From Pixels to Punk
Ryan McDonald: Building, Breaking, and Rebuilding Bette
Oct 7, 2024
2 min read
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Imagine starting out in the trenches of a Network Operations Center, wrangling the chaos of early VOIP, then climbing into the world of product innovation. That’s me. Product Manager. Innovator. Mentor. A guy who thrives at the messy intersection of technology and humanity.
Let’s cut the buzzwords. I build stuff that works. I’ve launched OTT platforms, led game streaming before it had a name, and tackled AI-powered security. I thrive on turning ambiguity into clarity and taking ideas from 0-to-1 while scaling them into something that actually matters. At ESPN, I led the first industry-wide conversion from Adobe Player to JavaScript, unlocking live ad integration for millions. At Cognizant, I helped deliver a COVID-19 rapid testing population management platform and pitched "Product Management as a Service" securing a few wins against major consulting firms.
But here’s the thing, I’m not only about the technology!
I’m a lifelong learner, a mentor and a punk at heart. I grew up and saw over 1,000 live shows, picked up a guitar and later learned drums.
Why? Because rhythm is harder than it looks.
Leadership to me isn’t about ego. It’s about showing up, taking the hits and helping others find their way. Whether I’m coaching someone into their next promotion, guiding a team through a high-stakes launch or just having a real no-BS conversation about growth. I’m here to push people forward.
If you’re looking for someone who sees the world not as it is but as it could be, let’s connect. No fluff. No pretense. Just real conversations about building, learning and making an impact.
📅 Book a time to chat: https://calendly.com/ryan-mcdonald-us/introduction-call
Hi Ryan, I really appreciate the transparency and creativity you've infused into your website. Sharing your resume in such a dynamic and personal way speaks volumes about your passion and unique approach. It’s inspiring to see someone embrace both the professional and artistic sides of their personality so seamlessly. Your journey from pixels to punk is not just intriguing but a testament to the power of blending skills with individuality. Wishing you continued success in all your creative endeavors!
Rock on, bro!