Ryan Wilson

Ryan Wilson Speaking Topics

• How Resilience Builds What the World Hasn’t Seen Yet

  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:

  • Understand how resilience and optimism are key drivers of long-term success.
  • Learn how to navigate rejection and use it as fuel to sharpen your vision.
  • Discover the power of community in building brands that outlast adversity.
  • Gain insight into how seemingly impossible circumstances can be the spark for breakthrough innovation.
  • Leave inspired to lead with conviction, even when the world says “no.”

• The Power of Real Connections: Why Authentic Relationships Are the Ultimate Advantage

  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:

  • Learn the difference between transactional networking and authentic relationship-building.
  • Understand how deep connections can drive long-term business growth and personal fulfillment.
  • Explore how to build a values-driven ecosystem of partners, collaborators, and supporters.
  • Gain practical insights on nurturing community in a fast-paced, digital-first world.
  • Walk away inspired to lead with empathy, authenticity, and intentionality.

Breaking Barriers Through Connection: The Art of Uniting People Across Divides

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:

• How to build trust between groups with different lived experiences -The art of curating space where everyone feels seen and valued -Why connection is a leadership skill that breaks barriers
• Real stories of transformation through intentional collaboration

Building with Purpose: The Intersection of Profit and Social Good – Why Business Is a Catalyst for Change

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:

• Embedding purpose into every part of the business model
• Lessons from navigating high-stakes ownership transitions
• Balancing social impact with investor expectations
• How to lead with authenticity while scaling your enterprise

Scaling on Purpose: Why We Must Focus on Scale—Not Just Start—in Business

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

Leading Where You Live: Why Civic Engagement Is a Leadership Imperative for Business Owners

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:

• Why every leader should be civically engaged—and how to start
• The intersection of business, activism, and policy
• Using your platform to advocate for equity and opportunity
• How to lead with service and create impact beyond your business