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    <title><![CDATA[Rad Grads Podcast]]></title>
    <description><![CDATA[<div>Welcome to the Rad Grads Podcast, where we spotlight the incredible journeys of U.S. Service Academy graduates who have successfully transitioned from distinguished military service to thriving civilian careers. Each episode, we dive into the stories of these remarkable individuals as they navigate the challenges of leaving the uniform behind and embrace new opportunities in industries ranging from business and technology to the arts and public service.</div><div><br>Through candid conversations, we uncover the skills, experiences, and values that have propelled these leaders to excel beyond their time in the armed forces. Whether you're a Service Academy grad considering your next chapter, a veteran exploring civilian career options, or simply inspired by stories of resilience and transformation, Rad Grads offers valuable insights and motivation for your own journey.</div><div><br>Join us as we celebrate the unique achievements of those who have worn the uniform with honor and now make their mark in the civilian world. Tune in to the Rad Grads Podcast—where military roots meet civilian triumphs.</div>]]></description>
    <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Welcome to the Rad Grads Podcast, where we spotlight the incredible journeys of U.S. Service Academy graduates who have successfully transitioned from distinguished military service to thriving civilian careers. Each episode, we dive into the stories of these remarkable individuals as they navigate the challenges of leaving the uniform behind and embrace new opportunities in industries ranging from business and technology to the arts and public service.</div><div><br>Through candid conversations, we uncover the skills, experiences, and values that have propelled these leaders to excel beyond their time in the armed forces. Whether you're a Service Academy grad considering your next chapter, a veteran exploring civilian career options, or simply inspired by stories of resilience and transformation, Rad Grads offers valuable insights and motivation for your own journey.</div><div><br>Join us as we celebrate the unique achievements of those who have worn the uniform with honor and now make their mark in the civilian world. Tune in to the Rad Grads Podcast—where military roots meet civilian triumphs.</div>]]></content:encoded>
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    <itunes:author><![CDATA[CJ Thomsen]]></itunes:author>
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      <itunes:name><![CDATA[CJ Thomsen]]></itunes:name>
      <itunes:email><![CDATA[radgrad@allthomsen.com]]></itunes:email>
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    <itunes:type><![CDATA[episodic]]></itunes:type>
    <itunes:keywords><![CDATA[USAFA, USNA, USA, USCGA, USMMA, Service Academy, Officer, Military, Air Force, Navy, Army, Marines, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, Leader, VA, Military,]]></itunes:keywords>
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      <title><![CDATA[01. Prologue - What is Rad Grads?]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Tue, 04 Feb 2025 20:03:53 -0700</pubDate>
      <description>If you are catching us at the beginning or this is your first time listening to us and want to know what we are all about, check out this quick introduction.Rad Grads interviews U.S. Service Academy graduates from all five Service Academies that have graduated, served, and transitioned to the civilian sector. Listen in to hear their amazing stories and just maybe you'll leave feeling inspired and motivated.&amp;nbsp;Your Host, CJ Thomsen, is a United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2008 graduate who went on to serve in the Active Duty Air Force as a C-130 H/J Instructor and Evaluator pilot and now in the Reserves as an Air Force Academy Admissions Liaison Officer. CJ presently flies the Airbus 320 for a commercial airline and is a Residential Mortgage Loan Originator.&amp;nbsp;Like, Subscribe and Follow for new episode notifications.&amp;nbsp;E-mail: Radgrad@allthomsen.com</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>If you are catching us at the beginning or this is your first time listening to us and want to know what we are all about, check out this quick introduction.<br><br>Rad Grads interviews U.S. Service Academy graduates from all five Service Academies that have graduated, served, and transitioned to the civilian sector. Listen in to hear their amazing stories and just maybe you'll leave feeling inspired and motivated.&nbsp;<br><br>Your Host, CJ Thomsen, is a United States Air Force Academy, Class of 2008 graduate who went on to serve in the Active Duty Air Force as a C-130 H/J Instructor and Evaluator pilot and now in the Reserves as an Air Force Academy Admissions Liaison Officer. CJ presently flies the Airbus 320 for a commercial airline and is a Residential Mortgage Loan Originator.&nbsp;<br><br>Like, Subscribe and Follow for new episode notifications.&nbsp;<br><br>E-mail: Radgrad@allthomsen.com<br><br></div>]]></content:encoded>
      <itunes:duration>99</itunes:duration>
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      <itunes:keywords><![CDATA[USAFA, USNA, USCG, USA, USMM, Service Academies, Military, Officer, VA, Veteran, Leader,]]></itunes:keywords>
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      <title><![CDATA[02. Jimmy Chad Smith, USAFA '08, Owner/Operator - The Laundromat, Fort Walton Beach, FL]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:52:23 -0600</pubDate>
      <description>Jimmy Chad Smith graduated from the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2008. He Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and went on to be an Aircraft Maintenance OIC serving multiple assignments and deployments for 11 years on Active Duty before his transition to the civilian world.&amp;nbsp;Listen in, as we embark upon Jimmy's journey from his early years before the Academy to his new career as Owner/Operator of the Laundromat - Fort Walton Beach, FL.TimelineJimmy's Bio - 1:23Why Serve? - 3:03Challenges to Getting in - 5:40Inspiration - 9:34I-Day Experience - 13:33Were you prepared? - 19:13D-1 Football - 23:52Infamous "Apple" Prank - 25:54USAFA Graduation - 33:302d Lt Smith - 37:30Deployment - 58:11Transition from Active Duty to Real Estate - 1:08:38Fears &amp;amp; Advice for trading in the Uniform - 1:14:16The Laundromat Business - 1:24:45The Financial Numbers - 1:37:40Advice for Entrepreneurs - 1:44:27Rapid Fire Questions - 1:55:50Email: RadGrad@allthomsen.com</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>Jimmy Chad Smith graduated from the United States Air Force Academy Class of 2008. He Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant and went on to be an Aircraft Maintenance OIC serving multiple assignments and deployments for 11 years on Active Duty before his transition to the civilian world.&nbsp;<br><br>Listen in, as we embark upon Jimmy's journey from his early years before the Academy to his new career as Owner/Operator of the Laundromat - Fort Walton Beach, FL.<br><br>Timeline<br>Jimmy's Bio - 1:23<br>Why Serve? - 3:03<br>Challenges to Getting in - 5:40<br>Inspiration - 9:34<br>I-Day Experience - 13:33<br>Were you prepared? - 19:13<br>D-1 Football - 23:52<br>Infamous "Apple" Prank - 25:54<br>USAFA Graduation - 33:30<br>2d Lt Smith - 37:30<br>Deployment - 58:11<br>Transition from Active Duty to Real Estate - 1:08:38<br>Fears &amp; Advice for trading in the Uniform - 1:14:16<br>The Laundromat Business - 1:24:45<br>The Financial Numbers - 1:37:40<br>Advice for Entrepreneurs - 1:44:27<br>Rapid Fire Questions - 1:55:50<br><br>Email: RadGrad@allthomsen.com</div>]]></content:encoded>
      <itunes:duration>7558</itunes:duration>
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      <itunes:keywords><![CDATA[USAFA, USNA, USMA, USGA, USMMA, US Service Academies, Academy Graduate, Military Transition, Realtor, Entrepreneur, The Laundromat - Fort Walton Beach]]></itunes:keywords>
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      <title><![CDATA[03. Marty Medve, USNA '85, Naval Aviator & Broker/Owner of Trident Home Loans]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Tue, 20 May 2025 17:01:46 -0600</pubDate>
      <description>Marty Medve grew up in Pueblo, Colorado, and graduated from Centennial High School in 1980. He went on to attend the Naval Academy Preparatory School, followed by the U.S. Naval Academy and graduated with the Class of 1985.&amp;nbsp;Listen in, as we embark upon Marty's journey from his early years before the Academy to his new career as Delta Air Lines Captain and owning and operating Trident Home Loans.Episode Timeline:00 - Highlights:55 - Intro1:52 - Marty's Bio4:14 - Early Years10:11 - USNA13:26 - Pilot Training19:10 - EA-6Bs Combat Aviator&amp;nbsp;35:06 - A-4 Instructor35:46 - Military Transition to Civilian40:09 - Delta Air Lines48:28 - Break49:54 - Trident Home Loans1:31:45 - Rapid Fire Questions1:38:39&amp;nbsp; - ShoutoutsEmail: radgrad@allthomsen.com</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div><strong>Marty Medve</strong> grew up in <strong>Pueblo, Colorado</strong>, and graduated from <strong>Centennial High School</strong> in 1980. He went on to attend the <strong>Naval Academy Preparatory School</strong>, followed by the <strong>U.S. Naval Academy</strong> and graduated with the Class of <strong>1985</strong>.&nbsp;<br><br></div><div>Listen in, as we embark upon Marty's journey from his early years before the Academy to his new career as Delta Air Lines Captain and owning and operating Trident Home Loans.<br><br>Episode Timeline:<br>00 - Highlights<br>:55 - Intro<br>1:52 - Marty's Bio<br>4:14 - Early Years<br>10:11 - USNA<br>13:26 - Pilot Training<br>19:10 - EA-6Bs Combat Aviator&nbsp;<br>35:06 - A-4 Instructor<br>35:46 - Military Transition to Civilian<br>40:09 - Delta Air Lines<br>48:28 - Break<br>49:54 - Trident Home Loans<br>1:31:45 - Rapid Fire Questions<br>1:38:39&nbsp; - Shoutouts<br><br>Email: radgrad@allthomsen.com</div>]]></content:encoded>
      <itunes:duration>6226</itunes:duration>
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      <title><![CDATA[04. Col (Ret) Michelle Ruehl, PhD, USAFA ’03, Pilot, White House Fellow/Speechwriter, Life Coach, D-11 School Board Candidate]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:43:44 -0600</pubDate>
      <description>In this episode of the Rad Grads Podcast, we sit down with retired Air Force Colonel Michelle Ruehl, PhD—a combat pilot, professor, White House fellow, and now community leader. From flying C-130s and MC-12s in Afghanistan to shaping national defense strategy at NORAD and advising two U.S. presidents, Michelle’s career is a powerful testament to resilience, service, and leadership.She shares her journey from being inspired by her grandfather’s World War II stories, to overcoming setbacks on her path to the Air Force Academy, to serving in combat and later guiding policy at the highest levels of government. We also dive into her experiences mentoring future leaders, her humanitarian work, and her perspective on Afghanistan and leadership beyond the military.This is an inspiring conversation filled with lessons on persistence, purpose, and service to others.📌 Episode Timeline00:00 – Introduction Welcome to Episode 4 of the Rad Grads Podcast and introduction of guest, Colonel (Ret.) Michelle Ruehl.02:30 – Early Inspiration Michelle reflects on her grandfather’s influence, aviation dreams, and first steps toward the Academy.07:00 – The Academy Journey From rejection to acceptance, ROTC experiences, and the challenges of in-processing day (“I-Day”) and basic training.15:00 – Academic Path &amp;amp; Service Commitment Choosing English over engineering, the impact of 9/11 on her class, and the weight of commitment to serve.25:00 – Flight Training &amp;amp; Naval Flight School Transitioning to Pensacola, lessons from the Navy “Big Kid Program,” and discovering her passion for crew aircraft.35:00 – Deployments &amp;amp; the MC-12 Mission Flying reconnaissance in Afghanistan, tracking threats, supporting elections, and teaching Afghan students during deployments.50:00 – Reflections on Afghanistan Balancing the hope of progress with the reality of withdrawal, and the ongoing impact on veterans’ mental health.01:05:00 – White House Fellow &amp;amp; Leadership at the Highest Levels Advising during the Trump and Biden administrations, crisis communications during COVID, and being at the table during the Afghanistan withdrawal.01:20:00 – Service Beyond the Uniform Transition to reserve service, family life, nonprofit work, and candidacy for the Colorado Springs School Board.01:30:00 – Closing Thoughts Lessons on resilience, leadership, and why empowering the next generation matters.Email:Radgrad@allthomsen.comAdvertisement: 10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>In this episode of the <em>Rad Grads Podcast</em>, we sit down with retired Air Force Colonel Michelle Ruehl, PhD—a combat pilot, professor, White House fellow, and now community leader. From flying C-130s and MC-12s in Afghanistan to shaping national defense strategy at NORAD and advising two U.S. presidents, Michelle’s career is a powerful testament to resilience, service, and leadership.</div><div>She shares her journey from being inspired by her grandfather’s World War II stories, to overcoming setbacks on her path to the Air Force Academy, to serving in combat and later guiding policy at the highest levels of government. We also dive into her experiences mentoring future leaders, her humanitarian work, and her perspective on Afghanistan and leadership beyond the military.</div><div>This is an inspiring conversation filled with lessons on persistence, purpose, and service to others.</div><div><strong><br>📌 Episode Timeline</strong></div><div><strong>00:00 – Introduction</strong><br> Welcome to Episode 4 of the <em>Rad Grads Podcast</em> and introduction of guest, Colonel (Ret.) Michelle Ruehl.<br><strong>02:30 – Early Inspiration</strong><br> Michelle reflects on her grandfather’s influence, aviation dreams, and first steps toward the Academy.<br><strong>07:00 – The Academy Journey</strong><br> From rejection to acceptance, ROTC experiences, and the challenges of in-processing day (“I-Day”) and basic training.<br><strong>15:00 – Academic Path &amp; Service Commitment</strong><br> Choosing English over engineering, the impact of 9/11 on her class, and the weight of commitment to serve.<br><strong>25:00 – Flight Training &amp; Naval Flight School</strong><br> Transitioning to Pensacola, lessons from the Navy “Big Kid Program,” and discovering her passion for crew aircraft.<br><strong>35:00 – Deployments &amp; the MC-12 Mission</strong><br> Flying reconnaissance in Afghanistan, tracking threats, supporting elections, and teaching Afghan students during deployments.<br><strong>50:00 – Reflections on Afghanistan</strong><br> Balancing the hope of progress with the reality of withdrawal, and the ongoing impact on veterans’ mental health.<br><strong>01:05:00 – White House Fellow &amp; Leadership at the Highest Levels</strong><br> Advising during the Trump and Biden administrations, crisis communications during COVID, and being at the table during the Afghanistan withdrawal.<br><strong>01:20:00 – Service Beyond the Uniform</strong><br> Transition to reserve service, family life, nonprofit work, and candidacy for the Colorado Springs School Board.<br><strong>01:30:00 – Closing Thoughts</strong><br> Lessons on resilience, leadership, and why empowering the next generation matters.<br><br>Email:Radgrad@allthomsen.com<br><br>Advertisement: 10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</div>]]></content:encoded>
      <itunes:duration>6723</itunes:duration>
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      <itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode>
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      <itunes:keywords><![CDATA[USAFA, USNA, USMA, USGA, USMMA, US Service Academies, Academy Graduate, Military Transition, Entrepreneur, Air Force, Pilot, Female Aviator, Life Coach, Speech Writer, White House Fellow, D-11 School Board]]></itunes:keywords>
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      <title><![CDATA[05. Alexander Layendecker, PhD, USAFA ’08, HH-60G Pilot, Director/Founder ASRI]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:41:57 -0700</pubDate>
      <description>In this episode of the Rad Grads Podcast, CJ sits down with Dr. Alexander Layendecker, a 2008 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, whose career has spanned space operations, combat rescue aviation, and groundbreaking academic research. After initially being turned down by the Academy, Alex attended the New Mexico Military Institute on a Falcon Scholarship—an experience he credits with maturing him and sharpening his leadership skills before entering USAFA. He shares candid reflections on basic training, academic missteps, and lessons in time management, along with his perseverance through medical disqualification from pilot training due to vision issues. Determined to fly, Alex later underwent PRK surgery, transitioned to the reserves, and ultimately earned his wings as an HH-60G rescue helicopter pilot, deploying to places like Somalia and flying hurricane and medical rescue missions—all while balancing an intense academic journey that included earning multiple advanced degrees.Beyond his military service, Dr. Layendecker has become a leading voice in the emerging field of human reproduction and sexuality in space. With a doctorate in Human Sexuality focusing on Astrosexological Research, he founded the Advanced Space Life Research Institute (ASRI) to tackle one of humanity’s most complex frontiers: enabling safe, multi-generational life beyond Earth. In the episode, he explores the biological challenges of pregnancy and child development in space—from radiation exposure to microgravity—and outlines ASRI’s bold goal of achieving the first full human pregnancy in space by 2055. The conversation blends leadership, resilience, science, and vision, showcasing Alex’s unique journey from cadet to combat rescue pilot to pioneering space researcher determined to help shape humanity’s future among the stars.🎙 Episode Timeline00:00 – Space Career and Research Journey&amp;nbsp;Dr. Layendecker’s background, USAFA graduation (2008), space operations, HH-60G pilot experience, and introduction to his academic work and ASRI.10:42 – Alternative Path to the Air Force Academy&amp;nbsp;Falcon Scholarship, New Mexico Military Institute experience, and lessons learned before entering USAFA.18:35 – Air Force Academy Training Experiences&amp;nbsp;Prep school, iDay, basic training, Jack’s Valley, obstacle course, and early cadet life.28:10 – Academic Planning and Time Management&amp;nbsp;Freshman year struggles, major selection reflections, and advice for cadets on maximizing Academy opportunities.36:50 – Overcoming Vision Challenges in Aviation&amp;nbsp;Medical disqualification, PRK surgery, transition to the reserves, and persistence in pursuing pilot training.46:15 – A Captain’s Journey Through Pilot Training&amp;nbsp;IFT, UPT, personal challenges, aircraft transition struggles, and SERE training experience.58:40 – Leadership Lessons in Pilot Training&amp;nbsp;Serving as Senior Ranking Officer (SRO), managing 60 peers, earning trust, and leadership growth.1:09:25 – HH-60G Helicopter Training and Rescue Missions&amp;nbsp;60 pipeline at Kirtland AFB, 301st Rescue Squadron, hurricane missions, medical rescues, and Somalia deployment.1:21:10 – From Military Pilot to Academic Researcher&amp;nbsp;Master’s in Public Health, dual doctorates, dissertation on sex and space, and balancing academia with military service.1:34:30 – The Challenges of Human Reproduction in Space&amp;nbsp;Radiation, microgravity, fetal development concerns, and the biological barriers to multi-generational space settlement.1:46:05 – The Space Pregnancy Research Initiative and the Future of Humanity&amp;nbsp;Founding ASRI, the 2055 full human pregnancy goal, research roadmap, funding challenges, and vision for humanity’s future in space.Email:Radgrad@allthomsen.com&amp;nbsp;Advertisement:&amp;nbsp;TryHolo -- hololtuab.sjv.io/radgrad &amp;nbsp;10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>In this episode of the Rad Grads Podcast, CJ sits down with Dr. Alexander Layendecker, a 2008 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, whose career has spanned space operations, combat rescue aviation, and groundbreaking academic research. After initially being turned down by the Academy, Alex attended the New Mexico Military Institute on a Falcon Scholarship—an experience he credits with maturing him and sharpening his leadership skills before entering USAFA. He shares candid reflections on basic training, academic missteps, and lessons in time management, along with his perseverance through medical disqualification from pilot training due to vision issues. Determined to fly, Alex later underwent PRK surgery, transitioned to the reserves, and ultimately earned his wings as an HH-60G rescue helicopter pilot, deploying to places like Somalia and flying hurricane and medical rescue missions—all while balancing an intense academic journey that included earning multiple advanced degrees.</div><div><br>Beyond his military service, Dr. Layendecker has become a leading voice in the emerging field of human reproduction and sexuality in space. With a doctorate in Human Sexuality focusing on Astrosexological Research, he founded the Advanced Space Life Research Institute (ASRI) to tackle one of humanity’s most complex frontiers: enabling safe, multi-generational life beyond Earth. In the episode, he explores the biological challenges of pregnancy and child development in space—from radiation exposure to microgravity—and outlines ASRI’s bold goal of achieving the first full human pregnancy in space by 2055. The conversation blends leadership, resilience, science, and vision, showcasing Alex’s unique journey from cadet to combat rescue pilot to pioneering space researcher determined to help shape humanity’s future among the stars.<br><br><strong>🎙 Episode Timeline<br></strong><br></div><div><strong>00:00 – Space Career and Research Journey<br>&nbsp;Dr. Layendecker’s background, USAFA graduation (2008), space operations, HH-60G pilot experience, and introduction to his academic work and ASRI.</strong></div><div><br><strong>10:42 – Alternative Path to the Air Force Academy<br>&nbsp;Falcon Scholarship, New Mexico Military Institute experience, and lessons learned before entering USAFA.</strong></div><div><br><strong>18:35 – Air Force Academy Training Experiences<br>&nbsp;Prep school, iDay, basic training, Jack’s Valley, obstacle course, and early cadet life.</strong></div><div><br><strong>28:10 – Academic Planning and Time Management<br>&nbsp;Freshman year struggles, major selection reflections, and advice for cadets on maximizing Academy opportunities.</strong></div><div><br><strong>36:50 – Overcoming Vision Challenges in Aviation<br>&nbsp;Medical disqualification, PRK surgery, transition to the reserves, and persistence in pursuing pilot training.</strong></div><div><br><strong>46:15 – A Captain’s Journey Through Pilot Training<br>&nbsp;IFT, UPT, personal challenges, aircraft transition struggles, and SERE training experience.</strong></div><div><br><strong>58:40 – Leadership Lessons in Pilot Training<br>&nbsp;Serving as Senior Ranking Officer (SRO), managing 60 peers, earning trust, and leadership growth.</strong></div><div><br><strong>1:09:25 – HH-60G Helicopter Training and Rescue Missions<br>&nbsp;60 pipeline at Kirtland AFB, 301st Rescue Squadron, hurricane missions, medical rescues, and Somalia deployment.</strong></div><div><br><strong>1:21:10 – From Military Pilot to Academic Researcher<br>&nbsp;Master’s in Public Health, dual doctorates, dissertation on sex and space, and balancing academia with military service.</strong></div><div><br><strong>1:34:30 – The Challenges of Human Reproduction in Space<br>&nbsp;Radiation, microgravity, fetal development concerns, and the biological barriers to multi-generational space settlement.</strong></div><div><br><strong>1:46:05 – The Space Pregnancy Research Initiative and the Future of Humanity<br>&nbsp;Founding ASRI, the 2055 full human pregnancy goal, research roadmap, funding challenges, and vision for humanity’s future in space.</strong></div><div><br><strong>Email:</strong></div><div>Radgrad@allthomsen.com<br>&nbsp;<br><strong>Advertisement:</strong>&nbsp;</div><div>TryHolo -- hololtuab.sjv.io/radgrad &nbsp;</div><div>10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</div>]]></content:encoded>
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      <title><![CDATA[06. Lt Col (Ret) David Befort, USAFA ’03, A-10 Pilot, Infinite Banking, CEO of CoSpark]]></title>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 20 May 2026 12:50:56 -0600</pubDate>
      <description>On this episode of the RadGrads Podcast, CJ Thomsen sits down with retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and A-10 combat pilot David Befort for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, military service, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.&amp;nbsp;David shares the story of growing up in small-town Kansas, discovering the Air Force Academy as a teenager, and overcoming setbacks—including vision limitations that initially kept him from receiving a direct appointment. From the Prep School to pilot training, David reflects on the mindset that carried him through adversity, including injuries, family hardships, and the intense demands of cadet life during the post-9/11 era.The conversation dives deep into David’s operational Air Force career flying the legendary A-10 Warthog in combat over Afghanistan, where he discusses close air support, deployment experiences, and the lessons combat taught him about humility, confidence, and leadership under pressure.But David’s journey didn’t end in uniform. After leaving active duty, he transitioned into corporate America, real estate investing, commercial aviation, and eventually financial education and entrepreneurship. David opens up about the 2008 financial crisis, how it reshaped his thinking about money, and why he became passionate about the Infinite Banking Concept and building long-term financial strength outside traditional retirement models.Today, David is the co-founder and CEO of CoSpark, co-host of the Wealth Warehouse Podcast, and founder of the upcoming David Befort Show. This episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom for military members, aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, pilots, and anyone looking to take greater control of their future.Episode Timeline00:30 Introduction to David Beffert's Journey02:42 Early Aspirations and the Path to the Air Force Academy10:30 Experiences at the Prep School17:20 Challenges Faced During Cadet Life21:46 Deciding to Become a Pilot24:33 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Aspirations27:46 Pilot Training: The Journey Begins30:39 Navigating the Challenges of Pilot Training33:00 First Deployment: A Combat Experience37:42 Lessons from Combat: Confidence and Humility41:33 The 2008 Financial Crisis: A Military Perspective48:41 Deciding to Leave the Air Force: A Personal Journey53:19 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life59:11 Finding Fulfillment in New Career Paths01:05:31 The Infinite Banking Concept Explained01:11:23 Real Estate Ventures and Financial Independence01:17:30 Building a Business Around Financial Education01:23:31 Challenging Conventional Financial Wisdom01:26:39 The Banking System and Control of Capital01:32:55 The Importance of Financial Control01:37:51 Building a Community with CoSpark01:43:50 Launching the David Befort ShowEmail:Radgrad@allthomsen.com&amp;nbsp;&amp;nbsp;Advertisement:&amp;nbsp;10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</description>
      <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div>On this episode of the RadGrads Podcast, CJ Thomsen sits down with retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and A-10 combat pilot David Befort for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, military service, entrepreneurship, and financial independence.&nbsp;</div><div><br>David shares the story of growing up in small-town Kansas, discovering the Air Force Academy as a teenager, and overcoming setbacks—including vision limitations that initially kept him from receiving a direct appointment. From the Prep School to pilot training, David reflects on the mindset that carried him through adversity, including injuries, family hardships, and the intense demands of cadet life during the post-9/11 era.</div><div>The conversation dives deep into David’s operational Air Force career flying the legendary A-10 Warthog in combat over Afghanistan, where he discusses close air support, deployment experiences, and the lessons combat taught him about humility, confidence, and leadership under pressure.</div><div><br>But David’s journey didn’t end in uniform. After leaving active duty, he transitioned into corporate America, real estate investing, commercial aviation, and eventually financial education and entrepreneurship. David opens up about the 2008 financial crisis, how it reshaped his thinking about money, and why he became passionate about the Infinite Banking Concept and building long-term financial strength outside traditional retirement models.</div><div><br>Today, David is the co-founder and CEO of CoSpark, co-host of the Wealth Warehouse Podcast, and founder of the upcoming David Befort Show. This episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom for military members, aspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, pilots, and anyone looking to take greater control of their future.<br><br><strong>Episode Timeline</strong></div><div><strong>00:30 Introduction to David Beffert's Journey</strong></div><div><strong>02:42 Early Aspirations and the Path to the Air Force Academy</strong></div><div><strong>10:30 Experiences at the Prep School</strong></div><div><strong>17:20 Challenges Faced During Cadet Life</strong></div><div><strong>21:46 Deciding to Become a Pilot</strong></div><div><strong>24:33 The Impact of 9/11 on Military Aspirations</strong></div><div><strong>27:46 Pilot Training: The Journey Begins</strong></div><div><strong>30:39 Navigating the Challenges of Pilot Training</strong></div><div><strong>33:00 First Deployment: A Combat Experience</strong></div><div><strong>37:42 Lessons from Combat: Confidence and Humility</strong></div><div><strong>41:33 The 2008 Financial Crisis: A Military Perspective</strong></div><div><strong>48:41 Deciding to Leave the Air Force: A Personal Journey</strong></div><div><strong>53:19 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life</strong></div><div><strong>59:11 Finding Fulfillment in New Career Paths</strong></div><div><strong>01:05:31 The Infinite Banking Concept Explained</strong></div><div><strong>01:11:23 Real Estate Ventures and Financial Independence</strong></div><div><strong>01:17:30 Building a Business Around Financial Education</strong></div><div><strong>01:23:31 Challenging Conventional Financial Wisdom</strong></div><div><strong>01:26:39 The Banking System and Control of Capital</strong></div><div><strong>01:32:55 The Importance of Financial Control</strong></div><div><strong>01:37:51 Building a Community with CoSpark</strong></div><div><strong>01:43:50 Launching the David Befort Show</strong></div><div><br><strong>Email:</strong></div><div>Radgrad@allthomsen.com<br>&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;<strong>Advertisement:</strong>&nbsp;</div><div>10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD</div>]]></content:encoded>
      <itunes:duration>6491</itunes:duration>
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      <itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode>
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