#2489 - Ryan Bingham

Overview

This episode features Ryan Bingham, an actor, musician, and former bull rider, as he shares his journey from rodeo arenas to music stages and eventually to the screen. The conversation delves into his rugged upbringing, the therapeutic power of songwriting, his role on Yellowstone, and the enduring allure of authentic, lived experiences in a rapidly changing world.

Notable Quotes

- I didn’t have high expectations, but I knew when I wrote some of the first songs and got that stuff off my chest, it changed me. It became a tool that helped me heal. – Ryan Bingham, on the transformative power of songwriting.

- If you can ride a bull, I think you can kinda do basically anything. – Joe Rogan, reflecting on the mental toughness required for bull riding.

- Go where you’re celebrated, not where you’re tolerated. – Ryan Bingham, sharing advice from his wife about staying true to oneself.

🎸 The Therapeutic Power of Songwriting

- Bingham describes songwriting as a deeply personal and healing process, allowing him to express emotions he couldn’t articulate in conversation.

- He emphasizes the importance of protecting the creative process, saying, What I get out of music is when I’m sitting at home, singing to the wall. That’s what saved my life.

- Joe Rogan highlights how music, like comedy, can provide hope and perspective, calling it a drug that changes moods and connects people.

🤠 From Rodeo to Music

- Bingham started riding bulls at age 10, a path shaped by his ranching family and his uncle, a professional bull rider. He recalls the fear and exhilaration of transitioning from steers to full-sized bulls.

- His rodeo lifestyle naturally led to music, as post-rodeo dances and community gatherings often featured live bands. He began writing songs about his adventures, eventually performing at bars and rodeos.

- Bingham credits his rodeo background for teaching him resilience and mental toughness, which later helped him navigate the music industry and acting.

🎥 Landing *Yellowstone*

- Bingham’s role on Yellowstone came about through his connection with Taylor Sheridan, who initially approached him to write songs for the show.

- Sheridan cast him as Walker, leveraging Bingham’s real-life cowboy and ranching experience. Bingham admits he had no formal acting training but credits the talented cast for helping him adapt.

- Rogan praises Bingham’s performance, noting the emotional depth and complexity he brings to the role.

🌄 The Allure of Nature and Simplicity

- Both Bingham and Rogan reflect on the spiritual and grounding power of nature, from Montana’s wilderness to the rugged landscapes of Texas.

- Bingham shares stories of his time in guide school, learning survival skills like fire-building and mule-packing, which deepened his connection to the land.

- They discuss the romanticized appeal of cowboy culture and the fear that such authentic lifestyles may fade in a digital, urbanized world.

🎶 The Rise of Authentic Music

- The conversation highlights the resurgence of raw, heartfelt music, with artists like Zach Bryan, Coulter Wall, and Oliver Anthony gaining traction.

- Bingham celebrates the accessibility of modern tools like YouTube, which allow aspiring musicians to learn and share their craft.

- Rogan and Bingham agree that authenticity resonates deeply, with Bingham advising young artists to focus on writing great songs and staying true to their roots.