Ryan grew up in Charleston, SC and attended Clemson University where he was involved with FCA on campus. After graduation Ryan went back to Charleston and married his wife, Elizabeth (also a Clemson graduate). Ryan has spent his career in marketing for technology companies.

Ryan moved from Charleston to Charlotte in 2015 which is when he and his family began attending Hope. He has 3 sons, Graham, Hayes, and Wade. Ryan enjoys running, golf, Clemson football, and anything with a boat.