In this episode of Simple Healthy Life, we reflect on what it really takes to bring an idea to life—from the first spark of inspiration to the unexpected skills learned along the way. MJ shares the untold story behind building R Labs, a wellness space rooted in intentional recovery, community, and cold water resilience.

We explore the role of intuition (including somatic marker theory), discomfort tolerance, novelty search, and why goals often don’t unfold the way we expect. Whether you're starting a business, shifting careers, or craving personal growth, this episode offers timeless takeaways and honest insights for anyone walking the fog-covered bridge of meaningful change.

We all know we should take better care of ourselves. So why don’t we?

In this episode of Simple Healthy Life, Ryan and MJ dive deep into the tension between knowing and doing—unpacking why it’s so hard to be proactive about our health, habits, and happiness in a world wired for distraction.

We explore:

• Why distraction is the new default mode

• The invisible skill you’re building every time you scroll

• The neuroscience of energy, mitochondria, and burnout

• How avoidance becomes identity—and how to break that cycle

• The small proactive acts that can rebuild your health and confidence

Whether you're overwhelmed, stuck in reactive mode, or just wondering how to get back on track, this episode offers perspective, clarity, and permission to start small.

Some choices are too complex for logic alone. In this episode, we explore somatic marker theory—a scientific explanation for the gut feelings that guide your biggest life decisions. From job changes to relationships to moments of massive transformation, your emotions may be telling you more than your rational mind ever could. Learn why your “inner knowing” is real, how it ties to your subconscious pattern recognition, and why trusting yourself might be the smartest decision you ever make.