From Bobsled to Baghdad: Active Duty Marine
Some guests leave such an impression that you know they have to come back. Riley Tejcek is one of those people. A Marine Corps officer, best-selling author, public speaker, and powerhouse athlete, Riley embodies grit, service, and unstoppable drive. Since her first visit to the Stories of Service Podcast, her journey has only accelerated — both on and off the ice.
In this inspiring episode of Stories of Service, host Theresa Carpenter welcomes returning guest Riley Compton, a Marine Corps officer, Team USA bobsledder, public speaker, and best-selling author. Riley’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when you refuse to let the world put you in a box. From the Midwest to the military, from the bobsled track to the battlefield, she has built a life defined by resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to purpose.
GUEST BIO: WHO IS RILEY TEJCEK?
Riley Compton grew up in the Midwest, where she rarely saw women in military service. Her path shifted when a Marine recruiter sparked her interest, leading her to commission as an officer after earning a Division I softball scholarship. At the same time, Riley pursued a spot on Team USA’s bobsled team, balancing the demands of elite competition with her active-duty role.
Over five years, Riley competed internationally in bobsled, earning a world ranking of 14th, winning a North American Cup gold medal, and representing the United States in World Championships. Her journey also took her to Baghdad, where she deployed as one of the youngest officers to hold a billet typically reserved for higher ranks. Just days after returning from combat, she was back on the ice competing on one of the fastest tracks in the world.
Her impact extends beyond athletics and service. Riley is the author of If You Can Dream It, Be It, a children’s book that became a bestseller in 2024. She is also a two-time Ms. Military titleholder, game show winner, and public speaker who uses her growing platform to inspire others to chase their own dreams.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
Breaking Barriers in Service and Sport: Riley showed that military service and elite athletics are not mutually exclusive, balancing two demanding worlds with determination.
Resilience in Transition: From deployment in Baghdad to the bobsled track in Canada, Riley proved her ability to shift focus and excel under pressure.
Facing Setbacks in Publishing: Her children’s book success came only after many rejections, highlighting her “never quit” mindset.
Life Beyond Titles: Riley stresses that a job or role does not define identity. “Your job, the things you do, is what you do. It’s not who you are.”
Redefining Wealth: For Riley, success is not measured in money but in relationships, experiences, and discipline.
Next Chapter: As she steps away from bobsledding to focus on her Marine career and upcoming marriage to a Royal Marine, Riley continues to show how faith and persistence guide her forward.
WATCH FULL EPISODE HERE
Riley’s story is a reminder that limits are often self-imposed. Her willingness to say “yes” to opportunities—whether in service, sport, or writing—shows the power of courage and faith to shape a meaningful life.
Her journey challenges all of us to look beyond labels, embrace multiple passions, and measure success not by titles but by the impact we leave behind.
📲 Follow Riley on Instagram: @riley.tejcek
