In this episode of Coffee Talk with Bryan & Marie, we sit down with Brian — a Navy Commander whose career spans shipboard leadership, university instruction, strategic planning, and financial expertise. Brian graduated from Auburn University in 2006 with a degree in Political Science and was commissioned into the United States Navy the same day. Over ten years on active duty, he served aboard three different classes of ships, deploying twice to the Persian Gulf and once to Southeast Asia. His roles included First Lieutenant on USS Gettysburg (CG‑64), Operations Officer on USS Defender (MCM‑2), and Operations Officer on USS Arleigh Burke (DDG‑51).
Brian later joined the faculty at Villanova University as an Instructor of Naval Science, earning a nomination for Naval Service Training Command’s Instructor of the Year and becoming the only non‑PhD to win Villanova’s prestigious “Junior Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching.” He also completed his Master of Arts in Political Science during his time there.
After transitioning to the Navy Reserve in 2015, Brian entered the financial world as a planner with Pultro Financial Management, earning advanced certifications including AIF, BFA, RFC, and the IARFC “Ethics Certified” designation. The Navy recalled him to active duty in 2018, where he served as a Strategic Planner in the Iran Branch at U.S. Central Command. Today, he continues to serve as a Commander and Staff Officer at Carrier Strike Group Four.
Outside of uniform, Brian is deeply committed to Family, community, and service. He spends his free time with his wife, three sons, and two golden retriever rescues, and serves on the boards of the Auburn University Alumni Association, the Villanova University Alumni Association, and the LPL Financial Government Relations Advisory Council.
Join Bryan and Marie for a thoughtful, wide‑ranging conversation about leadership, service, transition, teaching, financial ethics, and the evolving mission of today’s Navy.
