Speaker profile last updated by AAE Talent Team on 05/30/2025.
Resilience isn't just about bouncing back—it's about building forward, even when the odds are against you. When Ryan Wilson first pitched the idea for The Gathering Spot, a private membership club now with four national locations, he and Co-Founder TK Petersen were turned down 97 times before landing their first investment. Years later, when the world shut down and gathering was banned, their business defied the odds and thrived. In this compelling talk, Ryan shares how bold vision, relentless optimism, and unshakable resilience can break through barriers and lead to revolutionary impact. Through personal stories and hard-earned lessons, attendees will see how perseverance in the face of adversity can build not just a company—but a movement.
Attendee Results:
In an era dominated by digital interactions and transactional networking, authentic relationships have become a rare currency—and a powerful one. Ryan Wilson, CEO & Co-Founder of The Gathering Spot, has built a nationally recognized brand by betting on community over clout. In this insightful talk, Ryan unpacks how genuine connection—not just access—has shaped his entrepreneurial path and propelled The Gathering Spot’s growth. Attendees will explore how investing in real relationships creates momentum, trust, and staying power in both business and life. For leaders, founders, and change-makers, this is a compelling case for why who you build with matters just as much as what you’re building.
Attendee Results:
Ryan Wilson has become a trusted voice in connecting people who don’t usually share space. Whether it’s creatives and CEOs, policymakers and entrepreneurs, or students and tech giants—Ryan shares how he’s built environments where diverse communities come together, ideas flourish, and culture is made. This keynote is a masterclass in the power of inclusive connection.
Takeaways:
At just 24, Ryan Wilson launched The Gathering Spot with a vision bigger than business—it was about building a movement. From capital raising to a game-changing acquisition and bold reacquisition, Ryan shows how leading with values can scale both mission and margin. This is a blueprint for purpose-driven growth.
Takeaways:
Starting small is a strength—if you know how to scale it. In this talk, Ryan breaks down how The Gathering Spot went from an Atlanta-based idea to a national force, expanding into major markets while staying true to its roots. It’s a candid look at the mindset, team-building, and execution needed to scale with impact.
Takeaways: - How to know when you’re ready to scale—and what it really takes - The systems, people, and culture needed to sustain growth - Staying grounded in community as you grow your brand - Why scaling isn’t just about growth—it’s about multiplying purpose
The Gathering Spot has hosted everyone from the President to the Vice President and has become a home of civic engagement. In this compelling session, Ryan Wilson explores why business leaders must also be community leaders. Sharing his own journey through public service, nonprofit work, and community investment, Ryan makes a clear case: civic engagement isn’t optional—it’s a responsibility.
Takeaways:
Ryan Wilson is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics such as How Resilience Builds What the World Hasn’t Seen Yet, The Power of Real Connections: Why Authentic Relationships Are the Ultimate Advantage, Breaking Barriers Through Connection: The Art of Uniting People Across Divides, Building with Purpose: The Intersection of Profit and Social Good – Why Business Is a Catalyst for Change, Scaling on Purpose: Why We Must Focus on Scale—Not Just Start—in Business and Leading Where You Live: Why Civic Engagement Is a Leadership Imperative for Business Owners. The estimated speaking fee range to book Ryan Wilson for your event is $10,000 - $20,000. Ryan Wilson generally travels from Atlanta, GA, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Rohan Gilkes, Julia Collins, Nancy Twine, Zakiyyah Myers and Daymond John. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling Ryan Wilson for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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