THE FOUNDRY
Men's Health Association | OKOTOKS
Leadership Cadre
Ryan Wisby
President | Founder
James Budden
Vice President | Treasurer
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Chris Konynenbelt
Vice President | Secretary
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Tyler Chadwick
Director
Ben Crawford
Director
My passion as a coach and mentor is rooted in being a father and leading where it matters most - at home and in the community. I believe no man should have to wander through life alone. Over the years, I’ve seen too many men stuck in routines, held back by perceived limits, or searching for something more without knowing where to find it. What they need isn’t complicated - it’s real connection, movement, challenge, and a group of men willing to show up, push each other, and grow together.
That’s why I built The Foundry. It’s a place for men who are ready to get out of a rut, build real camaraderie, and challenge themselves to be better - physically, mentally, and emotionally. Through training, mentorship, and community, we help men unlock what’s already inside them and step into their role as leaders in their families and in the Okotoks community.
I'm just a man who's been through some stuff.
Childhood trauma. SA. Loss. Addiction. Suicide. I hit rock bottom twice in life. But I'm still here. Still climbing and still learning. Through the combination of being a father of 3, therapy and self- work I've turned my pain into purpose. I share my story to try and help other men who feel lost, stuck or broken. Because I know it's possible to rise again - to rebuild, to grow, and to find hope even when it feels impossible. I'm not perfect. I still stumble. But every day, I try and be better than I was yesterday. And I want to show other men that they can do the same.
If you're struggling, know this:
You are not alone.
It's never too late to start climbing.
You're worth it
I joined in the early days after meeting Ryan and seeing the vision for what this could become. What started as a focus on physical training quickly revealed something deeper. Men need more than strength in the gym -they need connection, support, and a place where they don’t have to carry life’s challenges alone.
As a father and a leader, I’ve come to understand how important it is to show up with strength, integrity, and purpose - not just for myself, but for my family and my community. That perspective drives my passion to help other men grow into the best versions of themselves. I believe that when men are supported and challenged in the right ways, they become stronger leaders at home, in their work, and in their communities.
The Foundry exists to bring men together to grow stronger mentally and physically, to support one another, and to become better fathers, husbands, friends, and leaders. This isn’t just a program - it’s a movement to build stronger men and a stronger community here in Okotoks, and to inspire a new standard of leadership that others can follow.
I’m a big advocate for men’s health, and being a father of two boys is a huge part of what motivates me. I want to help inspire the next generation of men to lead with confidence and authenticity - and that starts with the example I set at home and in my community. I’m far from perfect, but I try to show my sons what it looks like to take care of yourself and be open about the challenges men face.
Exercise has always been one of my go‑to tools for managing stress. Martial arts, strength training, and just staying active are things I rely on to keep my mind clear and my life balanced. For me, physical activity isn’t optional - it’s part of how I stay grounded and mentally well. I encourage other men to find whatever form of exercise works for them and make it a real priority in their own lives.
Being a father to two energetic kids has reinforced just how important physical and mental health are. I chose to prioritize my well-being today as an investment in the future - one where I can fully support, enjoy, and share life’s experiences with the people who matter most to me.
As part of that journey, I joined the Foundry seeking a new challenge that would push me beyond my usual gym routine. What I found was much more than a different way to train; I found a brotherhood of men from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to growth, accountability, supporting one another, and giving back to the community.
My goal is to help other men become the best versions of themselves by leading through consistency, discipline, and accountability. Real growth comes from the habits we build and the commitment to keep showing up every day. When we invest in our mental and physical health, the benefits extend far beyond ourselves and positively impact everyone around us.