Brian Stann Speaking Fee: $50,000 to $75,000

Brian Stann is a former U.S. Marine Corps officer, decorated combat veteran, and accomplished mixed martial artist who has successfully transitioned into leadership roles in both nonprofit and corporate sectors. Born on September 24, 1980, at Yokota Air Base in Japan, Stann grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy, where he played linebacker for the Midshipmen football team. Upon graduation in 2003, he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps. During his military service, Stann served in Iraq as the commander of the 2nd Mobile Assault Platoon, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines. In May 2005, his unit was ambushed during Operation Matador. Over six days, Stann coordinated air and ground support, ensuring the survival of all 42 Marines under his command. For his actions, he was awarded the Silver Star, the nation's third-highest award for valor in combat. After leaving active duty in 2008, Stann pursued a career in mixed martial arts. He won the WEC Light Heavyweight Championship in 2008 and later competed in the UFC, earning three Fight of the Night bonuses. Following his retirement from fighting in 2013, he transitioned into broadcasting, serving as a color commentator for UFC events and ACC college football games on Fox Sports. Stann's commitment to supporting fellow veterans led him to serve as the president and CEO of Hire Heroes USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans find employment. In 2017, he shifted to the corporate sector as the Chief Operating Officer at FirstKey Homes. In 2021, he became the CEO of Hunt Military Communities, the largest provider of privatized military housing in the United States, overseeing housing for over 120,000 military families. Stann holds an Executive MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and resides in Milton, Georgia, with his wife and their five children.