling milestones, the applause fades faster than you think. Whether it’s leading a Fortune 50 company, playing in the NBA, or hitting a career high, success often disappears like a mist... visible for a moment, then gone.But what does last?How you treated
The Addiction of Success
In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, we’re talking about the addiction of success. There’s a fine line between being driven and being dependent—and far too many people cross it without even knowing it. From the pressure to keep up appearances to chasing validation through likes, shares, and applause, Ryan unpacks what it looks like when success stops being a blessing and starts becoming a bur
The Pressure of Success
Everyone wants success… until they feel the pressure that comes with it. In this episode, Ryan unpacks what happens after you win: the pressure to stay on top, to outperform your last big moment, and to keep everyone impressed. Drawing from fresh research led by Dr. Angela on stress and "stressure" (stress + pressure), Ryan gets real about what success can do to your peace, your pace, and your pur
The Dangers of Success
In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, Ryan breaks down what most people won’t tell you about success... it’s not just hard to get, it’s even harder to manage. From losing your edge to losing your people, success can quietly sabotage the very things that matter most if you’re not paying attention. Ryan shares the subtle ways success can shift your mindset, mess with your relationships, and make
The Cost of Success
In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, Ryan asks a bold question: What does it cost to be you? Success often looks easy from the outside, but the behind-the-scenes story usually includes late nights, tough decisions, and sacrifices no one ever sees. Whether it's private jets, real estate empires, or viral influence, there's always a price tag success doesn't advertise.This kicks of
Bad Day or Bad Moment?
In this episode, Ryan unpacks why most people confuse a bad moment with a bad day, and how that simple mix-up can hijack your peace. He shares a personal story about spiraling over book reviews, breaks down the science of negativity bias, and reminds us that we don’t have to give a rude email, a low-like post, or a traffic jam that much power. One moment doesn’t define your mindset. You do.Each we
Falling In Love With Boring
In this episode, Ryan explores the underrated power of boring. He breaks down how NBA players, elite entrepreneurs, and even happy couples all rely on boring routines to achieve extraordinary results. While most people chase what’s flashy and exciting, Ryan makes the case that consistency, the kind that feels repetitive and unglamorous, is actually the secret to success. From vending machines to f
No One Wins The Blame Game
In this episode, Ryan shares why one of the best days of your life is the day you stop playing the blame game. He unpacks how blaming others,even when they’re truly at fault, won’t move your life forward.With a powerful story, some surprising research, and real-talk motivation, Ryan challenges you to take back the pen and start writing your next chapter. Because someone else might be responsible f
The Power of a Good Attitude
What makes someone complicated to work with? Is it their politics? Their generation? Their role? According to our nationwide study, none of those even came close. The number one answer, by a long shot, was attitude.In today’s episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, I’m unpacking why your attitude matters more than you think. You can’t change your coworker’s personality, your boss’s behavior, or your cli
Ask Hole
In this episode, Ryan breaks down the hilarious but honest concept of an "ask hole", someone who constantly asks for advice but never takes action. Inspired by a phrase he heard from a friend, Ryan dives into why learning something and actually applying it are two very different things. He unpacks the psychological reasons people confuse knowledge with growth and offers practical steps t
Just Do It Scared
You’ve got dreams. Big ones. But fear? It’s loud. That voice in your head says, What if it doesn’t work out? This episode is for anyone who's ever felt underqualified, overwhelmed, or just plain scared. Spoiler alert: You can still move forward.From launching a business to going to therapy, applying for the job to starting the podcast—this one’s all about giving yourself permission to show up
Show Me Your Calendar and I'll Show You Your Future
Ryan reveals why your calendar is more than just a schedule; it's a scoreboard that lays bare your priorities, patterns, and untapped potential. He challenges you to look beyond the "have-tos" of professional life and identify the "get-tos"—the opportunities for growth, learning, and genuine fulfillment. On the personal front, he calls out the common pitfalls of endless dis
When Private Discipline Meets Public Opportunity
Join Ryan Leak in this episode as he tackles the critical difference between those who "crush it" and those who merely "wish they would've." It all comes down to being ready—not just thinking about it, but doing the deep, consistent work long before opportunity knocks.Ryan challenges the common "if I had..." fantasy, arguing that true growth happens in the quiet moments of preparation, not when ci
The Room Where It Happens
You've heard the success stories, but what's the real secret to getting into the rooms you've always dreamed of? Ryan Leak spills the beans on his short-and-sweet podcast: it's rarely a solo climb. In "The Room Where It Happens," Ryan shares his personal "breadcrumb slide," highlighting the unexpected mentors who didn't just open doors, but taught him how to
Reduce Misunderstandings
Ever been misunderstood? We all have. In this episode, Ryan shares how to be the kind of person who reduces misunderstandings... at work, at home, and in marriage. From switching up communication channels to leading with curiosity instead of assumptions, this episode will challenge you to slow down, seek clarity, and build stronger connections in every area of your life.
What ChatGPT Taught Me About Self-awareness
In this episode, I did something I’ve never done before.I asked ChatGPT to give me feedback—not just a one-time evaluation, but based on hundreds of prompts and conversations we’ve had over time.I asked:“What’s it like to be on the other side of me?”“How can I get better?”“What’s the thing I need to hear that I probably wouldn’t want to hear?”The answers were honest.Insightful.And a little uncomfo
Lifequakes
In this episode, Ryan shares the concept of a “lifequake” — those unexpected, seismic moments that shake your world and change everything. From his own story of childhood lifequake to the struggles many quietly carry today, this episode is full of empathy, hope, and real talk. Ryan unpacks two things every person needs when the ground gives way: an anchor for your soul and a friend who won’t run f
The Most Complicated Person I Know
Most people say they work with someone who’s complicated—but almost no one thinks they are the problem. In this episode, Ryan Leak dives into brand-new national research revealing just how widespread (and underestimated) complicated people are in today’s workforce.Spoiler: the numbers don’t add up.With vulnerability and humor, Ryan admits his own complexities and shares a true story about being la
Are We There Yet?
In this episode, Ryan shares a behind-the-scenes story about his journey with John Maxwell’s team—a relationship that took over a decade to build. When Ryan once asked if he could be featured on John’s podcast, he was met with an honest and challenging response: “I don’t think we’re there yet.” Rather than taking offense, Ryan took it as fuel for growth.This episode is a reminder that sometimes th
100 Men vs 1 Gorilla
100 Men vs. 1 Gorilla: The Debate That Builds Better TeamsCould 100 men take down 1 gorilla—with no weapons? It’s the internet’s favorite argument right now, and in this episode, Ryan breaks it down with NFL linemen, sumo wrestlers, UFC fighters, and a whole lot of imagination. But this episode isn’t really about gorillas. It’s about connection.In How to Work With Complicated People, Ryan talks ab
Look Who's Talking
Ever caught yourself mid-rant and thought… “Wait, that’s not me talking—that’s my tired”? In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, we’re getting real about the voices that hijack our conversations—tired, insecurity, anxiety, anger, pride, jealousy, even disappointment. Sometimes the loudest person in the room… isn’t even you. Before you send the text, quit the job, confront the friend, or make a
Don't Match The Energy. Set The Standard
In a world where it’s normal to match attitude for attitude and shade for shade, what if you chose a different route? In this episode, Ryan unpacks why matching someone else’s energy might be the most overrated move you’re making — and how setting the standard can change your relationships, your leadership, and your peace of mind. From sibling fights to toxic work cultures, this one’s got real-lif
Expectations Detox
In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, we’re doing a full Expectations Detox. Because let’s be honest—some of us are walking into work, home, and life expecting people to be simple, perfect, and just like us… and we’re constantly disappointed. Why? Because people are complicated. Quirky. Moody. Late. And wildly different.Ryan unpacks why the key to working with (and loving) complicated people i
Yeah, It's Called The Big Leagues
In this episode of The Ryan Leak Podcast, we’re going behind the scenes of my upcoming book—specifically, the story of the book cover. Sounds simple, right? Not even close. This episode is about what it really means to stop settling for “good enough” and start living with Big League standards. I share how a challenge from a friend, an introduction to a world-class designer, and one unforgettable s
What If They’re Not Thinking About You At All?
You’ve heard the advice: “Just stop caring what people think.” But if it were that easy, you would’ve done it by now. In this episode, Ryan Leak unpacks what’s really holding most people back—not fear of failure, but fear of what other people might think. From the thoughts we imagine others are having to the strangers we give way too much power, this episode is a wake-up call to stop living life b
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