Grandma Joy and Me: How National Parks and Nature Helped Reshape Relationships, in Family and Toward Ourselves

In a world where adventure and healing seem reserved for the young, Brad Ryan's story defies expectations. His journey with his grandmother, Grandma Joy, who at 85 had never seen a mountain or ocean, took them through all 63 U.S. national parks over eight years. Their travels not only reshaped their relationship but also challenged societal views on aging and mental health. In this episode, we explore the remarkable insights from Brad's book, Grandma Joy and Me: A Journey of Healing, One National Park at a Time, and uncover the profound lessons that nature can teach us about life, family, and resilience.

Guest Information

• Guest Name: Brad Ryan
• Bio: Brad Ryan is a veterinarian, wildlife conservationist, social media influencer, and writer from southeastern Ohio. He earned his BA from Miami University in Ohio, an MSc in mammalian biology from the University of Pretoria in South Africa, and a DVM/MPH combined degree from The Ohio State University, specializing in wildlife medicine and veterinary public health. For Brad, storytelling is a vehicle for healing—rooted in empathy, inspired by nature, and driven by a desire to help others feel seen and connected. As a keynote speaker, he champions LGBTQ+ inclusion in the outdoors, eliminating stigma around mental health, and the protection of wildlife and public lands.

• Links:

Website: doctorbradyan.com

Instagram: @grandmajoysroadtrip

Facebook: Grandma Joy's Road Trip

Key Topics:

• The journey of visiting all 63 US national parks with Grandma Joy
• The role of nature in healing mental health and trauma
• The importance of vulnerability and authenticity in relationships
• The concept of awe and wonder as a connection to something larger
• The impact of shared experiences across generations
• The significance of fire as a symbol of life and transformation
• The influence of nature on self-perception and aging
• The importance of disconnection from technology to reconnect with nature and self

Resources:

• The Global Protagonists
• Bookshop.org
• Curio Room

Host & Show Info

• Host Name: William Henry, LCSW
• About the Host: William Henry is a licensed clinical social worker and certified nature informed therapist. After graduating from New York University, he spent seven dedicated years in a day treatment center and school where he worked closely with students and families facing significant mental health challenges. Certified in Nature Informed Therapy in 2022, he believes that rebuilding our connection with nature can provide some much needed relief from the struggles that many of us are facing. Will spends his free time fly fishing, camping and hiking. Find more resources and information through his practice, Riverstone Mental Health Collective, based in Mount Kisco, NY.
• Website: riverstonementalhealth.com

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• Follow us on social media:
• Instagram: @riverstonementalhealth
• Facebook: Riverstone Mental Health
• LinkedIn: William Henry, LCSW
• YouTube: @TheNatureofMentalHealth

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⚠️ Important Disclaimer:

The Nature of Mental Health is not therapy or a replacement for therapy. The information presented here is provided for psychoeducational purposes. As always, when you have questions about your own well-being, please consult your mental health and/or medical care professional. If you’re in crisis, thinking about harming yourself, or don’t feel safe, call 911, or contact your local emergency number or crisis hotline immediately.