Ryan Mapes

Ryan Mapes is the Co-Founder and CEO of Release, a multifamily finance and banking platform that offers working capital without adding debt, modern multifamily banking, and expert bookkeeping/tax services for real estate investors.

With over 15 years of experience, Ryan has a track record of leading growth strategy and execution for early-stage, high-growth startups, specializing in two-sided marketplaces. He notably led growth at BlackBird, which was later acquired by Surf Air, and other successful venture-backed startups such as StyleSeat, Hired.com, Bloc.io, and Movoto.com.

Currently, Ryan provides growth consulting services to startups and is an active angel investor in companies like Bungalow, Publicist, Kyte, and others. He is known for leading marketing budgets exceeding $10 million, driving user acquisition efforts, and building multi-million dollar revenue lines from scratch.

Ryan's expertise lies in growth strategy, growth marketing, product management, user acquisition, and two-sided marketplaces. He is recognized for his product innovation, cross-functional team leadership, and creating lasting products from conception to launch.

Outside of work, Ryan enjoys world travel, having explored regions across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. He is also a private pilot with an instrument rating, passionate about flying whenever possible. Ryan studied Finance and Transportation & Logistics at The Ohio State University and has held various leadership roles in organizations like Release, Hustle Fund, ArtistOnGo, and others.