The Ryan Leckey Show

The Ryan Leckey Show

By Ryan LeckeySociety & Culture
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The Ryan Leckey Show episodes

  • From Addiction to Advocacy: Pat McDonough’s Story | The Ryan Leckey Show | S 2 Ep. 5

    HEY FAM! Welcome back to The Ryan Leckey Show, where we dive deep into the stories that shape us and discover the resilience that defines us. This week, I'm thrilled to have Pat McDonough with us, a social worker and certified advanced addiction & drug counselor whose life story is both a warning and an inspiration.

    Pat kicks things off by sharing what inspired him to pursue social work, revealing the profound personal journey that led him to help others battling addiction.

    As we peel back the layers of his addiction, Pat recounts the descent into drugs and the reality check that sent him to rehab for the first time. It's a candid look at his darker moments, including the health scares that finally pushed him to seek help and the DUI that marked a turning point in his life. He reflects on the daunting path to recovery, emphasizing that overcoming addiction boils down to the choices we're willing to make for our betterment.

    Perhaps the most heart-wrenching part of Pat's story is his admission of taking medication from his mother, who was battling cancer—a moment he describes as the lowest of his life. Yet, it was also a series of small, sobering moments and the realization that he was losing friends that sowed the seeds of his sobriety.

    We also touch on the sober curious movement, the challenges of avoiding alcohol, and the role of exercise in maintaining sobriety. 

    Pat McDonough's journey from the depths of addiction to a life dedicated to helping others is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to change your story. Join us for this incredibly moving episode of The Ryan Leckey Show, and remember, your mess can become your message.

    FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcast!

    If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or facing a crisis, remember, help is available. Here are some valuable resources:

    • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: A direct line for anyone experiencing a crisis or contemplating suicide. Simply dial 988 or visit their website at 988lifeline.org for support.

    • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Provides a wealth of resources for individuals dealing with substance abuse, mental health issues, or both. Explore their site at samhsa.gov for more information and assistance.

    • Alcohol Facts and Statistics | National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): For evidence-based information and statistics on alcohol use and its effects, visit niaaa.nih.gov.

    • Benefits of Alcohol Recovery | Verywell Mind: Discover the numerous benefits of alcohol recovery and find encouragement for taking the first step toward sobriety. Learn more at verywellmind.com.

    • This episode of The Ryan Leckey Show is brought to you by our friends at Fit AF Nutrition, eastern Pennsylvania’s leading meal prep company. Check them out at FitAFNutrition.com and use code “LECKEY” to receive 20% off your first order.

      58 min
    • From Scranton to Stardom: Quinn Hemphill's Journey | The Ryan Leckey Show

      In this must-watch episode of The Ryan Leckey Show, we sit down with the incredible, multi-talented Quinn Hemphill, who takes us on a whirlwind journey from her humble beginnings inspired by the musical 'Wicked' to the bustling sets of Hollywood. Quinn shares her transformative experience at Syracuse, where she earned her BFA.

       
      Her leap to LA is nothing short of a Hollywood script. Quinn recounts the exhilarating early days in Tinseltown, where her talents quickly landed her a role in a Lifetime movie. But the glitter of LA is balanced with the grit of finding the right agent and the grind to identify roles that resonate with her.
       
      As we dive into her story, Quinn opens up about the rigorous transition from the live theater's immediacy to the meticulous craft of film acting. Her role in 'The Mental State' emerges as a career-defining moment. The discussion turns to the buzz around 'Bad Boys 4', where she shares anecdotes of learning from the likes of Eric Dane and others, giving us a glimpse into the camaraderie and insights gained from established actors.
       
      Throughout the conversation, the Scranton native attributes her relentless work ethic to her upbringing, cementing her roots as a critical component of her ascent in the acting world. Quinn Hemphill's story is a testament to the power of passion, the importance of persistence, and the unexpected turns a career in the limelight can take. Join us as we uncover the layers of Quinn's inspiring narrative, right here on The Ryan Leckey Show.
      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcast!
      This episode of The Ryan Leckey Show is brought to you by our friends at Fit AF Nutrition, eastern Pennsylvania’s leading meal prep company. Check them out at FitAFNutrition.com and
      use code “LECKEY” to receive 20% off your first order.

      32 min
    • Shaping Futures: Zubeen Saeed's Impact | The Ryan Leckey Show

      HEY FAM! This week on The Ryan Leckey Show, we dive deep into the stories that shape our community, ignite our passion, and inspire us to make a difference. In this energizing episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Zubeen Saeed, the visionary CEO and President of Building Blocks Learning Center. Zubeen's journey is nothing short of inspiring, and she's here to share the incredible saga of how a simple idea blossomed into a thriving educational network.

      Zubeen takes us on a captivating journey back to the origins of Building Blocks Learning Center, detailing the challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering dedication that led to the expansion of her dream into multiple successful locations. She delves into the innovative programs that are impacting children’s lives through empowerment.
      But it's not all about academics. Zubeen opens up about the current hurdles in the educational sector, including the pressing teacher shortage. She shares her proactive efforts to spark a love for teaching and her commitment to nurturing the next generation of educators.
      Beyond the world of education, Zubeen gets personal, recounting her powerful journey from a young girl facing bullying and the challenges of adapting to a new culture, to a woman navigating the complexities of an arranged marriage, and ultimately, finding her own path after her divorce. Her story is a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of one's true self.
      So, buckle up for an episode that's as enlightening as it is heartwarming, filled with laughter, lessons, and a whole lot of inspiration. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, or just someone who loves a good success story, Zubeen's tale is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of determination and the spirit of community.
      Contact Zubeen by email at: [email protected] FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcast!
      This episode of The Ryan Leckey Show is brought to you by our friends at Fit AF Nutrition, eastern Pennsylvania’s leading meal prep company. Check them out at FitAFNutrition.com and use code “LECKEY” to receive 20% off your first order.

      39 min
    • Entrepreneurship 101: Building Your Own Business / Don Webster | The Ryan Leckey Show

      HEY FAM! Welcome back to The Ryan Leckey Show, where we're all about turning dreams into action! This week, I'm thrilled to have the incredible Don Webster, Executive Director of tecBRIDGE, joining us.

      Don's not just a titan in the entrepreneurial world; he's a true trailblazer with over four decades of leadership and innovation under his belt. From the bustling streets of Wall Street to the heart of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Don's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
      In this episode, we're diving deep into the entrepreneurial spirit. Don shares invaluable insights on navigating the hurdles of startup life, the common pitfalls that catch many bright-eyed entrepreneurs off-guard, and how to bounce back stronger from failures.
      But that's not all - we're also spotlighting the much-anticipated tecBRIDGE Business Plan Competition! It's an incredible opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas and make their mark. Trust me, you don't want to miss Don's insider tips and heartfelt advice on making the most of this golden opportunity.
      So, whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned pro looking for that next spark of inspiration, this episode is for you. Let's light up those ideas and transform challenges into stepping stones for success.
      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcast!
      This episode of The Ryan Leckey Show is brought to you by our friends at Fit AF Nutrition, eastern Pennsylvania’s leading meal prep company. Check them out at FitAFNutrition.com and
      use code “LECKEY” to receive 20% off your first order.

      43 min
    • Inspiring Women: My Mom's Open Heart Surgery Story / Deb Morgan | The Ryan Leckey Show

      Hey Fam! We are back with Season 2 of The Ryan Leckey Show! Take a guess at who my first guest is... it's my mom! Just a few months ago, my mom, Deb Morgan, experienced a life-changing event—a health scare that ultimately saved her life.

      During a routine checkup, my mom learned she had triple valve disease, a condition that required open heart surgery to correct. Now, while facing such a daunting challenge might have left many feeling overwhelmed, my mom's resilience and positivity shone through, inspiring not only me but our entire family and countless others.
      We delve into Deb's journey—how she faced the uncertainty of surgery with unwavering determination, how she prepared mentally and physically, and the incredible strength she found within herself during the recovery process. Her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of early detection and proactive healthcare.
      We also discuss the incredible support system that surrounded her, the role of medical professionals in her care, and the newfound appreciation for life that she's cultivated through this experience. It's a story of resilience, hope, and the power of love.
      So, make sure to tune in to this episode as we celebrate my amazing mother, Deb Morgan, as our first guest of Season 2, and be prepared to be uplifted by her indomitable spirit. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!
      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcast!

      58 min
    • Battling Bias, Building Bridges / Daye Pope | Ep. 35

      Hey everyone! Ryan Leckey here, welcoming you to a new episode of The Ryan Leckey Show. Today, I'm joined by a truly inspirational figure, Daye Pope, a gender justice advocate and a beacon of hope for the LGBTQ community. Daye's story is one of courage and resilience.

      In this episode, Daye shares her journey of transitioning, the reactions from her family and the broader community. We delve deep into her experiences, discussing the challenges and triumphs that have marked her path as a transgender woman. Daye's insights are not only personal but also reflect the broader societal shifts and struggles within the LGBTQ community.

      We tackle some of the most pressing issues facing LGBTQ youth today, including the distressing wave of attacks on their rights and identities. From book censorship to bans on participation in sports and healthcare access, the conversation highlights the urgency of these matters. Daye, with her extensive experience as Director of Civic Engagement at TAKE and cofounder of the Pennsylvania Coalition for Trans Youth, offers a unique perspective on these battles.

      Daye helps us navigate and debunk the harmful narratives and misinformation about LGBTQ youth. We confront head-on the damaging narratives and the misconceptions surrounding trans youth healthcare. 

      Join us in this enlightening conversation with Daye Pope, as we explore the realities, challenges, and the hope that continues to drive the fight for equality and justice. 

      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcasts!

      1 hr 2 min
    • Funding College: One Bite at a Time / Sarah Berry | Ep. 34

      HEY FAM! 

      Get ready for a flavor-packed episode of The Ryan Leckey Show that’s as tasty as it is heartwarming! Join me as I chat with the sensational Sarah Berry, a mukbang maestro who’s making waves across social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. In this episode, we'll unwrap Sarah's journey from relying on TikTok for income during her college days to facing her own eating disorder head-on. She shares how watching other mukbangers encouraged her to eat and, in turn, how she now creates content to inspire those facing similar challenges.

      We’ll get the inside scoop on her ultimate Chipotle order and munch into the psychology behind the most view-worthy eats on social media. Expect laughs, a few 'crunch' moments, and candid conversations that shed a light on the mukbang culture while addressing important issues with care.

      To top it all off, Sarah and I will dive into our very own mukbang feast right in the studio - you won’t want to miss this! So, grab your napkins, prepare your palate, and let’s dig into a story of resilience, recovery, and really good food. Bon Appétit!

      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcasts!

      37 min
    • Service Dog Superheroes / Mel and Jeff | Ep. 33

      In this episode of The Ryan Leckey Show, we delve into the lives of two remarkable veterans, Mel and Jeff, who have both faced unimaginable challenges during and after their service. Joined by the compassionate forces behind Stand With Me, a service dedicated to training service dogs for veterans, this conversation sheds light on the healing power of four-legged friends.

      Meet Mel, a valiant former Navy service member, who bravely opens up about the internal war that followed her during the years after her service. Discover how Goose, her therapy dog, has offered her a beacon of hope and an unspoken understanding that has been pivotal in her journey towards recovery.

      Hear Jeff’s heart-wrenching story, a veteran of the Iraq conflict, as he recounts the loss of his comrades and the silent battles he faced upon returning home. Through the darkness, Jeff’s path crossed with Abby, a service dog who became his lifeline, saving him from the brink and guiding him back to a place of peace and purpose.

      Both stories not only highlight the challenges veterans face but also illuminate the incredible work of Stand With Me (www.standwithmeorg.com), an organization committed to turning the tide on these struggles through the support of service dogs.

      Join us for an episode filled with raw emotion, unspoken heroism, and the extraordinary impact of service dogs like Goose and Abby. This is more than a story of survival; it’s a testament to the unyielding spirit of those who have served and the transformative companionship of their canine partners.

      FAM! Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and anywhere else you listen to your favorite podcasts!

      52 min
    • Inside Our Love Story / Matt Madden | Ep. 32

      HEY FAM! Ready for an episode with a twist? This week, we're putting the spotlight on someone extra special to me, none other than my partner of 9 years, Matt Madden! 

      Dive deep into our shared journey as we put our usual format on hold and answer the burning questions you've thrown at us via Instagram and Facebook. From the seemingly eternal debate of "Who takes longer to get ready?" (Hint: there's a distractible one among us) to the heartwarming tales of our first meeting, we're opening up like never before.

      Expect laughs, perhaps a few playful jabs, and plenty of love as we let you in on our plans for the future and share a candid peek inside our relationship. Whether you've been curious about the man who's stood by my side for nearly a decade or just want a hearty dose of laughter, this episode's got it all.

      Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. And, as always, if you enjoy our show, consider subscribing and joining our ever-growing community!

      57 min
    • Unpacking Travel Secrets / Eric Feerrar | Ep. 31

      HEY FAM! Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Ryan Leckey Show! This week, we dive deep into the fascinating world of travel with none other than AAA North Penn’s VP of Travel, Eric Feerrar. If you've ever wondered about those little-known travel tips that can make all the difference, or when's the ideal time to exchange currency and refresh that passport, then you're in for a treat.

      Ever wanted the lowdown on the hottest travel destinations today? Eric not only shares the inside scoop on where you should be packing your bags for next but also divulges his personal favorite places. Dive into an enriching conversation that covers the vast shifts in travel before and after COVID-19 and hear first-hand about the most rewarding moments that come with leading the travel division of a renowned organization like AAA.

      From the nitty-gritty of travel details to heartwarming stories from Eric’s own experiences, this episode promises to be a globe-trotting journey of insights and anecdotes. So, buckle up, folks!

      Don't forget you can listen to every episode of The Ryan Leckey Show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. And, as always, if you enjoy our show, consider subscribing and joining our ever-growing community!

      56 min

    About The Ryan Leckey Show

    From the publisher's feed

    Welcome to The Ryan Leckey Show, the podcast that brings you up close and personal with some of the most fascinating and inspiring people around. Hosted by Emmy award-winning content creator and…