From Flint to Influence
Show notes
In this episode of Army Matters, LTG (Ret.) Leslie Smith and SMA (Ret.) Dan Dailey sit down with Curtez Riggs, a retired First Sergeant, entrepreneur, and founder of the Military Influencer Conference.
Growing up in Flint, Michigan, Riggs watched the economic foundation of his community disappear almost overnight as manufacturing jobs vanished. With few opportunities available, he chose the Army—not simply as a career, but as a chance to build a better future. Today, Riggs shares how his childhood and Army experiences led him to create one of the military community’s largest networks, connecting veterans, service members, entrepreneurs, creators, and industry leaders.
Guest: 1SG Curtez Riggs, U.S. Army Retired Founder, Military Influencer Conference and
Vice President, Strategy &Engagement, Recurrent Military & Defense
What is the Military Conference?
The Military Influencer Conference (MIC) brings together military professionals, veterans, and industry leaders for networking and professional development. Click below to learn more.MIC 2026 — Military Influencer Conference
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