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Rad Grads Podcast

Rad Grads Podcast

Written by: CJ Thomsen
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About this listen

 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.
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.
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. Economics Leadership Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • 01. Prologue - What is Rad Grads?

    01. Prologue - What is Rad Grads?
    Feb 5 2025
    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. 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. Like, Subscribe and Follow for new episode notifications. E-mail: Radgrad@allthomsen.com
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    2 mins
  • 02. Jimmy Chad Smith, USAFA '08, Owner/Operator - The Laundromat, Fort Walton Beach, FL

    02. Jimmy Chad Smith, USAFA '08, Owner/Operator - The Laundromat, Fort Walton Beach, FL
    Apr 23 2025
    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. 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 & 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
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    2 hrs and 6 mins
  • 03. Marty Medve, USNA '85, Naval Aviator & Broker/Owner of Trident Home Loans

    03. Marty Medve, USNA '85, Naval Aviator & Broker/Owner of Trident Home Loans
    May 20 2025
    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. 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 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 - ShoutoutsEmail: radgrad@allthomsen.com
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    1 hr and 44 mins
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