Ep. 133 If You Can Dream It, Be It: Riley Tejcek’s story as a Female Marine Breaking Barriers

In this powerful episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with Riley Tejcek, a remarkable United States Marine Corps Captain, Team USA bobsled athlete, author, and motivational speaker, to explore the inspiring journey of a multi-faceted military leader breaking barriers. Riley shares her unconventional path from a Division I softball player at The George Washington University to Marine officer and elite bobsled Olympic competitor, revealing how athletic discipline and mental toughness cultivated on the field seamlessly translated into military success and leadership.

Listeners will discover how Riley balanced the demanding dual roles of active duty Marine and Olympic-level athlete without a formal World Class Athlete Program, navigating deployments, training, and competition with relentless grit and resilience. She reflects candidly on her deployment to the Middle East, the challenges of being one of the few female officers in the Corps, and the deep bonds forged within the Marine team—often described as the strongest, most unique team she’s ever been part of.

Riley also discusses her children’s book, If You Can Dream It, Be It, which aims to inspire young girls by shattering stereotypes about women in the military and encouraging boldness and courage from an early age. She highlights the importance of visibility and representation, reminding listeners that identity and purpose can evolve, and that the military offers invaluable leadership skills and opportunities for growth beyond service.

This conversation is a compelling reminder that success in life—whether in service, sport, or entrepreneurship—requires embracing fear, taking leaps of faith, and forging your own path even when the roadmap doesn’t exist. Riley’s message resonates deeply for veterans, athletes, and anyone facing transition, urging them to be proud of their journey and to keep striving for greatness.

Tune in to hear about:

• The unlikely transition from collegiate softball to Marine officer and Olympic bobsledder
• Overcoming the hurdles of being a female athlete in a traditionally male-dominated military
• The realities and rewards of deploying while pursuing elite athletic ambitions
• How athletic mindset and Marine Corps leadership principles intertwine
• The motivation and impact behind Riley’s children’s book promoting dreams and courage
• Insights on recruiting and inspiring the next generation of Marines, especially women and athletes
• Why identity and community don’t end with the uniform—they evolve, and support is crucial

Whether you’re a service member, veteran, athlete, or leader, this episode offers an inspiring blueprint for perseverance, leadership, and purpose-driven life. Learn more about Riley’s journey and connect with TheMilVet community at themilvet.org.

#MarineCorps #TeamUSA #OlympicAthlete #WomenInMilitary #VeteranLeadership #AthleteTransition #MilitaryRecruiting #IfYouCanDreamItBeIt #MarineAthleteOfTheYear #VeteranSupport #MilitaryPodcast #Resilience #Leadership #FemaleMarine #Bobsled #MilitaryAthlete

Thanks for listening!

Here's how you can find us to continue the conversation:

Tweet us at @brendan_aronson
Follow us on Instagram at @themilitaryvet
Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter at https://www.themilvet.org/resources-for-veterans
Check out our video content on Youtube at https://www.youtube.com/@themilitaryvet