Full Breakdown
From Tech Founder to Homesteader: Ryan Courtnage's New Chapter
4/6/2026, 11:40:28 AM
Transition to Homesteading
Ryan Courtnage, cofounder of the donation-management platform Benevity, has embarked on a significant lifestyle change since exiting the tech industry in 2020. He purchased 22 acres of mountainous land in Creston, British Columbia, seeking a break from the demands of managing teams and the tech environment. Courtnage describes his transition as a sabbatical rather than retirement, emphasizing the rewarding nature of hands-on work such as lumberjacking and land development.
Daily Life and New Ventures
Courtnage's daily routine involves various tasks, including maintaining equipment and preparing for winter. He has also built a geodesic dome on his property, which serves as a glamping experience available for booking on Airbnb. Although the venture is not highly profitable, he finds it fulfilling and enjoys interacting with guests. His lifestyle change has allowed him to reconnect with nature, spending time fishing and enjoying the outdoors.
Reconnecting with Technology
Despite his initial withdrawal from technology, Courtnage's interest was rekindled with the emergence of artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT. He has since integrated technology into his homesteading efforts, utilizing a home assistant system named OpenClaw to manage his property. This system monitors various aspects of his land, including water tanks and temperature, and alerts him to any anomalies. Courtnage's approach reflects a desire to merge traditional trades with modern technology, enhancing efficiency and oversight.
Financial Considerations and Future Aspirations
While Courtnage is not currently focused on profit, he acknowledges the costs associated with his technological endeavors, including expenses for AI services. He aims to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, believing that his knowledge will benefit his children as they prepare to enter the workforce. Courtnage's journey illustrates a blend of rustic living and innovative technology, positioning him for potential future opportunities.
Criticism & Opposition
While Courtnage's lifestyle change has been largely positive for him, some critics may argue that the integration of technology into homesteading could detract from the authenticity of the experience. The balance between self-sufficiency and reliance on technology remains a point of contention among traditionalists in the homesteading community.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Still, I didn't feel like I was building anymore.” — Ryan Courtnage, Co-founder of Benevity
- “If I know how to use this stuff, I believe I can help them gain an edge when they enter the workforce.” — Ryan Courtnage
Courtnage's journey from tech founder to homesteader exemplifies a unique intersection of lifestyle change and technological innovation, reflecting broader trends in how individuals are redefining work and personal fulfillment.
