Author, Public Speaker, Champion of Public Land

Braxton McCoy is a decorated U.S. Army veteran who survived catastrophic wounds during the 2006 battle for Ramadi, earning the Purple Heart and the Army Commendation Medal with “V” Device for valor. After an arduous recovery he founded a veteran-employment nonprofit and began speaking nationwide on resilience, duty, and service.

A heritage westerner, McCoy runs cattle and trains horses in Idaho, writes about rural character (author of the memoir The Glass Factory and the Substack Notes from the Scrubland), and spends as much time as possible in the back-country guiding hunts, experience that grounds his “boots-in-the-sage” view of conservation.

In 2025 he led the charge against a congressional plan to liquidate millions of acres of public land. The victory convinced him that conservatives needed a permanent institutional voice, prompting him to found the Sagebrush Institute and serve as its president and chariman. As the Institute’s chief ideologue, he argues that responsible use and lasting stewardship are inseparable pillars of true patriotism.

McCoy’s plain-spoken advocacy has made him a sought-after media guest; appearances with Tucker Carlson and Navy SEAL-turned-podcaster Shawn Ryan have introduced millions to his worldview, and played a major part in saving the American birthright.

Selected Highlights

Purple Heart & Army Commendation Medal (V) (2006)
Founder, Warrior Employment Project (2013)
Author, The Glass Factory (2017)
President & Chairman, Sagebrush Institute (2025)
Guest on Tucker Carlson, Timcast, Jocko Podcast and The Shawn Ryan Show

McCoy continues to split his time between work, the backcountry, and advocacy, driven by the conviction that free people must safeguard free land for generations yet unborn.

The Glass Factory

Care to learn more? Order Braxton’s book The Glass Factory here.

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Testimonials

I invited Braxton to speak at several events across the U.S. and he delivered every time. He has a unique way of captivating an audience and getting a standing ovation after each speech. His compelling story truly tugs on the heart strings of each individual in the room. It was truly an honor to work with him and hear him tell his amazing story.

–Jessica Stone, CEO and Founder, Konnexe

As a past member of YPO (New England 1991-2001), and organizer of numerous mini universities and events, I am acutely aware of the quality of education and the level of presenters needed to atract and engage [an audience]. I've known Braxton McCoy for 8 years, and he is an exceptional individual with an incredible story that we should hear for its many life lessons on perseverence and perspective. Braxton is a wonderful speaker, and everyone who is present feels a true emotional connection after hearing his story.

- John Stone, CEO

Braxton McCoy is the epitome of resilience. His message of how to rise up from adversity is relevant to both civilians and military personnel. His presentation to the senior leaders of the Utah National Guard was filled with humor and wonderful insights into the thoughts and actions of our fighting force. After listening to Braxton, you can't help want to build your own resilience and strengthen others.

- Brigadier General Dallen Atack

I served with Sgt McCoy in Iraq in 2005. He exemplified everything you want in an NCO. Braxton also recently spoke at our military dinning in and did an outstanding job. He was able to captivate the entire room, sharing his story in a way that it will never be forgotten. I recommend Braxton for any speaking engagement. You will not be disappointed!