EPISODE · Jun 9, 2026 · 1H 7M
#15 - Barry “McGyver” Payne: The Anti-Aging Formula Nobody Talks About
from The Rise 2 Thrive Podcast with Matt and Brooke · host Matt Velasco + Brooke Holland Velasco
Barry Payne, nicknamed "McGyver" for his legendary ability to fix anything with whatever's on hand, is a recently retired 45-year veteran telecommunications lineman who's traded in his tools for the open road — well, mostly. A lifelong outdoorsman, off-road enthusiast, and product maker for the overlanding world, Barry discovered a whole new chapter of life after retirement: EDM festivals, van life gatherings, bikepacking, pickleball, and a growing passion for plant-based wellness. He's also navigating a deeply personal journey — having connected with his biological mother and siblings just 13 years ago after being adopted at birth. These days you'll find Barry somewhere between Idaho, the desert Southwest, and the Pacific Coast, living proof that the best years can still be ahead of you.Highlights:Barry’s transition from a 45-year career in lineman work to embracing nomadic living and festivals.The significance of community, connection, and impact within the festival and van life scenes.The story behind Barry’s nickname “MacGyver,” and tales of fixing electronics and soldering in remote areas.The transformative power of festivals like Joshua Tree, Lightning in a Bottle, and EDC for community and vitality.Insights into the importance of play, music, dance, and how it keeps one feeling young.The principles of thriving life: vitality, connection, and play, and their role in longevity.The fascinating concept of human design and its influence on personal interactions.Barry’s health journey: plant-based diet, experimenting with keto, and personalized nutrition.The value of pushing physical and mental boundaries through activities like bikepacking and sports.Emphasizing authenticity, being present, and living in your own unique way.Timestamps:00:33 - Introduction to Barry MacGyver Payne and his background02:04 - The story behind the nickname “MacGyver”06:01 - Meeting Barry at Northwest Nomads09:14 - Early festival experiences12:39 - Impact of festivals on community14:19 - Barry’s journey to van life17:30 - Breathwork experiences19:01 - Fire spinning and living fully22:45 - Overcoming truck transmission issues28:35 - Reconnecting with lost loved ones30:30 - Barry’s health journey36:11 - Importance of community and staying active41:50 - Exploring human design50:49 - Music and harmony in human experience61:10 - Reflections on a thriving lifeResources:Lightening in a Bottle Festival (LIB) Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Connect with Barry:Barry’s InstagramConnect with Brooke & Matt:Brooke & Matt WebsiteBrooke’s Instagram Matt Instagram Join Our SKOOL Community:Connect with us on SKOOL HERE😃Subscribe to Matt + Brooke’s “Updates from the Road” Newsletter:Subscribe Here: https://rise2thrive.kit.com/subscribe
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#15 - Barry “McGyver” Payne: The Anti-Aging Formula Nobody Talks About
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