What does it truly mean to be a wizard in the modern world? Is magic just about spells and potions, or could it be something deeper—something that shapes the way we mentor, guide, and awaken the potential in others? Step into a world where magic meets mentorship! Meet Rick, Australia's "professional wizard" who's revolutionizing youth development through his innovative Pathfinder program at MANA Academy. Donning a wizard's hat and robes, Rick transforms traditional mentoring into an epic adventure, using life role-playing and immersive quests to guide young people on their hero's journey.  

Through his unique blend of theatrical elements and practical life skills, Rick helps teenagers discover their inner magic - their unique talents, passions, and purpose. The Academy offers everything from Dungeons & Dragons leagues to wellness-focused Mystic Arts Society, creating a vibrant community hub inspired by Japanese club systems and Greek experiential learning.  

Rick's approach goes beyond conventional mentoring, focusing on building authentic connections and helping young people resist negative peer pressure through personal growth and self-discovery. His programs emphasize virtues like chivalry and honor while nurturing confidence and resilience.  

Ready to discover how a modern-day wizard is transforming young lives and awakening heroes? Tune in to hear Rick's fascinating story of bringing magic and purpose to youth mentorship.


About the Podcast Guest:

Mentor Rick (Rick Boland) is a modern-day wizard and mentor dedicated to guiding young people on their heroic journeys. Through the MANA Youth Project, he helps adolescents and teens develop resilience, creativity, and a sense of purpose using an innovative and immersive approach that blends mentorship, gamified education, and personal development. MANA Youth Project is built on role-playing games, mythological archetypes, and holistic community engagement, offering young people experiential learning experiences that empower them to discover their own strengths. MANA represents power and potential, nurturing each individual’s journey toward self-discovery and growth.

Programs & Offerings

• Pathfinder Program – A foundational course introducing life skills, virtues, and archetypal exploration to help young people develop their own "hero's journey."
• MANA Akademy Clubs – A deeper mentorship program where participants follow specialized archetype pathways, learning how to master their strengths and find their purpose.

How to Connect & Learn More

• Website: manayouthproject.com
• Facebook: facebook.com/manayouthproject
• Instagram: instagram.com/manayouthproject
• YouTube: youtube.com/@manayouthproject
• Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/5ZiTJFvjR5qAdQGivJqhhs?si=9138665afe1e49a0

The MANA Youth Project is expanding its impact worldwide, working to train mentors and create transformative experiences for young people across different communities. Whether in-person or online, this initiative is dedicated to forging modern-day heroes through creativity, mentorship, and adventure. If you're passionate about empowering young people or want to experience a new way of learning and self-discovery, explore the MANA Youth Project and join the journey.

About the Podcast Host:

The Magical Professions Podcast is hosted by Milena Martin, a scientist and educator by profession and a lifelong explorer of stories, myths, and imaginative worlds in her free time. Through this creative exploration, Milena invites you to uncover the hidden world of magical professions and explore how magic is envisioned across cultures, histories, and artistic traditions. From the immersive worlds crafted by authors, artists, musicians, filmmakers, virtual reality creators, game developers, and numerous professions beyond the mainstream, this journey offers unique insights into the role of magic in storytelling and beyond. Join the adventure and discover the magic woven into the fabric of fiction, mythology, and creative expression!