Today at the University of Alberta I asked students how they navigate life socially. Lately there has been a rise on social anxiety. I am asking people about their experience and how to deal with it.

I hope this adds value to your life.

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Ryan MacDougall is the co-founder of Spare Bedroom Studios and the versatile on-camera host behind The Conversationalist and Solo Spotlight. Whether he is moderating high-energy roundtable debates on culture and sports or conducting intimate one-on-one interviews centered on life’s major turning points, Ryan brings a unique perspective shaped by his full-time work in Alberta’s law enforcement sector and his ongoing studies in psychology. His "no-BS" yet deeply human approach is dedicated to providing a platform for creators, entrepreneurs, and first responders alike, ensuring that stories which often go unheard.

In the realm of podcasting, Ryan navigates the delicate balance between maintaining credibility and staying authentic by focusing on the specific intention of every session. He views preparation as the essential foundation that allows him to determine when to lead a conversation and when to "throw layups" to his guests, giving them the space to own their narrative. This adaptability is fueled by his background in law enforcement, which allows him to feel comfortable with strangers and create a "safe space" where guests feel secure enough to open up. Ultimately, he gauges his success by knowing exactly where he is needed in a dialogue to provide maximum value for both the viewers and the guests.

The study of psychology serves as a powerful toolkit for Ryan, particularly through the application of active listening and the reading of non-verbal cues. By monitoring body language, eye contact, and physical positioning, he can gauge a guest’s comfort level and adjust the pace of the interview accordingly to build genuine rapport. This academic pursuit has fostered a deeper sense of empathy within him, especially when discussing mental health narratives with athletes and first responders. He intentionally uses verbal affirmations, nodding, and paraphrasing to ensure that even the most difficult stories are met with the validation they require to be told fully.

At the heart of every project is the art of telling stories, a process Ryan refines through meticulous research and pre-interview briefings to ensure he and his guests are on the same page regarding their core "turning points." He balances his direct, "no-BS" style with an ethical commitment to vulnerability by mirroring the guest's pace and allowing for "golden moments" of silence after major life revelations. While he values grounding conversations in factual reality and personal experience, he isn't afraid to explore abstract ideas to deepen the opening into a guest’s thought process, provided the conversation remains anchored in the human experience.

Through his work at Spare Bedroom Studios, Ryan MacDougall demonstrates that the most compelling conversations happen at the intersection of rigorous preparation and raw human connection. By blending the observational skills of a law enforcement professional with the empathetic insights of a psychology student, he has mastered the ability to guide guests through their most sensitive turning points with both grace and honesty. His journey reflects a commitment to elevating the voices of his community, proving that when you provide the right platform and the right questions, every story has the potential to leave a lasting impact.

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Today I asked people in Whyte Ave if they are happy? What makes them happy?

Such remarkable answers from so many beautiful people. There is so much beauty in this life.

I am so thankful to be alive and be in Edmonton.

Much love!

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