For the last 10 months I’ve been living a dream I wrote about years ago:
Leave the States. Move to South America. Learn Spanish. Build my own thing.
In this episode, I break down the real story behind that dream – the good, the brutal, and the sacred. This isn’t a travel vlog. It’s a debrief of a man redesigning his life from the ground up.
In this episode I talk about:
Landing in Colombia for a DreamState event and never really going back
Santa Marta, Cartagena, Bogotá, Medellín – what I honestly think of each city
Why Laureles > Poblado for the way I live
My month in Bogotá: loneliness, culture shock, and being forced into Spanish
Falling in love with Medellín – community, CrossFit, routine, and feeling “home”
Running a brutal 75K ultra in San Juan, Argentina (and getting cut at 50K)
Getting stuck at La Paz immigration at 4 a.m. after an ultra and using ChatGPT to escape
La Paz, Bolivia – altitude, training like a savage, and climbing Pequeño Alpamayo in pure fear
Hosting one of my favorite DreamState retreats in Peru and why that event was so special
Coming back to Medellín for three of the most challenging months of my life
We also go deep on:
The whole “passport bro” conversation: cost of living, respect, and gentrification
How to live abroad without becoming a disrespectful caricature of a foreigner
Learning Spanish as a 30-year-old: humiliation, brain fatigue, and tiny wins that change everything
Dating in South America – language barriers, heartbreak, hyper-feminine women, and masculine tests
The difference in femininity between Latin culture and the modern West
Making friends abroad: run clubs, gyms, coffee shops, saying “yes” to life
The dark side of cheap rent: when comfort turns into quiet laziness
Being far from family, and why I’d rather be fully alive and present for 2 weeks a year
The question I ask myself: What will 75-year-old me say about the life I chose?
This episode is for you if:
You’ve thought about moving to Medellín, South America, or living abroad
You’re curious about cost of living, danger, dating, and culture from someone actually living it
You feel the pull to live a life by design, but you’re scared of leaving comfort
You’re a man working on your emotional intelligence, purpose, and masculinity
If you want a deeper breakdown of a specific city (Medellín, Buenos Aires, La Paz, Bogotá, Quito, Cusco, etc.) drop a comment with the city name and I’ll film a dedicated episode.
🔔 Subscribe to DreamState Livin for more real conversations on Dharma, travel, masculine growth, retreats, and building a life that actually feels like yours.
👍 If this episode hits home, like the video and share it with a friend who keeps talking about “moving abroad someday.”
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#DreamStateLivin #Medellin #SouthAmerica #DigitalNomad #LifeByDesign #LearningSpanish #MensWork #EmotionalIntelligence
I came across Ste @thestelane a while back after he had my friend Steve co-owner of Nads on his podcast. I loved Ste’s delivery, his grounded energy, and the way he spoke with truth.Recently, after we both had Jacob Donahue on our podcasts, we connected deeper — and this conversation felt like meeting a future version of myself… just with a British accent.In this episode, we dive into what it really means to live life by design, the courage to face fear, and the power of vulnerability and community in healing. We talk about emotional expression, the illusion of separateness, and how physical challenges like CrossFit can forge resilience and connection.This one humbled me. It reminded me how much I still have to learn — and how beautiful that realization is.🎧 Follow Ste’s show: Radical Health Radio (@radicalhealthradio) (@thestelane) on instagram🎙 Follow DreamState Livin (@dreamstatelivin) and Ethan (@ethantryx)
Uncomfortable truths, Relentless discipline, Unforgettable life lessons.
In this episode, I sit down with my brother Steve Peck to dive into his journey from the Marine Corps into the police academy. What really stood out to me in this conversation is how training, whether it’s in the Marines or in the academy, gives you structure and discipline — but the focus and intensity are completely different. We talk about how mental toughness is often the biggest hurdle to overcome in high-stress environments, and how sobriety has given Steve more clarity, sharper performance, and an edge in both his personal and professional life.
We don’t shy away from the hard parts either. Policing carries an emotional toll that most people on the outside don’t see, and we dig into how important it is to acknowledge that reality while building emotional intelligence and empathy. We also explore how social media shapes public perception of law enforcement, and why physical fitness standards need to be addressed in a profession that demands so much from the body and mind.
For me, this conversation is about more than just careers or training. It’s about the commitment to personal goals, and how that commitment leads to growth. It’s about why real-world experience and the people you surround yourself with can often be more valuable than a degree. And ultimately, it’s about empathy — choosing to understand people, to connect, and to serve in a way that elevates both yourself and the community around you.
Today, August 26th, marks one full year since I made the decision to stop drinking alcohol. What started as a commitment turned into the best decision of my life.
In this episode, I share the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the past 12 months of living sober—insights that you can apply in your own life. One of the core takeaways we dive into early on is this: if you feel like you’re leaving something on the table—like you’re leaving life on the table—cutting out alcohol might be the single most powerful move you can make to reach the next level.
I’m excited to share this journey with you. I hope the lessons inspire you, challenge you, and give you a new perspective on what’s possible.
In the EP I sit down with Jacob—creator of the MUSE, and a living embodiment of what it means to walk your purpose. This conversation dives deep into the connection between muse, fitness, mental clarity, and personal growth.
We talk about the power of having a muse—something that fuels your fire and keeps you aligned. For Jacob, it’s fitness. But the deeper message is that your muse can be anything that brings you back to yourself. We break down how to find it, how to stay consistent with it, and why it’s essential for building a life that actually feels good—not just looks good.
We cover everything from overcoming fear, dropping distractions, and “tinkering” with your interests until something clicks… to the importance of community, saying no to alcohol, and training your body as a gateway to mental clarity.
This episode is about more than reps or routines—it’s about building a life on purpose.
If you’re trying to find direction, or you already know your path and just want to go deeper… this one’s for you.
Today I sit down with Dan Fleyshman — someone I’m proud to call a mentor and a friend.Dan is the youngest founder of a publicly traded company, a massively successful entrepreneur, and one of the most generous humans I know. But what makes this conversation so powerful isn’t just his business success — it’s his heart, his mindset, and his obsession with giving back.In this episode, we dive deep into: • His journey from a tough upbringing to building an empire • How he discovered his Dharma and why purpose matters more than money • Why obsession isn’t a bad thing — it’s necessary for greatness • The power of positive affirmations and rewiring your mind for success • How introverts can win in networking • The role of social media in creating opportunity • His mission to build free grocery stores and shelters for the homelessThis one’s packed with wisdom, especially if you’re on the path of growth, service, and success — but want to do it with meaning.Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, and don’t forget to subscribe for more DreamState Livin episodes.I hope you enjoy— Ethan
In this episode, I sit down with my new friend Edward Simberg to dive into what it really means to live a digital nomadic lifestyle in today’s world. We talk about the freedom and friction that come with constant travel, and how staying consistent with your health, mindset, and growth can create a solid foundation—no matter where you are.
We also explore how AI is transforming the way we build side businesses and sharpen our skills, and how simply being dedicated to learning can put you in the top 10% of your field. I share a funny story about my gym in La Paz (spoiler: it feels like training at an elite private club), and we go deep into the social dynamics of meeting new people, breaking through defense mechanisms, and forming real connections while traveling.
This conversation covers everything from the Law of Giving and Receiving, to staying calm in a noisy world, to the philosophical rabbit hole of whether or not we’re living in a simulation. It’s raw, real, and full of gems for anyone on the path of growth and freedom.
In this episode, I sit down with my friend Zack Farr (@biofarr) to dive deep into the journey of self-discovery, entrepreneurship, and the importance of awareness in growth. We talk about the transition from corporate life to building your own path, the role of mentorship, and how some of life’s most painful moments lead to the biggest breakthroughs.
Zack shares his experience in the cannabis and agriculture industries, and we get into the real potential of biochar—how it can impact everything from farming to infrastructure to the environment. We also touch on sales, intuition, relationships, and what it really takes to prioritize the things that matter in business and life.
If you’re on your own journey—building, evolving, or just waking up—this conversation is for you.
Follow us on Instagram:
@biofarr
@ethantryx
🎧 Connect with Us & Support a Cause That Matters
Follow us on Instagram:
🔹 Ethan: @ethantryx
🔹 Nico: @nicolassandoval
🔹 Fundación Alalay: @fundacionalalaybo
🌐 Donate or learn more: www.fundacionalalay.org
At the end of this episode, we highlight Fundación Alalay—an incredible nonprofit founded by Nico’s mom when she was just 18 years old. Their mission is to support and transform the lives of street-connected children in Bolivia. If you’re inspired by this conversation, please consider donating or sharing their work.
In this episode, Nicolas and I unpack what it really means to “live like a king.” Not in the flashy, material sense—but in how we lead, serve, and show up. We talk about giving back, staying grounded in gratitude, and building a life that’s not just successful, but meaningful. We share thoughts on how upbringing and humility shape us, why to value a tight-knit team over a bloated one, and how Bolivia’s culture continues to teach lessons what real richness looks like.
Key Takeaways:
• Living like a king means giving more than you take.
• Success isn’t about status—it’s about service.
• Gratitude is fuel for both growth and peace.
• The right team makes all the difference.
• Legacy > quick wins.
• Taking ownership = transformation.
• Humble roots build unshakable character.
• There’s enough abundance for everyone.
• One person can change lives—Nico’s mom is living proof.
In this episode, Marshall and I dive deep into the raw and real questions that shape our lives—what’s the purpose of it all, and how do we actually find happiness? We talk about what it means to be in the arena—fully engaged in life rather than sitting on the sidelines—and how facing fear with faith is essential to growth.
We open up about cognitive dissonance, the struggle of navigating life without a clear map, and the lessons learned from transformative experiences like serving a mission. We also touch on language learning, passion, and how chasing your dreams often requires getting uncomfortable.
Marshall shares powerful insights on financial success, the truth behind money and self-worth, and the importance of managing finances with wisdom. We explore the impact of relationships, the fuel of creativity, and how all of it ties into fulfillment. Toward the end, Marshall breaks down his coaching program, which is all about helping people discover their strengths and take aligned, meaningful action.
This one’s a journey. Tune in.
Marshall's Instagram - @m__tuten
Ethan's Instaram @Ethantryx
I sit down with Andrew Zambetti, a good friend and fellow truth-seeker, to dive into one of the most insightful conversations I’ve had about life’s big questions. Together, we explore everything from the laws of the universe that govern truth to the daily practices that keep us grounded. This episode is deeply personal – we share stories of our own journeys in self-discovery, discuss moments of spiritual awakening, and talk about how embracing authenticity has shaped our paths. It’s a reflective and raw discussion that left me feeling both humbled and inspired. I’m excited to share it with you and hope it sparks something in you as well.
What We Cover in This Episode
Truth as the fundamental laws of the universe – understanding how universal truths guide our lives and why aligning with them brings peace
Reprogramming the mind – how I’ve been breaking free from old conditioning, resetting my mindset, and pursuing self-mastery in thought and behavior
Detachment from outcomes – learning to let go of obsessing over results and instead finding joy in the journey itself
Enjoyment and passion as keys to fulfillment – why doing what you love (and loving what you do) is the real secret to feeling fulfilled and successful
Selfishness vs. self-care – distinguishing caring for yourself from being selfish, and how prioritizing your well-being actually helps everyone around you
Training through low states and sober socializing – my approach to building resilience during tough times and the growth I’ve experienced by socializing without alcohol
The illusion of alcohol and redefining happiness – why I gave up drinking, how it shattered the illusion that alcohol equals happiness, and what true joy looks like now
Living with purpose and authentic connection – the importance of living deliberately, staying true to my purpose, and forming genuine relationships along the way
Introduction to the Warrior’s Retreat – a sneak peek into my upcoming Warrior’s Retreat and how it’s designed to help you step into your own growth journey
This conversation with Andrew really encapsulates what my journey has been about lately: finding purpose, living in my truth, and helping others do the same. I also share more about the vision behind the Warrior’s Retreat – an experience born from everything we talk about, where we can put these ideas into practice in a supportive, challenging, and transformative environment. By the end of our talk, I felt more aligned with who I am and where I’m going. I left the conversation uplifted and filled with a renewed sense of passion and clarity about my purpose. I’m truly grateful for the insights Andrew brought out of me during this chat.
I invite you to join us in this episode. It’s warm, wise, and full of real moments. Listen in and walk away with insights to reprogram your mind, nurture your spirit, and live life with more authenticity and passion. I hope you find it as enlightening as I did. Enjoy the episode!
- Ethan
In this episode of the DreamState Livin’ podcast, I share the raw, transformative story of when I lived with monks in Thailand at age 22. From arriving in Southeast Asia without a plan to immersing myself in the stillness of monastery life, this experience shaped my inner world in ways no book or podcast ever could.
I open up about the daily routines, the battle with my own monkey mind, and the breakthrough that brought me a deep, unshakable peace. We talk mindfulness, the illusion of fulfillment from the outside world, and the real work—bringing that monk-like awareness back into the chaos of modern life.
Key Takeaways:
The monastery isn’t about converting—it’s about remembering who you are.
True fulfillment doesn’t come from chasing—it comes from sitting still.
Peace is found in presence, but integration is the real challenge.
DreamState was born to bring that inner stillness into everyday life.
Tune in for a story that’ll make you slow down, breathe deeper, and maybe even question what you’re really chasing.
In this episode, I share my personal journey with alcohol—from my first drink at 14 to the years I spent in industries where drinking was just part of the culture. I open up about the moments that forced me to look in the mirror and the decision I made to go sober for a full year.
It wasn’t easy. I faced social pressure, identity shifts, and the discomfort of feeling like the “odd one out.” But on the other side of that challenge, I found clarity, deeper relationships, stronger self-trust, and a life that actually feels aligned.
This is more than just about quitting alcohol—this is about waking up. It’s about reclaiming your energy, your truth, and your purpose in a world that often encourages the opposite.
If you’re sober curious, questioning your habits, or just ready to level up, this one’s for you.
What I Talk About:
My personal experience with alcohol
The culture of drinking in restaurants and sales
The identity shift that came with sobriety
How sobriety impacted my work, confidence, and relationships
Letting go of unhealthy coping mechanisms
Navigating dating, friendships, and events without alcohol
Attracting high-frequency, aligned relationships
Building self-trust and inner peace
In this episode of the DreamState Livin Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Christian McSweeney to dive into his journey of self-discovery, creativity, and the importance of staying authentic—especially in art.
Christian opens up about his transition from a steady career in solar to following his deeper calling as an artist. We talk about the vulnerability that comes with putting creative work out into the world and the role plant medicine—particularly ayahuasca—has played in reshaping his perspective.
We explore how powerful it is to trust the process of life, and how crucial set and setting are when it comes to psychedelic experiences. Christian also shares how the teachings of Wim Hof—through breath and cold exposure—have transformed his mindset and body.
This conversation gets into the importance of integration after those deep journeys, the power of manifestation, and how divine timing can align when you’re living in flow. We touch on how cold exposure trains the mind, the impact of positive thinking, and how the information we consume directly affects our mental health.
From the healing power of mindfulness and visualization to the deep importance of forgiveness, we cover it all. We also reflect on lessons learned through endurance challenges, the beauty of real relationships, and the strength that comes from being vulnerable.
At the core, it’s a conversation about discovering who you really are, living in alignment with your purpose, and realizing just how powerful belief and intention can be.
Let me know if you want this tightened up even more for a podcast intro, or turned into a caption or post for promotion.
In this episode of the DreamState Livin podcast, I sit down with Shaun Sharabi—co-founder of the 9-figure solar company Better Earth and now the co-founder of J&S Capital, a public markets-focused investment firm. This one’s a masterclass in living with intention, playing long-term games, and embracing the pursuit of Dharma.
We dive deep into what it means to actually live a fulfilled life—breaking down health, wealth, relationships, and purpose into practical, actionable buckets. Shaun opens up about building massive companies, moving on from them, and channeling his energy into what truly matters.
You’ll hear powerful insights on:
• Delegation as a superpower
• Why awareness is the first step to purpose
• Psychedelics
• Redefining success beyond dollar signs
• And why the just do it mindset (combined with curiosity) is a cheat code to life
Shaun’s mix of calm presence, fiery ambition, and deep curiosity makes this one of the most grounded yet high-level convos we’ve had yet.
If you’re someone who knows you’re meant for more—this episode is for you.
Wow—this one was powerful.
Clayton and I met 4 years ago through business, I always had a respect for the man who is Clayton, but it wasn’t until recently—when he joined The DreamState Mastermind—that we really connected. I’d heard pieces of his story from our mutual friend Zach, and even just a glimpse had me hooked. But sitting down for this conversation? It hit on a whole different level.
In this episode, Clay opens up about the highs, the rock-bottom lows, and everything in between. From being lined up to go pro in soccer to tearing his ACL seven times. From biking across America and injuring himself mid-journey… to being thrown into the back of a SWAT car and doing time in LA County Jail.
This one’s raw. It’s honest. And it’s filled with the kind of reflection and redemption you can only find after walking through hell and coming out the other side.
We could’ve talked for eight hours, easy. But we kept it tight—more to come in the future, for sure.
Tap in. Listen deep. And as always, like, comment, and subscribe to keep the mission moving.
In this episode of DreamState Livin, I break down my journey of moving to Colombia—why I did it, how it changed my life, and why you might want to consider living abroad too.
I dive into the real benefits: cheaper rent, being treated like a king, expanding emotional intelligence, meeting new people, learning a new language, and much more.
But I don’t just stop at the why—I also give some practical advice on how.
If you’ve ever thought about escaping the U.S. (or wherever you were born) and moving to a country that fuels your personal growth, I lay out the steps to make it happen.
Today, I took on the podcast solo and spoke about whatever came to mind. I love these episodes as they create space for creativity and spontaneity, allowing me to dive into whatever feels most relevant in the moment.
I touched on the Reticular Activating System (RAS)—the gatekeeper of our brain—and how we can use it to not only shape our reality but also protect our health by focusing on what truly matters. When we learn to direct our attention intentionally, the RAS works in our favor, filtering out distractions and bringing us closer to our goals and the life we want to create.
I also explored the immense power of what we choose to center our lives around. Once we align ourselves with solid principles, strong values, and a connection to God, nothing outside of our control can truly affect us. The external chaos fades when we are rooted in what truly grounds us. Life becomes less about reacting and more about consciously creating, regardless of the circumstances around us. This shift in focus allows us to step into a more purposeful, centered life.
Enjoy and let me know what you think!
Like, subscribe and comment for more episodes
In this episode, I sit down with Olesia—a powerhouse of wisdom, spirituality, and feminine strength. We dive deep into the nature of spiritual connection, the life lessons she’s gathered from her journey, and the ways people use vices as illusionary doors to escape reality.
Olesia shares her perspective on meditation, self-mastery, and the importance of embracing discomfort for growth. She walks us through personal experiences that led her to where she is today. And just to keep things interesting—she puts me through an unexpected, uncomfortable exercise right on the spot. No spoilers, but let’s just say it got real.
This one is packed with insight, raw truth, and a challenge to level up. Tune in.
In this episode of DreamState Livin’, I sit down with Sabina, the loving mother, healer, and founder of Ayahuasca House—a sanctuary for transformation nestled just outside Medellín, Colombia.
We dive deep into Sabina’s incredible journey, exploring how life’s twists and turns led her to create a space where ancient medicines like Ayahuasca and Kambo help people reconnect with their true selves. Sabina shares powerful stories of healing, from overcoming life's challenges to finding clarity and balance through natural and ancestral practices.
This episode is more than just a conversation about plant medicine—it’s a call to action. We discuss the truth that no external substance, no matter how potent, can do the work for you. Ayahuasca and other medicines are tools—guides on your path—but the real transformation requires doing the inner work.
If you’ve ever been curious about healing, spiritual growth, or simply reconnecting with your own purpose and Dharma, this episode is for you. Learn what it means to surrender, to trust, and to show up for yourself every day.
🌱 Topics Covered:
• Sabina’s path to founding Ayahuasca House.
• The role of motherhood in her healing journey.
• How Kambo, Ayahuasca, and natural medicines facilitate healing.
• The importance of personal responsibility—doing your own homework.
• How you can experience Ayahuasca House and start your journey.
Tune in, take notes, and get ready to shift your mindset. It’s time to let go, lean in, and find the power within.