One of the most serious issues scores of veterans face is post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. While some can cope with this condition fairly well, others cannot. Depending on the severity, those diagnosed with PTSD might seek medication or some other way of coping with the condition. Luis Jorge Rios turned to journalism and entrepreneurship to cope with PTSD, creating a new life for himself.
Luis joined the United States army after the tragic events of September 11. He served in Iraq and Afghanistan plus earned a degree in counterterrorism with a minor in sociology. This resulted in part of his military career being spent in the intelligence community, travelling to Spain and Israel.
Luis put these skills to use after his military service and was able to utilise them in the business world. As he began his entrepreneurial journey, Luis turned to writing to help overcome his own diagnosis of PTSD. His work, including interviews, has allowed him to share what he has learned with others. It also allows him to connect with other veterans who are dealing with PTSD or other combat-related injuries/disorders.
He calls his journalism a way of helping people with their inner battles. REDX Magazine is a primary focus to achieve this goal and feeds Luis’ drive as a media entrepreneur. Luis is very proud of this publication as it showcases influencers, entrepreneurs, and musicians in their element. The digital magazine also features invaluable advice from these personalities, which fits in with Luis’ passion for people sharing their knowledge to help others.
This veteran has also proven to be a very successful salesman as he uses the skills he learned in military intelligence to close high-dollar sales. He was once asked to sell sponsorships for charity events and non-profit organisations; Luis raised a total of $1.5 million.
Having a prominent billionaire mentor like Mark Cuban certainly doesn’t hurt, either. Known for his generosity to veterans, Mr. Cuban advised Luis to make great money at a job while being great at that job. He also advised Luis to start a company that builds slowly. But Luis hit the ground running, thanks to his intuition and characteristics he developed in the army.
Today, Luis is a press agent, TEDx organiser, journalist, and therapy coach. Inspired by his family, Luis has overcome many obstacles but maintains a positive mindset and deep gratitude for life. Though he did fail many times, two lessons from his military career propelled him to success: never quit and you only live once. Taking these lessons to heart, Luis is a self-made man on his way to the top.