07. Ryan Twedell, USAFA ’07, C-130J Aircraft Commander, Enterprise Account Director

In this powerful episode of Rad Grads, CJ Thomsen sits down with fellow United States Air Force Academy graduate Ryan Twedell for a candid conversation about leadership, resilience, failure, reinvention, and the courage to keep moving forward. Ryan shares his journey from growing up in Arlington, Texas, to earning an appointment to the Air Force Academy, where he discovered the value of being a well-rounded leader rather than excelling in just one discipline. After graduating in 2007, Ryan entered pilot training and eventually flew the C-130J, completing more than 100 combat missions in Afghanistan. He reflects on the highs of commanding aircrews in combat and the life-altering aircraft mishap that ended his flying career. With remarkable honesty, Ryan recounts the accident, the investigations that followed, and the difficult process of accepting responsibility while learning to forgive himself. His story offers a rare look into accountability, leadership under pressure, and the support of mentors who helped him navigate one of the most challenging chapters of his life. Ryan then discusses his transition from military service into acquisitions, satellite programs, and eventually civilian life. After earning his MBA from UC Berkeley during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, he bet on himself and pursued a career in technology sales. Leveraging the Air Force Academy network and an unwavering commitment to growth, Ryan rose from an entry-level sales position to one of the top-performing leaders at Qualtrics, earning multiple promotions and recognition as a top manager. This episode is a masterclass in adaptability, humility, and perseverance. Whether you're navigating a military transition, overcoming setbacks, or searching for your next chapter, Ryan's story demonstrates that success is often found on the other side of failure—and that the lessons learned through adversity can become your greatest strengths.Episode Timeline:00:30 Introduction and Background09:18 Experiences at the Air Force Academy20:13 Life Lessons and Regrets25:42 Unique Opportunities and Experiences31:47 Transitioning to Pilot Training: The Navy Experience38:55 Navigating Challenges in Pilot Training46:56 From Training to Operations: The Shift in Mindset52:26 A Life-Altering Combat Mission Experience01:04:16 Reflections on a Life-Changing Event01:05:51 The Hand of God and Resilience01:20:03 Navigating Career Transitions01:32:39 Embracing Change and New Opportunities01:39:10 Navigating Career Changes During COVID-1901:44:34 Finding Success in Tech Sales01:50:36 Embracing Challenges in a New Industry01:57:04 Reflecting on Military Experience and Personal Growth\02:01:58 Constructive Thinking and Future AspirationsEmail:[email protected] Advertisement: 10% OFF -- Lineageprovisions.com/RADGRAD