Designer, Inventor, Keynote Speaker, & Disability Advocate
Ryan Hudson-Peralta is an internationally recognized designer, inventor, keynote speaker, and passionate disability advocate. His journey has been one of overcoming challenges, breaking barriers, and proving that nothing is impossible with determination and creativity. Here’s a deeper look into Ryan’s life, work, and mission.
Early Life & Education
Ryan was born in Detroit, Michigan, missing hands and with short legs. Despite these physical challenges, his parents and family treated him like any other kid, instilling in him a strong sense of independence and resilience. From a young age, he was determined to do everything his peers did, albeit in his unique way.
He attended mainstream schools and was integrated into “regular classes”, which was not common for children with disabilities at the time. This integration was crucial for his development, as it taught him to navigate a world not always designed for people like him. Ryan learned early on that adaptation and innovation were key to his success.
The Journey to Becoming a Designer
Ryan’s passion for design began in his teenage years. Fascinated by how things worked and driven by a desire to create, he started exploring graphic design. In 1995, he began his professional journey as a web designer, quickly making a name for himself with his unique perspective and innovative approach.
As a user interface designer, Ryan has worked on hundreds of projects, creating accessible and user-friendly interfaces that cater to a diverse audience. His work spans various industries, from technology to fashion, and he has had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most forward-thinking companies in the world.
Inventor & Entrepreneur
In addition to his design work, Ryan is an inventor with a passion for creating products that make life easier for people with disabilities. One of his proudest creations is the DoorNub, a patented product designed to help individuals in wheelchairs and those with mobility issues close doors without pulling the handle. This invention has been a game-changer in promoting independence and accessibility.
Ryan’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t stop at inventions. He founded Equal Accessibility, LLC, with his son, Noah, to help businesses enhance their accessibility efforts. Their consulting services range from comprehensive evaluations and strategic recommendations to practical solutions that go beyond mere compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their goal is to create environments where everyone feels valued and included.
Social Media Influencer
Ryan is a well-known social media influencer who goes by the handle “LookMomNoHands,” where he showcases videos of himself overcoming everyday challenges without hands and shares his experiences to inspire others. These videos have garnered over 200+ million views across social media platforms, highlighting Ryan’s ability to resonate with and motivate a vast audience. Through this platform, he demonstrates that limitations are often self-imposed and that with creativity and perseverance, anyone can achieve more than they ever imagined.
In addition to his own content, Ryan has partnered with major brands such as McDonald’s, General Motors, Amazon, Lids, Rocket Mortgage, Zappos, and many others. Through these collaborations, he helps create inclusive and accessible content, promoting a message of diversity and innovation.
Family Life
Family is Ryan’s biggest support system and inspiration. He has been with his wife, Carrie, for over 20 years, and their enduring partnership has been a cornerstone of his personal and professional life. Their relationship, built on love, mutual respect, and unwavering support, has helped Ryan navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs that come with his unique journey. He is also a proud father, and his experiences as a parent have shaped his advocacy work. Raising children while navigating his own physical challenges has given him a unique perspective on the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in all aspects of life.
Disability Advocate
As a disability advocate, Ryan is committed to promoting accessibility and inclusivity. His work through Equal Accessibility, LLC, has been instrumental in helping businesses enhance their accessibility efforts. Their consulting services range from comprehensive evaluations and strategic recommendations to practical solutions that go beyond mere compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their goal is to create environments where everyone feels valued and included.
Keynote Speaker
Over the years, Ryan has become a sought-after keynote speaker, sharing his story and insights at conferences, schools, and corporate events worldwide. His talks cover a range of topics, including overcoming adversity, the importance of accessibility and inclusivity, and the power of innovation. Whether delivering a 30-minute keynote or engaging in a dynamic Q&A session, Ryan aims to inspire and motivate audiences to think differently and embrace the possibilities of a more inclusive world.
Mentoring & Community Involvement
Mentoring is another passion of Ryan’s. He works with children and adults across the United States who were born with limb differences, helping them navigate their challenges and achieve their goals. Through his mentoring work, Ryan strives to empower others to believe in themselves and realize that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.
Recognition & Media
Ryan’s work as a designer, inventor, and advocate has garnered significant recognition. He has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting his contributions to accessibility and his innovative approach to design. One notable mention was in Apple’s accessibility announcement, where his efforts in promoting inclusive design were recognized.
Connect with Ryan
Join Ryan on this journey. Follow his adventures on social media, where he shares videos, insights, and updates on his latest projects. Together, we can make a difference and create a more inclusive world for all.
