The Troubled Monk Podcast

Welcome to The Troubled Monk: The Creative Confessional
I’m Ryan Donnelly — Author, Seeker, and Agent of Change — documenting my real writing journey in progress.
This podcast is part journal and part conversation.
Here, you’ll hear the wins, the losses, and the lessons that come with pursuing a writing career while trying to create personal change in a meaningful way.
We’ll dive into the heart of storytelling and the inspiration found in words, music, film, and even video games.
Because art isn’t just what we create — it’s how we discover who we are along the way.
Episodes
Episodes



Friday May 16, 2025
Episode 25 | Grab Your Pen & Get Ready For War
Friday May 16, 2025
Friday May 16, 2025
In this thought-provoking episode of the Troubled Monk podcast, we dive deep into the deceptive world of influencers and internet gurus. We explore the dangers of blindly following those with seemingly perfect lives and challenge the authenticity of their promises. As social media permeates our lives, we risk losing our genuine voices, conforming to a hive mind driven by manipulated success and artificial validation.
The episode emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself amid the digital chaos by harnessing the power of writing. A pen and intention become your weapons in a spiritual war, preserving your individuality in a world eager to mold your thoughts and beliefs. Join us as we uncover the path to authentic success and reclaim our unique voices in the face of misinformation and societal pressures.



Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Episode 24 | No One Is Coming To Save You
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
In this episode of the Troubled Monk podcast, we delve into the reality that no one is coming to save you and the dangers of living life as an avoidant. Learn how avoidance habits can hinder personal growth and shake your confidence and self-belief. Discover the transformative potential of journaling and shadow work as tools for confronting avoidance tendencies and embracing personal healing. Through candid reflections and practical advice, this episode encourages listeners to face challenges head-on and reclaim their power to change and grow.



Saturday Feb 15, 2025
Episode 23 | Unlocking the Power of Self-Care: Embrace the Art of 'Dating' Yourself
Saturday Feb 15, 2025
Saturday Feb 15, 2025
In this episode of the Troubled Monk podcast, we explore essential themes of self-care, self-empowerment, and the transformative practice of taking oneself on a 'date.' It's a compassionate reminder for those who freely give love to others to acknowledge their worth and embrace the unique aspects of their existence. By prioritizing self-care through practices like journaling and personal time, listeners are encouraged to rejuvenate their spirits, ensure their well-being, and ultimately become better for themselves and those they love.



Monday Feb 10, 2025
Episode 22 | Our relationship to Relationships
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
In this episode of the Troubled Monk podcast, we dive into the intricate web of relationships that shape our daily lives. Beyond just the connection we share with our partners, this discussion broadens the definition of relationships to include every consistent aspect of our lives.
Reflecting on quotes like Denzel Washington's about technology, we explore how our interactions with jobs, health, faith, technology, and even hobbies, form the backbone of our daily connections. Are we utilizing our devices, or have they begun to use us?
By examining time and priorities, we shed light on how relationships can nourish or drain us, revealing the power they hold in altering our life paths. From career choices to personal time investments, every connection demands attention and nurturing to flourish.
Join us as we explore the counsel to critically choose relationships, focus on personal growth, and balance between letting go and opening up to new possibilities. Are you ready to evaluate and enhance the relationships that define your life?



Friday Feb 07, 2025
Episode 21 | Embrace Change: How to Transform Your Life for the Better
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Welcome to the Troubled Monk podcast, Episode 21!
Join us as we dive deep into the transformative power of change and how our perception of it shapes our lives. We'll explore why many of us resist change, viewing it as a negative force, and how shifting that perspective can open up incredible opportunities for growth and improvement.
Through candid reflections, the episode delves into personal experiences with change, illustrating how adopting a mindset that change happens 'for' us, not 'to' us, can lead to healthier relationships, more fulfilling careers, and an enriched life. Learn how to break free from comfort in misery and embrace change to discover valuable life lessons and gifts.
If you're ready to make positive changes in your life, to grow and thrive, then this episode is your guide to understanding the necessary shifts to live your best life. Remember, life's about evolving. Don't have a great day? Make it a great day.



Monday Feb 03, 2025
Episode 20 | Unlocking the Power of Gratitude in Turbulent Times
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Welcome to Episode 20 of the Troubled Monk podcast, where we delve into the vital yet challenging topic of gratitude. In a world seemingly fraught with difficulties, cultivating gratitude may feel like an uphill battle. However, it is precisely this emotional tool that empowers us to navigate life's challenges with resilience and hope.The episode discusses the societal pressures keeping us in a cycle of fear and dissatisfaction, and encourages listeners to break free by acknowledging the abundance in their lives, no matter how small. Through the practice of gratitude journaling, we explore how taking time to reflect can transform our perspective, enhancing our emotional and spiritual well-being.Join us as we share practical steps to harness gratitude's potential, encouraging authentic expressions of thanks in a world flooded with negativity. Let's explore how to shine a light on the positive aspects of life, fostering a mindset that uplifts rather than burdens.



Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Episode 19 | The Real Me
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Wednesday Oct 30, 2024
Welcome to episode 19 of the Troubled Monk podcast, where Ryan Donnelly opens up about a week filled with personal loss and reflection. In this heartfelt episode, Ryan delves into the struggles of seeking validation in a digital age and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst life's challenges.Ryan shares his thoughts on the impact of social media, the pressure of followers, and the contrasting warmth of past analog interactions. He explores the journey of self-discovery, the significance of authenticity, and the desire to connect with others through genuine conversations about life, interests, and passions.Join Ryan as he navigates the complexities of living authentically, balancing personal passions, and embracing the unpredictable journey of life. Whether you're a fellow writer, a gamer, or simply someone seeking honest dialogue, this episode invites you to be part of an unfiltered conversation. Tune in and take a step toward embracing your own authenticity in this ever-evolving digital world.



Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Episode 18 | Unmasking Fear: The Power of Journaling
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
In Episode 18 of the Troubled Monk podcast, we explore the intricate relationship between fear and journaling. Our host reflects on childhood fears of impending earthquakes and examines how societal and external influences shape our fears today.
Discover the impact of carrying fears that aren't truly ours and learn how journaling can serve as a powerful tool to discern genuine fears from those imposed by others. By slowing down and engaging in the personal act of journaling, we can navigate the overwhelming influx of information and opinions in our modern world.
Join us as we delve into the benefits of journaling as a self-care ritual, helping to clear mental clutter and reconnect with our authentic selves. Start your journaling journey today, and share your experiences by signing up for our newsletter at thetroubledmonk.com. Remember, don't just have a great day—make it one!

Ryan Donnelly (b. 1979, Duncan, British Columbia, Canada) is an author and agent of change who has spent a lifetime creating emotionally driven work. Approaching writing as both expression and therapy, Ryan channels his life experiences into writing that explore the depths of human emotion.
An INFJ and storyteller at heart, his work often tackles difficult emotional topics, yet always carries moments of inspiration, gratitude, love, faith, and hope. Above all, Ryan uses writing as a bridge — connecting his own experiences to the universal desire to understand and engage with the world around us.
“Writing is where I find myself. It is the space where I can channel my emotions into something tangible, empowering, and transformative. Writing is, in a word, hope. I can only hope that my work may resonate with the reader at the time they need it most.”
Readers of his raw poetry and prose collection Conversations with Ghosts will be heartened to know that Ryan’s heart has found better days. This journey of hope and renewal continues in his latest book, The Ember: Poetry and Prose, inspired by that spark of hope that rests deep inside.
Ryan Donnelly — The Troubled Monk
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If you’d like to support my work and help me keep creating, please visit my Patreon: www.patreon.com/thetroubledmonk.
Thank you for taking the time to check out my profile. I’m excited to share this journey with you.
With gratitude,
Ryan Donnelly (The Troubled Monk)








