Ep.157: From Infantry to Cyber Command: Ryan Heritage on Transitioning from Marine General to Defense Tech Advisor

In this episode of TheMilVet Podcast, host Beau Higgins sits down with retired U.S. Marine Corps Major General  Ryan Heritage—a career infantry officer who made a rare and impactful pivot into cyberspace, and information warfare.

From watching The Sands of Iwo Jima as a fourth grader in Massachusetts to commanding at the regimental level and later leading Marine Corps Forces Cyber Command, Ryan’s journey reflects both deep-rooted commitment to service and an exceptional ability to evolve with the battlefield. 

Ryan shares what it was like to step into the cyber domain with no technical background—and how curiosity, humility, and disciplined leadership allowed him to thrive. He offers a candid look at modern warfare, the rapid evolution of AI and cyber capabilities, and why simplifying complex technology for warfighters is critical to maintaining decision advantage.

The conversation also dives deep into Ryan’s recent transition from active duty to building a portfolio career in the private sector. He reflects honestly on missteps, sleepless nights, networking lessons, and the mindset shift required to move from military command to business development.

Listeners will gain insight into:

• Leading in highly technical environments without being the technical expert
• Translating infantry and combat leadership into cyberspace operations
• The importance of curiosity and continuous learning in emerging domains
• Why networking—not resumes—is the real engine of post-service opportunity
• Managing identity shifts after retirement from senior military leadership
• Approaching transition with humility, research, and value-driven conversations
• Understanding why military rank does not automatically equate to corporate roles

Ryan also discusses lessons from Ukraine’s rapidly evolving battlefield, the urgency of AI adoption, and why strategy—not bureaucracy—must drive innovation at scale. He offers practical advice for veterans navigating transition, emphasizing preparation, intentional relationship-building, and disciplined follow-through.

Whether you’re an infantry officer curious about cyber, a senior leader preparing to transition, or a veteran exploring opportunities in defense tech and venture capital, this episode delivers both strategic perspective and grounded, practical advice.

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