In this episode of Discover the Difference, Jamie Reid and Gabe Erle talk with Matt Stevens, Navy SEAL veteran and CEO of The Honor Foundation. Matt shares his journey from the Naval Academy to the SEALs, then into tech, and now leading a mission-driven organization helping Special Operations Forces transition to civilian life. Hear how his commitment to excellence has shaped every phase of his career and how The Honor Foundation is expanding its impact through the new Vector Accelerator program.
Show Highlights:
[01:44] – Matt Stevens grew up in New York and North Carolina, with a focus on sports like baseball in high school. He was inspired to pursue military service after seeing a classmate receive an appointment to the Air Force Academy.
[12:57] – After attending the Naval Academy, Stevens went on to become a Navy SEAL, serving for 14 years with multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. He describes the intense competition and demanding nature of the SEAL teams.
[24:37] – After leaving the military, Stevens became involved with the Honor Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps special operations forces members transition to civilian careers. He eventually became the CEO of the organization.
[35:46] – The Honor Foundation’s programs focus on helping special operations members explore their purpose, identity, and skills to prepare for civilian careers. The organization also recently launched a new “Vector Accelerator” program to serve a wider veteran population.
[48:12] – Stevens answer Rapid Fire Questions.
[56:15] – When reflecting on his career, Stevens emphasizes the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and building strong mentor relationships as keys to his success.
