In this episode of The Mack & G Show, we sit down with Ryan Leaker—chef, nutritionist, real estate investor, and former Massachusetts powerlifting record holder. Ryan shares his incredible journey from culinary school in Florida to developing foods you see on grocery store shelves and investing in multi-family properties. Along the way, we dive into hilarious food stories, powerlifting milestones, and what it’s like raising two boys while managing it all.
Ryan’s candid insights on work-life balance, achieving big goals, and taking risks will inspire and entertain. Plus, we chat about food trends, crazy cooking techniques, and even get his thoughts on the infamous spatchcock method. Don’t miss this fun and inspiring conversation that’ll leave you thinking about your next big move—whether in the kitchen, the gym, or life.
Timestamps
0:05 - Introduction to Episode 10 and holiday prep discussion 1:23 - Ricky’s anniversary story (and Zeus eating his Red Sox hat) 2:11 - Guest intro: Meet Ryan Leaker, a chef, dad, and powerlifting record holder 3:10 - Crazy food stories and culinary beginnings 4:15 - Moving from the South to New England: Ryan’s upbringing 6:50 - Finding winter hobbies: From misery to mastering skiing 14:25 - Culinary school to product development: Transitioning careers 25:55 - Behind the scenes of food development for grocery shelves 34:00 - The Great Oreo Debate 39:04 - Breaking state powerlifting records: Ryan’s fitness journey 50:45 - Real estate investing during the pandemic: Lessons learned 1:00:00 - Balancing life, work, and fitness: Ryan’s advice 1:02:12 - Closing thoughts and teaser for the next episode
Links & Mentions
Guide to the Spatchcock Cooking Method Michelin Guide history Python found in toilet Rounders - Teddy KGB and Oreos Top Culinary Schools in the U.S.
Follow us:
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Therapy Gecko
An unlicensed lizard psychologist travels the universe talking to strangers about absolutely nothing. TO CALL THE GECKO: follow me on https://www.twitch.tv/lyleforever to get a notification for when I am taking calls. I am usually live Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays but lately a lot of other times too. I am a gecko.