Episode Overview
In this episode of The Tactical Leader Podcast, Zack Knight sits down with Tommy Richardson, a Marine veteran and Navy SEAL, to dive into his incredible 26-year military career, his transition to civilian life, and how he’s now helping veterans find purpose and leadership beyond the uniform. From his journey through Marine Corps infantry to the elite Navy SEAL teams, to launching Divine Savagery, Tommy shares insights on faith, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the power of physical fitness as a tool for reintegration.
This episode is brought to you by ATL Vets, the premier organization for veteran workforce development and entrepreneurship.
Key Takeaways from This Episode
1️⃣ Military Service & Transition to Navy SEALs
- 26 years in uniform: Tommy served in both the Marine Corps and Navy SEAL teams, experiencing combat at the height of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
- From Marine to SEAL: Initially aiming for Force Recon, Tommy instead found his calling in the SEAL teams, making the switch in 2007 with the help of fellow operators.
- Passion for the field: His decision to stay in the fight, rather than being stuck behind a desk, led him to special operations, where he thrived in a high-intensity environment.
2️⃣ The Mental & Spiritual Battle After Service
- Faith kept him going: Tommy credits his faith in God as his ultimate source of strength, guiding him through both war and transition.
- Understanding the daily battle: He breaks down the constant war between spirit and flesh, helping veterans realize they’re still in the fight, but in a different way.
- Helping veterans find purpose: Tommy believes veterans are wired for leadership and that transitioning means finding a new mission, not losing identity.
3️⃣ Finding a New Tribe: Westside Barbell & Physical Fitness
- Healing through movement: After suffering injuries and surgeries, Tommy turned to powerlifting as a way to rebuild physically and mentally.
- Westside Barbell connection: Through an invite-only process, Tommy joined the legendary Westside Barbell gym, finding a new brotherhood of strength that mirrored the team environment of the military.
- Physical health as mental therapy: He emphasizes that fitness, discipline, and competition give veterans a way to regain structure and camaraderie.
4️⃣ Building Divine Savagery: Veteran Leadership & Wellness
Tommy's company, Divine Savagery, is built around three pillars:
✅ Speaking & Leadership Training – Helping organizations and veterans develop elite-level leadership skills.
✅ Business Optimization & Consulting – Applying military discipline and structure to corporate success.
✅ Wellness & Tactical Training – Offering physical training, nutrition coaching, and tactical skill development for veterans and civilians.
🔹 Westside Barbell training programs
🔹 Fitness, nutrition, and recovery coaching
🔹 Special operations & tactical training for military and law enforcement
🔥 Notable Quotes from Tommy Richardson
💬 “The flesh is...
