Ryan was born in the booming metropolis of Leeds and has called the Birmingham area home for most of his life. He and his wife, Laura, met sometime in elementary school, started dating in high school, graduated together from Auburn University, and were married in 2008. Ryan has a Master of Theological Studies from Beeson Divinity School and a Master of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Laura and Ryan have three children: Rose, Luke, and Ruth.

Prior to serving as the senior pastor, Ryan served as an associate pastor at Christ Fellowship Church in Homewood, AL. Here at Philadelphia, Ryan gives leadership to preaching and elder ministry. In his free time, Ryan loves spending time with his family going on a hike or bike ride, playing board games, or reading a good book.