In this episode, Alan and Heather sit down with Ray Hartjen—a self-described professional storyteller whose career has spanned investment banking, pharma, tech, marketing, and creative writing. Ray shares how storytelling became the throughline across every chapter of his professional life, even before he consciously recognized it. From crafting narratives in corporate boardrooms to writing books and playing music, Ray reveals how understanding engagement and human connection ultimately shaped his work and his identity.

The conversation takes a profound turn as Ray opens up about his 2019 diagnosis with multiple myeloma. Rather than narrowing his world, the diagnosis expanded it—forcing a reevaluation of time, priorities, and purpose. Through a powerful “timeline” exercise, Ray reframed how he views life, shifting from taking time for granted to intentionally investing it. That shift led him to add new roles—patient advocate, fundraiser, and community supporter—while letting go of others that no longer aligned with his energy and goals.

Ray also dives into his creative journey as an author of five books, including both nonfiction and fiction, and how he overcame the fear of stepping into new creative territory. He emphasizes the importance of starting small, embracing failure, and designing a life—and creative career—that actually works for you. This episode is a masterclass in intentional risk, resilience, and redefining what success looks like on your own terms.

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