#105 Ryan Thompson - Founder of 10th Mountain Whiskey
Whiskey, War Stories, and Work Ethic: Building Legacy Through Leadership
Featuring Ryan Thompson | Tales of Leadership Podcast Ep. 105
Entrepreneurship Starts Early
Ryan Thompson’s journey didn’t begin in a boardroom or a distillery—it started in elementary school. Selling candy, retrieving and flipping golf balls, and later launching a successful restaurant by age 25, Thompson’s life is a masterclass in how small ventures lay the groundwork for future impact. His story reinforces that entrepreneurship isn’t a title—it’s a mindset cultivated over time through hustle, creativity, and grit.
Culture Over Credentials
One of the standout leadership philosophies Thompson lives by is simple: "We hire hospitality and then can teach the rest." His success with the Westside Cafe, now going strong for over two decades, shows how powerful it is to build culture first. By hiring people who genuinely care and can work as a team, he’s created a workplace where performance and passion go hand in hand—a vital lesson for anyone leading in people-centric industries.
Purpose-Driven Business
The founding of 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company wasn’t just a business decision; it was a mission born from respect for history and military service. Thompson found a unique way to honor the legacy of the 10th Mountain Division—tying the company’s brand and outreach directly to veterans' causes. His story proves that when you lead with purpose, profit becomes the byproduct—not the driver.
All-In Leadership
Launching a distillery is not for the faint of heart. Thompson invested over $2 million—his life savings, real estate, and sweat equity—into a vision others doubted. That “all-in” mindset is what separates successful entrepreneurs from dreamers. His willingness to sacrifice comfort for conviction shows what leadership looks like when it's fueled by belief, not just a business plan.
Philanthropy as Strategy
Rather than treat charitable giving as an afterthought, Thompson made it a core element of his business model. Through fundraising events, barrel picks, and immersive tasting room experiences, 10th Mountain Whiskey has become a powerful platform for supporting veterans. Leaders take note: aligning your mission with real-world impact isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business.
Legacy Through Leadership
What makes Thompson’s story so compelling is the long-game vision. He’s not just building a brand—he’s cultivating a legacy. His advice to leaders? Stay patient, stay humble, and remember that most "overnight successes" were years in the making. Leadership, as he puts it, is waking up every day ready to go to work with purpose and persistence.
After Action Review
Culture is Everything – Hiring for character and hospitality builds teams that endure. Train skills, but lead with values.
Purpose Powers Performance – When your business stands for something bigger, people rally behind it—with loyalty and passion.
Commit with Conviction – Great leaders don’t dip their toes—they dive in. Success favors those who are “all in” on their vision.
Together, we will impact 1 MILLION lives!!!
Every day is a gift; don't waste yours!
Joshua K. McMillion | Founder MLC
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yan is a serial entrepreneur and life long learner that enjoys the pursuit of business while being a positive influence in his community and using his business platforms to help support causes he’s passionate about. He started 10th Mountain Whiskey & Spirit Company 10 years ago and is in the trenches running the daily operations with the goal of becoming a national, household brand. He has also owned a restaurant for the past 22 years and has owned a motel for 8 years…both of which are still in operation. He is passionate about using his business acumen to help support fellow entrepreneurs and is always keeping his eyes open for the next opportunity.