Who is the Red-Tailed Hawk?

Born Aris Lara, given the name Red-Tailed Hawk by his mentors, is a Dominican-American Educator, Musician, Dancer, and Martial Artist.

-Certified Wilderness Skills Educator

-Certified Permaculture Designer

-Certified Wildlife Tracker

 -4 year Grad at Wilderness Fusion

-8 years Training at Wilderness Awareness School

-Brazillian Jiu Jitsu Instructor

From Lost Boy to Red-Tailed Hawk: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Remember that 15-year-old kid glued to the screen, lost in a haze of video games? Depressed, disconnected, and unsure of his place in the world? That was me. I felt like I was drifting, aimless and adrift in a sea of uncertainty.

Then came a turning point. A lifeline. I was introduced to the world of outdoor adventure at YMCA Camp Indian Springs. There, under the watchful eye of mentors like Copperhead and Towering Oak, I began to discover a different kind of strength – the strength of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of nature to heal and transform.

Jiu Jitsu, at 16, became my first foray into discipline and the art of movement. It taught me about focus, respect, and the importance of finding balance. But my curiosity continued to grow. What if we could live in harmony with the earth? What if we could cultivate a life of purpose and meaning? These questions led me on a journey of exploration – to permaculture farms, to the Wilderness Awareness School, where I immersed myself in the wisdom of nature, learning to track animals, cultivate the land, and develop the skills necessary to thrive in the wild.

This journey wasn't just about survival skills; it was about inner tracking – understanding the patterns of my own mind and emotions. I delved into the world of dance, discovering the beauty of movement and the power of expression. I explored ancient practices like Chi Gong and Bagua Zhang, learning to cultivate inner strength and cultivate a deeper connection to my body and spirit.

Through it all, I learned the invaluable lessons of self-awareness and self-compassion. I confronted my own shadows, healed old wounds, and learned to communicate more authentically with myself and the world around me.

Today, as Red-Tailed Hawk, I'm passionate about guiding young men on their own journeys of self-discovery. I understand the challenges you face, the doubts that creep in, and the longing for a deeper sense of purpose.

**Whether you're struggling with: **

  • Finding your direction in life

  • Building healthy relationships

  • Overcoming limiting beliefs

  • Developing self-confidence

  • Cultivating a deeper connection to yourself and the world

I'm here to support you. Through one-on-one mentoring sessions, we'll explore your unique path, identify your strengths, and develop a roadmap for achieving your goals.

Let's embark on this journey together. Let's unlock your potential and become the best versions of ourselves.

Book a session with me today and let's begin the transformation.

Hawk at his first Jiu Jitsu Competition. Age:17

The name “Red-Tailed Hawk” Was given to Aris at the end of a 9-month journey learning Survival Skills, Wildlife Tracking, Permaculture, and much more. Pictured here with his first self-made survival bow. Age : 23

Hawk - Sweeping the competition at a Regional Tournament in Seattle, WA

Age: 25

Hawk teaching a Jiu Jitsu workshop for Beginners in Asheville, NC

Age:30

Feeling the Call?