Podcast Summary: RISK! Episode – "The Advocate"

Introduction

In the gripping episode titled "The Advocate," released on March 5, 2025, the RISK! podcast delves deep into the tumultuous journey of Ryan Reynolds as he navigates the complexities of self-advocacy amidst severe landlord harassment. Hosted by Taj Easton, this episode offers a raw and honest portrayal of personal struggle, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.

Background: A Lifetime of Advocacy

Ryan Reynolds begins by sharing his long-standing commitment to advocating for others. Describing himself as someone who couldn’t ignore injustices, Ryan explains, “I just do it for other people and not realize I was processing shit for myself” (36:22). This trait, rooted in his tumultuous upbringing and personal experiences, set the stage for the challenges he would later face.

The Incident: Escalating Landlord Harassment

The core of Ryan’s story revolves around his escalating disputes with his landlords. It all began when his landlords introduced unexpected fees and began sending threatening communications. Ryan recounts receiving an email about a mysterious $100 move-in fee, which was not stipulated in his lease agreement. Confused and concerned, he challenged the fee, only to face immediate threats from what appeared to be an unverified law firm (21:19).

As the situation intensified, Ryan describes how the landlords employed increasingly aggressive tactics, including sending letters on dubious legal letterhead and issuing a "Notice to Quit," pressuring him to vacate the premises within days (28:19). The harassment culminated in threats involving non-existent “Armenian gangs,” which Ryan exposed as a fabricated intimidation tactic (31:42).

Legal Battle: Navigating the System

Determined not to be bullied, Ryan immersed himself in tenant laws, spending hours researching and consulting past tenants who had faced similar harassment. His dedication is evident when he states, “I read 190 pages on a plane” to educate himself on his rights (06:06). Despite the overwhelming odds and dubious legal maneuvers by his landlords, Ryan remained steadfast. He even considered taking legal action for harassment, showcasing his transition from advocating for others to standing up for himself (34:31).

Personal Reflections: Growth and Self-Awareness

Throughout the episode, Ryan reflects on his journey towards self-advocacy. He acknowledges that his relentless pursuit of justice was not just about the immediate conflict but also a manifestation of his deeper need to address personal unresolved issues. “I realized I am advocating on my behalf,” Ryan admits (36:22). This introspection highlights his growth from a perennial advocate for others to someone who recognizes the importance of self-care and self-defense.

Future Plans: Empowering Others Through Storytelling

Inspired by his experiences, Ryan aspires to create a podcast miniseries focused on the history of rent and tenancy in the 21st century. He envisions this series as a resource to empower renters facing similar challenges, aiming to provide both informative and entertaining content. “I want to make a miniseries to give people the background they need if they're facing this sort of thing themselves,” Ryan shares (43:49).

Conclusion: A Journey of Resilience

As the episode concludes, both Ryan and Taj reflect on the significance of advocacy—both for others and for oneself. Ryan emphasizes the importance of fighting against systemic injustices and finding the strength to stand up for personal rights. Taj praises Ryan’s resilience and the meaningful impact of sharing such personal stories, reinforcing the episode’s theme of courage and self-empowerment.

Notable Quotes

• Ryan Reynolds [05:22]: “We can't control a situation as much as our brain makes us think that we can control it.”

• Ryan Reynolds [06:18]: “Last year I read like 125 books. This year I read seven half books because I spent it all refueling.”

• Ryan Reynolds [21:55]: “They started harassing me, and I didn't realize it was so prevalent and regular an issue.”

• Ryan Reynolds [36:43]: “I love you. And I mean this. But I am talking to myself totally. I am criticizing myself at 30.”

Timecodes

• [02:12] – Introduction of the guest.
• [04:32] – Ryan Reynolds begins discussing his journey.
• [05:22] – Ryan reflects on control and response.
• [06:06] – Ryan talks about his reading habits.
• [21:19] – Ryan explains the initial harassment from landlords.
• [28:19] – Receipt of the "Notice to Quit."
• [31:42] – Threats involving non-existent gangs.
• [34:31] – Considering legal action for harassment.
• [36:22] – Ryan realizes he's advocating for himself.
• [43:49] – Plans for the podcast miniseries.
• [05:22], [06:18], [21:55], [36:43] – Notable quotes.

Final Thoughts

"The Advocate" serves as a powerful testament to the strength of self-advocacy in the face of adversity. Ryan Reynolds’ story not only sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles between tenants and landlords but also inspires listeners to find their voice and stand up for their rights. Through honest conversation and personal reflection, this episode encapsulates the essence of what RISK! strives to achieve: sharing true, impactful stories that resonate deeply with its audience.