Purpose Unscripted

In this reflective and heartfelt episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagen reconnects with his former podcast co-host Jeff Besselman for a candid conversation about life's purpose, personal growth, and the joys of fatherhood. They reminisce about their past podcasting days, discuss the balance of pursuing creative passions alongside family and work, and explore the importance of living a...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagen reconnects with old friend Andy Scullin, a podcast producer and local music enthusiast from the Albany area. They discuss Andy's journey from radio to podcasting, his passion for the local music scene through his show Unsigned 518, and his recent foray into acting. Listeners will enjoy a nostalgic and inspiring conversation about following...

In this inspiring episode of Purpose Unscripted, I sit down with musician and motivational speaker Chris Hendricks to explore how Chris has transformed his cerebral palsy diagnosis into a powerful superpower. Through stories of overcoming bullying and using music as a bridge to foster empathy and connection, Chris shares insights into vulnerability, resilience, and the importance of finding purpos...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, Ryan interviews Steven Schultz, founder of Foodzee, an innovative app designed to make mealtime enjoyable and educational for children by gamifying healthy eating habits. Listeners will gain insights into Steve's journey from healthcare sales to purpose-driven entrepreneurship, as well as practical tips for fostering positive family dining experiences and...

In this reflective solo episode of Purpose Unscripted, I dive into personal experiences following a layoff, emphasizing the importance of purpose and resilience during challenging times. By revisiting past conversations with inspiring guests, the episode highlights themes of community, passion, and the power of vulnerability in building meaningful connections. Listeners are encouraged to embrace c...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, I interview Casey McManus about her and her husband Brett's journey from traditional careers to owning a ski lodge and inn in Killington, Vermont. They discuss the challenges of transitioning into the hospitality industry, the importance of pursuing passion-driven projects, and their innovative platform, 'Inndependence Stays,' which connects travelers with un...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagen engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jordan Bowman from Journeymen Triangle about promoting 'healthy masculinity' among young men in this day and age. Listeners will gain insight into the importance of mentorship and community engagement, as Jordan shares his experiences working with young people to foster independence, resilience,...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, Ryan interviews Julian Jahoo, a dynamic realtor and former cruise ship maître d', who shares his inspiring journey from England to North Carolina. Julian's story is filled with lessons learned from his diverse experiences in hospitality and real estate, highlighting the importance of hard work, resilience, and people skills. Listeners will gain insigh...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, we dive into the inspiring journey of Preston Ross, founder of the Great Raleigh Cleanup. Preston shares how a personal loss and a desire to give back to his community led him to start an initiative focused on litter removal and landfill diversion in Raleigh. Listeners will be motivated by Preston's commitment to environmental stewardship and community bu...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan engages in an inspiring conversation with Danny Rosin, co-founder of BrandFuel and the nonprofit Band Together. Danny shares his journey of blending entrepreneurship with philanthropy, emphasizing how music can bring communities together for a cause. Listeners will gain valuable insights into creating impactful community initiatives and the importan...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagan reconnects with Scott Tournet, a founding member of the band Grace Potter and the Nocturnals. They discuss their shared roots in small-town Vermont, Scott's journey from a laundromat guitarist to successful musician, and the challenges and triumphs of life on the road. Scott reflects on rediscovering his purpose through new musical project...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagen interviews Maggie Kane, the visionary behind A Place at the Table, Raleigh's pay-what-you-can community cafe. Maggie shares her inspiring journey from volunteering at local shelters to launching a nonprofit that provides dignified dining experiences for everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Listeners will be motivated by Maggi...

In this episode of Purpose Unscripted, host Ryan Hagen interviews former UNC basketball player Baden Jaxen, who shares his journey from professional basketball to founding the Pup Park Shuttle in Raleigh, North Carolina. Baden discusses how his upbringing and experiences abroad shaped his purpose, leading him to create a unique service that enhances community connection and joy by providing dogs w...

In this heartfelt episode of Purpose Unscripted, I interview Kenny Stewart, a mentor and friend (former boss) from Scotland who shares his journey of navigating life changes, grief, and personal growth. As Kenny discusses the transition from a high-pressure career to pursuing his passions, including running 126 Water Company and contributing to Elgin City Football Club, listeners gain insights int...

In this debut episode of Purpose Unscripted, I’m flying solo to share the story behind this podcast—and the journey that brought me here. From my parents’ country store in Vermont to launching a mobile wine bar with my wife, I’ve chased purpose through entrepreneurship, creativity, and entertaining. I’ll introduce two philosophies—Ikigai and Dharma—and how they’ve helped shape the way I live and w...