Riton Optics Founder and CEO Brady Speth is featured in our Veteran Entrepreneur segment. Brady is an Air Force Veteran and also a former member of the US Capital Police.
BBG with Riton Optics CEO Brady Speth
After serving as an air traffic controller, he returned to college to complete a business degree. However, Brady missed the comradery he had in the military so when the opportunity to join the Capital Police came up he moved to DC.
Brady grew up a hunter and outdoorsman in Montana and shooting was always a part of his life even prior to military and law enforcement service. While serving with the Capital Police he was approached to consult for an optics company. The more he consulted he found that while there are a lot of good optics on the market, he believed there was a real opportunity in providing quality optics at more affordable price points.
Brady and his wife invested three years in research and testing before they sold their first Riton Optics unit. Much of this time was spent making prototypes and sending them to military, law enforcement and hunters and asked them to beat them up. “It’s muddy, it’s bloody..what things would you like to see on your scope?”
Brady shares insights into issues that other aspiring entrepreneurs may face such as proper capitalization and the importance of good mentors. He also emphasizes the importance of finding a good balance between business and family. The failure to plan is the biggest mistake made when starting a business.
Veterans make great entrepreneurs and employees because of their great sense of discipline and accountability.
TAKEAWAY: While Riton Optics are now sold in over 500 dealers nationwide, Brady says “One of my biggest accomplishments as a CEO is the quality of the team that we have built.”
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 44:51 — 15.4MB)