Brian Stann

Brian Stann is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, former world champion mixed martial artist, sports broadcaster, and business executive whose career spans military service, mixed martial arts, and leadership in veteran support organizations. Stann earned a Bachelor of Science degree in economics from the United States Naval Academy and a Master of Business Administration from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. While at the Naval Academy, he played football as a middle linebacker for the Midshipmen and, upon graduation, was commissioned as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, achieving the rank of captain.

Stann completed two combat tours during Operation Iraqi Freedom and was awarded the Silver Star for actions near the Al-Ramana Bridge during Operation Matador. He also received the Navy Commendation Medal, two Navy Achievement Medals, and additional awards for gallantry in battle. As a lieutenant with the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, Stann commanded the 2nd Mobile Assault Platoon during Operation Matador, where his unit held out for six days under heavy attack, coordinating air and tank support that enabled their relief. All 42 Marines in his platoon survived, and his actions were recognized in a presidential speech.

Stann began his mixed martial arts career while on active duty, becoming the WEC Light Heavyweight Champion with a 6-0 record. He competed in both WEC and UFC as a top-10 middleweight for three years, earning multiple Fight of the Night honors. Stann was noted for his sportsmanship and professionalism in the Octagon. After retiring from competition, he served as a UFC television fight analyst and speaker.

Transitioning to sports broadcasting, Stann provided color commentary for college football on Fox Sports South and served as a lead sports analyst for Fox Sports and UFC programming. In the business sector, Stann was president and CEO of Hire Heroes USA, where he led the organization to national recognition as a veteran service organization. He later served as chief operating officer at FirstKey Homes and is CEO of Hunt Military Communities. As a keynote speaker, Stann draws on his experience in military leadership, mixed martial arts, and executive management to address topics such as leadership, resilience, and veteran advocacy.