What happens when life pushes you to the absolute edge of your capabilities? Aaron Ragon's journey from broke college student to global adventurer reveals the transformative power of confronting our greatest challenges.
Aaron takes us to the remote shores of Bristol Bay, Alaska, where a violent confrontation with a troubled man named Earl became one of his life's pivotal moments. With remarkable clarity, he recounts being cornered on a deserted beach, facing a drunk man wielding rebar who threatened to kill him. The split-second decisions Aaron made that night—and his choice to show mercy rather than seek vengeance—illustrate how resilience forms in our most desperate moments.
But this story doesn't end with survival. Years later, when Aaron returned to Alaska, Earl picked him up at the airport. During their drive, this once-violent antagonist acknowledged how Aaron had changed and, in his own gruff way, expressed appreciation and gratitude. This unexpected reconciliation demonstrates how our most difficult relationships sometimes come full circle in ways we could never anticipate.
Aaron's adventures didn't stop in Alaska. His pursuit of meaningful experiences led him to Nepal and Antarctica—the latter journey undertaken primarily because he "couldn't let her go alone" when his future wife decided to work at McMurdo Research Station. These global experiences eventually guided him to his true calling in education, where he now supports high-risk, high-potential youth, becoming "that adult for kids who were like me and just kind of untethered."
About Aaron Ragon
Aaron Ragon is a keynote speaker, education leader and licensed therapist with 20 years of experience in mental health and student support. He serves as a Partner of Student Support in Cherry Creek School District and an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver. Drawing from global experiences in Alaska, Antarctica, and Nepal, he brings a unique perspective filled with warmth, humor and candor to all of his endeavors
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The co-hosts of this podcast are not medical professionals. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided by the podcast hosts or guests is solely at your own risk.
Pamela Cass is a licensed broker with Kentwood Real Estate
Natalie Davis is a licensed broker with Keller Williams Realty Downtown, LLC
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