From Basement Songs to Saving Lives:
Ryan Woods’ Raw Story of Music, Mental Health & Hope
- The You Matter Movement Podcast
- July 13, 2025
- 2:37 pm
- 0 comments
Discover how singer-songwriter Ryan Woods turned personal struggles with anxiety and depression into music that saved lives. Learn about his journey, the Hope Unite kindness movement founded by Crystal Adams‑Scott, and why sharing your story matters.
Meeting Ryan Woods: From Vision to Reality
In episode two of the You Matter Podcast, host Crystal Adams‑Scott welcomes singer-songwriter Ryan Woods for a conversation that’s more than music—it’s about struggle, healing, and purpose.
Crystal shares how they first met: Ryan was just 10 years old, sitting at a kitchen table playing guitar. Crystal remembers telling him, “You’re going to be the next Justin Bieber.” That early vision would eventually lead Ryan to LA, multiple releases, and a record deal—but the journey wasn’t without darkness.
Music as a Lifeline: The Birth of King of the Basement
Ryan explains how music wasn’t just a passion; it became a way to cope with overwhelming anxiety and depression during his teenage years. After being signed at 17 to East West Records (a subsidiary of Atlantic), he created his debut project, King of the Basement.
The album wasn’t written for fame—it was therapy. Writing songs helped him process feelings he didn’t fully understand and brought comfort in his darkest moments.
A Song That Saved a Life
While on tour, Ryan had a life-changing moment: a young fan handed him a small brass ring and quietly said, “Your music saved my life.”
“I was like, ‘Bro, what? What are you talking about?’” Ryan recalls.
The fan explained she’d been in a very dark place, but his song gave her the strength to step back from the edge. This moment shifted Ryan’s view on his purpose. He realized music wasn’t just about the industry or fame—it was about real human connection.
Shared Stories of Loss and Survival
Crystal and Ryan open up about their own experiences with mental health and suicide. Crystal lost her husband to suicide in 2017 and is also a teen survivor herself. Ryan has lost a dear friend and battled his own thoughts of hopelessness.
“It’s like too much food for you to possibly consume...”
- Ryan says, describing the overwhelming weight of grief and trauma.
Together, they highlight how common these struggles are—and why talking about them matters.
Hope Unite: Spreading Kindness One Flower at a Time
Crystal shares her work as the founder of Hope Unite, a kindness movement designed to help people feel seen and supported. Through simple gestures—like giving someone a flower card embedded with seeds—the message is clear: you’re not alone, and there’s always help available.
The cards also invite people to reach out if they’re struggling, creating a bridge to connection in moments when it matters most.
Why Your Story Matters
For anyone battling anxiety, depression, or grief, Ryan’s story is a reminder that even your most painful chapters can help someone else.
Even though all the songs are quite sad… it felt like I was talking to myself as my own friend.
- Ryan Woods
In the end, it’s not about perfection, viral fame, or polished images. It’s about honesty, vulnerability, and the courage to keep going—even when it feels impossible.
A Message for Anyone Struggling
If you’re in a dark place right now, know this:
- You are not alone.
- Your pain doesn’t define you.
- Sharing your truth might just become someone else’s light.
If you’re going through hell on earth right now, let me encourage you: there are ways to get to the other side.
- Crystal Adams-Scott
Key Takeaways
- Ryan Woods turned personal struggle into music that resonates deeply with others.
- Sharing openly about mental health can save lives—including your own.
- Simple acts of kindness, like Hope Unite’s flower cards, can create powerful connections.
- Your story matters—even the hard parts.
Final Thoughts
If this story moved you, consider sharing it.
Someone out there might need to hear it today.
Connect with Ryan Woods
Learn more about Ryan Woods and his amazing music:
>> Stream Ryan's music everywhere!
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