Don't Die Rusty Podcast

Rick catches up with Brandon Ruby for a wide-ranging conversation about identity, social media, TV work, and the joy of building unusual projects. Brandon talks candidly about what it means to be "Ruby," how he and Cappy work together, and why positivity and small acts of kindness matter more than ever.They discuss Brandon's evolving brand, the value of creative work, the impact of fans, and how life changes after loss. It's an honest, upbeat conversation about work, family, purpose, and finding ways to be a blessing to other people.

Key topics

• A casting conversation prompted Brandon to define his personal brand—and realize that he is the product, not just the projects he helps build.
• Brandon explains why he and Cappy are less like Batman and Robin and more like two equal superheroes working toward the same goal.
• He talks about the difference between his on-camera identity as Ruby and the way longtime friends know him as Brandon.
• The conversation explores how social media can be a daily outlet for positivity, encouragement, and small moments of joy.
• Brandon shares the meaning behind his "My Mondays" posts and why a simple video or smile can lift someone's day.
• Rick and Brandon reflect on loss, especially the deaths of their dads, and how that changes the way you spend time with family.
• Brandon describes how his new path has opened the door to more creativity, less stress, and more enjoyment in life and work.
• They talk about unusual projects, including an airplane fuselage house, a grain bin gazebo, and a natural swimming pool.
• Brandon reflects on meeting people across the country through shows and trade events—and how regional climate, materials, and needs shape the way people build.
• Throughout the conversation, they return to the value of making someone else's day better, whether through a post, a hug, a handshake, or paying for a meal.

You Can Reach Brandon Ruby On Facebook @Brandon Ruby

Instagram @brandongruby

You Can Reach Rick Hanson On Facebook @Rick Hanson

@Don't Die Rusty

On Instagram @rickhanson24

@dontdierusty

Or email at [email protected]

Rest, recharge, and why it may be okay to feel "off" for a while

Rick reconnects with Kelley Lovelace for a candid conversation about cancer recovery, emotional fatigue, and the difference between fixing a problem and learning to live through it. What starts as a health update turns into a deeper discussion about Sabbath, spiritual rest, prayer, and why some seasons call for trust more than action.In this episode, Rick and Kelley talk openly about real life pressure, feeling drained, and the value of honest conversations with people who are "for you." The discussion moves between faith, friendship, hunting, and the challenge of staying mentally and spiritually restored when energy runs low.

Key topics

• Kelley shares a health update: his cancer is in remission, he is continuing immunotherapy every eight weeks, and he is getting his port removed.
• His wife is still in treatment, with chemotherapy ongoing and radiation coming next after a short break.
• Rick opens up about feeling like he has "a wire broke" and not feeling like his usual self.
• They explore whether that flatness is physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, or relational fatigue.
• Kelley explains how time outdoors, hunting, and being in the woods helps him reset and regain energy.
• The conversation moves into Sabbath, rest, and the idea that rest is more than just stopping physical work.
• Kelley argues that rest comes from relationship with Jesus, not just from a calendar day.
• They discuss how people overcomplicate life, obsess over fixing what may need to be worked through instead.
• A story about reconnecting with an old teammate after 38 years becomes a reminder that God places people in our lives for a reason.
• The episode closes on friendship, being "for" one another, and trusting that a broken season does not mean a broken life.

You Can find Rick Hanson on Instagram @rickhanson24 and dontdierusty Facebook Rick Hanson and Don't Die Rusty

For the Love of the Parks, Southwest Region with Nicole Anderson

Rick talks with Nicole Anderson about Utah landscapes, national parks, and why paying attention to small details in nature matters as much as chasing the big views. Nicole shares how her love of the outdoors, teaching, and writing led to her book For the Love of the Parks, Southwest Region, which blends park overviews, personal stories, kid-friendly science, and passport stamps.In this episode, they also discuss Great Salt Lake, winter Yellowstone travel, the value of public lands, and why protecting places starts with learning to love them first. Rick and Nicole bring a practical, personal perspective to travel, family adventures, and staying curious at every age.

Key topics

• Rick opens by explaining how he found Nicole through social media and noticed their shared love of nature, Utah, and public lands.
• Nicole introduces herself as a professor, author, adventurer, and freelance writer who grew up hunting, camping, and fishing in Red Rock country, Yellowstone, and the Tetons.
• They compare Utah's different landscapes, from the Wasatch Front and Snowbird to southern Utah's red rock country and places like Cedar Breaks and Bryce Canyon.
• Nicole talks about the beauty of the desert and how it offers peace, solitude, and surprising life in places people often overlook.
• The conversation turns to noticing small things in nature, like wildflowers, hummingbirds, rocks, insects, and what lives under them.
• Nicole shares her Utah master naturalist experience, including wading in streams, studying wetlands, and catching crawdads.
• Rick and Nicole discuss how much outdoor beauty people miss when they rush from viewpoint to viewpoint instead of slowing down.
• Nicole explains the idea behind For the Love of the Parks, Southwest Region: each park gets an overview, a personal story, kid science facts, critters to find, and stamp pages.
• They talk about visiting parks in the off-season, including winter Yellowstone and Lassen, and how snow changes access and the whole experience.
• Nicole reflects on why she writes about parks and Great Salt Lake: people only protect what they love, and they only love what they know.
• The discussion closes with travel philosophy, empty nesting, the value of authenticity on social media, and a reminder to use the gifts you've been given.

You can find Nicole Anderson on Instagram @thenicoletycer

You can also find Nicole on her website thenicoletycer.com and order her newest book For The Love Of The Parks Southwest Region

You Can find Rick Hanson on Instagram @rickhanson24 and dontdierusty

and Facebook Rick Hanson and Don't Die Rusty

Show Notes: Rick Hanson & Emily Hawgood Conversation In this conversation, Rick Hanson and Emily Hawgood reflect on Western States Endurance Race, the meaning of endurance racing, and the deeper relationships that make the effort worthwhile. What starts as a race recap quickly becomes a heartfelt discussion about community, gratitude, and how sport can reveal character. Key Topics

• Emily's adventures in South Dakota with her Mom and Dad and time with Rick and Cindy
• Western States race conditions and how the day unfolded
• The role of pacers, crew, and community support
• Why Emily loves running: freedom, adventure, and routine
• The emotional impact of cheering, encouragement, and belonging
• South Dakota impressions, travel, and shared experiences
• Life philosophy: "walking each other home"
• The importance of authenticity, joy, and finishing what you start

Highlights

• Emily explains that running gives her both structure and freedom.
• Rick shares how meaningful it was to see Emily's family and crew dynamic up close.
• They talk about how race-day conditions changed the strategy and made the event even more challenging.
• Emily emphasizes that the real value of racing is in the journey, not just placement.
• Rick reflects on how widely Emily's kindness and presence affect others.
• The conversation closes with a powerful reminder that small acts of respect and encouragement can ripple far beyond the moment.

Memorable Ideas

• "Routine that brings freedom."
• "We're here to walk each other home."
• "It's not about the destination, it's about the journey."
• "The real point is if you have the right community, you're never going to lose."

Why This Conversation Matters This episode works because it blends vulnerability with high-performance storytelling. The race details give it structure, but the emotional core is what makes it memorable: mutual respect, shared adventure, and a clear sense that endurance sport is really about connection. Best For

• Endurance and running audiences
• Motivational and inspirational listeners
• Fans of Western States and ultrarunning
• Listeners who enjoy relationship-driven, reflective conversations

Closing Takeaway Emily Hawgood's story shows that strength isn't only about finishing fast — it's about showing up with kindness, resilience, and the willingness to lift others along the way. You can find Emily Hawgood on Instagram @emilyhawgood Facebook Emily Hawgood You can find Rick Hanson On Instagram @rickhanson24 @dontdierusty On Facebook Rick Hanson Dont Die Rusty

Overcoming adversity and finding faith: Devin Fish's Resilience Story Join host Rick Hanson in this powerful conversation as Devin Fish shares his inspiring journey through hardship, addiction, military service, loss, and ultimately, finding faith and purpose. Discover how resilience and hope can transform a life rooted in suffering into one of strength and purpose.Main Topics:

• Devin's childhood struggles growing up in poverty and frequent moves
• The pivotal moments with his father's arrest and his mother's health crisis
• His military journey: multiple basic trainings, deployments, and promotions
• The dark struggles with depression, self-hatred, and being blackmailed online
• The role of faith and hope in overcoming trauma and adversity
• Lessons on mental health, resilience, and purpose

In this episode:

• Devin recounts growing up in Rockford, Illinois, and intense childhood instability
• The shocking story of his father's arrest and his mother's health crisis
• How joining the military became a turning point amidst chaos
• His battles with depression, suicidal thoughts, and online scams
• The importance of faith and how it helped him heal
• His motivation to help others through his book, Answering the Hard Questions
• Future plans: a follow-up book titled Answering the Call about faith and growth
• Practical insights on mental health, resilience, and turning pain into purpose
• Answering the Hard Questions: Let It Be the End of the Chapter, Not the End of the Book (self-published)
• Devin Fish - YouTube Channel
• Devin Fish - Facebook Profile
• You Can Also Reach Rick Hanson at:
• [email protected]
• Instagram: @dontdierusty
• @rickhanson24
• Facebook @Don't Die Rusty
• @ Rick Hanson

Life Lesson's and Resilience: Cancer and Kelley Lovelace

In this heartfelt interview, Host Rick Hanson sits down with Kelly Lovelace to discuss Kelley and his wifes journeys through cancer, faith, and life. This conversation emphasizes the importance of community, purpose, and being present in times of hardship. This episode offers insight and encouragement for anyone navigating similar challenges.

Key Topics

• Kelly shares his diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's B cell lymphoma and his wife's breast cancer diagnosis, detailing treatment regimens and emotional impacts.
• The significance of maintaining faith and trusting in God's plan amidst suffering.
• The vital role of community, family, and friends in providing support during health crises.
• Reflections on purpose, significance, and leaving a positive impact on others.
• Practical ways of showing presence—calls, texts, gestures—and their importance in support systems.
• Recognizing that suffering and hardship can be refining, leading to growth and deeper understanding.
• The difference between purpose centered on success versus character, using examples of historical leaders.
• The power of faith-based encouragements, scriptures, and divine timing.
• The importance of being a '3 a.m. friend' — available and present in others' darkest moments.
• The value of time, relationships, and prioritizing what truly matters.
• Managing overwhelm by seeking help and trusting others.
• The analogy of life's challenges as tangled bramble patches, needing guidance and perseverance.

Kelly Lovelace is on:

Facebook @ Kellley Lovelace

Instagram @kelleylovelace_81

You Can Reach Rick Hanson:

[email protected]

Instagram: @rickhanson24

@dontdierusty

Facebook @Rick Hanson

@ Don't Die Rusty

Host Rick Hanson reflects on life's gifts, the importance of relationships, and pursuing passions during a personal hiatus. He shares insights on recognizing gifts, balancing work and family, and the value of community and purpose.

Key Topics

• The meaning of gifts and purpose
• The importance of relationships and community
• Balancing work, family, and passions
• Recognizing and appreciating life's gifts
• Personal growth and self-awareness

Takeaways

• Everyone has unique gifts that can be a source of purpose.
• Relationships and community are some of the most valuable gifts in life.
• Balancing work and family is crucial for fulfillment.
• Recognizing and appreciating life's gifts often comes with age and reflection.
• Sharing your story can be a gift to others.

You can reach Rick Hanson at

email: [email protected]

Instagram: @rickhanson24

@dontdierusty

Facebook @Rick Hanson

@Don't Die Rusty

Chasing Dream's with Lindsey Gillette. In this engaging conversation host Rick Hanson and Lindsay Gillette shares her journey from working in corporate America to building a successful local business in Spearfish, South Dakota. She discusses the importance of loyalty, chasing dreams, community, and personal growth, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs and individuals seeking fulfillment.

key topics

• Lindsay Gillette's entrepreneurial journey
• The importance of loyalty and community
• Chasing dreams and personal growt

Go check out the Junk Drawer @thejunkdraweronline.com

also on Instagram @thejunkdrawerdesign

on Facebook The Junk Drawer

Embracing Service and Self-Discovery with Katie Huffner

In this inspiring episode, Don't Die Rusty Host Rick Hanson chats with Katie Huffner about her journey from education to veterinary medicine, her deep passion for service, and her involvement with Shepherds Men—a nonprofit dedicated to supporting wounded veterans through innovative programs. Discover how embracing challenges and community can lead to personal transformation and making a meaningful difference.

Key Topics

• Katie's transition from kindergarten teacher to aspiring veterinarian and lifelong learner
• The origins and mission of Shepherds Men in supporting military veterans
• How wild adventures and outdoor activities foster healing and community bonds
• Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and the importance of early evaluation
• The SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center: holistic care for TBI and PTSD
• Breaks down the myths surrounding military service, injury, and seeking help
• The ripple effect of personal recovery on families and communities
• Ways to get involved, raise funds, and support veterans' mental health
• Personal stories of veterans like Carlos and the significance of family in healing
• Katie's passion for nature, adventure, and living with purpose
• Resources & Links
  • Shepherds Men
  • SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center
  • NICO Center of Excellence
  • Home Base Program Maryland
  • Connect with Rick Hanson
  • [email protected]
  • Instagram: @rickhanson24 @dontdierusty
  • Facebook: Rick Hanson Don't Die Rusty
  *Join the movement—support veterans, embrace challenges, and pursue your purpose. Let's be the ripple effect in our communities.

Understanding Brain Injuries with Janet Grove — In this episode of the Don't Die Rusty Podcast, host Rick Hanson delves into the intricacies of brain injuries, their detection, recovery, and prevention, featuring insights from Janet Grove of Progressive Therapy Associates. Whether you're curious about mild traumatic brain injuries like concussions or want practical tips on protecting your brain, this conversation offers valuable knowledge rooted in clinical experience.

Here are some of the topics covered:

• The prevalence and common causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), with statistics from the Brain Injury Association of America.
• How to recognize brain injuries that aren't visually obvious, including subtle symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and personality changes.
• The differences in recovery and impact of brain injuries between men and women, influenced by hormonal and anatomical factors.
• The role of neuroplasticity in recovering function even years after injury.
• The critical importance of rest, sleep, and mental health management during recovery.
• Strategies for family members to support loved ones with brain injuries through effective communication and understanding.
• The significance of wearing helmets and seat belts as preventive measures against brain injury.
• How unmanaged blood pressure is a leading risk factor for strokes, often resulting in silent or cryptogenic strokes.
• The unique developmental timeline of the human brain and its implications for youth and brain injury recovery.
• Practical advice on when to seek medical evaluation after head trauma and the importance of early intervention.
• The impact of lifestyle choices, stress, and neuro fatigue on brain health and recovery.

Resources & Links:

• Progressive Therapy Associates
• Brain Injury Association of America
• Neuroplasticity Explained
• ACLS Stroke Risk Factors

You Can Reach Janet Grove at : www.progressivetherapyassociates.com

www.proADHDcoaching.com

You can also follow them on Facebook Progressive Therapy Associates

Instagram @progressivetherapyassociates and

You can keep up with Don't Die Rusty and Rick Hanson on Facebook and Instagram

rickhanson24 on Instagram

Rick Hanson on Facebook

or you can email Rick at : [email protected]