Ryan
Cheng

Senior
Product
Designer
I design social platforms and creator tools from 0→1, focusing on engagement, retention, and sustainable monetization.
A little about me
I’m a product designer based in Irvine, California, specializing in early-stage and consumer-focused products. I’ve led design across mobile, desktop, and responsive web experiences for startups spanning creator platforms, social discovery, and habit-building tools.
Most recently, I was the founding designer at Grandist, where I defined the end-to-end product experience across iOS, mobile web, and desktop — including messaging, subscriptions, livestreaming, and creator monetization features. I work closely with founders and engineers to shape product direction, design systems, and UX strategy in ambiguous 0→1 environments.
Previously, I designed Tabi, a social app that turns saved posts into collaborative place lists, and Clubs, a goal-based group accountability app focused on habits and community. Across these projects, I’ve owned everything from concept and prototyping to design systems and shipped UI.
My approach blends systems thinking with visual craft: I care deeply about structure, clarity, and interaction details that make products feel intuitive and trustworthy.
Outside of work, I build creative tools and products with my wife Vanessa, and I’m often exploring photography, tennis, and physical product design.
My experience
Founding Product Designer — Grandist
Creator-fan platform · iOS, web
Led end-to-end product design across messaging, subscriptions, livestreaming, and creator tools.
Product Designer — Tabi
Social place discovery app
Designed collaborative saving, mapping, and list-based UX for travel and local discovery.
Product Designer — Clubs
Habit and accountability app
Designed group goal tracking and progress-sharing experiences.