The Alchemist's Library

Send us a textRyan Duey is the co-founder and CEO of Plunge, one of the fastest-growing brands in wellness and recovery. After a near-fatal motorcycle accident in Thailand, Ryan’s life took a radical turn—from spiritual exploration to building a $200 million company redefining modern cold therapy.Expect to learn the real lessons behind entrepreneurship—why business is harder than most people think, how stress shows up differently for every founder, and why early-stage chaos can sometimes feel easier than managing success. Ryan shares how psychedelics shaped his leadership style, what it means to evolve from founder to CEO, and how to find peace inside the storm.You’ll also discover the power of resilience, why endurance matters more than inspiration, how AI is changing business strategy, and what most entrepreneurs get wrong about selling high-ticket products. This is a raw, unfiltered conversation on business, stress, and the pursuit of meaning behind success.Chapters00:00 Ryan Duey’s Near-Death Experience & The Birth of Plunge02:41 The Truth About Building a $200M Brand07:12 Why Business Is Harder Than You Think12:48 How Stress Manifests for Different Founders18:05 Lessons from Psychedelics and Leadership23:17 The Founder-to-CEO Transition29:44 Resilience, Endurance & What Keeps You Going34:55 AI’s Role in Business Growth41:20 Selling High-Ticket Products the Right Way47:58 Why Most People Misunderstand Cold Plunging51:35 Final Reflections on Entrepreneurship & PurposeTakeawaysBusiness is hard. The highlight reel never shows the sleepless nights, pressure, or doubt.Unit economics matter more than ego. Scale doesn’t mean success.Stress is personal. Some founders thrive in chaos; others in calm.Psychedelics can expand leadership perspective—but only when integrated intentionally.AI is a multiplier, not a replacement.Selling high-ticket products requires trust, communication, and human connection.Resilience trumps talent. Endurance is the real competitive advantage.Connect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textIn this episode, Ryan Ayala sits down with Scott H. Young, the mastermind behind "Ultra Learning," to explore the art of mastering skills at lightning speed. Scott shares insights on breaking down complex learning into manageable pieces, the power of deliberate practice, and the role of memory in skill acquisition. They also delve into the impact of AI on learning and discuss practical strategies for language immersion. Tune in to discover how you can transform your approach to learning and achieve mastery in any domain.Scott Young is best known as the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Ultralearning, a writer and host of a podcast focusing on learning and productivity. He is recognized for his intensive self-directed learning projects, such as completing MIT's computer science degree in one year, and for his insights on how to master skills and accelerate career development. He also writes and teaches about productivity, habits, and living well.Connect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textMy guest today is Owen NurminenIn this episode we explore how building a personal brand can transform business opportunities, offering insights into leveraging social media for growth. Owen shares his journey from struggling with outreach to receiving lucrative offers, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and connection. Tune in to discover strategies for creating impactful content and the potential of user-generated content in today's digital landscape.Chapters:00:00 The Importance of Personal Branding02:59 Leveraging Social Media for Business Success06:03 Creating Content: Strategies and Approaches08:49 Understanding Audience Engagement and Niche Marketing12:00 The Long-Term Vision: Planning for Future Success14:54 The Role of Education in Entrepreneurship18:02 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Vulnerability21:01 The Power of Consistency and Daily Action23:49 Navigating the UGC Landscape27:07 The Future of AI in Content Creation29:57 Building Relationships and Networking33:09 Final Thoughts and Future OpportunitiesConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textMason Kuhr is a an entrepreneur who delves into the intricacies of personal growth and business development.Mason shares his journey of self-discovery and the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining personal integrity. He explores the concept of unworthiness, the importance of aligning with one's true identity, and the role of faith in overcoming life's hurdles. Expect to learn about the pitfalls of hustle culture, the significance of risk-taking, and how personal relationships mirror our interactions with the world.Chapters00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Business08:59 The Impact of External Expectations on Personal Growth18:04 The Role of Risk in Personal and Business Growth26:36 The Power of Sacrifice and Multiplication27:33 Letting Go: The Butterfly Analogy in Relationships29:31 Navigating Emotional Waters: The Captain's Role31:57 Stability in Chaos: Lessons from the Storm34:00 Authenticity Over Performance: The Key to Connection37:53 Facing Fears: The Journey of Self-Expression40:42 Embracing Vulnerability: The Path to Growth43:10 The Fool's Journey: Embracing Discomfort for Growth46:30 Self-Inventory: Identifying Your ButterfliesConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textAlex Heiden, also known as NoCodeAlex, is a serial entrepreneur and a pioneer in the no-code movement. Learn about Alex's journey from creating his first company, Closify, to becoming a prominent figure in the no-code community. Expect to hear insights on the future of app development, the role of organic content in marketing, and the importance of focusing on core features when launching a new app. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned developer, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on innovation and growth in the digital age.Chapters00:00 The Rise of No-Code Development02:49 Navigating the App Development Landscape05:49 Marketing Strategies for Apps08:48 The Info Product vs. Software Debate11:48 Leveraging AI in Outreach15:09 Building a Personal Brand18:09 The Power of Cold Outreach21:00 Starting Your Entrepreneurial Journey23:59 Understanding WAP and Its Mission27:07 Exploring No-Code Tools29:47 The Importance of Skill Development32:47 YouTube as a Revenue Stream42:58 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs in Content Creation44:59 The Importance of Effective YouTube Strategies46:51 Navigating Paid Ads vs. Organic Growth49:51 Maximizing Content Creation Efficiency52:20 The Power of Focused Work and Deep Work54:49 Sales Skills and Active Listening56:49 The Art of Creative Follow-Up in Sales01:00:00 Quality vs. Quantity in Content Creation01:01:55 Finding Your Passion in Content Creation01:10:38 Monetization Strategies for Content Creators01:19:29 Choosing the Right City for Your LifestyleConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textAris Yeager known as the rich European kid on TikTok, shares his journey from creating a viral character to building a startup called Storytime. He discusses the importance of personal branding, networking, and the challenges of content creation. Aris emphasizes the need for consistency and innovation in content, the balance between business and creativity, and the highs and lows of the startup world. He also explores the future of influencer marketing and the significance of niche content. Chapters:00:00 The Rise of a Viral Character03:11 Building a Personal Brand and Networking05:53 Creating a Marketplace for Influencers08:56 Navigating the Challenges of Content Creation12:02 Balancing Business and Creativity15:09 The Startup Journey: Highs and Lows18:08 The Future of Influencer MarketingConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textWade Houston is a successful online coach and entrepreneur specializing in mindset, health, and business growth. After overcoming addiction and launching a fintech startup with Mastercard, he built 10X Health into a multi-seven-figure company. He now helps high-performers master their mindset, physique, and business, guiding them toward elite personal and professional transformation.Connect with Wade! https://www.instagram.com/wadehouston...Connect with Ryan!   / ryanjayala  Connect with Us!   / alchemists.library  Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Early Life Lessons  01:50 The Power of Commitment & Showing Up  06:32 Redefining Masculinity & Emotional Openness  11:25 The Dark Side of High Performance  16:20 Mindfulness, Spirituality & Mental Clarity  21:30 Navigating Identity & Becoming a Role Model  27:18 Letting Go of Old Selves & Evolving  33:05 Purpose, Impact & Building Real Strength  38:44 The Role of Discipline & Self-Mastery  43:00 Creating Safe Spaces for Men  47:12 Integrating Work, Relationships & Inner Peace  52:40 Closing Reflections on Fulfillment & LegacyConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textCharles Eisenstein is a philosopher, author, and public speaker known for his deeply thoughtful explorations of civilization, consciousness, and human connection. With a background in mathematics and philosophy, Charles weaves together insights from systems thinking, spirituality, and ecology to challenge the dominant narratives of modern life. He is the author of several influential books, including The More Beautiful World Our Hearts Know Is Possible and The Ascent of Humanity, which explore how we can transition from a culture of separation to one rooted in interbeing and meaning. In a world increasingly driven by technology and abstraction, Charles offers a powerful invitation to reclaim presence, purpose, and sacredness in how we live and relate to ourselves, each other, and the Earth.Chapters00:00 The Essence of Education: Unlearning vs. Learning05:19 The Art of Self-Discovery and Unique Offerings11:30 Navigating Curiosity and Life's Path17:21 AI and the Future: Embracing Materiality32:27 The Human Experience: Beyond Abstraction39:03 The Limits of Quantification47:19 Understanding Addiction and Unmet Needs57:51 The Unquantifiable Nature of Human Experience01:06:09 The Power of Questions Over AnswersConnect with Charles! https://charleseisenstein.org/Connect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textJerry Colonna is an executive coach, author, and co-founder of Reboot, a coaching and leadership development firm focused on helping entrepreneurs and executives grow through radical self-inquiry. Formerly a venture capitalist with Flatiron Partners, Jerry transitioned into coaching to support leaders in navigating the emotional complexities of leadership. He is the author of the acclaimed book Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up, which blends personal reflection with professional development. Known for his compassionate yet unflinching coaching style, Jerry continues to influence a new generation of founders and CEOs who believe in leading with authenticity, courage, and heart.Connect with Jerry! https://www.instagram.com/jerry.colonna/?hl=en Connect with Ryan! https://twitter.com/RyanJAyalaConnect with Us! https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Jerry’s Journey to Coaching  01:00 Radical Self-Inquiry & Moral Courage  05:04 Iteration, Growth & Identity  10:17 Depression, Doubt & The Lying Mind  16:12 The Danger of Grandiosity vs. True Confidence  22:06 Masculinity, Role Models & Responsibility  30:02 Redefining Success & Being a Good Man  37:12 Empathy, Mentorship & Leaving a Legacy  43:36 Clean Your Room: Self-Discipline as Leadership  46:05 Redefining Leadership & Followership  50:05 Balancing Compassion & High Standards  56:04 The Buddha of Baseball & Building Extraordinary TeamsConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala

Send us a textWhy Poker Makes You a Better Thinker - Annie Duke on Decision ScienceAbout the guest:Annie Duke is a decision strategist, author, and former professional poker player known for her expertise in cognitive science and decision-making under uncertainty. Originally pursuing a PhD at the University of Pennsylvania, she shifted paths due to illness and went on to win a World Series of Poker championship, eventually becoming one of the most successful female players in the game’s history. Leveraging her background in cognitive science and poker, Annie transitioned into writing, speaking, and consulting, authoring acclaimed books such as Thinking in Bets, How to Decide, and Quit. She is also the co-founder of the Alliance for Decision Education, advocating for better thinking skills in K–12 education. Annie’s work bridges rigorous research with practical frameworks for better decisions in life and business.Connect with Annie! https://x.com/annieduke?lang=enConnect with Ryan! https://twitter.com/RyanJAyalaConnect with Us! https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/Chapters:00:00 Introduction & Life Pivot  03:38 Entering the Poker World  06:08 The Bridge Between Poker & Cognitive Science  09:00 Decision Education & Career Evolution  10:59 Forecasting in Personal Decisions  14:24 Qualitative vs. Quantitative Thinking  18:12 The Danger of “Going With Your Gut”  23:12 Aligning Internal & External Perspectives  25:48 Defining Terms & Clarifying Assumptions  34:01 The Myth of Mysticism in Decision-Making  40:43 Experience vs. Explicit Models  53:40 Closing Thoughts on Self-ImprovementConnect with Us!https://www.instagram.com/alchemists.library/https://twitter.com/RyanJAyala