Why Ryan Hennessey Left Teaching to Build a Life of Purpose and Freedom

What if burnout wasn't the end—but the beginning of your most authentic life? After ten years in the classroom, Ryan Hennessey realized he was running on fumes. A powerful moment at a heart-led business retreat cracked something open in him and gave him the clarity he’d been chasing. He didn’t just walk away from teaching—he walked toward a life built on freedom, integrity, and impact.The exact moment Ryan knew it was time to leave the classroomHow he navigated grief, guilt, and identity loss in choosing himselfWhat abundance looks like when you finally stop people-pleasing and start living aligned This one’s for anyone standing at the edge of change, wondering if they’re allowed to want more. Ryan Hennessey is a former beloved science teacher who walked away from the classroom after a decade to pursue a life aligned with purpose, freedom, and impact. After a powerful realization at a heart-led business retreat, Ryan made the courageous decision to leave a career that once defined him to create a life that truly fulfilled him. Now, he hosts adventure-based wellness retreats, coaches others through major life transitions, and helps people reconnect with what sets their soul on fire. His story is one of integrity, reinvention, and what it really means to take back your power. Connect with Ryan: Instagram: @IamRyanHennessey Substack: substack.com/@iamryanhennessey Website: www.Ryan-Hennessey.com Links + Resources: 🎧 Listen to this episode and follow the show: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com 💌 Get personal notes and episode recaps: www.thelifeshiftpodcast.com/newsletter 🤍 Support the show for ad-free early access: www.patreon.com/thelifeshiftpodcast 📱 Follow @thelifeshiftpodcast on Instagram and Threads See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.