#96 - Resilience, Risk, and Making Movies: How Ryan Curtis Is Changing the Veteran Narrative

Send us Fan MailRyan, a Massachusetts native and oldest of seven, found escape in sports and filmmaking. He earned a basketball scholarship to Fitchburg State University, studying Broadcast Journalism and Theater. Shortly after joining the U.S. Army in 2001, 9/11 changed the world—and his path. Serving eight years with two deployments, Ryan credits the military for shaping his leadership and creative drive. Post-service, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue directing, creating content for brands like Nike, Audi, Under Armour, ABC, and Oprah. He has Executive Produced and Directed veteran-focused series for go90 and has a Lionsgate feature film in the works. A frequent guest on major media platforms, Ryan also champions veterans in entertainment through the nonprofit Veterans in Media and Entertainment, aiming to shift the narrative from trauma to talent, leadership, and success.-Quick Episode Summary:Ryan Curtis discusses filmmaking, veteran advocacy, resilience, and creative journeys.-SEO Description:Army veteran and director Ryan Curtis shares his journey from service to filmmaking, discussing creativity, failure, and his film "Hollywood Grit."-🌟 Torch Takeaways:Ryan Curtis credits both his upbringing and Army service for his resilience and creative drive.His film “Hollywood Grit” is a love letter to both classic noir and ‘90s action films, examining the price of ambition in Hollywood.Ryan is passionate about changing the narrative around veterans and helping them succeed in film and TV.He encourages creators to embrace failure, pursue mentorship, and do the things that truly light them up.The episode is equal parts motivational, insightful, and entertaining—a great listen for creatives, veterans, and anyone navigating change or pursuing bold dreams.-Chapters:00:00 Reflecting on Life's Journey07:20 80s-90s Action Comedy Inspiration10:34 "The Cost of Fame"13:06 Tonally Bold Cinematic Experimentation16:56 Creative Struggles and Triumph24:08 Cinema: A Gateway to Escapism28:10 Embracing Creativity Without Fear31:58 "Reflecting on Life and Legacy"34:12 Living Now, Not After Retirement36:06 Struggling with Genre Constraints40:35 Setting Podcast Intentions42:46 Dream TV and Film Roles48:34 Dreaming of a Sinatra Biopic51:33 Embrace Creativity, Overcome Fear55:17 Billboard message, Pursue Passions, Share InsightsSupport the showConnect with Passing The Torch: Facebook and IG: @torchmartinMore Amazing Stories:Episode 41: Lee Ellis – Freeing You From Bond That Make You InsecureEpisode 81: Kurt Warner – Perseverance, Humility, and Lighting the Way Episode 90: Michelle 'MACE' Curran – How to Turn Fear into Fuel------------© 2026 TORCH LEAP®, LLC. All rights reserved.