Richard Ryan: How to Stay Human in a Digital World

In a world built to hijack your attention, staying focused and grounded has become a form of resistance.

Richard Ryan — co-founder of Black Rifle Coffee Company, software developer, and media executive — joins Judd Lienhard to talk about how Big Tech is shaping our thoughts, behaviors, and daily habits. As a seasoned tech insider with over 15 years in digital media, Richard has seen how algorithms manipulate behavior and profit from our time.

He’s also the author of The Warrior’s Garden: Tools for Guarding Your Mind Against Big Tech, a book that teaches readers how to reclaim their focus and protect what matters most. In this conversation, Judd and Richard dive into how technology, dopamine, and comfort have changed the way we live—and how we can train our minds like we train our bodies to take back control.

They discuss:

• How the “attention economy” rewires your brain
• Why friction and struggle build mental toughness
• The parallels between physical training and psychological resilience
• Why community, gratitude, and purpose still matter more than ever
• How to reclaim your time, discipline, and awareness in a world that profits from distraction

This is a conversation about protecting your focus, building resilience, and finding meaning in an age of algorithms. It’s not about escaping technology—it’s about mastering your relationship with it.

Richard Ryan has generated billions of views and built global communities online. His book The Warrior’s Garden pulls back the curtain on how digital systems manipulate behavior, while giving you practical tools to guard your mind and rebuild your attention.

Judd Lienhard is a former Army Ranger, college linebacker, and performance coach with over 15 years of experience. His mission: to help people train like athletes for life—developing not just muscle, but mindset, grit, and discipline.

📲 Train with Judd: Download Judd's Fitness App — the only place to get MASS Method, his complete system for strength, conditioning, and performance at www.juddlienhard.com

This episode is brought to you by LMNT.

Optimal hydration doesn’t just mean more fluids, it means getting the right electrolyte balance. Make your purchase through my link to receive a free LMNT Sample Pack featuring the most popular flavors: drinklmnt.com/judd

The Judd Lienhard Podcast delivers unfiltered conversations with elite athletes, military leaders, and top coaches, exploring performance, mindset, and resilience. From NFL vets to Special Forces operators, each episode is packed with real-world lessons on training, leadership, and pushing limits.

Enjoyed this conversation? Consider sharing it with a friend. Subscribe, Rate, & Review to help us bring you more epic conversations. ⭐️🎧🔥