Ryan Rearden is an entrepreneur, strategist, and business leader based in Atlanta, GA. His career has taken him from the fast-paced world of hospitality to technology and consulting.
He has built businesses, faced setbacks, and learned how to navigate high-risk industries. His journey is one of persistence, adaptability, and smart decision-making.
“I don’t believe in waiting for the perfect moment,” Rearden says. “You have to start, learn, and adjust as you go.”
From Football to Business
Rearden grew up with a love for competition. He walked on to the University of Georgia football team, proving his determination early on. While in college, he studied business and was selected for the Global L.E.A.D. program in Cape Town, South Africa. This experience gave him a broader perspective on leadership and problem-solving.
After graduation, he entered the hospitality industry. He worked for major companies like MGM Resorts International, starting as a financial analyst and later moving into management. He became the EVP of Drai’s Enterprises, a major nightlife brand. Eventually, he branched out on his own.
“I learned a lot working for big companies,” he says. “But I always knew I wanted to build something myself.”
Building Businesses and Learning from Failure
Rearden co-founded GRAE Hospitality, but the venture faced major challenges. The business suffered from fraudulent financials, legal disputes, and operational difficulties. A series of unfortunate events, including a roof collapse and a high-profile incident on the property, forced him to rethink his approach.
“It was a disaster from day one,” he admits. “But failure teaches you more than success ever will.”
Instead of letting setbacks define him, he pivoted. He moved into consulting and new business ventures. He became a partner in Dinner With a View, a global dining concept, and launched Fliiks, Inc., a tech-driven entertainment company.
“The best entrepreneurs aren’t the ones who never fail,” he says. “They’re the ones who know how to recover.”
The Power of Smart Strategy
Rearden doesn’t believe in working hard just for the sake of it. He believes in working smart. He structures his day carefully, focusing on high-impact tasks first.
“I write everything down,” he says. “If it’s not on paper, it doesn’t exist.”
He also stresses the importance of networking. Early in his career, he tried to do everything alone. Now, he surrounds himself with the right people.
“The best and worst business decisions I’ve made were about who I worked with,” he says. “The right team can make or break you.”
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Tech
Rearden is always looking for new opportunities. Right now, he’s focused on launching an app that will create a new category in the gig economy. He’s also on the board of a consulting firm that helps small cities improve emergency response times.
One trend he’s excited about is AI in customer service. “AI isn’t about replacing people,” he says. “It’s about making experiences better and more personalized.”
His ability to adapt and stay ahead of trends keeps him relevant in multiple industries.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Rearden has learned a lot over the years. His biggest piece of advice? Start before you feel ready.
“There’s no perfect time,” he says. “Just start and figure it out along the way.”
He also warns against relying on hard work alone. “Effort matters, but leverage is what really moves the needle,” he explains. “Build relationships, get the right mentors, and position yourself strategically.”
When it comes to handling stress, he believes in taking action—no matter how small.
“When I feel overwhelmed, I just do one thing,” he says. “It builds momentum and gets me back on track.”
A Future Built on Experience
Rearden’s story is one of resilience. He has built businesses, made mistakes, and continued to push forward. His journey proves that setbacks don’t have to stop you. They can be stepping stones to something greater.
“The best thing you can do,” he says, “is stay adaptable. The market changes. Life changes. You have to be ready to move with it.”
Ryan Rearden’s career isn’t just about business. It’s about learning, growing, and making an impact. And he’s just getting started.
