Contributor Spotlight: Ryann Blake

Ryann joined the hearth industry about a decade ago. At the time, she had just gotten her MBA, so her dad asked her to help him run their family business, Chimney Techniques, which has been open in Aberdeen, Washington since 1985. After her dad retired, Ryann bought the business, and she currently owns and runs the company.

When The Fire Time Magazine asked Ryann what advice she would give to other people in the industry, she responded with several bits of advice. First and foremost, she emphasized the importance of constant curiosity. “Never stop learning,” she noted. She also insisted that it’s essential to “surround yourself with people who fill in your knowledge gaps.”

In her spare time, Ryann enjoys being with her family, “preferably outdoors.” She considers Washington one of the most beautiful parts of the country, and she loves that she can get to the rainforest or the beaches in under an hour. Hiking, riding horses, and just sitting in the forest are also some of her favorite activities. 

When she’s not running her business or spending time with her family, Ryann volunteers for an equine therapy organization and serves on its board of directors. “We help kids with special needs find connections with the help of horses,” she explained. Ryann is also a certified nature and forest therapy guide. “Mental peace is a huge focus of my life aside from fire,” she noted.

In short, Ryann has a growth mindset, a generous heart, and a boundless drive to be better. We’re lucky that she’s a contributor for The Fire Time Magazine, and we’re grateful for all the energy she’s put into this publication. Thanks for being part of the Fire Time team, Ryann. We truly appreciate it!