In this episode of Relatable Wisdom, I had the privilege of sitting down with Ray Hartjen—a resilient storyteller, musician, writer, and cancer fighter. Ray brought two powerful mantras to the table: “If not now, when?” and “Punch today in the face.” Through Ray’s deeply personal journey, especially following his diagnosis with multiple myeloma, he explores the importance of not taking time—or the people we cherish—for granted. His stories, from the simple yet profound timeline exercise to building deeper relationships and focusing on what matters most, invite all of us to reflect on whether we’re truly living in alignment with our values. Ray’s energy and truthfulness remind us that hardships may punch us back, but it’s our choice, each day, to respond with intention and courage. If you’re longing to break out of procrastination, get inspired to make the most of your moments, and cut through the noise to what truly matters—this episode is for you.
Connect With Ray Hartjen
Website: https://rayhartjen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rayhartjen/
If Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.
Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/join
If the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhq
Want to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdom
Chapters
00:00 Introduction And Welcome
00:33 Meet Ray Hartjen
01:02 Ray’s Favorite Mantras
01:34 Cancer Diagnosis And Perspective Shift
02:25 The Timeline Exercise
04:44 Taking Time And People For Granted
05:41 Embracing “If Not Now, When?”
06:42 Procrastination And Getting Started
07:41 Focusing On The Experience
09:08 Podcast And Wisdom Newsletter Plug
09:38 Living In The Moment
10:19 Time, Money, And True Priorities
11:24 Value Conflicts And Alignment
13:24 Introducing Second Mantra
13:50 “Punch Today In The Face”
14:59 Making The Most Of Each Day
16:01 When The Day Punches Back
17:40 Cancer Fight And Resilience
18:57 Appreciating The Struggle
19:19 Connect With Ray Hartjen
20:11 Ray’s Books And Projects
20:51 Episode Wrap-Up And Farewell
