Athletes and entrepreneurs share a common thread—the relentless pursuit of excellence. Both push past obstacles, adapt to challenges, and stay focused on their goals. Ryan Kelly embodies this mindset. What began as a passion for competition evolved into a thriving business built on grit, discipline, and determination.

At Mendocino College, Ryan played football, navigating triumphs and setbacks. He suffered 13 concussions and a devastating knee injury that ended his time on the field. Where others saw an ending, he saw opportunity. Forced to step away from football, he turned to endurance racing. Between 2012 and 2016, he competed in grueling 50Ks and mountain races, including the Colorado West. His biggest test came at the Spartan Race World Championship 50K Ultra Marathon in Lake Tahoe—a brutal challenge that pushed him beyond his limits and proved perseverance wasn’t just for competition but for life.

That same resilience shaped his next chapter. While working as a server at Dust Bowl Brewing in Turlock, he met Lael—the woman who would become his wife. As they built a life together and welcomed their first son, Maverick (8), Ryan made a strategic shift. Leaving sponsored running, he turned to an industry he knew well. His foundation in construction began in high school, working summers in the trade. In college, he expanded his skills as a ranch hand and handyman, laying the groundwork for his entrepreneurial leap.

In 2020, Ryan founded KHB Construction, the first of four businesses in his growing portfolio. His goal: streamline the design-build process, ensuring high-quality, custom construction without industry inefficiencies. More than craftsmanship, he wanted to change the culture.

“We aren’t reliant on subs or supply chains—only ourselves,” Ryan says. “I saw firsthand how employees are treated. It’s a ‘show up, quit, or be fired’ environment, and I wanted to change that. We prioritize inclusivity and financial rewards. Transparency is key.”

By maintaining operational independence, KHB eliminates delays and frustrating change orders, turning a stressful process into one clients actually enjoy. Their meticulous attention to detail sets them apart.

As KHB grew, so did Ryan’s vision. He expanded into three sister companies, each serving a different construction need. His first strategic move? Hiring Charles Sexton as marketing director and David Bonnell as videographer—key to KHB’s rapid visibility and growth. Recognizing potential beyond construction, Ryan launched Moonbound Marketing, a full-service agency specializing in SEO, PPC, reporting, and pixel tracking. Just as he optimized construction, he applied the same results-driven approach to marketing.

Next came KHB Flooring, offering carpet cleaning, hardwood refinishing, and installation. As with KHB Construction, the focus remained on craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and seamless execution.

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“Client satisfaction isn’t the priority in this industry—at least, not for most. You see terrible change orders and massive delays. I’m passionate about the process from start to finish. We don’t do quick-flip remodels for a fast sale. We work with homeowners who trust us to bring their vision to life. Residential construction impacts lives in an intimate way. This is their home. That’s what I love about it.”

Most recently, in January 2024, Ryan expanded again, acquiring Tribute Tile and Stone, which led to the launch of HomeTown Tile and Stone—solidifying KHB’s home base in Ripon and expanding its services.

Amid business growth, the Kelly family has also grown. Ryan and Lael now have three sons—Maverick, Ryder (7), and Colt (5)—who love caring for their small herd of goats. Lael, now KHB’s financial controller, recently took on a community leadership role as a judge for the Almond Blossom Queen pageant. The Kellys and KHB remain active with the Ripon Chamber of Commerce, giving back to the community that continues to support their success.

Ryan Kelly proves that lessons from endurance sports extend beyond the finish line. Whether in athletics or business, true success isn’t just reaching a goal—it’s having the perseverance to keep moving forward and the people cheering you on along the way.