Meet Ryon Gross | Founder/CEO

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryon Gross and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ryon, how do you think about risk?
Owning a business and making decisions that impact employees and their families inherently involves a great deal of risk. At Local Leap, that risk is amplified as we manage the marketing efforts for over 1,000 local businesses, where our strategies can significantly influence their success.

I’ve always embraced an entrepreneurial mindset and never shied away from taking calculated risks when I believe in the potential upside. It’s about weighing the potential rewards against the potential downsides and having the confidence to move forward. I think a positive mindset and optimism play a crucial role in navigating those risks.

In my experience, some of the most significant breakthroughs and accomplishments have come from taking bold steps and stepping outside of my comfort zone. Of course, not every risk pays off, but the lessons learned from those experiences are invaluable and ultimately contribute to future growth and success.

Ultimately, I believe that a willingness to embrace risk, coupled with a strategic and informed approach, is essential for any entrepreneur or business leader who wants to make a meaningful impact.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The journey to where we are today was anything but easy. In 2013, I took a leap of faith and turned my marketing side hustle into a full-time business called Local Leap Marketing. With a newborn son and my wife bravely becoming a stay-at-home mom, the pressure was immense. Our new business was our sole income source, and the challenges were constant.

I vividly remember working until midnight, six to seven days a week, for almost a year, just to get things off the ground. There were countless milestones along the way where I’d think, “This is it, I don’t know how we can possibly take on anymore clients.” But each time, we found a way. We’d either hire someone new or re-evaluate our processes to become more efficient.

Every year, we’ve discovered innovative ways to leverage technology and streamline our operations. We’re constantly seeking opportunities to add more value to the services we offer our clients, and this approach has been instrumental in our continued growth.

But I couldn’t have done it without the unwavering support of my wife. Her belief in me and her willingness to sacrifice alongside me fueled my determination to make this venture a success.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d kick off their trip with a true Texas welcome: a feast at Hutchins BBQ, where the brisket is legendary. We’d check out a game or two watching the Texas Longhorns, Cowboys, or FC Dallas. North Dallas offers endless options for dining and entertainment, so we’d explore some hidden gems there. But the highlight would be escaping for a few days in East Texas. There’s nothing quite like introducing someone to life without visible neighbors. Spending some time fishing, hitting the trails, and telling old stories around the bonfire. That kind of peaceful, unplugged experience is something you just can’t replicate in the city, and it’s the perfect way to recharge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Without a doubt, I want to dedicate this shoutout to my Mom. She embodied everything you’d envision a Texas woman to be – strong, loving, and possessing an incredible work ethic. I have vivid memories from my childhood of her working all day, only to come home and dive into one of her many side ventures. She was a constant wellspring of ideas, always exploring ways to generate extra income and fuel her hobbies.

What amazed me most was that she never seemed to fail. Every business idea she pursued turned a profit, and she genuinely loved the process of building something from the ground up. I believe that’s where my own passion for entrepreneurship stems from – watching her create and succeed.

Losing her last December was incredibly difficult, and this past year has been tough without her. But I’m fortunate enough to recognize the immense support she provided throughout my life, shaping me into the person I am today. You couldn’t ask for a greater gift than that.

Website: https://ryongross.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryonwithano/