Learning - The Ryan Method

I’ve learned almost everything in my life through trial and error. I’ve been lucky, stubborn, and somewhat fearless, learning by trying, then pivoting as needed. I’ve always called this the "Ryan Rumba" method: Hit a wall, then turn.

Underlying that movement is a never-ending compulsion to ask one question: What can I do better?

From a young age, I understood I needed to circumvent "the box" entirely. My creative flow state is at its peak when I’m problem-solving. While I’ve held traditional jobs here and there (paychecks really are a nice thing), for the most part, I’ve innovated my income by trying things on to see what works.

The Track Record

Years back, I built a six-figure business selling $10 items on Etsy. To grow, I had to master the mechanics of visibility. That experience led to teaching branding and marketing to other sellers, both online and in person at Etsy HQ.

But as my online presence grew, the physical world started calling. I realized I didn’t want to spend my life behind a computer screen stressing over views, sales, and reviews. So, I did something bold: I sold my business (on Etsy, no less) and headed out into the real world to do art shows.

The 14-Year Pivot

While I stepped away from the "consultant" spotlight to focus on my art, my skills grew tenfold over the next 14 years. I was navigating real-world constraints, dealing with the million job titles you need when you make what you sell, and learning what actually makes a business move.

Those years sharpened my thinking more than any formal role ever could. Today, I have the confidence that comes from real experience, not theory. I really do know what I’m talking about.

The New Chapter

I am now transitioning from artist and business owner to consultant and business advisor. It’s a new world, crowded with "experts" for every niche, and I am relatively unknown outside the art world.

So, in true Rumba fashion, I am "trying things on." I’m hosting workshops at art museums, joining networking groups, and writing about the journey. My goal isn't to be a generic advisor; it’s to work with honest people who understand that vulnerability creates the deepest connections. In my experience, those connections are exactly what lead to fruitful, sustainable business.

Stay Tuned

Stay tuned for more on this journey, come to a workshop, or hit me up for a conversation about what 22 years in so many industries has taught me and how it can help you.

Ryan