Ryan Yates’ journey has never followed a straight line. He began working at 12, learning early the value of discipline, responsibility and earning his own way. After initially failing Army selection, he joined the British Army and went on to serve for 10 years, including eight years with 4/73 Special Observation Battery and two operational tours.

Life after the military brought a different kind of challenge. Ryan spent more than 300 hours in therapy working through PTSD, later studying counselling to better understand trauma and how his own experiences could help others. He went on to found Veterans Army, providing free support to veterans and their families across the UK.

Following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, Ryan spent 15 months delivering humanitarian and medical aid, completing 57 trips and helping move millions of pounds worth of medical supplies, while also supporting the training of Ukrainian troops and militias.

Beyond military and humanitarian work, Ryan has built businesses, owned gyms, worked in coaching, competed in dog sport, trained dogs and handlers, mentored young people and served as a Sergeant with the Royal Marine Cadets.

His story includes success, failure, loss, rebuilding and difficult lessons — all of which helped shape the philosophy behind Thunderdome Theory.