Tanks, Surfboards, and Defense Tech: Finding Agency After the Army - Julian Larimer | Ep 37
Description
Today's guest is Julian Larimer, a former Army Armor Officer whose journey spans from Company Command in Hawaii to building a thriving career in defense technology.
Julian shares how he:
Made the difficult decision to leave the Army after eight years, despite a promising path ahead.
Used unstructured time — surfing, reflecting, and coaching — to redefine his identity and career goals.
Pivoted from aiming for the surf industry to finding a deep sense of purpose in defense tech through his work at Anduril Industries.
Navigated the emotional challenges of transition, including identity shifts, moving locations, and managing expectations around success.
Stays grounded today through his work, family, and maintaining "unstructured play" as a cornerstone of fulfillment.
Whether you're considering your own transition or simply want a reminder that it's okay — and even essential — to slow down and think differently about success, Julian’s story offers valuable insights.
Key Themes:
The importance of agency after the military "conveyor belt" ends.
How the loss of structure can become an opportunity for growth.
Why identity shifts are necessary, not scary.
The power of surrounding yourself with mission-driven people.
- How unstructured play (like surfing) can keep your ego in check.
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Connect with Julian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julian-larimer/
Resources Mentioned:
The Commit Foundation: https://www.commitfoundation.org/
The Kill Chain: https://amzn.to/42KZwmO
Four Thousand Weeks: https://amzn.to/42EnG28
-------------------------------------------------------------Connect with Griffin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/griffinbrand/
Connect with Jack: https://www.instagram.com/hawaiimortgagebroker/
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If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow veteran or service member navigating their transition. Your review and rating help inspire more veterans with stories like Julian's.
And as always: Go do the thing. Make that decision. Find your next mission.
United States
