This is Episode Twenty-Nine with Ryan Darilek
(Ryan’s Dad Stats: Seven sons - ages 7, 8, 17, 20, 20, 28 & 32)
Welcome to an intense and moving episode of "WHOA DAD! GO DAD!" with my friend Ryan Darilek. Amongst several career endeavors, Ryan is the Chairman of EmBrave, an organization out of Colorado Springs that facilitates transformational improvement in the lives of people faced with homelessness, mental health difficulties, and justice-related issues. The organization is focused on bringing light to those in their darkest hour, and in a poetic set of events, Ryan was once a client of the organization.
The story Ryan shares is nothing short of surreal, and you’ll see how it had a massive impact on his perspective of life, and the ripple effect across hundreds if not thousands of lives.
On November 27, 2015, Ryan and his then-girlfriend Karen, experienced a harrowing ordeal at a Planned Parenthood clinic, a pivotal day that became a key turning point in in their lives, and a massive transformation for Ryan as a father, a partner, and a man.
They arrived at the clinic for a scheduled abortion, unaware that it would coincide with a violent attack. As you’ll hear, at one point, Ryan stepped out to the parking lot after getting a coffee at the nearby King Soopers, and encountered the shooter face to face. The shooter opened fire, targeting him directly and shooting at him seven times. Miraculously, Ryan was unharmed despite the close range and immediate danger.
Later on, inside the clinic, Karen was among those held hostage as the situation escalated into a full-blown standoff. The attack led to a tense and prolonged crisis, lasting about five hours, during which the couple tried desperately to maintain contact through texts and calls, piecing together fragmented updates about each other's safety. Their communication was fraught with uncertainty and fear, as they could not fully know or understand the ongoing events around them.
This critical incident not only marked a traumatic climax in their lives but also ignited Ryan's profound transformation and reaffirmation of his priorities and values.
Here are five key takeaways from Ryan powerful story and our discussion:
1. Resilience Through Personal Challenges: Ryan’s journey illustrates profound resilience, highlighting his ability to overcome severe personal crises, including alcoholism and legal troubles, and emerge with a renewed focus on contributing positively to society and his family.
2. The Importance of Personal Accountability: Ryan emphasizes taking responsibility for one's actions as a crucial step towards recovery and personal growth. His story is a testament to the transformative power of owning one’s past and making intentional efforts to change.
3. The Role of Support Systems: Throughout his narrative, the significance of support systems, whether through family, community organizations, or professional networks, is evident. Ryan’s turnaround was significantly aided by these supports, underscoring their value in successful rehabilitation.
4. Vulnerability and Open Communication: Ryan’s experiences underline the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of open communication. Sharing his struggles and triumphs has not only helped him heal but also inspired others to confront their challenges and seek help.
5. Impact of Fatherhood on Personal Growth: Ryan discusses how fatherhood has been a driving force for betterment in his life. His role as a father to seven boys has shaped his actions and motivations, focusing him on legacy, the values he imparts, and the example he sets.
These insights from the podcast provide valuable lessons for fathers and all listeners, emphasizing growth, responsibility, and the profound impact of our actions on ourselves and others, and I hope you enjoy!
Connect with Ryan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryandarilek/
Leadership Coach and Brand New Dad
