Coming of age stories often fall into certain clichés that leave listeners feeling like they just heard a stack of Hallmark cards read to them. But then there are those stories whose depth and reality go way beyond any afterschool special.

One of those stories belongs to Ryan O’Leary. A self-ascribed “infinite traveler,” Ryan narrates his life starting as a young person roaming the streets and countryside of the U.S., Europe, and China under the influences of his whim, the wind….and some other substances. He passionately goes on to talk about how he has found a true home with great friends and an excellent career as a restaurant manager serving excellent food. As an added bonus Ryan even shares some of his poetry.

Saccharine conflicts and tidy endings certainly have no part in this episode of A Face Project. Proceed with caution- but please do proceed. It’s a story well worth hearing.

-JB

*This episode is PG-13-ish, for you parents watching with little kids around.