Judson Kauffman

Judson Kauffman served in the US Navy as an Intelligence Analyst, a Search and Rescue Swimmer for a Marine Corps amphibious unit, and a Navy SEAL sniper, navigator, and team leader. On active duty, Judson executed over 200 missions, received multiple combat awards for valor, and earned three meritorious promotions.

After his honorable discharge from the military, he enrolled at Belmont University, earning his undergraduate degree in business and a regular spot on the dean’s list.

After finishing his degree, he married his wife, Renèe, before working for a Nashville-based consumer product start-up. After getting a taste for entrepreneurship, Judson launched a consulting firm, Exbellum, in 2012. Exbellum provided hands-on advisory and coaching services to help companies solve human capital challenges. Clients included Johnson & Johnson, Seagate, Pinterest, Scott’s, and others. He and his cofounder later sold this company in 2017.

That same year, Judson earned his MBA from the McCombs School at the University of Texas. During this program, he co-founded Desert Door Distillery, where he currently serves as the chairman of the board of directors. Desert Door has become one of the most successful spirits brands in Texas history and holds a special place in his heart. Desert Door has been named the #1 craft distillery in the nation twice, and their spirits have won multiple awards.

After getting the distillery off the ground with his co-founders, Judson started his third company, Terradepth, an ocean exploration and data-as-a-service company. Judson guided the company through two financing rounds and built an impressive team. His work with Terradepth earned Judson the Future Legend award from the Texas Business Hall of Fame.

In 2022, Judson shifted his focus to something he was most passionate about: serving others. He is now a personal coach and speaker dedicated to leading people and teams to achieve positive transformation and maximize fulfillment

Judson spends his time with his family, out in nature, hunting, fishing, writing, playing music, and enjoying life’s many wonders. He volunteers for and supports several non-profits, including The Honor Foundation, Wild Spirits Wild Places, St. Louise House, Texas Can Academy, Dam That Cancer, and The Whitliff Foundation.