Ty Smith
In this episode of the Transition Drill Podcast, military veteran and Retired Navy SEAL Ty Smith shares his remarkable journey of service, leadership, and transformation. From growing up in East St. Louis to founding ComSafe AI, Ty’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. Ty reflects on his decision to join the military after high school, inspired by a dream of becoming a Navy SEAL. His first attempt at BUD/S training ended in failure. On his second attempt, Ty succeeded, paving the way for the next 14 year SEAL career marked by intense combat, leadership challenges, and an unwavering focus on integrity. After transitioning out of the military, Ty faced post-traumatic stress (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). He speaks candidly about seeking help, the importance of transition assistance, and the tools that helped him heal. Ty’s entrepreneurial journey began with Vigilance Risk Solutions and evolved into ComSafe AI, a company revolutionizing workplace safety with artificial intelligence.
LISTEN
Growing up in East St. Louis, Illinois, Ty’s childhood was shaped by a single mother—a 27-year veteran police officer—and a supportive extended family. Raised in an environment rich in love and servant leadership, Ty developed the foundation for a life of service. Inspired by the movie Navy SEALS at the age of 12, he set his sights on a military career. But his journey wasn’t without obstacles.
Ty shares his decision to join the Navy straight out of high school, driven by a desire to escape the limitations of his environment. His first attempt at BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL training) at just 18 was a humbling experience that underscored the mental and physical toughness required for the elite SEAL teams. Despite failing the first time, Ty’s unyielding determination, honed during his years as a Sailor and Master at Arms in Italy, led him back to BUD/S after the tragic events of 9/11, which deeply galvanized his resolve.
Through grit and resilience, Ty completed his SEAL training on his second attempt, embarking on an illustrious remaining 14 years of his career. His time in the teams was marked by countless deployments, intense combat, and moments that tested his humanity. Ty speaks candidly about the challenges of leadership as a platoon chief, balancing camaraderie with the weight of responsibility for his men. He recalls harrowing 18-hour gunfights and the pride of guiding his platoon through some of the most intense conflicts of his career, all while maintaining their integrity and humanity.
WATCH
This episode delves deeply into Ty’s transition from the military, a journey marked by confronting the realities of post-traumatic stress (PTS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Ty opens up about a pivotal moment when he sought emergency mental health assistance, a courageous step that became a turning point in his life. He discusses the importance of transition assistance and how first responders—police, firefighters, and EMS professionals—can also benefit from recognizing and addressing mental health struggles.
Ty’s path to healing included psychedelic therapy in Mexico through the VETS Program, started by fellow retired SEAL Marcus Capone, mentorship, and a commitment to self-improvement. As an advocate for transition advice for veterans and first responders, Ty sheds light on the emotional toll of service and the strategies he employed to move forward. Also as a 22 year practitioner of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (he's a Black Belt), he talks about how rolling changed is such a positive and beneficial way after going through the Ibogaine and 5MEO DMT treatment
His journey didn’t stop at recovery; he transformed his challenges into opportunities by founding Vigilance Risk Solutions, a security consultancy, and later, ComSafe AI, a cutting-edge company leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance workplace safety and prevent violence. Throughout the conversation, Ty reflects on how mentorship from fellow military veterans and his graduate studies at USC played a pivotal role in shaping his entrepreneurial success. His transition from Sailor to civilian life offers valuable insights for veterans seeking military veteran jobs or contemplating military transition into the private sector.
The episode also explores the themes of resilience, leadership, and reinvention—qualities that resonate with veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and anyone facing significant life transitions. Ty’s journey from a young soldier inspired by a Hollywood film to a seasoned SEAL and successful entrepreneur demonstrates the power of grit, community, and purpose.
Whether you’re a military veteran, first responder, or simply someone drawn to stories of human resilience, this episode offers a unique blend of inspiration and practical advice. From his reflections on post-9/11 service to his innovative work in technology, Ty’s insights make this a must-listen "veteran podcast" and "first responder podcast" episode.
Don’t miss this powerful conversation with Ty Smith, a man who exemplifies what it means to overcome challenges and thrive in life after service. His story is not only a tribute to the sacrifices of military veterans, law enforcement officers, and first responders but also a guide for anyone seeking transition assistance and a brighter future.
The Transition Drill Podcast is the best podcast for military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders preparing for veteran transition and life after service. Helping you plan and implement strategies to prepare for your transition into civilian life. If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast for more compelling stories of resilience, leadership, and transformation from veterans and first responders. Share Ty’s journey with someone who could benefit from his wisdom—whether they’re preparing for life after service, seeking guidance during a career shift, or simply looking for motivation to tackle their next challenge. Together, we can empower others to navigate transitions with confidence and embrace their new beginnings.
CONNECT WITH TY SMITH
VIEW OUR MOST RECENT
 |  |  |  |
