Today’s guest is our dear friend Rich Holton, who self-describes first and foremost as a listener. As an actor, he harnesses that ability of listening to the world around him—staying close to what life brings to the surface. Based in Chicago, Rich has appeared on Chicago PD and renowned theatres like Steppenwolf, Goodman, and Second City.

Rich was our personal trainer for two years while we were living in Chicago, so we got to experience his resilience and dedication to his craft up close. That inner fire and drive he carries is one of the many reasons why we wanted to have him on the podcast. Throughout this conversation we discuss the value of listening, knowing your why, viewing the world as a benevolent place, the message underneath the fear, and working out as a way of choosing bravery when you feel small.

There’s a special kind of energy that comes from staying open to believing that the universe is benevolent even as you’re figuring yourself out, and Rich embodies that. We really loved this conversation and we’re stoked to share it with you.