Meet your keyholders.
Meet Dane.
Host, Writer, Professional Overthinker
Hi there. I’m Dane, a part of the Rio Mad System. I’m a writer, supervisor, podcaster, psychology major, and chaser of stories. I’ve spent my life trying to figure out why people do what they do. This led me to creating this podcast. I believe stories help us to survive.
My many, varied interests find their way into the show, including:
Psychology
Books and writing
Music
Roleplaying games and geek culture
Social justice and community care
Personal growth
I live in California with my son, husband, three best friends, and a cat. When I’m not working, I’m usually reading, writing, curating playlists, or accidentally sparking conversations that become much deeper than expected. I like to say it’s thanks to my Resting Tell-Me-Your-Life-Story Face.
I created Rio Mad Hotel because I wanted a place where complicated conversations could happen honestly. If you’ve ever felt like your life doesn’t fit neatly in a box, you’re in good company here.
Meet Anna.
Co-Host, Chronic Illness Advocate, Professional Reality Check
Hi, I’m Anna. I’m Dane’s best friend, co-host, and occasional voice of reason.
Life has given me firsthand experience with chronic illness, trauma recovery, and navigating a world that often misunderstands invisible disabilities. Those experiences have shaped how I see people and why conversations like the ones we have at the Rio Mad Hotel matter so much to me. I try to approach people with curiosity and compassion.
On the show, I’m often interested in the practical side of survival:
Living with chronic illness
Navigating our flawed healthcare systems
Building sustainable lives
Friendship and support systems
Recovery without perfection
Finding joy in tough circumstances
When we’re not recording, you can usually find me enjoying hot tea and watching my favorite shows, managing symptoms, learning something new, spending time with the people I love, or playing a cozy game.