Bjorn Ryan-Gorman, a skateboarder, comedian, and podcast host, emphasizes that taking risks is key to feeling truly alive. He shares how dangerous activities can foster personal growth and self-discovery, specifically through his journey from extreme sports to stand-up comedy. Bjorn opens up about his struggles with identity and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community, blending humor with heartfelt stories. He encourages listeners to embrace the unknown as a pathway to fulfillment and connection.
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Quick takeaways
Taking risks, like engaging in dangerous sports, can lead to personal growth and a deeper understanding of one's capabilities.
The journey of self-acceptance, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, involves navigating complex relationships and societal pressures.
Stand-up comedy serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a means to foster community, highlighting the role of vulnerability in connection.
Deep dives
Embracing the Life of Purpose Series
The series focuses on strategies for achieving personal and professional fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of health, performance, and community well-being. Experts share insights that empower listeners to reflect on their lives and make intentional choices that align with their goals. A key takeaway is the promotion of a supportive community, which is portrayed as critical for motivation and collective growth. For those interested in deeper engagement, signing up for the newsletter offers access to a free Life of Purpose ebook at the series' end.
The Journey Through Action Sports
The speaker recounts their formative years spent in the action sports community, particularly snowboarding and snowskating, which shaped their identity. They detail how building snow parks in their backyard led to event organization, highlighting the dual roles of creativity and community within action sports. The transition from snowboarding to snow skating provided a safer adrenaline experience, aligning with their quest for risk-taking in life. The discussion showcases how these experiences fostered both a sense of belonging and personal achievement.
The Process of Coming Out
The speaker reflects on their experience of coming out as gay at the age of 27, discussing the layers of self-discovery involved in this process. Influenced by a podcast episode that resonated deeply, they realized the liberating impact of embracing their true identity. The account includes emotional dialogues with family, revealing how varying responses from loved ones influenced their relationships. This journey underscores the challenges of self-acceptance and the societal pressures faced by individuals within the LGBTQ+ community.
Finding Community Through Comedy
The speaker found solace and expression through stand-up comedy, which became a new outlet after transitioning away from physically demanding sports. This artistic form provided both personal therapy and community engagement, mirroring the dynamics of their action sports background. They emphasize the importance of openness in comedy, detailing how financial and emotional risks often facilitate the creative process. The unique perspective on fear and vulnerability in comedy highlights its role in fostering connection and understanding.
Navigating Societal Perceptions and Safety
Amidst personal growth, the speaker discusses the underlying fear of safety that pervades their interactions in certain environments, particularly when visiting their hometown in Montana. They express a consciousness of societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community, which can redefine comfort levels in various settings. This awareness extends to interactions with strangers, affecting how they choose to present their identity in public spaces. The conversation underscores the ongoing societal challenges and the need for broader acceptance of diverse identities.
If you want to feel alive, take risks. Skateboarder, comedian and podcast host Bjorn Ryan-Gorman has a life philosophy that applies to everyone. Here's how dangerous activities can help with personal development and why jumping into the unknown is a great way to learn what you're capable of.