Judson Kauffman

Judson Kauffman is a veteran, a father of four, an avid fisherman, a three-time entrepreneur, and a transformational coach and speaker. Kauffman blends military discipline, entrepreneurial vision, and deep inquiry into meaning and performance in his work with individuals and organizations.

Kauffman started his career as a Navy SEAL after Sept. 11, 2001, serving as a sniper and team leader with three combat deployments in the Middle East, earning multiple decorations and valor distinctions. His military service informs his leadership philosophy and his approach to high-stakes decision-making.

After a decade with the Navy, Kauffman co-founded Desert Door Distillery, a near-zero-waste, organic distillery that established an entirely new category of spirits and was twice named No. 1 craft distillery in the nation by USA Today. He also co-founded Terradepth, Inc., a high-tech ocean exploration company that builds autonomous submarines and provides advanced subsea data management for commercial and defense applications. In 2025, he started Sovereign Materials, which produces rare earth metals for critical technology development. He earned a master's degree in business from the University of Texas and received the Future Legend Award from the Texas Business Hall of Fame.

Beyond entrepreneurship, Kauffman has deep expertise at the intersection of philosophy and psychology, and his speaking is grounded in that knowledge and wisdom. He is a certified personal transformation coach and a breathwork facilitator. His work is aimed at helping others find fulfillment in life and maximize their positive impact in the world.

Kauffman is a dedicated family man with a healthy obsession with reading and fishing. He coaches youth sports, manages the local elementary school gardening program, and volunteers for multiple veteran causes. He serves on the boards of Manpower and The Wittliff Art Museum.