Jeff has a real gift for getting to the heart of a story and giving the guest the opportunity to share something meaningful to them. Even my parents learned something about me from my interview with Jeff. He is a true American storyteller.
Paul Riedner’s path is anything but ordinary.
In this episode, Jeff Gould sits down with former U.S. Army deep-sea diver, entrepreneur, veteran advocate, husband, and father Paul Riedner for a wide-ranging conversation about purpose, service, leadership, and life after the military.
From nearly pursuing professional sports to trading commodities in Chicago, teaching in China, serving as an Army diver, and now helping veterans thrive in business, Paul’s journey is filled with unexpected turns and hard-earned wisdom.
Together, they discuss:
• Growing up as a gifted athlete and how close Paul came to professional sports
• Why a question from a shopkeeper in China ultimately led him to enlist in the U.S. Army at age 28
• The demanding world of Army deep-sea diving, underwater salvage, and military training
• Lessons learned from service, sacrifice, and transitioning back to civilian life
• The challenges veterans face after leaving the military—and how those experiences can become strengths
• The importance of independent thinking, leadership, and finding meaning beyond a career
• Paul’s work with What the Truck and Shadow Culture, helping connect veterans with business leaders and communities
Paul also shares the personal side of his story—meeting his wife, Anita, who grew up in Poland, raising their three children, and building a family life centered on hard work, fresh food, and shared values.
This is an honest conversation that doesn’t rely on easy answers. It explores patriotism, purpose, resilience, entrepreneurship, family, and the lifelong process of asking better questions.
Featured articles by and about Paul Riedner:
“Among Iraq War’s Many Losses: Trust”
https://www.startribune.com/among-iraq-war-s-many-losses-trust/135544583
“Alternate PTSD Therapy for Vets Ruffles VA Feathers but Shows Results”
https://www.startribune.com/alternate-ptsd-therapy-for-vets-ruffles-va-feathers-but-shows-results/381263491
“A Trauma Treatment That Struggled for Legitimacy Is Getting Recognition From the VA”
https://www.startribune.com/a-trauma-treatment-that-struggled-for-legitimacy-is-getting-recognition-from-the-va/391673891
Connect with Paul and learn more:
What the Truck is an experience platform connecting builders with military veterans through shared experiences, storytelling, leadership, and service.
https://www.whatthetruck.live/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulriedner/
https://www.facebook.com/paul.riedner
Throughout June, Paul has been sharing an “Origins” campaign on LinkedIn, telling stories about where he was raised and the paths he has taken since.
If you know someone with a remarkable story, let us know. Their story could be featured in a future episode.